Frequently asked questions about studying abroad at UWE
The following frequently asked questions provide more information about studying abroad at the University of West England.
- I am a biology major but want to take an English literature class while I am at UWE. Is this possible?
- How many classes will I take at UWE?
- Can I come for a year? How about one semester or for the fall semester only?
- Will I live with other American students?
- Do I have to find my own housing?
- How much does the housing cost?
- How much does the program cost?
- Can I work while I am at UWE to earn extra money?
- I’ve never traveled before. How am I going to get to Bristol, England?
- What do I do next?
I am a biology major but want to take an English literature class while I am at UWE. Is this possible?
It is very difficult to take classes outside of the department at UWE. The U.K.’s higher education system is different because students enter the university to study their major subject only. Therefore, students planning to study at UWE should arrange to fulfill their general education requirements before or after going there.
How many classes will I take at UWE?
Classes at UWE are called modules. Typically, students enroll in at least six modules. Some of these modules are two semesters or one academic year. Students coming for the second semester only may join in the second half of the year-long modules and should register for the equivalent of 60 U.K. credits for each semester to earn 15 VCU credits.
Can I come for a year? How about one semester or for the fall semester only?
We encourage students to study abroad for the entire academic year. You will get to know your surroundings better and meet many friends during your stay. Students can study for one semester; however they should study during the spring semester due to the academic calendar at UWE.
Will I live with other American students?
If you stay in the dorm, you will likely live with British students. Other VCU students in the same program will be in similar accommodations nearby.
Do I have to find my own housing?
You can if you like, but we recommend that you complete the housing application and use the housing services at UWE.
How much does the housing cost?
This varies depending on the type of housing. Prices will be provided by accommodations services at UWE. Rent usually starts around 300 pounds per month, or $600.
How much does the program cost?
As an exchange student at UWE, you will pay tuition to VCU, plus a program fee of $100. You will be responsible for paying your own airfare, housing, meals, insurance, living expenses, passport and visa fees. Remember that the British pound is worth twice as much as the dollar, so you will want to budget carefully.
Can I work while I am at UWE to earn extra money?
International students in the UK can work up to 20 hours per week. However, we strongly recommend that you have all of the funding for your trip before you travel to UWE.
I’ve never traveled before. How am I going to get to Bristol, England?
Students can fly directly to Bristol, where they will be met by the host coordinator. Alternatively, students can fly to London and take a train to Bristol.
What do I do next?
The next step is to talk to an education abroad adviser. Email us at abroad@vcu.edu or call (804) 827-7882 to set up an appointment. We’ll answer your questions and guide you through the application process.
