Study in England UK. 1416 best institutions in England UK
- 6 reasons to study in the United Kingdom
- Educational system in the United Kingdom
- Advantages of studying in the UK
- Tuition fees for studying at 100 best private boarding schools in Great Britain
- What documents are required for TOP-100 British boarding schools?
- Disadvantages and features of studying in the UK
- Literature and references
This content was developed and approved with active participation of Shitij Kapur.
In the process of preparing the material, we referenced the following sources:
- https://www.brightworldguardianships.com/en/guardianship/british-education-system/
- https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/student-visas.
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"5th Highest Performing School by A Level results in 2023" – The Telegraph.United KingdomYorkCurrently watching: 7from 13850.00 £ / term
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In 2023 100% of students achieved A*– B grades at A-levelUnited KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 9from 37600.00 £ / year
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Future graduates of 2024 have already received 5 offers from Oxford and 11 from CambridgeUnited KingdomCoventryCurrently watching: 8from 15999.00 £ / term
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In 2022 - 66% of A Level students achieved A* - AUnited KingdomOxfordCurrently watching: 8from 15100.00 £ / term
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#1 school in UK and Top-1 worldwide for IB results in 2021United KingdomCardiffCurrently watching: 10from 12650.00 £ / term
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In 2023 - 90% of A Level scores made up A- A*United KingdomOxfordCurrently watching: 9from 2250.00 £ / 2 weeks
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Top school in the UK at A Level during the past eleven yearsUnited KingdomCardiffCurrently watching: 6from 46400.00 £ / year
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In 2023 an average IB score made up 35United Kingdomnear LondonCurrently watching: 10from 46880.00 £ / year
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In 2023, the average IB score was 38.0United Kingdomnear LondonCurrently watching: 8from 14451.00 £ / term
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In 2023 – 37.5% of A-level students achieved A* - A.United KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 6from 12300.00 £ / term
Studying in the UK offers an opportunity to gain a diploma from a respected, high-quality and investment-worthy university. Obtaining education at british boarding schools can be a first solid step to a great career with ambitious perspectives. The UK universities and provate schools host international student from all over the world. Graduates of British universities become high-quality specialists with the necessary skills and knowledge essential for being in demand.
It goes without saying that studying in Great Britain demands big expenses. However, SMAPSE experts will offer you favorable conditions and ways to save money. Consultations, as well as services for admission to secondary, senior schools in Great Britain are free of charge. SMAPSE experts have gathered knowledge and expertise in the possible discounts and scholarships that sre applicable in your case. Our partnership with top universities as well as expertise in the field will grant you special prices that are lower than official prices. Check out samples of entrance tests to private boarding schools and day schools in England without visiting the school or the British Council.
Below you can find types of educational institutions and programs with detailed information from the official websites of private boarding schools and private day schools, descriptions, photos, videos, prices, reviews.
Alternative destinations
6 reasons to study in the United Kingdom
Why is studying in the UK so much in demand? Here is a list of benefits that our SMAPSE experts have distinguished:
1. Immersion into the English language
Studying language with full immersion in the linguistic and cultural environment of the UK is a great beginning. In addition, if your child is not the most diligent student or if his level of English proficiency leaves much to be desired, it is not the reason to refuse from education in England. Actually, studying English abroad is the most effective and fastest way to learn English. Moreover, high-quality teachers could easily catch the interest of your child and encourage him to achievements in language acquisition. As an interesting fact, according to UN statistics of 2024, more than 450 million people call English their native language alone, it has an official status in 67 officially recognized states, as well as in 27 partially recognized, unrecognized or non-sovereign territories.
2. Top-notch level of education
High quality of education in Great Britain is recognized all over the world. A diploma obtained in a British educational institution is highly praised and rated among the majority of universities and employers. Higher education abroad, especially in the United Kingdom, is a great leap towards successful career.
3. Modern equipment and technological infrastructure
At top universities of Great Britain, much attention is paid to equipment and labs. Undoubtedly, it creates a comfortable microclimate for foreign students and motivates to excel in studies and social activities. That is why universities and colleges, as well as private boarding schools and private day schools, provide a full range of services for the students. In addition to private lands that include lakes and parks, students can spend their free time in fully-equipped playgrounds, football fields and swimming pools. There is a great deal of modern computers, telescopes, theaters, 3D printers and sound recording studios.
4. Harmonious development
While studying in England, much attention is paid to extracurricular activities. Depending on talents, skills, hobbies and devotions, students can develop their interests. For example, those who are keen on sports, could engage with coaches and learn to play rugby, squash, golf or any other sport. Students can learn to ride a horse, swim, row or sail. Furthermore, those who are far from sports can study the secrets of "haute cuisine" or subtleties of etiquette.
5. The possibility of studying in England and in your home country simultaneously
International students have a chance to study simultaneously in a school in homeland and in a British private boarding or day school. Thus, students can obtain two certificates of graduation: British (Full-time) and certificate of your homeland. For more information, reach out to our experts.
6. Centuries-old traditions
In best private boarding schools and private day schools in the United Kingdom students can fully immerse into the world of unique traditions inherent by the particular educational institution. Outstanding atmosphere of the boarding schools, uniforms, ancient architecture and amazing landscapes will not leave anyone indifferent.
Obtaining top-quality fundamental knowledge combined with excellent command of English and motivation to enhance the skills should be taken into account while choosing the UK for education.
It is important to mention high demand for the graduates of the British universities. The highest quality of education is one of the reasons for high demand for graduates of British universities and colleges among international companies and corporations. Starting salaries of students with British diplomas are comparatively higher - it demonstrates the best preparation for the chosen occupation.
It is worth noting that the sooner you choose a study destination, the easier it will be for the young student to learn a language and adapt to an English-speaking environment. Some educational institutions from TOP-100 list in the UK open their doors to children from the age of 5!
Many parents are afraid to send the child to study in another country for a long period of time. The solution for this situation will be to try out summer language courses. What can be better for studying English in the UK during school breaks, when the process of learning will be combined with the entertainment and recreation in summer/winter camps?
In addition, summer courses have a number of very significant advantages:
- High intensity of language classes allows to learn the language in a short period of time;
- British summers have good weather. This is the best reason to go in for sports and outdoor activities;
- Camp settings are exclusively created for students to help them show their creative abilities in various sphere for them. For example, in music, dancing, film production, photography or participating in theatre plays;
- It is a great chance to learn more about the peculiarities of local history and culture on regular excursions;
- Participating in social activities, students can learn English with full immersion into the authentic linguistic environment.
Anyone who has received secondary or higher education in the United Kingdom will be able to build a successful career. Currently a great deal of foreign students from more than 140 countries of the world are studying in such prestigious educational institutions as:
In order to give students only positive emotions, deepen knowledge and effective skills, secondary schools create comfortable conditions for living and learning. Students from different countries get the opportunity to undergo a program specially designed for them. Such programs are designed to help the child adapt to a new life in a new country and study in a new environment.
Academic programs in the private boarding schools and day schools of the United Kingdom always include in-depth study of the compulsory disciplines and a number of electives. In addition, students can participate in practice classes, laboratory projects and experiments, workshops, research projects. This approach makes education highly effective in the contemporary society that highly appreciates the practical skills.
Educational system in the United Kingdom
Educational system in England has various levels and is very clearly structured. It is represented by groups of institutions working on the basis of their own hierarchy. Colleges, public and private boarding schools and day schools, educational institutes of all kinds have evolved over the centuries. Nowadays, each center can offer their students high-quality education.
The educational system is as follows:
- nursery schools (for children up to 5 - 7 years);
- primary schools (for children at the age of 5, 6, 7 - 11 years);
- secondary schools (for children of 12-13 years old, including incomplete secondary education: 14-15 years);
- pre-university training (adolescents at the age of 16-18 years);
- universities (for teenagers at the age of 18 years and older).
Advantages of studying in the UK
The diploma obtained at TOP-100 British educational institutions gives special status that is supported not only by prestige, but also by high quality of knowledge.
There are following advantages of studying in Britain:
- High level of culture in the educational sector;
- Best educational conditions and developed infrastructure;
- Tuition with reasonable prices;
- Opportunity to find employment in future;
- Shorter studying periods due to specially optimized programs;
- Opportunities for professional development;
If you are interested in studying in the United Kingdom, SMAPSE offers an impressive selection of programs of 100 best private boarding schools and private day schools in Great Britain. We will help you choose the best option that suits you best, calculate the costs of the chosen programme, as well as take on organizational issues. We are experts in the field of study abroad with 10+ years of experience. All you need is a desire to study abroad and the means to pay for the programme.
Don't hesitate to contact us and find out the cost of the programme you are interested in.

What is important to consider when choosing a school, in addition to rankings and professionalism of teachers?
Location, student and extracurricular activities - clubs, communities. The type of education is joint or separate (only for boys or only for girls), of course. Religious affiliation (if or not, how clearly expressed), a unified policy, the presence of a curfew and a uniform.
Tuition fees for studying at 100 best private boarding schools in Great Britain
Prices for studying in England are presented below (tuition fees for the citizens of European Union are usually lower):
- Adult courses - 150 GBP to 1 000 GBP a week;
- Camps for children – from 500 GBP to 1 500 GBP a week with accommodation and meals;
- Secondary education and high schools – from 17 000 GBP to 48 000 GBP for an academic year with accommodation and meals;
- Higher education institutions – from 11 000 GBP to 30 000 GBP per year.
You can choose from TOP-100 boarding schools and colleges where foreign students can get high-quality education.
What makes British schools so special?
British education is respected all over the world for its highest quality. Many families appreciate that the schools in the UK offer an international outlook combined with quality, the opportunity to work in a global, multilingual world. It is believed that British schools provide easy admission to universities not only in the UK, but also in the USA, and this, of course, is an additional advantage.
What documents are required for TOP-100 British boarding schools?
It is worth noting that the list of required documents varies slightly between private boarding schools due to small differences in the operation of the admission offices of educational institutions in the United Kingdom.
The basic list of documents that are required for every independent boarding school from TOP-100 list includes the following documents:
- Annual school reports containing grades for the last 2 or 3 years of study;
- A copy of the student's passport or ID card;
- Several recommendation letters from maths teachers and English or other foreign language teachers, as well as from the representatives of school administration (directors, deputies, etc.), written in free form with translation into the English language;
- A certificate of language proficiency in English (an optional requirement for British private boarding schools and day schools as there is a school entry test of their own);
- Several private boarding schools and day schools in Great Britain may require a unified test called Ukiset. It should be taken before the application documents are submitted to the school for consideration by the selection committee (this statement is only valid for the UK);
- School registration forms (which SMAPSE experts will help you fill in);
- Skype interview with the applicant;
- Special entrance test.
Why is education in the UK in such demand?
Education in the UK is a system of study programs provided by universities and other educational institutions. It is sought after for its high academic standard, excellent teaching quality, many research opportunities and wide international recognition.
How much does it cost to study in the UK?
The cost of studying in the UK can vary greatly. The average cost for international students at undergraduate level ranges from £10,000 to £30,000 per year, while at graduate level prices range from £12,000 to £35,000 per year, depending on the program and chosen university.
What are the admission requirements for international students?
International students are usually required to prove their English language proficiency, most commonly through IELTS or TOEFL scores, in order to be admitted to the UK. In addition, students must have a relevant education at the level required for the chosen program and provide letters of recommendation.
What subjects are most popular among international students?
Subjects popular with international students include business and management, engineering, medicine and health, information technology, arts and humanities.
Can I get a scholarship to study in the UK?
Yes, there are many scholarships available for international students. These scholarships may be based on academic excellence, financial need, or even the specifics of the chosen program.
What financing options are available to international students?
International students can apply for various types of funding, including academic scholarships, grants from universities, scholarships from government and private organizations, and even on-campus jobs to cover part of their tuition costs.
How can I find accommodation during my studies?
Many universities provide students with housing options in on-campus dormitories. Students can also rent private apartments or rooms in neighborhoods close to the university.
What cultural activities and social life are available to students?
Students in the UK can enjoy a rich cultural life, visiting theaters, museums, music concerts and sporting events. They can also join clubs and societies to meet new friends and participate in a variety of activities.
What visa is required to study in the UK?
International students planning to study in the UK need to obtain a Tier 4 (General) visa. This will require proof of enrolment at a university, financial guarantees and proof of language skills.
What language courses are offered to prepare for studies in English?
Many universities provide intensive English language courses, such as pre-courses or preparation programs, to help students improve their language skills before beginning their main studies.
Disadvantages and features of studying in the UK
Along with the undoubted advantages, education in England and Scotland has its own features, which you need to know about before applying.
- 12 years of schooling
The British school is twelve-year, while some countries might have an 11 year schooling rule. To get the required qualification as well as knowledge international students attend Foundation, International Year One, A-level, International Baccalaureate programs. All this is associated with additional costs (the cost of preparatory programs is quite high, they are rarely covered by scholarships and grants).
- You need to plan your career in advance
In British universities, it is extremely rare to change the direction of study — it is chosen at school or at the stage of the preparatory program, and to enter a master's program, you need a bachelor's degree in a related field.
- Cost of studying and living
The cost of living and studying in the UK is quite high, and in addition, the student needs to cover basic needs like food and entertainment. However, there are quite a lot of scholarships and grants for various purposes, do not discount them!
- A guardian need
Until the age of 18, international students can only study at boarding schools, but even then they will need an official guardian: this can be a relative (if they are a British citizen) or a professional from a specialized agency. It is possible to study in a day school only if you live with relatives or such a professional guardian: it is believed that a teenager under 18 years old cannot yet be responsible for living on his own.
- Requirements for entering
Almost all schools in England and other parts of the UK require entrance exams, often in two or more stages. Usually, all these selection tests are held in person, only in some cases it is possible to do this online or at the local office of the British Council.
- Immigrating to the UK is difficult, and finding a job is also difficult
If you have received a student visa, it will not be easy to change it to a work visa - first you need to find a job in a company with a license and a certain level of wages. Moreover, this is not easy to do, since British citizens have an advantage when applying for a job.
On the other hand, thanks to a new immigration policy of the British government, it is now possible to stay and look for work for two years thanks to the Graduate Visa program.

What makes British schools so special?
Our education is respected around the world for its highest quality. Britain's ties to its former colonies, such as Hong Kong, still generate high interest from families from there looking for schools with an international outlook. Parents want to see good academic results, but they also want to provide their child with an international network of friends and acquaintances, the opportunity to work in a global, multilingual world. It is believed that British schools provide easy admission to universities not only in the UK, but also in the United States, and this, of course, is an additional plus.
How can I find accommodation during my studies?
Many universities provide students with housing options in on-campus dormitories. In addition, students can rent private apartments or rooms in areas close to the university.
General educational statistics in UK
UCAS scores unification
A-Level | IB-Higher | IB-Standart | UCAS |
---|---|---|---|
A* | 7 | - | 56 |
A | 6 | - | 48 |
B | - | - | 40 |
C | 5 | - | 32 |
- | - | 7 | 28 |
D | 4 | 6 | 24 |
E | - | 5 | 16 |
- | 3 | 4 | 12 |
- | - | 3 | 6 |
F | 1,2 | 1,2 | 0 |
Statistics of English courses in England
Programs | Intensity | Group | Language requirements | The minimum cost of the week |
---|---|---|---|---|
General English | 15-20 | 8-10 | Starter | £240+ |
Intensive English Course | 28-30 | 6-12 | Beginner | £310+ |
Super Intensive English Course | 35-40 | 6-10 | Beginner | £350+ |
Exam Preparation Courses | 20-25 | 6-12 | Intermediate | £355+ |
Business English | 20-25 | 7-10 | Intermediate | £355+ |
Intensive Business English | 25-30 | 7-10 | Intermediate | £380+ |
Academic English | 20-25 | 6-12 | Beginner | £280+ |
English plus | 10-15 | 5-10 | Intermediate | £355+ |
English for Work | 25-30 | 10-14 | Beginner | £355+ |
Vacation English | 10-15 | 5-10 | Beginner | £270+ |
One-to-One lessons | individual | 1 | Starter | £50+ - 1 lesson |
Learning programs-summary information
Name | Meaning | Equivalent | Min. age | Duration, years |
Next stage | Cost |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
GCSE | General certificate of secondary education | secondary education (non-accomplished) | 14 | 1–2 | A-Levels | 15,000 USD+ |
A-Levels | Advanced level | secondary education (accomplished) | 16 | 2 | University | 15,000 USD+ |
BTEC | Business and Technology Education Board | secondary special education | 14 | 2–3 | University/ work | 15,000 USD+ |
Oxbridge Preparation | Preparing for Oxford and Cambridge | secondary education (accomplished) | 17 | 1 | University | 15,000 USD+ |
International Baccalaureate | International baccalaureate | secondary education (accomplished) | 16 | 2 | University | 18,000 USD+ |
Foundation/ Pathway Year | Preparatory year | admission to the 1st year of university | 17 | 1 | University | 14,000 USD+ |
NCUK | The Northern consortium | 2 year university | 17,5 | 1 | 2 year University of NCUK | 13,000 USD+ |
Special Preparation (Medics/Math/Business) | Specialized training | - | 14 | optional | optional | 4,000 USD+ |
Academic English | Academic English | Language school | 8 + | 6–12 months | School or University | 8,000 USD+ |
Advantages and disadvantages of English schools
Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|
The opportunity to enter the best universities in England, USA, Canada, Switzerland, Europe, the world | Expensive |
High quality of education and academic standards | Strong workload |
Perfect English after graduation | The need to change the social environment; it takes time to adapt |
Useful contacts | The difficulty of choosing the most suitable school for the child, requires a qualified specialist |