Concerned about how much money you could make after studying in the UK? Many international students worry about earning enough money to cover their living expenses and pursue their career goals.
The good news is that competitive salaries across various industries will be available in the UK job market in 2025, giving recent graduates a strong start.
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In 2024, the average yearly salary for full-time workers in the UK was about 37,430 British pounds, up from 34,963 pounds the year before. Curious about the average salary for international students and how it varies by field?
Keep reading this article as we uncover everything about the average salary for international students in the UK!
Overview of Average Salary in UK for Indian Students
The average salary for fresh graduates in the UK in 2025 is projected to range from £22,000 to £45,000 annually, depending on the industry and role. In Indian Rupees, this equates to approximately INR 25–35 lakhs per year. Graduates in high-demand industries like engineering, technology, and finance can make more money.
Indian students can use their education in the UK to land well-paying jobs that offer advancement opportunities as they acquire knowledge and abilities.
Salary Expectations for Freshers vs. Experienced Professionals
Depending on the course, location, and experience level, Indian students’ average salaries in the UK vary greatly. Here’s a general breakdown:
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Entry-Level Roles
- Indian students starting their careers after graduation typically earn between £20,000–£30,000 annually (INR 20–30 lakhs).
- Jobs at the retail or customer service end of this range may pay less than those in high-demand industries like IT, engineering, and finance.
Mid-Level to Experienced Professionals
- After gaining 5–10 years of experience, salaries rise to £40,000–£70,000 annually (INR 40–70 lakhs), particularly in fields like IT, finance, and healthcare.
Given the high demand for qualified workers in the UK, Indian students have a good chance to land well-paying jobs, particularly in fields with rapid economic growth.
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Top-Paying Industries for Indian Students in the UK
Indian students in the UK can secure lucrative roles in several high-paying industries, especially those aligned with their skills and qualifications.
Here’s a brief overview:
Technology and IT Industry Salaries
The technology industry is among the highest-paying for Indian students studying in the UK. Roles like software developers, data scientists, and cybersecurity analysts offer good packages. Experienced professionals in senior roles can earn upwards of £70,000 (INR 70 lakhs), making IT an attractive field for career growth.
| Job Role | Average Salary (GBP) | Average Salary (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Software Engineer | £45,000 – £65,000 | INR 46 – 67 LPA |
| Data Scientist | £50,000 – £70,000 | INR 51 – 72 LPA |
| Cloud Solutions Architect | £60,000 – £90,000 | INR 61 – 93 LPA |
| Cybersecurity Analyst | £50,000 – £75,000 | INR 51 – 77 LPA |
| IT Project Manager | £55,000 – £80,000 | INR 56 – 82 LPA |
Healthcare and Medical Sector Average Pay
There is a great demand for healthcare professionals in the UK, particularly physicians, nurses, and health workers. Entry-level roles, such as nursing, start at £25,000–£35,000 (INR 25–35 lakhs), while specialist doctors and surgeons earn between £60,000 and £100,000+ (INR 60–100 lakhs). This sector also offers job stability and pathways for long-term residency.
| Job Role | Average Salary (GBP) | Average Salary (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| General Practitioner (GP) | £70,000 – £100,000 | INR 72 – 103 LPA |
| Surgeon | £90,000 – £150,000 | INR 93 – 155 LPA |
| Pharmacist | £45,000 – £60,000 | INR 46 – 62 LPA |
| Nurse Practitioner | £40,000 – £55,000 | INR 41 – 57 LPA |
| Medical Radiologist | £60,000 – £85,000 | INR 62 – 88 LPA |
Finance and Banking Job Salaries
Indian students are particularly drawn to the banking and finance industry because it offers accountancy, financial analysis, and investment banking positions. Entry-level salaries range from £28,000 to £40,000 (INR 28–40 lakhs), with top earners in senior positions making over £100,000 (INR 1 crore).
| Job Role | Average Salary (GBP) | Average Salary (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Investment Banker | £70,000 – £120,000 | INR 72 – 124 LPA |
| Financial Analyst | £50,000 – £70,000 | INR 51 – 72 LPA |
| Risk Manager | £55,000 – £80,000 | INR 56 – 82 LPA |
| Chartered Accountant (CA) | £45,000 – £65,000 | INR 46 – 67 LPA |
| Wealth Manager | £60,000 – £90,000 | INR 62 – 93 LPA |
These industries offer high pay and strong career progression, making them excellent choices for Indian students in the UK.
Factors Affecting Salaries in the UK for Indian Graduates
Several factors determine the earning potential of Indian graduates in the UK. Understanding these influences can help students strategise their career growth:
Education Level and Its Impact on Salaries
Higher education credentials, such as a master’s or doctorate from a recognised university, significantly boost earning potential. Postgraduates typically earn 20–30% more than undergraduates.
For example, master’s graduates in technology can start at £35,000–£45,000 (INR 35–45 lakhs), compared to £25,000–£30,000 (INR 25–30 lakhs) for bachelor’s graduates.
Location of Employment
Salaries vary widely by city. London offers the highest pay due to its global business hub status, but cities like Manchester and Edinburgh also offer competitive salaries at lower living costs.
Industry and Field of Work
STEM fields, especially technology and healthcare, offer higher salaries than arts or social sciences. For instance, IT professionals often start at £30,000–£50,000 (INR 30–50 lakhs), while roles in creative fields may range from £20,000–£30,000 (INR 20–30 lakhs).
Experience and Networking
Building work experience through internships, placements, or part-time roles significantly impacts starting salaries. Networking within industries can also lead to higher-paying opportunities.
By focusing on these factors, Indian graduates can maximise their earning potential in the UK.
Average Salaries by Job Role in the UK
Here’s a breakdown of average salaries for popular job roles in the UK to help Indian graduates understand their earning potential.
| JOB | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Software Engineer | £45815 (INR 49 Lakh) |
| Business Analyst | £45591 (INR 50 Lakh) |
| Data Scientist | £51571 (INR 53 Lakh) |
| Civil Engineer | £39609 (INR 42 Lakh) |
| Mechanical Engineer | £40781 (INR 42 Lakh) |
| Nurse (Healthcare) | £37390 (INR 40 Lakh) |
| Doctor/ Medical specialist | £71284 (INR 76 Lakh) |
| Financial Analyst | £39361 (INR 42 Lakh) |
| Academic Researcher | £32241 (INR 34 Lakh) |
| Marketing Manager | £40299 (INR 46 Lakh) |
Part-Time Jobs for Indian Students in the UK
Indian students studying in the UK can make extra money by working part-time jobs. Here’s a breakdown of common part-time roles, their salaries, and work regulations:
How Much Is Paid Per Hour?
- The average hourly wage for part-time jobs is £9–£12 (INR 900–1,200).
- Specialised roles like tutoring or freelancing can pay £15–£20+ (INR 1,500–2,000+).
How Much Time Can They Work?
- During term time: 20 hours per week (per UK student visa rules).
- During holidays: 40 hours per week or more, allowing students to earn extra.
Average Hourly Pay for Top Part-Time Jobs
| Job Role | Hourly Pay |
|---|---|
| Retail Assistant | £8.22 (INR 886) |
| Waiter/Server | £12.82 (INR 1381) |
| Library Assistant | £14.43 (INR 1557 ) |
| Tutor | £26.55 (INR 2860) |
| Data Entry Operator | £11.77 (INR 1273) |
| Receptionist | £12.00 (INR 1297) |
| Warehouse Operative | £12.60 (INR 1360) |
| Delivery Driver | £13.96 (INR 1500) |
| Freelancer | £13.96 (INR 1500) |
| Barista | £12.29 (INR 1326) |
Part-time jobs not only help Indian students cover living expenses but also provide valuable work experience and networking opportunities.
Demand for Skilled Professionals in UK 2025
Due to economic growth, technological advancements, and workforce gaps, the UK is experiencing a strong demand for skilled professionals across various sectors. To address talent shortages, key industries such as healthcare, IT and technology, finance, and engineering are actively recruiting.
The UK government encourages skilled immigration through initiatives like the Skilled Worker Visa and post-study work options. Thus, international graduates with relevant expertise can secure high-paying roles and long-term employment opportunities.
How Can Leap Help?
At LeapScholar, we understand that every student’s journey is unique. That’s why we’re committed to turning your aspirations into achievements.
Your success is our top priority, whether securing admission to a top university, landing a dream internship, or thriving in a new country.
Let’s transform your dream of studying in the UK into a remarkable reality.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What is a good salary in the UK?
A. A good salary in the UK depends on the cost of living and location. Generally, a salary above £30,000 (INR 30 lakhs) is considered good, especially for fresh graduates. In high-cost cities like London, a salary of £40,000 or more would provide a comfortable living standard.
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Q. Is £70k a good salary in the UK?
A. Yes, a salary of £70,000 (INR 70 lakhs) is considered excellent in the UK. It is well above the national average and provides a high standard of living, especially outside London. In London, while it’s a good salary, the cost of living can offset some of that income.
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Q. What is the basic salary in the UK?
A. The basic salary in the UK varies by job type and industry. For entry-level positions, the starting salary is typically around £20,000–£25,000 (INR 20–25 lakhs). The national minimum wage is around £9.50 per hour, depending on age and employment type.
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Q. What is the average part-time salary in the UK per year?
A. Part-time jobs in the UK typically pay around £9–£12 per hour (INR 900– 1,200). Assuming a 20-hour workweek during term time, students can earn between £9,360 and £12,480 annually. Salaries depend on the job role, with more specialised positions paying higher rates.
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Q. What are the most in-demand job sectors for graduates in the UK?
A. The most in-demand sectors for graduates in the UK include:
– Technology (Software engineering, Data Science)
– Healthcare (Doctors, Nurses)
– Finance (Banking, Accountancy)
– Engineering (Civil, Mechanical)
– Marketing and Digital Media -
Q. How can international students improve their chances of getting a high-paying job in the UK?
A. International students can improve their chances by gaining relevant work experience through internships or part-time jobs. Networking, attending career fairs, and enhancing skills through certifications or further studies can boost employability in competitive sectors.
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Q. Are there specific cities in the UK that offer better job prospects for international students?
A. cities like London, Manchester, Edinburgh, and Birmingham offer better job prospects due to their large job markets and concentration of multinational companies. London, in particular, is a hub for finance, technology, and creative industries, while cities like Manchester excel in tech and media.
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Q. What is a good monthly salary in the UK?
A. A good monthly salary in the UK depends on location and lifestyle. On average, £2,500–£3,000 per month (INR 2.5–3 lakhs) is considered a comfortable income for single individuals. In London, where the cost of living is higher, a salary of £3,500–£4,000 is recommended for a good standard of living.
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Q. What is the salary for tech jobs in the UK?
A. Technology roles, especially software developers, data scientists, and cybersecurity experts, offer salaries between £30,000–£60,000 (INR 30–60 lakhs) annually for fresh graduates. With experience, professionals can earn upwards of £80,000 (INR 80 lakhs).
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Q. Are salaries in London higher than in other UK cities?
A. Yes, salaries in London are generally higher compared to other UK cities due to the higher cost of living and concentration of multinational companies. However, the cost of housing and transportation can be significantly more expensive than in cities like Manchester or Birmingham.
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Q. What are the salary prospects for jobs in finance in the UK?
A. In finance, roles like investment bankers, financial analysts, and accountants have high salary prospects. Starting salaries for finance graduates range from £30,000 to £50,000 (INR 30–50 lakhs), with senior positions like investment bankers earning upwards of £100,000 (INR 1 crore).
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