The UK, with its rich academic tradition, stands out as a top choice for international students. It offers unique benefits because it is home to world-renowned institutions like Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, and many more!
The UK is a global leader in education, boasting top universities with a rich academic heritage. Its multicultural environment, rich student life, and focus on innovation create an enriching learning experience.
Over 160 universities offer a wide range of courses in the UK to cater to diverse interests.
The UK offers a wide array of courses in diverse fields, such as Engineering, Business, Medicine, Art and design, and Social Sciences.
According to the Economic Times, "In the previous academic year of 2023-24, the University of Birmingham welcomed more than 1000 Indian students, and it expects even higher enrollment numbers for the present academic year."
Highlight Table:
| Factors | Details |
| Number of universities in the UK | Over 160 |
| Tuition fees of universities in the UK | UG: GBP 11,400 - 38,000 (INR 11 L- 40 L) Average cost: GBP 22,200 (INR 23 L) PG: GBP 9,000 - 30,000 (INR 9 L- 31 L) Average cost: GBP 17,109 (INR 17.7 L) |
| Popular courses in the UK | Engineering, Business Management, Finance, Computer Science, Law, Art & Design |
| English language exam requirement | IELTS, TOEFL, PTE |
| Entrance exams requirement | GRE, GMAT, SAT |
Why Study in the UK?
Over the years, colleges in the UK have gained immense popularity among Indian students who wish to pursue their education abroad. In the previous year, the country saw a significant rise of 54% in the number of study visas issued.
Here's a breakdown of the many reasons why colleges in the UK stand out as a top study destination:
Renowned Academic Excellence:
The UK has a rich academic history. It houses some of the world's most prestigious universities in the UK for international students, such as Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College London.
These colleges in the UK consistently rank high in global rankings, guaranteeing a top-notch education recognised and respected by employers worldwide.
Diverse Range of Programs:
From cutting-edge engineering and innovative business programs to established fields like medicine, art & design, and social sciences, universities in the UK for international students offer a vast array of programs to cater to your academic interests.
Culturally Diverse Environment:
The UK is a mix of lots of different cultures, providing an encouraging and enriching environment for international students. You'll be able to interact with people from all walks of life, broaden your horizons, and develop a global perspective.
Successful Career:
A UK degree is highly valued by employers all over the world. The combination of a rigorous curriculum, practical skills development, and industry connections offered by universities in the UK equips graduates with the knowledge and experience to excel in their chosen fields.
Part-Time Work Opportunities:
International students in the UK are allowed to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during term time and full-time (40 hours per week) during vacations.
This allows you to gain valuable work experience, improve your English language skills, and partially support yourself financially.
High-Paying Job Sectors:
Graduates from universities in the UK are well-positioned for success in various high-paying job sectors.
Some of the most promising areas include:
- Finance and Banking
- Engineering
- Technology
- Medicine
- Management
- Law
Popular Job Sectors:
Beyond high-paying sectors, the UK offers a diverse job market with opportunities in:
- Education
- Marketing
- Creative Industries (e.g., Media, Design)
- Hospitality and Tourism
Student Visa in the UK:
To study in the UK, you'll need to obtain a Tier 4 (General) student visa. The application process typically involves:
- Receiving an offer from a recognised university in the UK.
- Demonstrating your financial ability to support yourself during your studies.
- Meeting the English language proficiency requirements (usually through IELTS or TOEFL tests).
- Submitting a completed visa application form with supporting documents.
Post-Study Work Visa:
After completing your studies in the UK, you might be eligible for the Graduate Route, which allows you to stay and work in the UK for two years (or three years for PhD graduates) after your course ends. This offers valuable time to gain professional experience and potentially secure a long-term work visa.
Did you know the UK offers various scholarships and financial aid options to help international students manage their education costs?
Intakes in UK
The UK attracts students with two major intakes, occurring in January and September, drawing in thousands annually. Additionally, a handful of universities in the UK offer a third intake in May, accommodating students who may have missed the earlier opportunities.
Various factors, such as available courses and scholarship opportunities, should be considered when deciding on an intake for studying in the UK.
The UK intakes are typically divided into three categories:
- September Intake
- January Intake
- May Intake
The September intake is the most popular, hosting the largest number of students each year. The January intake follows closely, although it offers a more limited selection of courses.
As the final option, the May intake has fewer university and course choices and tends to be the least favoured among students considering UK study opportunities.
Here is an overview of the available intakes in the UK, their duration and the application deadline:
| UK Intakes | Duration | Applications open |
| September Intake/Fall Intake | September to December | December - July |
| January Intake/Winter Intake | January to April | September - November |
| May Intake/Spring Intake | May to August | October - November |
Top Universities in UK
Some of the top-ranked universities in the UK for international students are the University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, University of Warwick, etc.
Check UK University ranking list given below:
| Universities in the UK | QS World University Rankings 2024 | THE World University Ranking 2024 |
| University of Cambridge | #2 | #5 |
| University of Oxford | #3 | #1 |
| Imperial College London | #6 | #8 |
| UCL | #9 | #22 |
| The University of Edinburgh | #22 | #30 |
| The University of Manchester | #32 | #51 |
| King’s College | #40 | #38 |
| London School of Economics and Political Science | #45 | #46 |
| University of Bristol | #55 | #81 |
| The University of Warwick | #67 | #106 |
Top Engineering Universities in UK
The UK is home to top-notch universities that are famous for Engineering.
We've picked the top ones based on how well they rank for Engineering & Technology, including big names like Cambridge, Oxford, and Imperial College London:
| Best Engineering Colleges in the UK | QS Subject Ranking for Engineering & Technology 2023 |
| University of Cambridge | #3 |
| University of Oxford | #4 |
| Imperial College London | #6 |
| The University of Manchester | #32 |
| UCL | #39 |
| The University of Edinburgh | #59 |
| University of Southampton | #88 |
| University of Leeds | #100 |
| University of Bristol | #112 |
| University of Birmingham | #114 |
Top Business & Management Universities in UK
The UK is a powerhouse of universities renowned for their esteemed business programs.
To help you navigate your options, we've compiled a table with the top institutions in the field with their rankings here:
| Best Universities for Business Management UK | QS Subject Ranking Business & Management Studies 2023 |
| London Business School | #3 |
| University of Cambridge | #8 |
| University of Oxford | #9 |
| LSE | #11 |
| The University of Warwick | #22 |
| Imperial College London | #28 |
| The University of Manchester | #35 |
| The University of Leeds | #67 |
Top Legal Studies & Law Universities in UK
The UK has a prestigious legal landscape, with universities renowned for their rigorous academic programs and distinguished alumni.
Here, we've compiled the top Law colleges in the UK, including universities like the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, and the London School of Economics (LSE) and their rankings:
| Law Universities in the UK | QS Law & Legal Studies Ranking 2023 |
| University of Oxford | #2 |
| University of Cambridge | #3 |
| LSE | #7 |
| UCL | #14 |
| King’s College London | #15 |
| The University of Edinburgh | #17 |
| Durham University | #46 |
| University of Glasgow | #56 |
| The University of Manchester | #57 |
| University of Bristol | #59 |
Top Cities in UK
The recently released QS Best Student Cities 2024 report provides insights into the top study destinations worldwide, highlighting cities that offer a good environment for students based on various factors such as affordability and overall appeal.
London has once again secured its position as the world's premier city for students, a result that comes as no surprise given its esteemed academic landscape.
The UK capital's reputation is undoubtedly supported by the presence of globally renowned institutions such as King's College London, UCL (University College London) and more!
Here is a list of top cities in the UK:
| Cities | QS Best Student Cities Rankings 2024 |
| London | #1 |
| Edinburgh | #16 |
| Manchester | #30 |
| Glasgow | #36 |
| Bristol | #44 |
| Coventry | #44 |
Top Courses in UK
The UK offers a treasure of academic opportunities catering to diverse interests and career aspirations.
Whether you're passionate about engineering, business, the creative arts, or anything in between, there's a perfect program waiting for you.
Here is a list of the most popular and in-demand courses in the UK:
| Courses | Number of Universities in the UK |
| BBA | 142 |
| MIM | 141 |
| BE / BTech | 121 |
| MS | 120 |
| BSc | 117 |
| MBA / PGDM | 101 |
| BA | 96 |
| BJMC | 80 |
| LLB | 78 |
| LLM | 78 |
Admission requirements in UK
Knowing what the universities in the UK need from you for admission is important.
Let's take a closer look at what you'll need to get started on your journey to UK higher education!
Highlight Table for Requirements:
| Feature | Details |
| Academic Qualifications | Varies by program and university (e.g., A-levels, BTECs, international equivalents) |
| Grades/ GPA | Usually, 3.0 and above |
| English Language Proficiency | Demonstrated proficiency through tests like IELTS, PTE or TOEFL (scores vary) |
English Language Proficiency Tests:
Most universities in the UK require international students to demonstrate their English language proficiency. This ensures you can effectively participate in lectures, coursework, and student life.
The most widely accepted tests are:
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS): This globally recognised test assesses your listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills.
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): Another popular option, TOEFL, evaluates your ability to use and understand English in an academic setting.
Documents Required:
The specific documents needed for your application will vary depending on the university and program.
However, some general requirements include:
- Official transcripts: Provide certified copies of your academic records from previous institutions.
- Personal statement: Craft a compelling essay outlining your academic goals, relevant experiences, and motivations for studying in the UK.
- Letters of recommendation: Request recommendation letters from teachers, professors, or employers who can speak to your academic abilities and potential.
- Passport: A valid passport is essential for studying abroad.
- Proof of financial support: Demonstrate your ability to cover tuition fees and living expenses.
Remember:
- Check university websites! Always refer to the specific program page on the university website for the most up-to-date and detailed information on admission requirements.
- Meet deadlines! Applications typically have deadlines, so ensure you submit all required documents well in advance.
Cost of Studying in UK
The main expense for international students living in the UK is tuition fees. These fees can vary a lot depending on the university, where it's located, and the course you're taking.
For example, fees for medical degrees and MBAs are usually higher compared to fees for humanities and social science degrees.
Here's a table showing the average tuition fees in the UK for different types of degrees:
| Degree | Average Annual Tuition Fees in UK |
| Bachelors | GBP 11,400 - 38,000 (INR 11 L- 40 L) |
| Masters | GBP 9,000 - 30,000 (INR 9 L- 31 L) |
| PhD | Up to GBP 18,000 (INR 18.7 L) |
Cost of Living in UK
The biggest expense for students in the UK is usually the tuition fee. Luckily, since the UK offers many one-year master's courses, it's often cheaper than studying in countries like the USA or Canada.
On average, you'll need between 8 to 35 lakh rupees for your tuition.
When you're planning your budget, don't forget about other costs like the student visa or the IELTS exam, which are necessary for admission.
Where you live in the UK affects how much you'll spend. Big cities like London tend to be more expensive than places like Cardiff or Nottingham.
Your lifestyle also plays a big role. Living in a college dormitory is usually cheaper than renting a two-bedroom flat or an apartment.
Living in the city centre is usually more expensive than living on the outskirts. You'll also need to think about other expenses like food and groceries if you're cooking for yourself.
Here's a breakdown of the cost of living in the UK:
| Category | Cost per month in INR |
| Tuition Fee | 8L-35L |
| IELTS Fee | 16,250 |
| Visa charges | 49k |
| Accommodation | 50k – 70k |
| Meal | 10k – 20k |
| Internet | 4k |
| Stationery and textbooks | 2k – 4k |
| Travel | 3k – 4k |
| Gas and electricity | 6k |
Scholarships in UK
Indian students have a range of tuition fees to consider when applying to UK universities.
Humanities and social sciences programs generally have lower fees, while courses like medicine and engineering typically come with higher costs.
It's important for students to research and compare the fees of different universities and programs.
Studying in the UK can be costly for Indian students, but there are several internal and external scholarships available to help offset these expenses. These scholarships provide opportunities for Indian students to pursue higher education in the UK at a reduced cost.
Here are some scholarships specifically designed for Indian students to help lessen the financial burden of studying in the UK:
| Scholarships | Benefits (approx.) |
| Rhodes Scholarship – MBA | INR 90 L |
| Felix Scholarships - MBA | INR 75 L |
| Kent Graduate Scholarship | INR 3 L |
| Gates Cambridge Scholarship - MBA | INR 87 L |
| WBS Scholarship | INR 25 L |
Jobs in UK
A UK degree opens up numerous opportunities in a fulfilling job market. Whether you're interested in the latest technology or traditional fields like law and medicine, the UK offers many well-paying and rewarding career paths.
We'll explore some of the most coveted jobs in the UK, along with their earning potentials here:
| Jobs | Average Salary In The UK ( per year) |
| Doctor | INR 66L |
| Engineer | INR 45L |
| Pilot | INR 42L |
| Software Developers | INR 57.5L |
| Teachers | INR 38L |
| Nurses | INR 39L |
| Architects | INR 73L |
| Marketing Managers | INR 54L |
| Data Analyst | INR 43.5L |
| Pharmacists | INR 45L |
Sourced By: Glassdor.com
Here are top university and their average salary package for the previous year:
| University | Average Salary (annually) |
| University of Oxford | GBP 78,895 (INR 82,21,082) |
| University of Cambridge | GBP 75,198 (INR 78,35,845) |
| Imperial College London | GBP 68,441 (INR 71,31,746) |
| The University of Warwick | GBP 70,746 (INR 73,71,933) |
Top recruiters in UK
These companies span various industries, including technology, finance, consulting, engineering, healthcare, and retail.
Here are some prominent companies in the UK that often recruit Indian students:
- Ernst & Young (EY): EY is one of the Big Four accounting firms and offers internship and graduate programs for Indian students interested in accounting, finance, consulting, and other professional services.
- PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC): PwC is another Big Four accounting firm that recruits international students, including those from India, for internship and graduate opportunities in various business areas.
- Deloitte: Deloitte is a multinational professional services network that recruits Indian students for internships and graduate programs in consulting, auditing, tax, and advisory services.
- KPMG: KPMG is one of the Big Four accounting firms and offers internship and graduate opportunities for Indian students interested in accounting, auditing, tax, and advisory services.
- Accenture: Accenture is a global management consulting and professional services firm that recruits Indian students for internships and graduate roles in technology consulting, strategy, digital, and other areas.
- IBM: IBM, a global technology and consulting company, offers internship and employment opportunities for Indian students in software development, data science, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, consulting, and business analytics.
- Amazon: Amazon, the world's largest online retailer and cloud computing company, provides internship and job opportunities for Indian students in software development, data science, operations, marketing, and business analysis.
- Microsoft: Microsoft, one of the largest technology companies globally, offers internship and full-time employment opportunities for Indian students in various roles, including software engineering, product management, data science, and business development.
- British Airways: British Airways, the flag carrier airline of the United Kingdom, hires Indian students for internships and graduate programs in areas such as aviation, engineering, finance, marketing, and customer service.
- Unilever: Unilever, a multinational consumer goods company, recruits Indian students for internships and graduate roles in marketing, brand management, supply chain management, finance, and research and development.
These companies actively engage with Indian students through campus recruitment events, career fairs, networking sessions, and online job portals.
They offer valuable opportunities for Indian students to gain professional experience, launch their careers, and contribute to the diverse workforce in the UK.
