With its rich academic history, diverse culture, and top-ranked universities, the UK is a prime destination for students worldwide. One of the significant benefits for international students is the ability to bring their dependents with them, ensuring that they don’t have to leave their families behind while chasing their academic dreams. However, not all courses offer this perk.
Let’s look into the specifics of which courses allow you to bring your dependents to the UK.
Level 7 Courses
What are Level 7 Courses?
Level 7 courses are postgraduate qualifications that include a range of master’s degrees and postgraduate certificates or diplomas. It includes two categories:
- Masters by Research: A Masters by Research (MRes) is a postgraduate degree focusing primarily on research. Unlike taught Masters programs, MRes students spend most of their time on a single research project, under the guidance of an academic supervisor.
- Masters: A traditional Masters degree (such as MA, MSc, MBA) involves both coursework and research. These programs are designed to provide advanced knowledge in a specific field and are often a stepping stone to higher academic pursuits or professional advancement.
Can You Bring Dependents?
Most Level 7 courses in the UK allow you to bring your dependents, provided you meet specific criteria set by the UK government. Dependents typically include your spouse or partner and children under 18. Universities in the UK understand the importance of family and provide various support services to help international students settle with their loved ones.
Level 8 Courses
What are Level 8 Courses?
Level 8 courses refer to doctoral-level qualifications, including professional doctorates and higher-level research qualifications. A Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a level 8 course that focuses on practical and research-based knowledge in business and management. It is designed for experienced professionals aiming to advance their careers through high-level research and analysis.
Can You Bring Dependents?
Doctoral students (Level 8) are generally permitted to bring their dependents. The extended duration and intensive nature of these programs make it essential for students to have their families close by. Universities often provide comprehensive support, including family accommodation options and access to community resources, to help integrate students’ families into the local environment.
Level 9 Courses
What are Level 9 Courses?
Level 9 courses in the UK refer to qualifications at the PhD level. A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) is a globally recognised postgraduate academic degree awarded by universities and higher education institutions to a candidate who has submitted a thesis or dissertation based on extensive and original research in their chosen field.
Can You Bring Dependents?
PhD students are allowed to bring their dependents. Given the demanding nature of doctoral research, having your family nearby can provide the necessary support and stability. Universities offer extensive resources to help integrate families into the academic community, ensuring a supportive environment for both the student and their dependents.
Whether you are pursuing a master’s degree, a doctoral program, or a professional doctorate like a DBA, the UK provides ample opportunities for you to have your loved ones by your side. This not only enriches your academic experience but also ensures that you have the emotional and logistical support needed to thrive in your studies!
