

Study Group - Pathway Provider
United Kingdom
Students Satisfaction
80%
Overview
Study Group provides international pathway programmes to help students move from their current level of study to undergraduate and postgraduate degrees at its partner universities and colleges.
The pathway programmes develop students' academic skills, English language skills and subject knowledge, better preparing students to transition into university. So it would not be wrong to say that they offer the best bridge between the qualifications of students and the admission requirements of top universities around the world.
Extended Overview
Study Group is devoted to creating a better world through high-quality global education solutions that bring prosperity for its university partners and students. With over 30 years of experience, it prepares students for academic success at some of the finest universities in the world, through leading educational programmes.
They believe in empowering students to gain the global knowledge and experiences they need to address the greatest issues and seize the greatest opportunities of our time.
They have an approach that addresses academic issues at every stage of students' educational journey, from the time of undergraduate application, and provides comprehensive support beyond that.
Essentially, they provide opportunities for students to engage in transformative international experiences, build a diverse campus, and enrich the global community for all.
Mission Statement
The prime goal is to help international students secure success from the most renowned universities in the world today. Their ultimate vision is to be a premier international education company, offering academic pathway programmes in partnership with universities, ensuring the success of students’ progression into higher education and/or employment.
History
The journey began in 1989 with the acquisition of an Embassy language school in Hastings, England. It expanded with the incorporation of Bellerbys College and International Study Centres on UK university campuses.
In the early 1990s, they launched the business concept of International Study Centres (ISCs) located on university campuses, allowing international students to live and learn on campus from day one.
For the first time, the model combined early partnerships with facilities on campus within established institutions. That's vital for the thousands of students who begin their international careers every year.
By 1996, the company had rebranded to Study Group International and was expanding in countries around the world. Today, it's a well-known leader in international education, modifying offerings to fit students' needs around the globe.
Key milestones:
- 1989: Foundational presence in language education
- Early 1990s: Establishment of International Study Centres (ISCs).
- 1996: Formal adoption of the name Study Group International.
- Late 1990s - Early 2000s: Strategic expansion into major international study destinations.
- Present day: Leading force in international education, innovating pathway programmes and expanding university partnerships.
Campus Facilities
Study Group's International Study Centres (ISCs) and partner universities are designed to promote a full experience for international students. The modern facilities ensure students have access to everything needed to be successful in their studies, are comfortable in their new surroundings, and engage socially throughout their pathway programme.
The campuses provide academic spaces for students' learning, social areas for students to relax and engage, making a great launchpad for students' global learning journey.
Academic buildings or centres
Study Group's academic facilities form the centre of students' learning journeys, and have been purposefully built or are fully integrated, allowing for effective learning.
Students can access contemporary classrooms with all the latest technologies to engage in lessons full of interaction and create an active and supportive learning environment.
- Modern classrooms: Equipped with interactive whiteboards and multimedia capabilities.
- Computer labs: Access to high-speed internet, specialised software, and printing facilities.
- Lecture theatres: Where applicable, larger spaces for key lectures and presentations.
- Group study rooms: Dedicated areas for collaborative work and discussions.
- Specialised labs/studios: Depending on the programme, access to science labs, art studios, or specific technical facilities.
Libraries
Library resources play a vital role in academic success, and Study Group offers significant support in that regard.
While some of the ISCs will have their own study collections, if you are studying at Study Group's partner university, you will often have access to its extensive library resources from day one.
- Extensive collections: Access to physical books, academic journals, and digital resources.
- Online databases: Remote access to a wide range of academic databases and e-journals.
- Quiet study zones: Designated areas for focused individual study and concentration.
- Librarian support: Assistance from library staff for research, referencing, and resource navigation.
- Interlibrary loans: Potential access to resources from other libraries within the university network.
Student support and services
Study Group always have a prime concern for student welfare and transformation. They have a dedicated student support service and team to assist students at every step.
They can help with every issue, including academic advising and personal welfare. Their professional team is available to provide students with well-rounded support to guarantee a smooth and enjoyable experience.
- Dedicated student support teams: On-site advisors for welfare, academic progress, and general queries.
- Academic advising: Guidance on course selection, progression, and study skills.
- English language support: Additional classes and workshops to enhance language proficiency.
- Visa and immigration advice: Expert assistance with visa applications and compliance.
- Health and wellbeing services: Information on local healthcare, counseling services, and support networks.
- Orientation programmes: Comprehensive inductions to help you settle into your new environment.
Social and cultural spaces
The study group believes in creating a lively and welcoming student scene and campus culture with multiple social and cultural spaces, which can include a place to relax, socialise, and build community. These can also include student lounges, activity rooms, and other areas where students can meet and relax after class.
- Student lounges/common rooms: Comfortable spaces for relaxation, informal meetings, and socialising.
- Cafes and restaurants: On-site or nearby options for meals, snacks, and coffee.
- Activity rooms: Spaces for games, clubs, or recreational activities.
- Outdoor areas: Where available, green spaces or courtyards for fresh air and social gatherings.
- Event spaces: Venues for organised social events, cultural celebrations, and student gatherings.
Worship facilities
The study group is aware of the diversity of faiths of its international students. The study group and its partner universities will take reasonable steps to provide facilities that enable international students to pursue their religious beliefs or spiritual practices.
Its student support teams can also assist students in accessing local places of worship in the community.
- Multi-faith prayer rooms: Dedicated spaces for prayer and quiet reflection, often found on university campuses.
- Quiet reflection areas: General spaces for meditation or personal contemplation.
- Information on local worship: Guidance to help students find nearby churches, mosques, temples, synagogues, or other religious centers.
- Chaplaincy services: Many university campuses offer chaplaincy services representing various faiths for spiritual guidance and support.
Other relevant information
Beyond core academic and social facilities, Study Group students often benefit from access to a wider range of amenities provided by its partner universities.
- Sports facilities: Access to university gyms, sports halls, swimming pools, and outdoor pitches for various sports and fitness activities.
- Student Union: Opportunities to engage with the university's student union, which often hosts events, clubs, and provides additional support services.
- Bookshops and retail: Convenient access to campus bookshops, convenience stores, and other retail outlets.
- Career services access: While the pathway focuses on university preparation, students often gain early awareness of the career services they'll access upon progression to their degree.
- Accessibility: Study Group and its partners are committed to providing accessible facilities where possible, with support for students with disabilities.
Faculty and Staff
The faculty and staff of this company are highly experienced professionals dedicated to supporting international students. Following are the names of top leadership team members:
- Chief Executive Officer - Ian Crichton
- Executive Director, External Affairs - Ruth Arnold
- Chief Partnerships Officer - July Behl
- Chief Financial Officer - Simon Belfer
- Executive Director - Anthony Claridge
- Executive Director - Ed Griffin
- Managing Director, UK & Europe - James Pitman
- Chief Revenue Officer - Steve Goh
- Chief Academic Officer - Professor Elena Rodriguez-Falcón
- Managing Director, Global Admissions - Ravi Singh
- Non-Executive Chairman - Ralph Kugler
Student Life
Student life is an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture, meet students globally, and develop academically and personally. Its International Study Centres and university locations foster a vibrant and inclusive community.
Students can participate in many activities to help them settle in, make friends, and enjoy their time abroad. So that they can extend their learning beyond the classroom.
Studying in the UK provides an amazing, rich and diverse student life, integrating academic study with cultural experience. Students will have countless opportunities to experience, socialise and flourish through their studies, from cultural excursions to social events.
Student life at Study Group entails:
- Comprehensive orientation: Designed to help you settle in, understand your new surroundings, and meet fellow students.
- Multicultural community: Study alongside students from over 125 nationalities, fostering a truly global perspective.
- Social activities: Regular events like movie nights, game sessions, cultural celebrations, and international food festivals.
- Excursions and day trips: Opportunities to explore iconic UK landmarks, historic cities, and scenic countryside.
- University integration: Often, you'll have access to your partner university's clubs, societies, and sports facilities from day one.
- Dedicated student support: On-site teams offering academic advice, welfare support, and guidance on all aspects of student life.
- Cultural immersion: Opportunities to experience British traditions, pub culture, and local customs.
- Networking Opportunities: Build a strong international network of friends and future colleagues that will last a lifetime.
Housing and Accommodation
Providing safe, comfortable, and convenient accommodation is a key priority for Study Group, ensuring international students have a smooth transition to their new life in the UK.
They offer a range of housing options designed to suit different preferences, budgets, and the specific requirements of the pathway programme and partner university. The goal is to provide a "home away from home" that supports both academic focus and cultural immersion.
Types of accommodation offered:
- Student residences (University-managed or private): These are often the most popular choice, providing a vibrant community atmosphere and opportunities to live with other international and domestic students.
- Features: Typically offer single or shared rooms, often with en-suite or shared bathroom facilities.
- Amenities: Usually include a bed, desk, storage, and study lamp. Kitchens can be private (in studios) or shared communal spaces.
- Benefits: 24-hour security, internet access, on-site laundry facilities, and sometimes shared common areas for socialising.
- Location: Can be on-campus or a short commute via public transport to the International Study Centre and university.
Homestay - For students seeking a more immersive cultural experience and an opportunity to practice their English daily, living with a local host family is an excellent option.
- Features: A private bedroom (single or twin if traveling with another student), often with meal plans (e.g., breakfast and dinner, or self-catering options).
- Benefits: Provides a warm, welcoming family atmosphere, insights into British culture and customs, and consistent English language practice.
- Support: Host families are vetted and expected to provide a comfortable home, treat students as part of the household, and assist with local orientation.
- Location: Host families are usually located within a reasonable commute of the study centre, often by public transport.
Private accommodation guidance - For students who prefer more independence or wish to arrange their own living situation, Study Group can offer support and resources.
- Resources: May include bespoke links to reputable private student accommodation providers (like Amber), or guidance on navigating the local rental market independently.
- Advice: Information on what to look for in a private rental, understanding tenancy agreements, and tips for avoiding potential fraud.
- Considerations: Students arranging private accommodation are advised to ensure the location is convenient for their study centre and to thoroughly research properties and landlords.
Extracurricular Activities
Students' learning journey with Study Group extends beyond academic pursuits, with ample opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities.
- Social and cultural events: Organised gatherings, celebrations, and cultural excursions.
- Clubs and societies: Opportunities to join academic, hobby, or interest-based groups.
- Sports and fitness: Access to facilities and local clubs for staying active.
- Volunteer opportunities: Chances to engage with the local community and contribute.
- Workshops and skill sessions: Non-academic sessions for personal development.
Partnerships and Collaborations
Study Group has lots of partnership with universities globally, and in the UK alone there are:
- University of Aberdeen - International Study Centres
- Cardiff University
- Durham University
- University of Huddersfield Inspiring Global Professional
- University of Huddersfield London
- Kingston University London
- University of Leeds
- Leeds Beckett University
- Liverpool John Moores University
- Royal Holloway University
- University of Sheffield
- University of Strathclyde Glasgow
- University of Surrey
- University of Sussex
- Teesside University
Fees and Scholarships
Tuition fees range for international students may vary by programme (Pre-Masters, Foundation, English Language).
Career Services
Study Group's career services focus on building the foundational skills and providing guidance that will set you up for future career success after university.
Skills development:
- Transferable Skills Development
- Academic Skills Enhancement
- Communication Skills Workshops
- Presentation Skills Training
- Critical Thinking Workshops
- Problem-Solving Techniques
- Time Management Skills
Career guidance and advice:
- Career Advising
- Career Counseling Sessions
- Resume Workshops
- CV Review Services
- Interview Preparation Sessions
- Job Search Strategies
- Career Insight Opportunities
- Guidance on Industry Trends
Job and internship opportunities:
- Internship Placement Support
- Internship Opportunities
- Job Fairs
- Employer Networking Events
- Exclusive Job Postings (via university career services)
- Work Experience Programmes
Other potential services:
- Alumni Networking Platforms
- Professional Networking Opportunities
- Mentorship Programmes
- Corporate Partnership Insights
- LinkedIn Profile Optimisation Workshops
- Global Career Pathways Information
Awards and Recognitions
- Education Investor Awards 2021
- Pathway Provider of the Year by the Education Investor Awards 2020
- Shortlisted for Education Investor’s Pathway Company of the Year
- Shortlisted for Ed Tech Provider awards
- Shortlisted for the PIEoneer Awards
Frequently asked questions
Study Group is a global leader in international education. It focuses solely on preparing international students for university degree programmes. Study Group collaborates with over 50 universities globally to provide unique pathway courses that help bridge the academic and English language gaps for students planning to study abroad.