Why study in the UK?
World-class degrees to help you prepare and succeed in your career. A higher standard of education with institutions that consistently rank among the best in the world.
Why study in the UK?
The prestige of a UK university education attracts students from all over the world. The UK is one of the most globalised economies comprising England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and is among the world’s biggest economies. The sectors that dominate UK’s economy include the service sector, financial services, higher education, aerospace, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing and production. Best-paid jobs in the UK include Information Technology Managers, Engineering Professionals, Business and Financial Management Professionals, Legal Professionals, Aircraft Pilots & Flight Engineers, Higher Education Teaching Professionals and Medical Practitioners.
Studying in UK is a dream of many because of some key attributes that have made this country a hub of international education for more than a century. Let’s have a look at some of those key attributes:
- Strong Research: UK is responsible for contributing to more than 8% of world research and most of it happens through universities in the UK.
- Networking: The who’s who of India and other countries flock to the UK for a highly valued degree. This allows students to know other business backgrounds better and create lifetime bonds.
- Student-Friendly Cities: London is consistently being voted as the best student city in the world with the best student life. Whether you want to study in other cities in the UK like Oxford and Cambridge or study at the London Business School, the UK accommodates all!
- Post-Study Work Visa: A lot of international students tend to grab their UK post-work study visa and find high-paying jobs in the UK itself. The UK has a presence of almost all major companies in the world which allows for more employment.
- Multicultural Universities: UK Universities have adapted to Indian culture to some extent to make their Indian students feel at home and welcome in a different country. This warm environment has also been a reason for thousands of Indian students to study in the UK each year.
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Top Courses in the UK
At over 370 providers in UK, there are over 37,000 undergraduate courses offered. Study in UK for Indian students generally ranges to five popular courses that have immense demand.
Architecture Building Planning
The course is about planning and designing structures, and putting those plans into effect. Architecture deals with using a blend of creativity and scientific knowledge to develop structures of all shapes and sizes.
Business Management and Maths
As UK education consultants we receive an ambit of students looking to study Business and Management programs, at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. At the graduate level, the MBA appeals to those who already possess significant professional experience in a business and management role. This remains a very lucrative option and offers high returns in terms of career progression.
Computer Science
Generally, students who decide to study in the UK from India pursue a Computer Science degree. This deals with the theoretical foundations of information and computation, taking a scientific and practical approach to computation and its applications.
Creative Arts
The Bachelor of Creative Arts program provides students with exciting opportunities for a future in the creative arts. Students will become specialists in creative theory and its cultural context.
Engineering
Engineering courses usually place emphasis on mathematical and scientific knowledge. Universities in UK encourage students to put that knowledge into practice through design projects and networking with industry tycoons. These help build background skills that will be useful in the workplace, such as teamwork and management capability.
Law
A Law degree is generally prepared for a legal career. Through this program, students learn general skills which include the research, interpretation and explanation of complex subjects, analytical thinking and practical problem solving, oral communication, negotiation, teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to draft formal documents.
Other popular courses to study in the UK include:
- English Literature and Media
- Geography
- History
- Languages
- Law
- Medicine & Dentistry
- Nursing and Health
- Politics
- Philosophy and Theology
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Sciences & Biosciences
- Veterinary Studies and Agriculture
- Graphic Design
- Animation Design
- Interior Design
- Fashion Design
- VFX
Career Opportunities in the UK
The UK is one of the largest economies in Europe and several statistics show that in the past few years, the UK has seen a significant fall in the unemployment rate. This reflects that study in UK for Indian students is an impeccable opportunity
- Part-Time Employment in the UK
Students can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full-time during holidays.
Students pursuing a course below the degree level will only be able to work 10 hours a week (this has been reduced from 20 hours). However, this does not include Foundation Degree students. Students planning to study in the UK from India can expect to earn around £ 5 – £ 7/hour i.e., approximately £375 – £525/month during the term.
As UK education consultants we advise students to look for part-time jobs by browsing local newspapers and job shops as well as the Universities and Colleges’ career cells. However, please note that students are not guaranteed part-time employment by the University.
Students looking to study in the UK for six months or less, cannot work nor extend their visas further.
- Employment in the UK After Graduating
To attract international students, the government altered the study visa rules for international students. Through the new scheme, international students from an ambit of countries which includes India can stay back in the UK for two years upon the completion of the course. Until recently, those who study in the UK from India received a stay back of a mere four to six months respectively.
The new visa applies to students studying any subject at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The new visa will require a new application, compromising of payments of the visa and health surcharge.
A prominent benefit to study in the UK for Indian students is that it now gives them an opportunity to look for jobs. Once the graduate finds an appropriate job, they can switch to the skilled work segment which is a route towards settlement. Moreover, this doesn’t restrict the type of jobs students are permitted to undertake.
Although universities have opened their doors to international students, the rules still remain stringent in accepting the academically eminent.
The new route is set to be launched in the summer of 2021, meaning eligible graduates in the summer of 2021 (Academic Year 2020-21) will be able to apply for this route. This also includes those who have already commenced their course.
Thus now, studying in the UK for Indian students includes an application under this route after the completion of the program, within the validity of their visa to gain exposure.
Careers in the field of Information Economy, Oil and Gas, Construction, Graphic Designers, Animators, Health Care, Restaurants, Medical Consultants, etc are prominent.
Education Cost in UK
The cost to study in UK is dependent on factors, like institution, course, location and funding opportunities. The apparent cost advantage is the shorter duration of the programs.
Tuition Fees
| Subject | Tuition Fees (Per Year) | Tuition Fees in Indian Rupees (Rs) |
| Arts, Humanities | £ 8,000 to £ 10,000 | 7,44,000 to 9,30,000 |
| Engineering / Science | £ 10,000 to £ 13,000 | 9,30,000 to 12,09,000 |
| Business | £ 12,000 to £ 16,000 | 11,16,000 to 14,88,000 |
| MBA | £ 10,000 to £ 25,000 | 9,30,000 to 23,25,000 |
Living Expenses
| Places | Living Costs (Per Year) | Living Costs in Indian Rupees (Rs) |
| Places in Outer London | 9207 GBP | 856251 |
| Places in Inner London | 12006GBP | 1116558 |
(The above conversion has been done at Rs 93=£ 1. Subject to change*)
As UK education consultants we can firmly say that the cost to study in UK compares favorably with other education destinations. The rate of international undergraduate student satisfaction with the cost of living in the UK is also higher than that of other study abroad destinations.
Further, courses vary in length. Students may have the option of pursuing a foundation course and deciding later whether they want to carry on studying and ‘top-up’ to a full degree. This means students can take a break from their studies to return home, or alternate between periods of work and study. Find out more in Further education and Shorter undergraduate courses.
Types of Accommodation
Undergraduate, as well as Postgraduate students, are guaranteed accommodation by many universities in their Halls of Residence, for at least their first year at the university, provided they inform the university within the given deadlines.
On-Campus: College hostels (self-catered or fully catered)
Off-Campus: Renting a flat/apartment
Homestay: With the Families near the institution.
The complete cost to study in the UK depends on many factors, including institution, course, location and funding opportunities. On average, an undergraduate student pursuing a 40-week long course may indicatively spend up to Rs. 8 – 9 lakhs, while a postgraduate student may approximately spend nearly Rs. 10 – 11 lakhs. Many UK shops and restaurants offer a student discount and students can avail of great deals on travel passes to help make life more affordable. Private accommodation can be more expensive than most university accommodations. Monthly expenses in the UK will vary according to the location of the university. As UK education consultants we inform our students that if they wish to study in London, they should expect to approximately pay £13,521.
Scholarships in the UK
Universities in the UK are usually funded by the government, meaning that in some cases scarce funds are available to disburse among students as bursaries and scholarships. Still, most universities do have certain awards that are given to students based on their merit and performance during the course.
Besides the ones which individual departments may offer to those pursuing their further studies, students who study in the UK from India should be aware that there are special awards for Indian students. Another important source of scholarships is the British Government-sponsored awards like the Chevening Scholarship, Commonwealth Scholarship, and DFID scholarship. These are extremely competitive and the deadlines are much in advance of the session.
Choosing the University and Course
- The first step that you take towards turning your dream of studying in the UK into reality is to shortlist the best universities and courses. Ask yourself the question, “What do I want to study in the UK?” UK is known for offering over 500 specializations and courses in a wide variety of fields like fields of management, marketing, sciences, law, and medicine.
- After you have shortlisted the courses you would like to pursue, start looking for the best universities for the same.
After shortlisting your favourite courses and universities, you must check the eligibility requirements and documents required.
Proof of English Proficiency
Soon after you finalize the course and university, start preparing for the English proficiency test. As a citizen of a non-English speaking country like India, you have to give an English proficiency test that will be evidence for UK Universities that you have the vocational and written ability in English. This is mandatory for the UK admission process. Here are the popular tests that you can take as proof of English Proficiency:
IELTS– International English Language Testing System
Application Procedure in the UK
Intakes:
The main intake at universities in the UK is Sep/Oct. Few universities offer Jan/Feb intakes as well.
English Language Requirements: The minimum score for IELTS is 6.5 for PG courses and 6.0 for UG Studies.
Some UK Universities take into consideration the marks scored in English in XII. If students have scored up to 75%, some universities waive the English requirement.
*Please note TOEFL and PTE are accepted by selected UK Universities.
- Entry Requirements / Eligibility:
1. Undergraduate: Most ranked Universities require 80-85% for Engineering, Law and Management. Some Universities with high rankings for specific subjects might also require a minimum of 90%. IB: 38-40 points and A levels -AAA preferred.
2. Entry requirements for Humanities, Arts, Social Science & Computer Science are 70-80%
3. Students who wish to study in the UK from India but have scored lower than 60% in XII can choose Foundation and Diploma courses which help them get into better-ranked Universities.
4. Students pursuing UG courses in the UK should have completed 18 years of age before commencing the program.
5. Postgraduate: Most Universities prefer an overall of 60% marks in the UG degree, whilst some also require 70-75% min.
6. Some Universities will accept 50-60%, and any additional qualification or work experience adds to the profile
7. Students with a low percentage can apply for a Pre-Masters course.
8. The duration of work experience required for an MBA program is from 0-4 years. Many Universities accept students without work experience too.
9. Most AMBA accredited University requirements will include GMAT + 25 years of age + a minimum of 3 years of full-time work experience after graduation. Moreover, at least 1 year of Senior level Management experience is preferred by some universities.
- Sandwich and Foundation Programs
1. Sandwich programs are an amalgamation of periods of study and time spent in the industry. So, the course duration extends to 4 years.
2. Documents: To study in the UK, students are required to have attested copies of mark sheets of Std X, XII, and all the 3 /4 / 5 years of the Bachelor’s degree. A study in UK consultants our counsellors can attest to these for you, on sighting the originals.
3. At least 2 Academic reference letters are required from professors who have taught you most recently. One reference in the case of UG application is on the UCAS application form itself.
4. If you have work experience then at least one work recommendation from the employer who knows you well.
5. Statement of Purpose.
6. Curriculum Vitae / Resume.
7. Photocopied score reports of GMAT/IELTS/TOEFL/PTE if available/required.
8. In the case of students applying for Art and Design courses & Architecture programs, a portfolio is also required.
9. Certificates/achievements at the State and National Level and extra-curricular activities.
Education System in the UK
The education system in the UK gives students the freedom to combine courses in UK and subjects from different areas so that they can tailor their degree to their own needs.
The Education System in the UK is divided into four main parts, Primary education, Secondary education, Further education and Higher education. Students in the UK have to legally attend primary and secondary education which runs from about 5 years old until the student is 16 years old.
- Education Chart / Information
In UK, the “O” level is equivalent to SSC, “A” levels (2 years) is equivalent to HSC, Bachelor’s is for 3 years, 4 years are Sandwich programs, Masters are for 1 year and PH. D for 3 years.
1. Types of Certification
2. University
3. Open University
4. College and Institution of Higher Education
5. Open College
6. College of Technology
7. Teacher Training College
8. Institute
- Grading System
The alphabetical system of grading is followed i.e. From A to E in Secondary schools in UK
A: Excellent/Outstanding
B: Above Average
C: Average
D: Below Average
E: Failing.
- Main Grading System Used by Higher Education Institutions:
Studying in the UK for Indian students can be confusing due to the grading system. In UK, the Alphabetical system of grading is followed i.e. From A to E
A: Excellent/Outstanding
B: Above Average
C: Average
D: Below Average
E: Failing.
- Other Main Grading Systems:
1. Apart from the alphabetical grading system, the Numerical system is also used in UK.
2. Types of degrees
3. Types of taught courses
4. Postgraduate Certificates and Diplomas (PGCert; PGDip)
5. Master (MA; MSc)
6. Master of Business Administration (MBA)
7. Types of research degrees
8. Master of Philosophy (MPhil)
9. Master of Research (MRes)
10. Professional / Taught Doctorates (DEng, DMus, DEd, DBA, DClinPsych)
11. New Route Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD.)
12. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD or DPhil)
13. Bachelor’s Degrees
14. Foundation Degrees
15. Higher National Diplomas Higher National Certificates Diplomas of Higher Education Foundation courses, Foundation years or Access/Bridging courses
UK Student Visa
Documents Required for UK Student Visa
- A valid passport (Should have validity for more than 6 months from the date of application of visa)
- Proof of financial stability
- Details of your travel plans and where you are about to reside.
- Health checkup report.
- Keep a blank page on your passport for the visa.
- If you have collected all the documents, recheck and make sure that everything is in English. If not, then you need a certified translator who can translate all of them in English.
You can apply for a student visa online at the official immigration website of the UK.
You will have to sign, submit your application form, book an appointment, pay the application fee and collect the receipt. You will be required to visit the application centre to complete other relevant formalities. It is advised to apply for a visa 3 months before the initiation of your course to study in the UK.
UK Visa Application Fee
- UK visa application fee for Tier-4 Student Visa: £363 [roughly 35100 INR]
Healthcare Surcharge
Under the following conditions will you be required to submit a healthcare surcharge fee while completing the application process:
- A citizen of a country outside the European Economic Area (EEA)
- Applying for a visa to study, work or join your family
- Applying to stay for a period of more than 6 months
- Not applying to become a permanent resident of the UK
The amount payable as Healthcare Surcharge Fee
- The amount you pay depends on the length of your stay in the UK. The fee is £470 for every stay that lasts 6–12 months and £235 for any additional period that is less than 6 months.
- For example, if you are coming to do a course that lasts 12 months, your visa should start 1 month before your course start date and should cover the length of your course plus an additional 4 months. Your visa should last for 17 months in total so you will be required to pay an IHS fee of £705 (£470 + £235).
- If you are studying a 3-year undergraduate degree course you will have to pay £470 IHS for each year of your course plus £235 for the additional amount of time you are given on your visa before the start of your course and at the end of your course. Therefore you will have to pay a total of £1645 (£470 x 3) + £235 IHS fees.