International Students Admission to Aston University

Aston University, located in the heart of Birmingham, is a prestigious institution known for its strong focus on employability, innovative programs, and close ties to industry. For international students seeking a dynamic and supportive learning environment, Aston University offers a unique blend of academic excellence and real-world experience. In this article, we will guide you through the international admissions process, provide essential information about scholarships, accommodation, and student life, and help you understand why Aston University is an excellent choice for your higher education journey.

Overview of Aston University

Aston University was originally founded as the Birmingham Municipal Technical School in 1895, it has a rich history of academic excellence and innovation. In 1956, it became the UK’s first college of advanced technology and was granted university status by royal charter from Queen Elizabeth II on April 22, 1966.

Aston University is known for its strong focus on employability and practical experience. The university pioneered the integrated placement year over 50 years ago, and today, more than 73% of Aston students take a placement year, the highest percentage in the UK. This hands-on approach helps students gain valuable work experience and enhances their career prospects.

Key Facts about Aston University

Motto: Forward
Type: Public
Established:
1895 – Birmingham Municipal Technical School
1927 – Birmingham Central Technical College
1951 – College of Technology, Birmingham
1966 – Gained university status by royal charter
Endowment: £1.47 million (2022)
Budget: £197.7 million (2021–22)
Chancellor: Sir John Sunderland
Vice-Chancellor: Aleks Subic
Students: 15,500 (2017–18)
Undergraduates: 11,935 (2017–18)
Postgraduates: 3,565 (2017–18)
Location: Birmingham, England, United Kingdom
Campus: Urban, 60 acres (24 hectares)
Colours: Black and Red
Affiliations: ACU, EQUIS, EUA, Universities UK, AACSB, M5 Universities, AMBA
Mascot: Cyril the Squirrel (now deceased)

Academic Excellence and Innovations

Aston University is celebrated for its commitment to providing high-quality education. In 2020, it was named “University of the Year” by The Guardian. The Aston Students’ Union received The Guardian’s “Buildings That Inspire” award the same year. Additionally, Aston was recognized as the “Outstanding Entrepreneurial University” by the Times Higher Education Awards in 2020.

Aston University’s income for the 2021–22 academic year was £197.7 million, with £19.3 million coming from research grants and contracts. The university spent £219.4 million during the same period, highlighting its significant investment in research and infrastructure.

Campus Life and Student Experience

Aston University offers a vibrant campus life with various facilities and services to support students. The campus is urban, spread over 60 acres in Birmingham. Students can participate in numerous extracurricular activities, join clubs and societies, and enjoy the dynamic city life of Birmingham.

Safety and Crime Statistics

It’s important to note that Aston University has a higher crime rate compared to other universities in the UK, with a score of 298 on the crime scale. Prospective students should be aware of this and take necessary precautions.

Aston University stands out for its strong focus on employability, academic excellence, and student experience. With a rich history, innovative programs, and significant industry connections, Aston offers a comprehensive education that prepares students for successful careers. For more detailed information and to begin your application process, visit the Aston University official website.

How to Apply for Undergraduate Study at Aston University

Check, Double-Check, and Check Again

Applying for undergraduate study at Aston University involves several crucial steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you through the process:

1. Complete Your Application

Ensure all parts of your application are filled out completely.
List all your qualifications correctly and accurately.
Verify that you meet the entry requirements for your chosen course before applying.

2. Proofread and Review

Ask someone to proofread your application to catch any errors or omissions.
Keep an eye on application deadlines to avoid missing any important dates.
Email Admissions at admissions@aston.ac.uk if you encounter any issues or have questions.

3. Key Dates

For all important dates and deadlines, please refer to the UCAS webpage.
Completing your UCAS application is a detailed process, but remember you can save your progress and return to it later. Take your time to ensure your application reflects your best self.

4. Communication

Add @aston.ac.uk and @ucas.com to your email address book to ensure you receive all communications.
Check your emails regularly, including your Junk folder, for important updates and information.
You will receive important information via email and text message throughout the application process.

Application Processing

Once you submit your application, it typically takes a few working days to process. However, in some cases, it might take a bit longer. Please be patient and rest assured that your application is being reviewed.

Offers

After submitting your application, you may receive different types of offers:

Unconditional Offer

If you have already met the entry criteria, you will be guaranteed a place on the course.

Conditional Offer

You meet our criteria, but you still need to fulfill certain conditions, such as obtaining specific grades.

Alternative Offer

If you don’t meet the entry requirements for your chosen course, but your application is strong, we may offer you a place in a different course.

Contextualised Admissions

Aston University is committed to social mobility. Applicants from disadvantaged backgrounds may receive a lower conditional offer.

Responding to Offers

Once you receive decisions on all your applications, you need to reply to your offers through UCAS Track:

If you receive an unconditional offer you wish to accept, your place will be confirmed.
If you receive multiple conditional offers, choose one as your firm choice and another as your insurance choice. Decline any other offers.

For more information, visit UCAS.

Interviews

Some courses at Aston University require an interview as part of the application process:

If an interview is required, you will be notified in advance by the Admissions team.
You will receive details about the interview, including any pre-interview tasks.
Interviews may take place on campus or online via Microsoft Teams.
Attending the interview is compulsory if it is part of the application process.

To find out if your course requires an interview, check the individual course webpages.

A-Level Results and Clearing

A-level results are published in August and can be viewed on UCAS Track. If you do not meet the requirements for your firm or insurance choice, you may still be accepted onto your course or receive an alternative offer.

If you do not receive any offers, you can enter Clearing. Clearing is a process where universities fill any remaining course places, often with lowered entry requirements. Learn more about Clearing on the UCAS website.

Support

Regardless of the outcome on results day, you are welcome to contact one of our advisors for assistance. We are here to help you navigate your options and find the best path forward.

Final Tips

Remember to take your time with your application, double-check all information, and seek help if needed. Aston University looks forward to welcoming you and supporting your academic journey.

For more detailed information and to start your application, visit the Aston University official website.

How to Apply for Postgraduate Study at Aston University

Before you start your application, make sure you have the following documents ready:

University Transcripts: Copies of your transcripts for each year of study. If you haven’t finished your degree yet, submit your current grades. Provide certified English translations if necessary.
English Language Qualifications: If required, provide copies of your English language qualifications. Check our English Language Requirements to see if you need this.
References: One or two references, depending on your course. If you’re a current student or recent graduate, an academic reference is usually accepted. If you’re employed, an employer reference is usually needed. References should be on letterheaded paper and signed or sent directly from the referee’s professional email address.
Personal Statement: A personal statement of up to 250 words. Explain your interest in your chosen subject, highlight non-academic achievements, and show how the course will support your career plans.

You can find an application form on every postgraduate course page. Once your application is received, you will get a confirmation email and an electronic copy of your completed form. Our Admissions team aims to respond within ten working days.

Postgraduate Application Deadlines

Check the latest application deadlines and key dates for the admissions process. It is crucial to meet these deadlines to ensure your application is considered.

Postgraduate Application in 9 Easy Steps

1. Choose a Course

Research our course pages to identify your ideal course.

2. Apply Now

Find and complete the application form on your chosen course page. Once received, you’ll get a confirmation email and an electronic copy of your form. Our Admissions team will review your application and aim to decide within ten working days, though it may take longer during busy periods.

3. Offer

If successful, you’ll receive an offer email with instructions on how to accept. If not successful, you’ll also be informed via email.

4. Accept Your Offer

To accept your offer, you need to pay a deposit by the deadline specified in your offer email. This deposit secures your place. Be sure to quote your Aston Student ID in the payment reference to ensure it is matched with your application.

5. Send Us Your Documents

Submit your documents through our new application portal:
- Go to the ‘Application Responses’ section.
- Click the downward arrow and then ‘Additional Documents’.
- Click ‘Upload Document’, select the document type, and then ‘+ Add Files’.
- Once the files are added, click ‘Submit’.

6. Complete Pre-CAS Questionnaire (International Students Only)

If you are an international student, complete the pre-CAS questionnaire. This is needed for us to issue a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) to support your visa application. For visa support, contact our Visa Support team.

7. Apply for Visa (International Students Only)

You will need a student visa to study a full-time course in the UK. Our qualified immigration advisers can help you with the visa application process. This service is free. Contact us for help or to arrange an appointment.

8. Accommodation

Apply for your accommodation using your Aston Student ID number, provided in the welcome email. You usually can’t apply for accommodation until the day after you receive your offer. Alternatively, you may prefer to find private accommodation in Birmingham.

9. Welcome to Aston University

You will receive more details a few weeks before your course begins. Check out our pre-arrival webpages to help you prepare here.

For more details and to start your application, visit the Aston University official website.

Scholarships for International Students at Aston University

Aston University is committed to helping you achieve your career ambitions. We are investing over £2 million in scholarships to support international students. Our range of scholarships recognizes your academic, professional, and personal achievements.

How to Apply for Scholarships

To be eligible for a scholarship, you must first apply for and receive an offer for an Aston University course. Scholarship applications open on key dates throughout the year. We will provide details on how to apply closer to those dates.

Our Scholarships

1. Scholarships for September 2024 Undergraduate Taught Courses

These scholarships are available for students enrolling in undergraduate courses starting in September 2024.

2. Scholarships for September 2024 Postgraduate Taught Courses

These scholarships support students starting postgraduate taught courses in September 2024.

3. More Scholarships

Additional scholarships may be available. Check the website regularly for updates.

Regional Scholarships

Aston University offers a variety of regional scholarships to support international students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. These scholarships assists students from specific countries. Visit your country page on our website to see what scholarships are available for you.

GREAT Scholarships 2024

The GREAT Scholarships 2024 offer £10,000 towards tuition fees for a one-year postgraduate taught course. These scholarships helps support talented students from various countries.

Ferguson Scholarships

Ferguson Scholarships provide £10,500 exclusively to postgraduate students from Africa and India. These scholarships aim to support students from these regions in achieving their academic goals.

NCUK Scholarships

NCUK Scholarships are for students who are currently studying on an NCUK Pathway Programme. These scholarships help bridge the transition to studying at Aston University.

The Ernest Edward Scholarships for Asylum Seekers

Aston University is proud to offer up to four sanctuary scholarships for students seeking refuge in the UK. These scholarships benefit asylum seekers or those granted limited permission to stay in the UK after an unsuccessful asylum application.

Aston University provides numerous scholarships to help international students achieve their educational goals. Whether you are an undergraduate, postgraduate, or an asylum seeker, there are scholarship opportunities for your needs. For more information on applying for scholarships and to see the full range of options available, visit the Aston University official website.

We encourage all prospective students to explore these opportunities and apply for the scholarships that align with their background and aspirations.

Student Life at Aston University

Aston University, established in 1895 and granted university status in 1966, is a prestigious research-led institution known for its exceptional teaching quality and robust industry connections. The university boasts a diverse community with 18,000 students from over 120 countries. Situated in the heart of Birmingham, one of the UK’s most diverse and vibrant cities, Aston University offers a safe and friendly campus. The combination of outstanding teaching, top-notch facilities, and a commitment to an exceptional student experience sets Aston University apart.

Birmingham

Birmingham, home to the second-largest student population in the UK, offers a lively and dynamic environment for students. The city is rich in cultural diversity, providing numerous opportunities for socializing, entertainment, and personal growth. Students in Birmingham enjoy a variety of activities, from exploring historical landmarks to experiencing a vibrant nightlife. The city’s diverse culinary scene, shopping districts, and green spaces make it an ideal place for students to live and study.

Accommodation

Making a home away from home is crucial for a successful university experience. Aston University provides a range of accommodation options to suit different needs and preferences. On-campus housing offers convenience and a sense of community, with various room types available to accommodate individual or shared living. The university ensures that all first-year students have a place in on-campus housing, helping them settle into university life with ease. Additionally, there are off-campus accommodation options for those who prefer to live independently. Aston’s accommodation services support students in finding the right place to call home during their studies.

Student Support

Aston University is dedicated to providing comprehensive support to help students navigate university life. From academic assistance to personal wellbeing services, the university offers various resources to ensure students thrive. The Student Services team is available to help with study skills, mental health support, financial advice, and more. Aston’s commitment to student support creates a nurturing environment where students can overcome challenges and achieve their academic goals.

Open Days

Open Days at Aston University are essential for prospective students. Whether you are considering an undergraduate degree or advancing your career with a master’s or MBA, attending an Open Day provides a valuable opportunity to explore the campus. During Open Days, you can tour the facilities, meet lecturers and current students, and get a feel for university life. These events help you make an informed decision about your future studies at Aston University.

Students’ Union

The Aston University Students’ Union is the hub of student life on campus. Joining the Students’ Union offers numerous opportunities to meet new people, make friends, and participate in a wide range of activities. The union organizes events, provides support, and represents student interests, ensuring that every student has a voice.

Clubs and Societies

With over 130 student-led clubs and societies, there is something for everyone at Aston University. These groups cover a broad spectrum of interests, including sports, hobbies, cultural associations, and academic societies. Joining a club or society is a great way to pursue your passions, develop new skills, and connect with like-minded individuals. The vibrant community within these groups enhances the overall student experience, making university life more enjoyable and fulfilling.

In conclusion, student life at Aston University is vibrant, supportive, and full of opportunities. From living in Birmingham to engaging in various activities on campus, Aston provides a holistic environment for personal and academic growth. For more information on Aston University, visit their official website.

Conclusion

Choosing Aston University for your higher education journey offers a wealth of opportunities and a supportive environment for international students. With its strong academic reputation, industry connections, and vibrant student life, Aston University is an excellent choice for those looking to thrive in their studies and future careers.

We hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights into the admission process, scholarships, accommodation, and student life at Aston University. For detailed information and to begin your application, visit the Aston University official website.

Best of luck with your application, and we look forward to welcoming you to the Aston University community.