Why choose UK for study?
Study in UK: UK is the second most preferred overseas education destination in the world, only next to the USA. The education system here is the testament of time. Universities like Cambridge have shaped modern education which we receive today.
Living and studying in the United Kingdom is like experiencing a high profile urban lifestyle and enjoying the diversity, complexity, civic infrastructure and social exchange while enjoying beautiful ancient yet modernized cities and delicious food with the liveliest population to be around.
UK universities rank amongst the best international universities in the world. With regard to life and career, a degree from an affiliated institution is highly appreciated by employers everywhere in the world. A promising stable career surely will secure students’ future.
The United Kingdom is a celebrated study abroad destination attracting lakhs of students annually. Students who study in UK have an incomparable life experience because the country molds them into the best version of themselves. The world-class educational institutions, state-of-the-art infrastructure, quality education, internship options, and multiple scholarships in UK all go a long way in instilling confidence in you. We have discussed the reasons to study in UK.
TOP REASONS TO STUDY ABROAD IN UK
- Impressive International Reputation
World-leading Research - Highly-Advanced Pedagogical Methodology
Variety in Course Offerings - Flexibility to Customize Your Degree
- Growing Popularity
- Lower Education Cost than the US
Numerous Scholarships in UK and Work Opportunities. - A Great Opportunity to Improve Your English
Experience the UK, its Culture and Lifestyle and More
Two year Post Study Work Right
Higher Standard of Education
Top-Ranked Universities
Shorter Course Duration
Education In UK
More than 10,000 courses available in British Universities nurture and develop the best in the students, training them to encourage an open mind, skills in logic, develop creativity and self-reliance. In the job market of the future, these qualities are valued by potential employers.
Universities in the UK design their courses to prepare each and every student to evolve professionally to meet and overcome the global challenges that lay ahead. Studying in the UK enhances students’ overall experience of seeing things from an International market perspective and allows them to become more accessible to the global network. UK Universities are famous for having campuses with students from a diverse range of backgrounds. The university offers its students various options to study in the UK as full-time, part-time, evening Programme, distance, and eLearning.
STUDY ABROAD IN UK: WHEN AND HOW TO APPLY
UNDERGRADUATE COURSES IN THE UK
All applications to UK universities are made through Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), a centralized body for admissions and placements, a year before the start date of the course. After students’ get their acceptance from the UCAS, they can apply for 5 different courses in universities specified by the UCAS. They have the freedom to exercise their choice here. For example, they can apply to 5 different universities for the same course or 5 different courses at the same university. Indian students can apply anytime between 1st September and 30th June in the year preceding the academic year they wish to take admission. For some courses, applications need to be submitted by as early as mid-October of the preceding year.
MASTERS IN UK
Unlike undergraduate programs, there is no centralized application system for master’s degrees. This means students have to apply to each university separately. They can get the admission forms from respective university websites. Most Masters in the UK start in September. However, some UK universities may offer multiple start dates.
Remember that the deadlines for application are typically earlier for Indian students than for UK/EU/EEA (European Economic Area) students.
Top Courses to Study in UK for International Students
Indian students prefer to study in UK due to the top-ranked universities, low cost of study, lower tuition fees, and better employment opportunities. Some of the top courses to study in UK for international students are as follows:
- Biosciences, Medicine & Healthcare
- Computer Science & IT
- Business & Finance
- Core Engineering & Engineering Management
- Management
- Law
- Agricultural Science & Forestry
- Great Career Opportunities
- Tourism & Hospitality Management
- Journalism
- Psychology
- Physical Sciences
Documents Required to Study in UK
The eligibility criterion for an overseas study aspirant alters with his choice of university and the type of programs. However, there are a few common criteria that apply to every individual applying for a UK study program. They are as follows:
- Résumé
- Mark sheets of 10thand 12th standard
- Transcripts or records of grades (high school and/or university)
- Two to Three years of work experience (for MBA aspirants)
- English language test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE) and UK entrance test scores (SAT, GRE, GMAT)
- Letter(s) of Recommendation
- Statement of Purpose, Personal Statement, Essay(s)
- Offer Letter
- Proof of payment of Application fees
- Passport photos
- Payslips
Study in UK Without IELTS
International students can now ask for an IELTS waiver from certain universities in UK. However, there are certain criteria that an international applicant has to fulfill to study in UK without IELTS.
You can study in UK without IELTS only if you meet the following requirements:
- The Medium of Instruction of the Applicant was English:Certain UK universities give IELTS waivers to international students who have studied in an English medium school. However, to access the waiver, students have to obtain an MOI i.e. a Medium of Instruction certificate from their previous educational institution.
- English Language Marks of Intermediate Exams:If an international applicant has scored excellent marks in English in his intermediate exams, he can ask for an IELTS waiver. Universities in UK give IELTS waivers to applicants who have scored 70% or more in English in their 12th.
- Students should have 70% and above in HSC for an IELTS requirement of 6.5 no band less than 5.5.
- Students should have 80% and above in HSC for an IELTS requirement of 6.5 no band less than 6.0.
- A few UK universities provide IELTS waivers to students from ICSE and CBSE Boards.
The percentage varies from university to university. Please check with the universities for the IELTS waiver percentage.
- Self-English Language Test (SELT):Universities in UK may conduct a Self-English Language Test for international applicants to evaluate their English language proficiency skills.
- Pre-Sessional Course: If any applicant gets a low IELTS score, UK universities may provide pre-sessional courses in English. The duration of this course will be from 6-12 weeks.
- English Major:If you had a major in English while pursuing an undergraduate degree, you will not be required to sit for an IELTS.
Student Intakes in the UK
| Intake | Starts From | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Fall or September intake | September | September- December |
| Winter or January intake | January | January- May |
| Summer or Spring intake | May | May-August |
Work Options in UK for International Students
The UK has always proven to be a great job market for fresh graduates. There is a huge demand for an international workforce in manufacturing, IT, corporate, and legal areas in the United Nations. Moreover, the UK government has implemented certain laws to facilitate employment for international human resources.
Part-Time Work Options in UK
A UK university has the option of part-time work for students. Students can work 10 hours per week during semesters. During the semester break, a student who has applied for a full-time program can work for 20 hours a week. Off-campus jobs include waiters, data entry jobs, etc.
On Campus or Off Campus Jobs in UK
A student can work either on campus or off campus. On-campus jobs include tutors, library assistants, bookshop assistants etc.
Post completion of studies, a student can stay for 2 years on a post-study work visa.
Online Part-Time Jobs in UK
A UK university also gives you the option of online part-time jobs. All you need is a laptop and an internet connection and you are good to go. There are various work-from-home prospects in the UK.
Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in UK
The UK offers a lot of scholarships for Indian students who want to study in UK. Some of the most popular scholarships are as follows:
- Erasmus Mundus Scholarship
- Rhodes Scholarship
- Great Scholarship
- Chevening Scholarship
- University of Plymouth UK Scholarship
- Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship
- UK Bristol University Scholarships
- The University of West England Chancellor Scholarship
- Sir Ratan Tata Scholarships
- Nottingham Trent University Scholarships
- University of Westminster Scholarships
- Manmohan Singh Scholarships
UK Student Visa
There are several types of UK Student Visas. Some of them are as follows:
Tier 4 Visa or General Student Visa-
Students who are 16 years of age and above and have an acceptance letter from an authorized UK college or university should obtain a Tier 4 visa. You have to get your CAS (Confirmation of acceptance of studies) from your university.
Short-Term Student Visa-
Students who want to pursue a short-term course should obtain a short-term student visa.
Child Student Visa(Tier 4)-
Students who are 17 years of age and below can apply for the Child Student Visa. This visa is issued to students willing to pursue their studies in UK. An offer from a UK Educational Institution with a valid Tier 4 Sponsor is mandatory to process the child student visa.
What is a CAS Letter?
The CAS is a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies number and it is issued by UK educational organizations to international students. It is an electronic document given to students by the college or university you have applied to. Additionally, the UK university which you have chosen to study will also provide a unique reference number that you have to mention on the Tier 4 visa application form. Through the CAS number the visa officers are convinced that you have been successfully enrolled in a particular UK college or university. They then go on to process your UK Student visa.
What does the CAS Letter contain?
The CAS letter contains the following details of the applicant:
- 14-digit CAS number
- Details of student like name, date of birth, nationality, etc.
- Details of tuition fees you have paid to the university
- Sponsor Details
- Course Details
- Passport Number
- Your Educational Details
What does the CAS Letter contain?
The CAS letter contains the following details of the applicant:
- 14-digit CAS number
- Details of student like name, date of birth, nationality, etc.
- Details of tuition fees you have paid to the university
- Sponsor Details
- Course Details
- Passport Number
- Your Educational Details
What is a Combined CAS number?
Students who will be studying more than one course simultaneously in UK should obtain a combined CAS number. This combined CAS number will let you apply for one visa that will officially permit you to stay in UK until both the courses are completed.
What is the Validity Period of a CAS number?
The validity period of a CAS number is 6 months which means you have to reapply for a student visa within 6 months from the date of issue of a CAS number.
Please note that obtaining a CAS number does not guarantee a UK student visa.
What is the Validity Period of a CAS number?
The validity period of a CAS number is 6 months which means you have to reapply for a student visa within 6 months from the date of issue of a CAS number.
Please note that obtaining a CAS number does not guarantee a UK student visa.
Documents Required for a UK Student Visa
A UK student visa application requires a lot of documents as compared to a tourist visa. To ensure a smooth visa interview, you ought to carry the necessary financial and academic documents with you. The list of documents is mentioned below:
- A Filled Up Visa Application Form
- A Valid Passport
- A Letter of Acceptance on the Course
- Bank Statement Stating Proof of funds
- Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS), Clearance Certificate (if required)
- Visa Fees Payment Confirmation Receipt
- Original Mark Sheets/Provisional Certificates
- Language Test Scores
- Payslips
- Additional Documents
Degrees Offered in the UK
The UK provides different qualifications to its students. They are divided into four categories –
Foundation Degrees
One-year Pre-Degree Foundation Courses can help you become ready to start your university studies easily. To hone your English language abilities or to master the fundamentals of technical topics like engineering, you can enrol in a foundation course.
Bachelor’s Degree
Students receive education and training for the majority of job prospects in these three-year programmes. However, many students choose for a four-year programme, where the third year is frequently spent working, serving as an apprentice, or participating in an internship.
Master’s Degree
With students focusing on one field of study, a master’s degree takes 1-2 years to complete. Depending on the student’s expertise, master’s degrees might be thesis or research-based.
Doctorate Or PhD
PhD study in the United States is divided into three parts. The first is a course of study that takes 1-3 years to complete, followed by preliminary, comprehensive, or cumulative examinations. It takes 5 to 8 years to acquire a PhD degree.
Degrees Offered in the UK
The UK provides different qualifications to its students. They are divided into four categories –
Foundation Degrees
One-year Pre-Degree Foundation Courses can help you become ready to start your university studies easily. To hone your English language abilities or to master the fundamentals of technical topics like engineering, you can enrol in a foundation course.
Bachelor’s Degree
Students receive education and training for the majority of job prospects in these three-year programmes. However, many students choose for a four-year programme, where the third year is frequently spent working, serving as an apprentice, or participating in an internship.
Master’s Degree
With students focusing on one field of study, a master’s degree takes 1-2 years to complete. Depending on the student’s expertise, master’s degrees might be thesis or research-based.
Doctorate Or PhD
PhD study in the United States is divided into three parts. The first is a course of study that takes 1-3 years to complete, followed by preliminary, comprehensive, or cumulative examinations. It takes 5 to 8 years to acquire a PhD degree.
Grading System in the UK
The UK uses a credit system to track, record, and facilitate mobility between courses and institutions. One UK credit is about equal to ten hours of labour. Students must earn credits in each programme in order to get a degree.
300 Credit Points
Across all subjects For a Basic Bachelor’s Degree
360 Credit Points
Across all subjects for a Bachelor’s Degree with Honors
180 Credits of Work
Which are made up of a mix of lecture courses, projects, and a dissertation for a Master’s Degree
Top Universities to Study in the UK
The highly regarded universities and the history of the UK are the key reasons why overseas students choose it as their destination. Many leading colleges in the UK excel in academics and help students shape their futures.
The Top Ten Universities in The UK are –
University of Oxford
University of Cambridge
Imperial College London
University College London
University of Edinburgh
University of Manchester
King’s College London
London School of Economics and Political Science
University of Bristol
University of Warwick
Cost of Living and Studying in the UK
The university you attend and the program you pick affect the cost of education and life in the UK.
Yearly Fees for Studying in The UK
Arts and Humanities – £12,000 – £18,000
Engineering/Science – £13,000 – £20,000
Business – £12,000 – £20,000
MBA – £13,000 – £24,000
Monthly Expenses of Staying in The UK
Rent – £600
Transportation– £150 – £200
Food – £150 – £200
Books And Stationery – £60 – £100
Telephone and Internet– £40
Healthcare – £50 – £100
Miscellaneous Expenses – £200 – £350
Post Study Work Visa
International students can apply for a –
Graduate Visa, which allows them to work in the UK for 2 years after completing their studies.
The stay is up to 3 years for PhD holders.
Skilled Worker Visa/PR
Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa if you want to prolong your stay. This visa allows you to work for an approved employer and stay in the UK as long as you choose.
You can seek PR with this visa. Check the following items off your list to be eligible for PR in the UK –
You have lived and worked in the UK for 5 years
You meet the average salary requirements
Demonstrate that your qualifications are relevant to the job
A cost of £2,389 is required when applying for PR. It might take up to 6 months to complete the procedure.
Top Careers in the UK
Here is a list of the top-paying jobs and the Average Salary Per Annum in the UK –
Dentistry: £45,000 – £51,275
Medicine: £50,373 – £78,759
Engineering: £30,000 – £48,000
Computer Science: £57,500 – £60,500
Finance: £52,000 – £55,000
Law: £51,237 – £60,000
Architecture: 46,148 – £50,000
Business and Management: £42,500 – £45,500
Accountant: £42,209 – £50,000
FAQs
How much will it cost to study in the UK?
As per the British council report the cost of International undergraduate fees is estimated to be around £22,200 per year and for postgraduate it is £17,109 per year. However, the cost might vary according to the university and program therefore it is recommended to check the cost of attendance from the university website.
What are the requirements for UK study?
The requirements for studying higher education in the UK can vary depending on the level of study, the institution, and the course. However, there are some general requirements which are applicable to most international students. Some of these requirements set by the UK government are academic qualification, English language proficiency, Visa, financial requirements and health requirements, etc. It is best to check the university application requirements for UK study.
How can I study in the UK from India?
The very first step when an individual choose to study in the UK from India is to research and choose the course that you are interested in and that meets your academic qualifications. Once you have chosen the course you can begin choosing your desired university of choice. After this you need to check the entry requirements and apply to the institution through the university website or through the UCAS portal providing all the necessary documents and information. If you are accepted into an institution then you need to apply for a student visa and finally you need to arrange the accommodation before you arrive in the UK.
Is UK a cheap place to study?
Studying in the UK can be a bit expensive for Indian students, however cost of study can vary depending on various factors such as level of study, institution, course and the location. To make the cost of study cheap, Indian students studying in the UK can benefit from scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid offered by some institutions and organizations.