Why Study in the UK?
With four universities ranking in the top ten according to the QS World University Rankings 2022, there is no doubt that the UK is an ideal study destination for international students.
Studying in the UK is an excellent investment if you're looking to further your education and improve your employability. A degree from a prestigious UK institution will provide you with a valuable and transformative experience that will take your education to the next level. If you are still not convinced, read on to find out what the UK has to offer you.
Find courses in United KingdomBenefits of Studying in the UK for International Students
- The UK offers one of the best higher education experiences in the world as they are home to top-ranking universities and research institutes.
- You can do various specializations that are not easily available in other countries based on your choice.
- As an international student, you can apply for scholarships to fund your studies or take up part-time jobs for up to 20 hours during your term to cover your expenses.
- The courses in the UK start in January, and you can complete your courses faster as the UK education system is comparatively shorter than the ones in other countries.
- Thanks to the new post-study work visa announced by the UK government, you can stay and work for two years after graduation.
Education System in the UK
Education systems in the UK vary depending on the jurisdiction, with England, Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland having different laws and regulations. The biggest differences are seen in general and secondary education, where each region has its own credit frameworks and qualifications.
Several types of institutions offer higher education in the UK, including specialized schools, colleges, and universities. These institutions offer various types of degrees, such as bachelor's degrees (undergraduate degrees), Master's, and doctoral degrees (postgraduate degrees).
Cost of Studying in the UK
Studying in the UK can be expensive, so you must plan your finances in advance. However, the undergraduate degrees only take three years to complete instead of four years and the Master's degree also only takes one year instead of two. This can lead to big savings in living expenses and school fees for a year. Here is an approximate budget for the various study levels you can do in the UK.
Higher studies in the UK |
Approx. Cost per Year |
Foundation degree |
£20,000-28,000 |
Diploma |
£10,000-38,000 |
Undergraduate degree |
£10,000-30,000 |
Postgraduate degree |
£10,000-20,000 |
Doctorate |
£15,000-30,000 |
Cost of Studying and Living in the UK
The cost of living will vary depending on the city you reside in the UK and your personal lifestyle. Other factors like your choice of university, course type, accommodation, and such must also be considered while planning your budget. You can take up part-time employment as an international student to help cover your daily living expenses. Take a look at this table to get an approximate idea of the costs you will have to cover while studying in the UK.
Expenses to live in the UK |
Approx. Cost per Month |
Rent |
£400-500 |
Food |
£200-250 |
Electricity and Gas |
£60-80 |
Internet |
£30-40 |
Travel |
£80-90 |
Universities in the UK for International Students
For many international students, pursuing higher education in the UK is a very attractive proposition. UK universities offer a lot of advantages with their worldwide reach and excellent academic standards. The UK is also renowned for its research in STEM subjects and provides degree programmes which take less time to complete, making them more affordable.
There are many reasons why international students choose to study in the UK. The country is home to some of the world's oldest and most prestigious universities, which consistently rank among the highest in global rankings. Universities in the UK also have a long history of welcoming international students and are known for providing an excellent student experience that meets the needs and aspirations of their students.
Study Levels for International Students in the UK
If you're an international student looking to study in the UK, there are a few things you need to know. Firstly, all students must show competency in the English language. Different programs have different entry requirements, so do your research before applying. Here is a brief overview of the different levels of higher education you can do in the UK.
Foundation degree in UK:
This two-year course is the equivalent of an honours degree program. Foundation Degrees are employment-focused, similar to apprenticeships or internships. They're designed to give you the skills and knowledge you need to excel in your chosen career.
1) Diploma in UK:
A Diploma from a UK institution is highly sought-after by international students. The main reason for this is the abundance of job opportunities available in the United Kingdom. You have the luxury of choosing from various subjects to complete this degree and get a head start in your professional career.
2) Undergraduate degree in UK:
Also known as the bachelor's or baccalaureate degree in the UK, it takes on average three years to complete, though in some cases, it may be four. These degrees are designed so that students understand their chosen field or subject of study comprehensively.
3) Postgraduate degree in UK:
A Master’s or postgraduate course in the UK usually lasts for just one year, shorter than programmes in other parts of the world. This means that international students who choose to study in the UK can save time and money and begin their careers much sooner than if they had studied elsewhere.
4) Doctorate in UK:
A PhD in the UK typically takes three years to complete full-time or six years part-time. It involves writing a thesis on an area of academic interest, which is then defended in an oral examination in front of a panel of experts. Students are assigned a supervisor to help guide them through the process.
Courses for International Students in the UK
The United Kingdom is the perfect place to study abroad if you're looking for a top-notch education. With world-renowned universities and a diverse range of courses, you'll surely find what you're looking for. By choosing to study one of the best courses in the UK, you'll be setting yourself up for success in your future career. The UK offers you a sea of options, and below, we have mentioned a few popular courses among international students.
- Business Studies
- Finance and Accounting
- Economics
- Art and Design
- Computer Science
- Data Science
- Engineering
- Medicine
Scholarships for International Students in the UK
As you calculate your study and living costs for studying in the UK, you may realize that it is a bit expensive. However, different funding options are available to international students who want to learn in the UK. The possibilities can range from partial funding, like paying for part of your tuition, to full funding, which would cover your program fees and living expenses.
Depending on your specific circumstances, there are plenty of ways to finance your studies abroad. While most of these scholarships are for postgraduate students and focus on research courses, there are also a fair number of scholarships available for undergraduates. The university itself generally offers these scholarships.
Some of the government-funded scholarships include:
- Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships in UK
- Gates Cambridge Scholarships in UK
- Denys Holland Scholarship at University College London
- Bristol University International Office Scholarships