Why Choose to Study in the U.K.?

The United Kingdom (U.K.) is the second-most popular location preferred by Indian students to pursue their higher studies. The country’s education system provides a spectacular environment and a chance to connect with the world’s best minds. Discover these aspects and know about how you can study in the U.K.

British universities are reputed for their flawless academic record and the various exposure opportunities. Some of the most popular universities in the U.K. according to the Q.S. World University Rankings are-

• University of Oxford
• University of Cambridge
• University College London (UCL)
• Imperial College London
• University of Edinburgh
• University of Manchester
• King’s College London
• London School of Economics and Political Science
• University of Bristol

Best Courses to Pursue in the U.K.

Universities and education providers in the U.K. provide a range of courses in various fields right after the intermediate level. Some of the most bankable and sought-after degree courses in the U.K. are in, but not limited to-

• Education
• Business Studies
• Art and Design
• Politics and Economics
• Medical Sciences
• Mechanical Engineering

International students appreciate a diverse landscape with various accommodation options, all of which the U.K. readily provides. Browse through this quick list of the best student-friendly cities in the U.K.-

• London
• Edinburgh
• Brighton
• Manchester
• Birmingham
• Bristol
• Nottingham
• Coventry

Education System

• International students eager to study in the U.K. are attracted to it because of its seasoned education scene. A degree from any prestigious British institute gives students an added edge in a highly competitive job market. Moreover, the country’s heavy intake of overseas students makes it a tempting option for Indians wanting to study abroad.

• British universities provide world-class research facilities and access to highly-qualified faculty. Pursuing your higher education in the U.K. can be immensely rewarding both educationally and professionally. The education system in the U.K. is highly evolved and employs innovative teaching methods.

• The British public education system classifies colleges and universities under the Higher education stream. Lower streams consisting of primary and secondary education are also open to students all over the world. These institutes are consistent in upholding the lofty standards of academic quality, integrity and equality.

You should initiate the visa application process 6 months before the beginning of your course, if you are applying from outside the U.K. The window will provide you ample time to navigate the process seamlessly.

The cost for a student visa is-

• £363 if you are applying from outside the U.K.
• £490 if you wish to extend or switch to the student visa inside the UK

On top of it, you need to pay an additional visa fee for any person joining you. The amount is payable by Mastercard, Visa Card, a demand draft on the application by a British bank or through cash payment made at a standard chartered bank.

Visa Checklist

Applying for a student visa to be eligible for education and working rights in the U.K. can be an exhausting process. However, you can go through this quick visa checklist to get an overview of the process and requirements for getting a student visa.

The guidelines differ according to the applicant’s age. We have listed down all the documents you need to get on your visa checklist here-

• A passport or any other valid documentation for travel with a minimum validity of 6 months at the time of applying
• A CAS from your respective university/education provider
• Proof of sufficient funds for basic expenses
• Proof of English proficiency (SELT/ IELTS/ Equivalent to CEFR B2 Level)
• Results of mandatory TB test
• Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate
• Proof of parental or guardian consent if the applicant is under 18
• Consent from sponsor if applicant has received sponsorship for course fees and other expenses in the last 12 months, if any
• Refer to the guidelines for the detailed list of documents here
• Be thorough with your documents to sail through the visa process. Failing to produce any of these might result in delay or even rejection. After your application is approved, you will appear for an interview.
• Normally, a British student visa can take 3 weeks to process. The entire process will be routed via the UK Government’s official website. You can update or withdraw your application by connecting with UKVI here.

Managing Expenses in the U.K.

Living and studying in the U.K. can be very expensive because of which several students pick up part-time jobs to pay for their expenses. The costs might vary depending on the city of residence, course and institute. Here is a detailed breakdown of the average costs of living in the UK for international students. Note that all the rates are subject to variation and are only approximate figures.

Accommodation

You may choose from the following options for accommodation in the U.K. depending on your budget and preference-

• Self-catering flats & residences- Between £4,620-£5,145 for 40-52 weeks
• One bedroom apartment- £748 / month
• Three-bedroom apartment- £1200 / month
• Residence halls- £400-£600/ month
• Local homestays- £10-£60/ night

General Expenses

• Public transport- £520-£625 (depends on duration of stay)
• Food- £1465-£1980
• Gas and electricity- £147.26/ month
• Telecom charges- £15-£50/ month
• Entertainment – £3000/ month

Tuition and Scholarships

Studying in the U.K. is expensive due to the high tuition fees, besides the mentioned expenses. As an international student, you should furnish sufficient proof of your ability to source funds for your stay and education. The average tuition fee for courses in the U.K. might be anywhere between  £11,400 to £38,000 per year for an international student.

The fees might differ according to the degree level and the specific field you wish to gain admission in. You might feel your annual budget stretching thin because of these expenses. This makes it necessary for international students to apply for scholarships, grants and bursaries to alleviate the burden of expenses.

The U.K. government as well as several private organizations grant many scholarships to support overseas students financially. Some of them are-

• Commonwealth Scholarships
• Chevening Scholarships
• Rhodes House Scholarships
• Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships
• M.B.A. Skoll Scholarships

Contact Us

While the route to studying in the U.K. might seem intimidating, our expert guidance and detailed assistance makes the ride easier. From consultations to counseling, we have it all covered. You can make a more informed choice now- just drop a message and we will get back to you.