University study in the United Kingdom

Direct Enrolling into a foreign university means that you will independently: 

• Manage your own application.
• Manage administrative matters, including the foreign university’s requirements at all stages: application, admission, while you are abroad.
• Navigate the university’s process for securing housing or finding independent housing.
• Take responsibility for applying for a student visa (if applicable) and other matters related to arrival in your host-country.

Note that Universities in the UK are generally well-equipped to support visiting students; however, the level of advising and programming tailored to visiting students varies by university.


Arcadia and IFSA are separate study abroad program providers who offer additional support throughout all stages of your study abroad experience. 

They will: 

• Help you identify one or more universities that suit your academic and personal interests (as needed).
• Facilitate your application to the university (i.e., you will apply via Arcadia or IFSA to the foreign university).
• Guarantee housing.
• Provide supplemental pre-departure support, including for the student visa process (when applicable).
• Conduct their own orientation, in addition to your host university’s orientation, upon in-country arrival.
• Have staff available in-county to support you in all aspects of the study abroad experience (academics, co-curricular opportunities, health/safety matters, etc.).
• Organize activities, excursions, and other opportunities throughout your time abroad.
• Issue your official study abroad transcript (based on your credits and grades at the host institution).

Arcadia and IFSA will have higher program fees than direct-enrollment due to these added supports. If you are on financial aid at Harvard, your financial aid award will generally cover this additional cost provided it is not more than $5000 above the cost of attending Harvard College for that term.