Overview
The United Kingdom remains amongst the top preferences of students intending to study abroad. Being home to the finest and oldest universities in the world, the UK stands out for it’s exceptional quality of education. Universities in the UK offer rigorous and intensive one-year Master programs, making it an ideal destination to earn top-notch education in a short span! Known for its universities such as Oxford and Cambridge, the UK offers superior education in a range of fields.
International students can work part-time while studying, full-time during breaks, and receive special post study work visas in order to obtain professional experience after their studies. The tuition fees and living costs differ, although many grants exist to help with funding. Ultimately, the UK’s education system, along with post-graduation prospects, has an overall appeal as a location for students aiming for that international experience!
Key Facts to consider to Study in UK
Admission Intakes
Sep, Jan, May
Average Tuition Fee
Bachelor’s: £12,000 to £30,000 GBP
Master’s: £13,000 to £35,000 GBP
Living Expenses
£12,000 to £16,000 GBP per year
Post Study Work Permit
Bachelor’s - 2 years
Master’s - 2 years
Accepted Tests
IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, MOI, GRE, GMAT
Top Cities
London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Coventry, Birmingham, Bristol
Advantages of studying in UK
International students can expect a plethora of benefits when studying in the UK!
Academic Excellence
Some of the best ranked universities in the world, including those with research contributions, are found in the UK, where there are highly qualified teachers. The degrees that come from UK universities are internationally esteemed and recognized.
Diverse Course Offerings
There are many courses within different fields that UK universities provide. Students are offered a large variety of courses that could be specialized, from art to engineering up to business, humanities, and science.
Cultural Diversity
International students enjoy exposure to a culturally rich environment in the United Kingdom. A global perspective and cross cultural awareness are facilitated by exposure to diverse thoughts and backgrounds.
Short Duration of Courses
Most academic programs in the UK are of short duration, where students spend three years on an undergraduate degree and a one-year masters program. It also provides for high-quality student education with reduced duration.
Work Opportunities
In the UK, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during their studies and full time between vacations. Graduates are also allowed to remain in the UK after studying and have post-study work visas.
Research Opportunities
The UK has become a modern research centre for multiple sciences. They are provided with modern facilities and opportunities to facilitate novel research assignments aimed at broadening their knowledge base and personal growth
Cost of Studying UK
Tuition fees in the United Kingdom may vary depending on the university, course, and whether a student is domestic or international. However, the rough estimates would be as follows:
Bachelor's Programs
For international students, undergraduate tuition fees typically range from £10,000 to £30,000 per year, with medical degrees and programs in London generally being at the higher end of the spectrum.
Master's Programs
Master's degree tuition fees for international students can range from £13,000 to £35,000 or more per year. Programs in business, law, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields tend to be on the higher side.
PhD Programs
Tuition fees for international students pursuing a PhD in the UK are generally lower than for master's programs. On average, you might expect to pay between £10,000 and £20,000 per year for a Ph.D. program.
It's important to note that these figures are general estimates, and the actual fees differs. Additionally, some universities may offer scholarships or financial aid to international students. It's recommended to check the specific university's official website or contact the admissions office for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
How do I apply to study in UK?
There are various stages that one needs to follow when applying to study in the UK, though this usually varies a bit for different levels of study as well as universities. Here’s a general guide on how to apply:
Research and choose a course
Assess the curriculum and the courses available at the different universities in the UK as a potential student. This includes the program content, the university reputation, and the geographical location.
Check Admission Requirements
Go through the admissions requirements for the selected course. Qualifications such as academic credentials and English language proficiency (typically demonstrated through tests such as IELTS or TOEFL), are required, with other specific requirements for the programme in mind.
Select Universities
Indicate the universities where you would like to study. Look into issues related to ranking, place, campus facility, and what special strength each institution possesses in the field you are selecting for study.
Prepare application documents
● Academic transcripts and
certificates.
● Personal statement or the Statement of
Purpose
● Letters of recommendation
● CV or resume
● Proof of English language
proficiency.
● A copy of your passport
Receive Offer of Admission
If your application is accepted by the university, you will be provided with an admission letter. Your course outline, fee schedule, and any requirements should be outlined in this offer.
Meet Conditions (if applicable)
Fulfill the conditions specified in the offer letter if your offer is conditional (for example, upon completion of current studies, an IELTS condition).
Pay Deposit
Universities in UK typically will ask you to pay a partial deposit to confirm your admission which could be as low as 2000 GBP to up to 50% of your tuition fee or more depending upon the course, your location etc.,
Financial evidence and CAS
Most Universities expect your to show funds to cover your annual tuition fee and living expenses in the form of personal saving, education loan, FD etc., and avail the CAS statement
Apply for Student Visa
If you receive an unconditional offer, you should then move on to apply for a student visa. Ensure that you visit the UK government’s official website for details on specific visa requirements and application procedures.
Student Visa requirements to Study in the UK
In order to lodge your visa to study in the UK, you have to meet the following look into the following requirements:
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
CAS refers to an unconditional offer letter
from a licensed Tier 4, i.e., the
universities.
The CAS number is something that only the
university issues, and is unique for every
student.
Financial Requirements
It is crucial to prove that you are financially capable of paying for both tuition and accommodation. You must have a sum of the total tuition fees for one year plus the living expenses.
Tuberculosis (TB) Test (if applicable)
You are advised to undertake a TB test, depending on where you are living. Visit the official website of the UK government to confirm if you are required to do so.
Biometric Information
As part of the application, you have to provide biometric information. They are required to give fingerprints and photographs as well.
Visa Application Form
Fill in your personal, professional, and travel details into the online visa application form. This is usually available on the official UK government website.
Passport
Your passport needs to be valid throughout the period you will remain in the UK. It must have not less than two empty pages, which are left for visa affixing.
Healthcare Surcharge
As a component of your application, pay for the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). You get a passport for accessing the National Health Service (NHS).
Proof of Relationship (if applicable):
Dependents may have to show evidence demonstrating their connection to the applicant, like an affidavit copy of their marriage or birth certificate.
Scholarships to Study in the UK
There are several scholarships offered in the UK for international students undertaking studies such as undergraduate, master's, and PhD. Many universities, governments, NGOs, and private institutions provide scholarships. Here are some examples of scholarships available in the UK for international students:
- Chevening Scholarships: These scholarships, funded by the UK government, are awarded to exceptional international students who demonstrate leadership potential and are looking to study in the UK. Such scholarships fully cater for the students’ tuition fees, living allowances, among others.
- Commonwealth Scholarships: Students should be from eligible Commonwealth countries where Commonwealth scholarships are applicable. The scholarships cover full tuition, living expenses, and travel costs for the chosen courses.
- British Chevening/Cambridge Scholarships: The Chevening-University of Cambridge Award is a scholarship program that enables students to apply for selective masters courses at the institution.
- Gates Cambridge Scholarships: The scholarships funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation are offered to meritorious postgraduate students from a non-UK country. The latter includes full tuition fees, a maintenance allowance, and travel costs.
- Rhodes Scholarships: Rhodes Scholarships are prestigious scholarships for top-notch students from selected nations and cover full fees plus accommodation costs. The participants are students of the University of Oxford.
- University-specific Scholarships: There are lots of scholarships offered by some UK universities for foreign students. They include merit awards, needs-based scholarships, and course/region specific scholarships.
Top Universities in the UK
The UK is home to many prestigious universities, some of which are listed below!
The University of Oxford, in Oxford, England, is one of the earliest and most eminent universities globally. It is deeply research-oriented, and provides diverse degree courses for undergrad as well as postgrad.
The University of Cambridge also dates back many years and is famous worldwide for a tight curriculum aimed at gaining new knowledge on various issues. It is perennially among the best in the world.
With a focus on research and innovation, Imperial College London specializes in science, engineering, medicine, and business disciplines. Located at the centre of England, it is known for its excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
One of the best universities based on social sciences in London is the LSE. Known for its robust programs in economics, politics, sociology, legal studies, and other fields of social sciences.
The University of Edinburgh in Scotland, which boasts world-renowned research programs as well as covering a variety of academic fields, can be found in the country’s capital. It boasts a long tradition of being among the best London Universities.
Its red brick university that focuses much on research and development. As it has various programmes that have contributed to the realm of science and technology.
The University of Warwick based in Coventry, England has a reputable business, engineering and humanities department. It is known as one of the top colleges for academics with exciting student activities.
Post Study Work Opportunities in the UK
The post-study work permit, or Graduate Route, in the UK is essential for several reasons. It attracts and retains international talent, enhancing the country's global competitiveness and promoting cultural diversity. Granting work permits stimulates economic growth by allowing skilled graduates to contribute to the workforce and fosters international networks and collaborations. Additionally, it facilitates career development for graduates and streamlines immigration processes, providing a clear pathway for those wishing to work in the UK after completing their studies.
- Bachelor’s Degree : 2 Years
- Master’s Degree : 2 Years
- Ph.D : 3 Years
Types of Scholarships to Study in UK
There are plenty of scholarships available for international students, especially from developing countries.
- University Specific Scholarships:
Most UK universities offer scholarships to international students based on their academic merit, leadership qualities, and other criteria.- What it covers: They may cover either the full or partial tuition fee.
- Chevening Scholarship:
The Chevening Scholarship is a prestigious UK government scholarship that provides full financial support to outstanding students with impressive work experience and leadership potential.- What it covers: Tuition fees, living expenses, and other allowances.
- Commonwealth Scholarships:
These scholarships are funded by the UK government and are available for students from Commonwealth countries.- What it covers: tuition fees, travel expenses, and a stipend for living costs.
- Erasmus+ Scholarships:
Eramus Scholarships are funded by the European Union and offer grants to international students to study across Europe and even the UK.- What they cover: tuition fees, travel, and living expenses.
FAQ's
The UK offers 2 years of PSW for Bachelor’s and Master’s programs. And a Ph.D graduate is entitled for a 3 years post study work permit.
Obtaining a PR in the UK is subject to finding a work sponsorship and the duration of your stay. Therefore, it is important to select the right course that will land you a job.
Yes, it does! The short duration of the course does NOT affect it’s credibility. It is in fact also accepted in India for jobs and higher studies.
Not at all. In fact, most universities do not ask for either of these exams. However if your aggregate marks in your Bachelor’s Degree is low and if you aim to get into a Top University, GRE / GMAT is the game changer.
Computer Science, Data Science, MBA, Business Analytics, Law, Finance, and Medicine programs.
Yes! Many universities in the UK offer IELTS waivers. Some Universities also accept MOI, if you have your Bachelor’s program taught in English Language.
The overall cost annually would be the tuition fees for one year plus the living expenses. Tuition Fee will vary between 12,000 GBP to 40,000 GBP and the living expense will vary between 12,000 GBP to 16,000 GBP per year.
Definitely. Students are allowed to work for 20 hours per week in the UK. And during your semester breaks you can work 40 hours a week.
The duration of a Master’s is generally one year in the UK, but some universities offer a two-year program too.