Experience as an international student at University of Strathclyde Glasgow

University of Sheffield

8.4(18 Reviews)

Reason for choosing my college

I wanted to shift to data analytics from a non-computer science background, and this course seemed most suitable for someone like me. This course was also under the Strathclyde Business School, which had a reputation of its own. Also, the course fee was comparatively lower.

University of Glasgow

7.8(41 Reviews)

Reason for Rejection

My profile might not have been strong enough to meet the expectation criteria. Some courses were more technically oriented and therefore had requirements that were perhaps more suitable for candidates having a computer science or software background.

The documents are usually standard like SOP, LOR and academic marksheets and certificates. The SOP should be well written and be authentic. It should highlight candidate's interest in joining the university and why candidate choose a specific course. Other documents if any achievements can be included if applicable.

• I chose UK for my master’s due to the course duration of one year, and there are no language barriers like in Germany.
• The course fees were comparatively less than USA or Canada.
• The application process felt simpler.
• My overall experience at the University of Strathclyde was mixed. I joined when the COVID restrictions were still present. Most of the classes were fully online over Zoom. From the second semester onwards, I was allowed to visit the campus for library and some in-person sessions or the cafeteria if open. However, I missed the true normal campus experience, where every student came, and the environment felt more lively.
• Glasgow is a good city and there is a lot of student population. The people are nice and lot of places to visit. It is also the largest city in Scotland with good career opportunities.

• Classes used to be held Monday to Friday at different times of the day. At the beginning of every semester, an academic calendar was provided to every student along with the class code.
• The earliest start time was 9 AM. Usually the classes were not held back to back and there were gaps between the classes.
• On average there were about 40-60 students in one class depending on the particular subject. Some common subjects had more students.
• There were also tutorials on certain subjects for practical lessons. The tutorials would have around 15-20 students at the most at a time.
• Every class had different kinds of assessment as per the professor's choice. Some had exams while some had project assignments to be submitted. Self-study was required to stay up to date with class contents.

Faculty to student ratio is dependent on class size. The professors were helpful and approachable for any doubts. My dissertation supervisor was very supportive. I am not sure about getting a job through their references as it depends on individual career paths and the closeness of the relationship. If someone aspires for a PhD then such connections can be more beneficial. As for my case, my supervisor has been supportive of any kind of reference check for any job application.

• University of Strathclyde has buildings in the main city centre area of Glasgow. It has a large library with study spaces. There is also a gym and sports building. There are many student-led clubs and societies which one can join.
• The student union building is also a nice place to hang out and socialize.
• Any news on social/cultural events would be known through social media pages or physical banners in the campus region.
• Usually there are in-person and virtual open days held for upcoming students at the beginning of every academic session.

• Most students worked at warehouses, restaurants, cafes, supermarkets, and as delivery riders.
• Jobs are difficult to get as many students apply for the same position. Consistent applications are required, and internal contacts can be helpful.
• The usual process is to apply online, or one can apply by giving a printed copy of a CV at the workplace.
• University Career Services helps students craft CVs and cover letters and provides advice.

• On-campus job opportunities are usually advertised on the internal websites, some opportunities may be possible through connections.
• Most international students worked off campus. These jobs are either through online applications, internal connections, or physically sending the CV to the premises.
• Allowance is 20 hours per week on a student visa. Part-time jobs must be paid the national minimum wage for legal payroll.

• International students find it difficult to get full-time jobs. There is a lot of competition. Some employers are happy to give jobs on a contractual basis. International students can apply for a 2-year graduate visa after their studies and can work full-time during this period.
• Salaries can start from 20k and can go up to 40k, which is based on individual skills and qualifications and company.
• The usual process is an online application using a tailored CV and cover letter. Some networking may help.
• The main challenge for international applicants is getting visa sponsorship from the company after the graduate visa expires. Not all companies are willing to sponsor and the required salary threshold is also higher.
• Universities usually have career fairs where many companies come and advertise their positions. However my observation is that most roles are graduate entry-level roles and may not be suitable for international candidates aspiring for sponsorship because those do not provide high salaries.

I applied through an online platform and stayed at Kyle Park House, which is run by Unite Students. I did this before coming to the UK. Usually, they have flexible payment plans and you can book first and then pay as per their given payment dates. I did not face challenges due to booking in advance. The recommendation would be to sort out these matters before coming to the UK to avoid any hassles.