United Kingdom: Education, Weather & Stay

	Introduction The United Kingdom or the Great Britain is a sovereign state located off the northwestern coast of mainland Europe. The country is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. The United Kingdom can be called a political association of four constituent countries: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Overseas territories such as Gibraltar, Saint Helena, and the Falkland Islands are a part of the Great Britain.
The country is a constitutional monarchy with Queen Elizabeth II as the head of state. A highly advanced country, United Kingdom is a member of premier world bodies like the G8. The country is also a founding member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the United Nations. The country has a permanent seat in the Security Council. The United Kingdom has a highly developed economy that has been measured at US$1.833 trillion. Its GDP is the fifth largest in the world. English language has granted the country special status throughout the world as thousands of students have flocked the country to gain mastery over the language. As per 2005 estimates, the country has a population of 60 million and is the third most populous state in the European Union. Climatic Conditions in United Kingdom The United Kingdom witnesses mainly four seasons: Winter, spring, summer and autumn. The country has a temperate climate. However, temperatures vary greatly during different seasons. UK witnesses huge precipitation throughout the year. Summers are warm and winters cool. Its close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean is an important factor in the variation of temperatures. Southern and central areas experience warm summers but temperatures seldom go above 35 degree centigrade. Maximum temperature recorded so far has been 38.5 degree centigrade. The northern and northwestern parts experience cool summers with temperatures not going beyond 17 degrees centigrade. Winters in the country are cool and windy. Temperatures range between 10 degree and 15 degree centigrade. Snowfall happens mainly in northern and eastern areas. Education Scenario in United Kingdom In present times, education in UK is more preferred than that of any other country in the world. Universities and colleges in the country strive to offer quality education and this is what sets them apart from their counterparts in other countries. Every year thousands of students from different parts of the world come to the country to pursue higher education. The education system in the United Kingdom is somewhat similar in pattern to that in India. The education system has been segmented into three divisions: primary, secondary, and college/university education. One can start university education after completing advance level exams. The university courses have duration of three years leading to universally recognized degrees. Post Graduate studies have normally duration of two years. Some universities have one-year post graduation courses also. Staying options in United Kingdom There is a range of staying options for students available in the UK. Students from the EU region do not need a work permit to work during the duration of their course. However, those belonging to countries other than from EU and the UK do need a work permit. Some of the staying options available in the country are: Residence at the college Staying as a paying guest with a family Sharing flats/rooms with other students (rent depends on location and size) A privately rented flat Residence at the college is much cheaper when compared to other options, as the students needn’t have to pay on fare. These types of residences have common rooms, laundry facilities, etc. It is prudent to cross verify with the institutions where the students are applying. Most colleges have accommodations officers who facilitate in finding an accommodation. Accommodation costs greatly depend on the region where the accommodation is located. Private apartments can be rented but it is necessary to cross check before signing on the dotted lines. There is local Citizens Advice Bureau where students can get free advice on finding an accommodation. The accommodation office located in most of the colleges can also be discussed.