IEC International

United Kingdom

Why Study in UK?

Studying in the UK appeals due to its globally recognized universities, advanced research opportunities, international exposure, and rich cultural experiences, making it a top choice for higher education. For international students, choosing to study in the UK is a smart move.

 

The UK is known for great education and a rich history of learning. The country is adorned with captivating cities like Edinburgh, Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow. Moreover, UK universities are some of the best globally ranked, like the University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, and University College London.

Benefits to study in UK

  1. Affordability and SDS: The UK has the Student Direct Stream (SDS) to simplify the visa application process and offers various affordable study options.
  2. Post-Study Work Opportunities: The new Graduate Route permits international students to work in the UK for up to two years after graduation, enhancing career prospects.
  3. Language Skill Enhancement: Studying in an English-speaking country like the UK improves language proficiency, providing a competitive edge in the global job market.
  4. Scholarships for Indian Students: Indian students have access to scholarships such as Chevening and GREAT Scholarships, supporting their education in the UK.
  5. Research Opportunities: The UKs research-intensive universities enable Indian students to engage in advanced research across various fields.
  6. Top-Ranked Universities: Access to leading institutions like Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, and UCL deliver quality education. They are ranked among the top 10 QS World University Rankings 2023.
  7. UK Government Scholarships: Over 80 scholarships and financial aid are available for international students, promoting educational collaboration and cultural exchange.
  8. Vast Alumni Network: The UKs extensive alumni network offers valuable connections and networking prospects for Indian students throughout their careers.
  9. Personal Growth and Adaptability: Living in the UK exposes students to diverse cultures, encouraging personal growth, freedom, and adaptability.
  10. Renowned Education System: The UKs education system is globally recognized for its quality, ensuring a solid foundation for future success.

UK University

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Popular Courses to Study in UK

Top-tier universities in the UK take a hands-on learning approach in their pedagogical system. It means students learn by doing real-world tasks. Students pick their favourite courses from Business, Engineering, Computer Science, Medicine, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Cyber security, Social Sciences, and Arts through three main types of degrees: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral research programs. The list of popular courses to study in the UK is given below based on global needs:

Top Universities to Study in UK

Prospective students will experience academic excellence at the top-notch universities in the UK. These prestigious institutions are perfect for students who want to study abroad. Aspirants can engage themselves in a rich academic history, learn from experienced professors, guest faculties, and field experts, and work together with working professionals from around the world. It doesn’t matter if they’re into arts, science, technology, or business, UK universities offer an education that will change their future.

The table below represents the leading universities in the UK, along with their respective QS World University Rankings 2023 and Times Higher Education (THE) Rankings 2023:

Name of the University

University’s Highlights

QS World University Rankings 2023

Times Higher Education 2023

Location

University of Cambridge

Renowned for academic excellence and historic legacy

#2

#3

Cambridge, UK

University of Oxford

A leading institution with a rich scholarly tradition

#3

#1

Oxford, UK

Imperial College London

Focus on science, engineering, and medicine

#6

#10

London, UK

University College London

Multidisciplinary university in the heart of London

#10

#16

London, UK

London School of Economics and Political

Specialises in social sciences and economics

#45

#37

London, UK

University of Edinburgh

A broad range of programs and strong research

#22

#29

Edinburgh, UK

Kings College London

Known for health sciences and humanities

#40

#38

London, UK

University of Manchester

A Russell Group member and research-intensive

#32

#54

Manchester, UK

University of Bristol

Research-oriented with a strong student community

#55

#76

Bristol, UK

University of Glasgow

Broad curriculum and best student life

#76

#82

Glasgow, UK

UK Student Visa Requirements

To study in UK, aspirants need the UK Student Visa, commonly known as the Tier 4 Visa to study full-time courses. If applicants seek shorter courses, a Visitor Visa might be necessary. Typically, students receive a visa decision within 3 weeks, so applying in advance is essential. The cost for a UK study visa is £363 (INR 38,507 approx.) for applications from outside the UK. The UK Student Visa is a part of the Points-Based System (PBS) established by the UK government to manage immigration. For more information about student visas or study permits, visit the UK government official website or reach out to the local British embassy/consulate.

Intakes

Study intakes refer to specific periods when universities in the UK offer academic programs, allowing students to start their studies. It’s important for international students to grasp these intake cycles, as they affect application deadlines, course availability, and visa processing times. The three intakes in UK are September (Fall), January (Winter), and May Intake (Spring) (least preferred).

September Intake: The September intake or Fall intake is the most popular and widely available. It aligns with the start of the academic year, offering a comprehensive range of courses and opportunities for internships, jobs and networking.

January Intake: The January intake or Winter intake provides an alternative entry point for students who missed the September intake or want to start fresh in the new year. It might have fewer courses available compared to September, but it offers a chance to avoid the competition for popular programs.

May Intake: The April intake, also known as the spring intake, is less common and offers a smaller selection of courses compared to the other intakes. It could be suitable for those seeking specialized programs or having specific scheduling preferences.

What are the requirements to study in the UK?

To pursue education in the UK, aspiring international students must meet various requirements. These include academic requirements like specific grades or qualifications, English language proficiency test score requirements (such as IELTS, TOEFL, etc.), financial evidence to support living and tuition expenses, and obtaining a Student Visa. We have carefully gathered and shared complete details about these requirements from trusted sources, guaranteeing accuracy and reliability.

Cost of Studying in UK

The cost of studying in UK ranges from £10,000 to £38,000 (~INR 9.5L to 36.5L) per year, similarly, it is £4,625 (~INR 4,84,424) per semester and £2,312 (~INR 2,4,2,212) per quarter/term. It covers tuition fees, accommodation, food, and travel, and other expenses, varying by program, location, university, and level. The UK government supports international students with scholarships and aid. Moreover, it helps Indian students to estimate their expenses accurately by considering both internal and external factors, lifestyle, and university choices. Per term per year per semester

Scholarships

Scholarships are funds awarded to eligible students in the UK to cover their education costs, with values and criteria varying by the host institution. Scholarships are provided by various sources, including the UK government, educational institutions, private organizations, and international bodies. To promote international educational exchange programs, the government offers UK scholarships for Indian students. Students should research and apply for scholarships aligning with their academic achievements, field of study, and financial needs.

Education Loan for Studying in UK

Covering the costs of education and living expenses while studying in the UK can be tough on your wallet. But don’t worry education loans from public and private sources are there for your rescue. To get an education loan, the common eligibility criteria are strong academic records, admission to a leading UK institution, and a co-signer. Various financial institutions such as the State Bank of India, Syndicate Bank, Bank of Baroda, etc. have various schemes for study abroad loans. If the students receive an offer letter from a reputed University, the loan process is usually quick.

Cost of living in UK

The average cost of living in UK is around £12,000 (12,56,397 in Indian rupees) per year, including house rent, utilities, transportation, groceries, and leisure. Living in the UK, especially in popular cities like London, Edinburgh, and Manchester is expensive. The UK offers free healthcare through the NHS, serving as a safety net.

Post-Study Work Opportunities

The UK provides post-study work opportunities for international students after the completion of their degrees. The UK Graduate Route Visa lets students stay and work for 2 years (3 years for Doctoral students) post-graduation. The National Living Wage has increased the UK average salary by £10.42 per hour for international students. To get a UK Graduate Route Visa, students pay a £715 application fee and a £624 annual healthcare surcharge. This guarantees valuable work experience and potential employment options. After the visa expires, students can apply for skilled work visas, like the Tier 2 visa, and continue their careers.

To apply for an open work permit under the UK’s Graduate Route, aspiring candidates need to submit the following documents:

FAQs

How much will it cost to study in the UK?

The cost of studying in the UK can vary depending on factors such as the chosen university, program, and location. On average, undergraduate courses can cost between £10,000 to £30,000 per year, while postgraduate courses can range from £10,000 to £40,000 per year.

Does the UK require IELTS for study?

Yes, most universities in the UK require international students to provide proof of English language proficiency, and the IELTS is widely accepted for this purpose. However, some universities may also accept other tests like TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo or Cambridge English qualifications.

Is it cheaper to study in the UK?

The cost of studying in the UK can be higher compared to some other countries and cheaper than the US, but the quality of education and the value of the degree are often seen as excellent. While tuition fees and living expenses can be relatively high, there are various scholarships, grants, and part-time work opportunities available to help offset the costs.

How can I study in the UK from India?

To study in the UK from India, you need to follow these steps:

  • Research and explore universities and programs that match your interests and qualifications.
  • Apply and complete the university application process, which may include submitting academic transcripts, a personal statement, Test Scores for SAT/ GMAT/ GRE (as per the course), English proficiency test scores of IELTS/ TOEFL/ PTE/ Other (as per the course) and references.
  • For visa application, apply for a Tier 4 (General) student visa from the UK Visa Application Centre in India.
  • Provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses.
  • Get complete health insurance coverage.
  • Plan your travel and accommodation arrangements.

Can I study in the UK after 12th?

Yes, you can pursue undergraduate studies in the UK after completing your 12th-standard education in India. Many UK universities offer a variety of undergraduate programs. UK university applications usually require 50-60% high school grades and strong English proficiency.

How can I get PR in the UK after studying?

After completing your studies in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a post-study work visa or other immigration routes that could lead to permanent residency. The exact process and requirements depend on the immigration policies at the time of your study completion. Generally, you may need to secure a job offer in a skilled role, meet minimum income thresholds, and fulfil residency requirements.

Which exam is required to study in the UK?

The most common English language proficiency exam required for studying in the UK is the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Other accepted tests might include TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo or Cambridge English qualifications. Additionally, for some courses, you might need to take standardised tests like the SAT, ACT, or subject-specific tests.

Which intake in the UK is the best?

The main intakes for studying in the UK are typically in September. The September intake aligns with the academic calendar, and a larger number of courses are available.

Can I get a 100% funded scholarship in the UK?

While it’s less common to find 100% funded scholarships for international students in the UK, there are various scholarships, grants, and financial aid options available. Some scholarships can cover tuition fees partially, and others might include living expenses.

Who can apply for a UK student visa?

Applicants aged 16 and above can apply for a UK Student visa for further or higher education. Candidates should have confirmation of acceptance from a reputed UK institution, acceptable English Language proficiency scores like IELTS, and proof of financial capability. This involves showing approximately £1,334 per month (up to 9 months) for London courses and £1,023 per month (up to 9 months) for courses outside London. A licensed Tier 4 sponsor is also required for sponsorship.