Welcome to :: The BSL :: The Business School of London

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I apply for a student visa?

In order to apply for a student visa you will need:

to complete a visa application form (you can download the form at www.ukvisas.gov.uk)
an original unconditional offer letter from The BSL
proof of appropriate qualifications
proof of available funds to cover your course fees and living expenses whilst in the UK.
Please note that visas usually take between 4 and 8 weeks to process so you need to apply well before the start of your course.

What do I take into consideration when applying for a student visa?

Applicants Profile

The applicant's profile should appear to match the course of studies proposed. The applicant's prospects of obtaining a visa are enhanced by the submission of verified details of their profile, including family background, history of study, employment in the related fields of the course, fees paid etc.

If the applicant is in employment the employer must state that all course costs are being met by the employer or a job guarantee letter on completion of the proposed course with a higher pay. If the employee is meeting the costs, the employer must state that in the opinion of the employer the employee has the financial resources to meet all such costs the length of leave being granted to the employee and this must not differ from the stated duration of the course on which the Applicant has been accepted the purpose of participation in the proposed course of study the applicant's level of pay and the currency its received in.

Consistency within application

None of the details within the application or its supporting documentation should be of a conflicting nature. e.g. the proposed length of stay on the application form should not conflict with the verified course acceptance. Change of status full details of course duration should be disclosed in the initial application in so far as they are known.

The following details must be supplied to allow the request to be considered and applications that do not supply all the required documents will be refused.

Itemised details of payment of relevant fees
Details of the course of studies proposed
Accommodation arrangements
Evidence of financial self sufficiency
A copy of the passport exhibiting the original visa must be lodged

Do I need to have an IELTS or a TOEFL English Test?

Students must demonstrate an English Language competency. Applicants who did not have English as the formal language of instruction are expected to demonstrate a reasonable command of the language by taking a TOEFL or an IELTS test (for a TOEFL a score of 500+ & written test score of 4.0+ in conventional is required; or a score of 200+ is required for a computer based TOEFL test; for an IELTS test a score 5.5+ is required). Applicants who don't have the TOEFL or IELTS can undertake intensive Pre-course English Language at THE BSL.

What is the minimum entry Qualifications?

Generally speaking, Diploma and first year degree courses are open to anyone who has 5 GCSEs (O levels) or equivalent. It is also possible for students to enter directly onto the second or even the final year of a degree course if they can show that they have relevant qualifications. Masters degree courses are only open to graduates.

Can I get an exemption to one or more units of a course (or a transfer or credit)?

Yes, and a consequent reduction in tuition fees. Exemptions to specific subjects can only be dealt with when the student has arrived at the BSL to start the course. The examining body or university who award the qualification decides on a student's eligibility for an exemption.

Why do foreign students have to pay deposit in advance?

The only students who need to pay tuition fees in advance are those who require a visa. Immigration officers like to see tuition fees paid in advance because it shows that the student genuinely intends to follow the course.

Will my deposit be refunded if my visa application is unsuccessful?

Yes, of course. We refund the deposit in full except £100.00 administrative charge.

What are the fees for international/ overseas students?

All course and accommodation fees are the same for all students.

Can I pay my fees by instalment?

Yes, provided you are a resident of the UK or you already have a student visa. If you need to apply for a student visa it is better to pay a year's fees in advance - to show that you genuinely intend to study.

What happens if I am late for a course?

It's always best to check with the College whether you can start a course late. Generally we allow students to start up to 10 days after a published course start date but you should still check with the College to make sure there are still places left.

How long will it take to THE BSL to process my application?

We are generally very quick. Most applications are processed within 48 hours. The postal system in your country will determine how long it will take for your acceptance letter to reach you.

How many lectures I will have each week and what is the timing?

The number of hours varies according to the course but they all comply with immigration regulations having at least 15 contact hours per week. The classes are always held between the hours of 9am and 6pm Monday to Friday, but the exact timings change each semester. You will be issued a timetable at the start of the course, and this schedule will remain until the end of that semester.

Can Foreign Students can work whilst studying at the BSL?

Yes. It is perfectly legal for international students to work 20 hours per week during term time and unlimited hours per week during vacation periods. However, foreign students applying for a UK study visa must be able to show that they can survive without working.

Is there a library/café at THE BSL?

Yes. THE BSL has library facilities as well as a popular cafe where students meet to chat and enjoy a snack.

Is there any internet facility at THE BSL?

Yes. THE BSL students have access to the latest information technology. This includes both fixed and wireless broadband internet access which is free for the students.

What accommodation is available?

THE BUSINESS SCHOOL OF LONDON has teamed up with local estate agents and residents to provide an affordable accommodation. Accommodation can be arranged temporarily for the first 2 weeks and confirmation of accommodation can be sent for visa application support.

You are required to pay at least £75.00 (non-refundable) as a deposit for this facility. Once you are in the UK, we will help you find the permanent accommodation.

How much is the estimated Living Expenses?

We advise our students that the cost of living for one year is approximately £6,000 to £9,000. This includes accommodation, travel and exam fees. These prices are an example:

Travel: as a student you will get discounted travel on London buses and the underground train system so (depending where you live) your month travel card will cost about £20 to £35.

Food: you would expect to pay about £20 / £30 per week on food for one person.

Exams: membership fees and exam entry fees for the first year are about £160.

Books: there is a recommended reading list for students. Tutors may also suggest additional books which may be helpful. We would suggest budgeting about £100 to £300. You also must buy your own stationery (pens, paper, etc).

Accommodation: We have teamed up with local estate agents and residents to provide students with affordable accommodation. We can arrange host family accommodation for you at a cost of £55-£100 per week. Many of our students will do this as a short-term option and then arrange to share accommodation with fellow students (this usually works out a cheaper).

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