Undergraduate & Postgraduate Entry to the UK
Your Pathway to a UK Degree Starts Here. The UK is home to some of the world's most prestigious universities. WPC Global helps MENA & UAE students secure admission into both Undergraduate (Bachelor's) and Postgraduate (Master's/PhD) programmes.
Why Apply with WPC Global?
Free Eligibility Assessment
Book a consultation to see which universities match your academic profile.
Nationwide Options
We work with universities across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
End-to-End Support
From UCAS applications and personal statements to visa guidance.
1. Undergraduate Entry Requirements
From MENA High School to a British Bachelor's Degree. The UK education system differs slightly from the UAE system. Depending on your high school curriculum (Thanaweya Amma, British, American, or IB), you may need a preparatory course before starting your degree.
Academic Pathways Guide
| Your Qualification | Typical Grade Required | UK Entry Pathway |
|---|---|---|
| Thanaweya Amma (UAE General Secondary Education) | 70% – 80% overall | International Foundation Year (1 Year) – Required before Year 1 |
| British A-Levels | BBC – A*AA (Depends on University) | Direct Entry to Year 1 |
| IB Diploma (International Baccalaureate) | 28 – 34 Points | Direct Entry to Year 1 |
| American High School Diploma | GPA 3.0+ (plus SATs/APs often required) | Direct Entry or Foundation (Depends on SAT/AP) |
What is a Foundation Year?
Since the UAE high school system is 12 years and the UK system is 13 years, students with a Thanaweya Amma usually complete a Foundation Year in the UK. This 1-year course bridges the gap, improving your academic and English skills to ensure you succeed in your Bachelor's degree.
2. Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Understand how your UAE degree translates to UK standards. Most UK Master's programmes require a recognised Bachelor's degree. The specific grade requirement depends on the university ranking and course competitiveness.
Academic Qualifications (UAE to UK Conversion)
UK Equivalent GPA Guide
| UK Classification | UAE GPA (4.0) | Admission Level |
|---|---|---|
| First Class | GPA 3.3+ | Required for highly competitive programmes (e.g., Top-tier Law/Medicine) |
| 2:1 (Upper Second) | GPA 3.0 – 3.3 | Standard for most good universities & competitive courses |
| 2:2 (Lower Second) | GPA 2.6 – 2.9 | Accepted by many universities for standard Master's courses |
3. English Language Requirements
Prove your ability to study at university level. Since the UAE curriculum is not automatically accepted as proof of English proficiency, most students will need a valid IELTS for UKVI score.
IELTS Score Requirements by Level
| Level of Study | Typical IELTS Score | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation Year | 5.0 – 5.5 overall | Lower requirement to allow for learning |
| Undergraduate (Bachelor's) | 6.0 overall (min 5.5 in all bands) | Law & Medicine often require 7.0 |
| Postgraduate (Master's) | 6.5 overall (min 6.0 in all bands) | Top universities may ask for 7.0+ |
Other Accepted Tests
- ✓PTE Academic UKVI – Fast results, widely accepted
- ✓TOEFL iBT – Accepted by most universities
- ✓Duolingo – Accepted by some universities
Possible Exemptions
Some UK universities may waive English tests if:
- •Your UAE bachelor's degree was taught fully in English and is on their approved list
- •You studied in a British, American, or IB international school
4. Additional Documents Required
Get your application package ready. WPC Global helps you refine your Personal Statement to ensure you stand out.
| Document | Undergraduate (Bachelor's) | Postgraduate (Master's) |
|---|---|---|
| Transcripts | High School Certificates (Thanaweya Amma / A-Levels) | University Degree Certificate & Transcripts |
| Personal Statement | One essay via UCAS (4,000 characters) | Course-specific Statement of Purpose |
| Reference Letters | 1 Academic Reference (Teacher/Counselor) | 2 References (Academic or Professional) |
| Passport | Copy of valid passport | Copy of valid passport |
| Gap Explanation | If out of school for 2+ years | CV/Resume detailing work history |
5. Work Experience Requirements (Postgraduate Only)
Some degrees value professional experience over academic grades. While many Master's degrees accept fresh graduates, some professional courses have specific prerequisites.
MBA
Typically requires 2–3 years of managerial or professional experience
Public Health / Education
Relevant work experience is often preferred or mandatory
Data / IT / Professional
Industry experience can sometimes compensate for lower grades
6. Pre-Master's Options
Don't meet the direct entry requirements? No problem. If your GPA is slightly lower than required, or you want to switch subject areas, a Pre-Master's Program is the perfect bridge.
Pre-Master's Programme
For students with lower GPA or missing subject requirements
Graduate Diploma
For students needing additional academic preparation
English + Academic Tracks
For those who must improve English before postgraduate study
These pathways still allow entry into leading UK universities after successful completion.
7. Visa Requirements for MENA & UAE Students
To study in the UK, students must apply for a Student Visa (formerly Tier 4). Once you receive your offer, WPC Global assists with the crucial final step: your visa.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| CAS Letter | Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies – unique reference number from your UK university |
| Financial Proof | Tuition fees + living expenses (approx. £1,334/month for London) held for 28 days |
| IHS Fee | Immigration Health Surcharge – mandatory for NHS access |
| TB Test | MENA & UAE residents may need a Tuberculosis test certificate |
| Valid Passport | As required by UKVI with all supporting documents |
Start Your UK Study Journey Today
Whether you are a high school leaver ready for your first degree, or a professional aiming for a Master's, WPC Global is your bridge to the UK.