Important information
Deadlines
Although the University does not have a central deadline for accepting applications, individual departments may. Please contact the relevant department for further information.
We recommend submitting your application as early as possible to avoid any important documents not arriving before the start of your course. We do not normally send out information by courier or express delivery. Nor are we able to send offer letters or visa letters as email attachments.
Please note that, although we will fax offer and visa letters to you on request, immigration authorities require original letters with an official signature and university stamp. It may also take 28 days or more to organise a visa. It is therefore your responsibility to submit all required documents allowing sufficient time for visa processing.
Course dates
The majority of campus-based taught Masters programmes start in early October. Research degree students start at this time as well, but may also start in January, April or July; however this should be discussed with your department as research training courses may only be offered at certain times of the year.
Equal opportunities
The University of Leicester assesses the applicant's potential to achieve success as the criterion for selection. Admissions Tutors will therefore consider factors relevant to the applicant’s academic aptitude. No applicant will receive less favourable treatment on the grounds of sex, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, social class, age, disability, colour, race, nationality, or ethnic or national origins. Any conditions for entry to a course will only be imposed if justifiable on academic grounds.
English language requirements
If English is not your first language, you will need to demonstrate that you meet the University's English language requirements through a suitable qualification or test. English languages courses are available through our English Language Teaching Unit.
To obtain a visa you will need to achieve a satisfactory score in an English language test such as IELTS or TOEFL, which you can take in your home country.
Deferring your offer
If you are considering deferring the start of your course to a later date, please contact the department which runs the course.
Funding
The University offers a number of scholarships to new international students. Please note that you cannot apply for University scholarships until you have been offered a place.
Accommodation
We have plenty of accommodation set aside for our postgraduate students, with a wide choice of self-catered rooms close to the University campus in properties designated for graduate students. Our residences offer a range of prices and facilities to suit all needs. Most postgraduate accommodation is within walking distance of both the campus and the city centre. Broadband internet, telephone provision, launderette facilities and vehicle parking are available.
Accommodation is guaranteed to international students but you must have confirmed acceptance of your place well before term begins.
Getting started in Leicester
Our International Student Welcome Programme for new international students is held in September, just before the start of the academic year, and gives you the opportunity to get to know the campus and the city, and to meet staff and other new students. The programme is free – you only pay for your accommodation.
If this is the first time you have studied in the UK, our four-week Study Skills programme introduces students to the typical teaching methods used in UK universities, and the language and skills that will help you to be successful in your studies.
