For students
What is the ISS?
The ISS is a summer programme at the university of Liverpool. For some it is a taster of UK education, for others a means to get credit and join a global alumni network, and for all it is a valuable and enjoyable way to spend 3 or 6 weeks. We provide a full range of academic modules, accommodation and a social programme to make your time with us unforgettable.
How long do I study?
You can choose to study for 3 or 6 weeks. If you want to study for 3 weeks, you can choose either weeks 1-3 or 4-6. The academic modules and social programme vary between the weeks so you may base your decision on the modules available as well as your availability and other travel plans.
Can I gain credit? How does that work?
Yes! All academic modules on the ISS are credit bearing, with assessment, and carry University of Liverpool credits which equate to ECTS. For each 3 week block you can be awarded 7.5 ECTS (15 UoL credits). Only the English Communication Skills modules are not credit bearing. When you graduate you will receive a certificate of participation, followed by an official transcript once your grades are approved. We are happy to work with your home institution to map our modules to theirs- just put us in touch.
Is there a GPA requirement to join the ISS?
While your home institution may have a requirement for those seeking to study abroad, we do not have a GPA requirement. Put simply; there may be times when someone with a lower GPA benefits more from overseas study than anyone else, or someone with a higher GPA may struggle with the experience of being overseas. For us, GPA is not the only, or the final deciding factor - but you must be realistic about your suitability for the course.
What will my classes be like?
We believe that small groups with a focus on experiential and communicative learning work best. You will study with students from around the world, led by an expert in the field in an interactive seminar style, and for most modules this will include spending time outside of the classroom to get practical experience of your subject.
And outside of class?
Our social programme is designed to show you the best of Liverpool and allow you to dig deep into local culture. Included in your fee is a welcome meal, one full day trip on a Saturday per 3 week session, city tour, a range of activities in and around the city, your graduation event and lunch, as well as less formally planned activities such as gallery tours, beach trips, karaoke… etc. You will have a team of current Liverpool students on hand to make suggestions and help out with making day or weekend plans. Many students use Liverpool as a jumping off point for exploration of Scotland, Ireland, and mainland Europe and we can offer advice around this too.
What is Liverpool like to visit/ study?
Liverpool is known for its culture, its friendliness and its unique sense of identity within the UK. What you might not realise is that Liverpool is also home to beaches, stunning architecture, parks and green spaces, a thriving independent food scene, shopping (big brands and local labels), and a sense of curiosity and fun that is hard to beat. It’s a safe, walkable city, within a train ride of Manchester, London, Edinburgh, and a short flight or ferry to Dublin. The university has put together this brief guide which you might find useful, but you are welcome to ask us any specific questions you might have.
I am a current student at Liverpool/ another UK university. Can I take part?
Yes! The ISS welcomes applications from international undergraduate students who are studying at Liverpool (and XJTLU) and those at other institutions looking to explore the UK, and find out why Liveprool is so popular. If you are joining us from the University of Liverpool you will not be able to use the credits against your degree, but you will have full access to the social programme and guaranteed accommodation (if you need it). If you are joining us from another UK university you will become eligible for alumni status and associated discounts. You will need to ask your home university about credit transfer.
What about my visa?
We supply a confirmation of study and accommodation once you have paid your fees and this will support your visa application. This will normally be a visitor visa. We recommend you check the current information from the UK government and find out the processing times for visas in your home country. Please also see this useful guide put together by the university. If for any reason your visa application is not successful, having been applied for in good time, we will refund your fees for both tuition and accommodation.
What do previous students think of the ISS?
Students join the ISS for a lot of different reasons with a lot of different goals; from academic development, to the desire to experience a new culture, join a global community, or to see what Liverpool and the UK would be like to study longer term. Whatever the reasons for joining us, the message is clear- the ISS is a fantastic experience and the city is a perfect location for this type of study. But don’t take our word for it…
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