Study in UK

Student Cities

The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom (UK or U.K.) or Britain is a sovereign country located on the northwestern coast of the European mainland. The United Kingdom consists of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Their capitals are London, Edinburgh, Cardiff and Belfast, respectively.Studying in UK has ample benefits for international students. The UK has a rich history of academic excellence and international reputation for quality education delivery that gives it the position of World’s 2nd leading destinations for international student. There are 6 UK Universities in the Global University rankings (2019) and the education system has 90% Student Satisfaction in a population of 2.32 million students.
QUICK FACTS

Capital : London
Currency : Pound Sterling (GBP)
Official language : English
Time Zone : GMT+1
Major Cities : London, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Glasgow, Edinburgh and Cardiff.
Area : 242,495 km²
Calling Code : +44

Student Cities

London
The UK’s capital city ranks among the world’s best cities for students, and has an impressive 18 universities featured in the QS World University Rankings. This large metropolis is the financial, cultural and political center of the country. London life is busy and fast-paced and has a reputation for being expensive. It is also home to many of the best libraries, museums, art galleries, nightclubs and theaters in the UK, and the hub of many of its most competitive professional sectors. Universities in London include some of the world’s best, with UCL (University College of London), Imperial College London, King’s College London, London School of Economics and Political Science and many more.

Manchester
Manchester is a major city in the northwest of England with a rich industrial heritage. It is one of the best student cities in the UK with highest score of student mix. The city is home to an eclectic range of music venues, large and small, ensuring the city’s music scene is as vibrant and fast-moving as ever. The trendy-bohemian Northern Quarter is popularly considered the cultural heart of the city, while the Canal Street area is among its liveliest nightspots. Among universities in Manchester, the top ranking institution is the University of Manchester which places 27th in the QS World University Rankings.

Birmingham
The UK’s second-largest city, Birmingham is located in the center of the country. This city is a thriving commercial hub, home to the UK’s largest shopping area outside of London, and one of the most multicultural places in the UK. Birmingham’s six universities also make it the UK’s largest center of higher education and academic research outside of the capital. The highest-ranked among universities in Birmingham is the University of Birmingham, at 81^st place in the QS World University Rankings 2019.

Glasgow
Glasgow is a port city on the River Clyde in Scotland’s western Lowlands. With historic architecture, distinctive local traditions and museums, Glasgow now also has enough trendy bars, restaurants and gig venues. It is the largest city in Scotland and also has the largest student population in here. The city is home to two universities which feature in the top 300 of the World University Rankings 2019: the University of Glasgow and the University of Strathclyde.

Know more about the Cities of UK:

Why UK

Studying in the United Kingdom is aspiration of many individuals around the globe. So, what makes UK the most approachable choice for gaining higher studies?

Academic Excellence

The degree gained from the UK are accepted and valued by the employers globally providing ample employment opportunities. Due to the quality of education, UK has the lowest “drop- out” rates. The modern infrastructures and unique curriculum of the UK makes the education gained more valuable. The employers all around the word prefer UK graduates due to their exposure of course and specific skills of thinking independently and creatively.

Value for Money

The cost of studying in UK for an international student can be generally lower compared to the USA and other countries. Due to the course duration and the scholarship arrangement it is affordable.

Fast- Track courses

The courses in UK are generally shorter with 3 years Bachelor and 1 year Master degree. There are internships and placement options available as well which will help to save your money.

Research & Employability

The UK undertakes 5 per cent of the world’s scientific research and produces 14 per cent of the world’s most frequently cited papers. In addition, with the placement options and re-introduction of the Post Study Work visa, there are ample employment opportunities in the UK which you can explore.

Student Satisfaction

90 per cent of international students are satisfied with their experience in the UK. The UK has also a proud mixture of students coming from different parts of the world. The cultural diversity provides ample opportunities to make friends and learn new cultures.

Education System

Education System In UK

The education system of UK includes qualification on various level:

Program	Duration
Foundation degrees (Fd A/Fd Sc)	6 months to 2 years
Degrees (such as BA, B.Sc, BEng)	3 years in England, Wales and Northern Ireland 4 years in Scotland
Sandwich degrees	4 years with a year in industry
Integrated courses (where masters is awarded as the first degree such as MEng)	4 years
Postgraduate certificates and diploma (PG Cert/PG Dip)	9 to 12 months
Taught Masters (such as MA, M.Sc., LLM, MBA, MRes)	1 year
Research Masters (such as MPhil, PhD, DPhil)	2-3 years

There are more than 3000 institutions that welcome international students in the UK. You can choose from a variety of routes through the education and training system, combining different types of course according to your needs and abilities. The sheer variety of specializations means you will be able to find a course that suits your real interests, your ambitions and passions.

For example, in the UK, you could specialize in anything from computer games programming, ocean engineering, music technology, meteorology or underwater photography to multimedia design, anthropology, women’s studies, hotel management or dance.

INTAKES

The intakes in the UK are:

September
January
May/ April

The main intakes are September and January where there are abundant course options for students. Some limited providers offer May/ April intake with few course options and campus locations.

Cost of education

Cost of Education in UK

International undergraduate and postgraduate tuition fees in UK vary considerably, depending on course type, level and the University:

Subject	Tuition Fees (Per Year)
Arts, Humanities	£ 8,000 to £ 10,000
Engineering / Science	£ 10,000 to £ 13,000
Business	£ 12,000 to £ 16,000
MBA	£ 10,000 to £ 25,000

The estimated Living expenses for Inside London is £1265 for each month while for Outer London or elsewhere in the UK the amount is £1015.

Know your living expenses while studying in the UK here:

Required Test

To study in UK Universities, international students are required to attend English proficiency tests like the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic). Few of the providers also accept the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Undergraduate: The academic requirement is 60% or 2.6 GPA in Year 12 or equivalent. Students with lower scores can opt for Foundation year courses. As for the English requirement: 6.0 IELTS/ 52 PTE
Postgraduate: An overall of 55% or above in a Bachelor’s degree from recognized University. In case of low percentages, Pre-masters or Extended masters are available. The English requirement is 6.5 IELTS
MBA: Admission in MBA program usually requires additional work experience of at least two years in Managerial position.

Admission procedure

Admission Procedure

Admission in the UK Universities is based on individual institutions’ requirements since there are no pre-requisite tests (other than for English proficiency). Most universities require good performance at the undergraduate level and year 12, in the relevant areas, to consider admission into their Master’s and Bachelor level programs respectively. The required documents for the application are:

Academic Credentials
English Proficiency Test (IELTS/ TOEFL/ PTE)
Passport
Letter of Recommendation (At least 2)
Medium of Instruction
Work Experience (If applicable)
Marriage Certificate (For married applicants)
Application Form
Personal Statement

scholarships

Scholarships

There are various types of scholarships in the UK for international students based on the funding by the government or the individual universities. So, some of the available scholarships in UK are:

Chevening Scholarships: The UK government offers a global scholarship programme called “Chevening”. It is open to all international students who meet the Chevening eligibility criteria.
Gates Cambridge Scholarships: The Gates Cambridge Scholarships are one of the most prestigious international scholarships in the world. Scholarships are awarded to outstanding applicants from countries outside the UK to pursue a full-time postgraduate degree in any subject available at the University of Cambridge.
Rhodes Scholarships at University of Oxford: The Rhodes Scholarships are postgraduate awards supporting exceptional all-round students at the University of Oxford. Established in the will of Cecil Rhodes in 1902, the Rhodes is the oldest and perhaps the most prestigious international scholarship program in the world.
Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships: The Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships (EGRS) scheme provides scholarships covering the difference between UK/EU tuition fees and the overseas tuition fee. This funding is offered to international students only (students from non-EU countries).
Denys Holland Scholarship at University College London: The Denys Holland Scholarship aims to support undergraduate students from any country, who without the support of the scholarship would be unable to secure the funding required to study at UCL(University College London, UK), and who can demonstrate their intention to make full use of the activities offered by UCL and the Student Union.
Provider Scholarships: Individual Scholarship scheme by the universities which can be awarded based on merits or during admissions for all. It can range from 1000- 5000 GBP.

Government Student Support in the UK:

https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/Information–Advice/Fees-and-Money/Government-Student-Support

More about Scholarships in the UK:

https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/scholarships

Accommodation

Accommodation in the UK has various options ranging from on campus to off-campus:

On-Campus Accommodation: Most universities and colleges have their accommodation, hall of residence for the students. It is common for the halls to be owned and managed not by the university but by a commercial provider who has allocated some (or all) of the rooms to the university for student housing. Some more traditional university halls are “catered halls” which provide meals, although nowadays most halls of residence do not provide meals. Many larger cities have private halls or student villages which are not allocated to specific universities. Students can book directly with the company that manages the housing. Some institutions also own or manage some smaller blocks of flats (apartments) or smaller houses. An average cost can be GBP 500- 700 per month.
Private Accommodation: It is the most typical option where students can rent apartments or share with others. Students can live in a group renting flats and houses. The students can also choose homestay or lodger where they live with the owner sharing the facilities fitting in their lifestyle and any set house rules. The other options can include studio, hostels and homeshare. Usually, the cost can range from £ 500- 1200 per month based on the area and the type of accommodation

Search for Accommodation here:
https://www.student.com/uk
https://www.casita.com/
http://ukstudentresidences.com/

Work Prospects

WORKING WHILE STUDYING

There are work opportunities for international students in the UK during their study. Tier 4 General Student:

Studying a full-time course at degree level (RQF level 6 or SCQF level 9) and above sponsored by Higher Education Provider with a track record of compliance may work 20 hours per week in the term time and full time in the holidays.
Studying a full-time course below degree level (RQF level 6 (and equivalents) sponsored by a Higher Education Provider with a track record of compliance you may work 10 hours per week during term time and full time in the holidays.

The minimum earning can be around £ 5 – £ 7 per hour i.e. approximately £375 – £525 per month during the term.

WORKING AFTER GRADUATION

From summer 2021, international students will be able to benefit from two years’ work experience in the UK upon graduation. Also known as the Graduate Route, it will be available to international students who have a valid Tier 4 visa at the time of application and have completed a degree at the undergraduate level or above at a Higher Education Provider with a track record of compliance.

Successful applicants on this route will be able to stay and work or look for work, in the UK at any skill level for a maximum period of two years. They will be able to switch into skilled work once they have found a suitable job.

Permanent Residency

UK permanent residence also known as Indefinite Leave to Remain is an immigration status granted to a person without the Right of Abode. An individual with permanent resident status can live and work in the UK indefinitely. They will no longer have any immigration restrictions on working or business in the UK and no time limits on their stay. However, the right can lapse if an individual spends more than 2 years continuously outside the country.

UseFul Links

UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA):
Study UK- British Council:
British Council:
Department of Education:
UK Visas and Immigration:

FAQ

What is special about the UK education system?

The UK education system gives you the liberty to combine courses and subjects from different areas of studies and tailor the degree as per your own needs and interest. It is globally recognized and accepted worldwide by educators and employers.

What is the academic calendar for universities in the United Kingdom?

The standard academic year starts in September or October and runs until June or July while the Postgraduate courses often run from September to September. The usual intake is September and January while few programs are offered in May intake as well.

Do international students get scholarships in UK?

Numerous scholarships, bursaries and grant schemes are on offer for international students and depending on your nationality, you may be eligible for a loan or financial support also from the UK government. Many institutions also offer their own financial assistance.

Can I work in the UK on a study visa?

You can take a part-time job, work placement or internship alongside your studies in UK. As an international student you can work 20 hours per week during term time and full time during vacation.

Are Internships available for international students in UK?

Internships may be available as part of your course.

What type of accommodation is available for students in UK?

You can stay in the halls of residence that are on-site or nearby the university or college or rent your own accommodation. You can also opt for a shared living accommodation.

What would be the average annual cost to study in UK?

The average annual tuition in UK can range from GBP 10,000 to GBP 18,000 depending on the course level, subject of study and the provider.

Do international students need private medical insurance in UK?

International students do not need private medical insurance when studying in the UK. It will cost just £300 per year to gain access to the NHS and this cost has to be paid during your visa application.

What are the standardized test requirements for international students to study in UK?

The standardized test requirements will vary for international students depending on the program. The acceptable English Language test are: IELTS, TOEFL or PTE.

What is the cost of living in UK ?

The living expenses is estimated to be GBP 1015 for outside London while GBP 1265 for inside London for a month.

What is a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)?

The Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is a virtual document, shows that your education provider is confident that you are capable of doing the course of study for which you have applied, will act as your “Tier 4 sponsor” and accepts responsibility for you while you are in the UK. The CAS includes information about you, the course, and the documents you submitted that led to the offer of a place.

What is the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)?

Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) is a certificate required for Postgraduate students who are applying to study in certain sensitive subjects, the knowledge of which can be used in program either in developing weapons of mass destruction or their delivery.

Can I bring my dependents with me?

Tier 4 (General) Students can bring their partner and/or children (also known as dependents) to the UK with them if they are applying to study a full time course at RQF level 7 or lasting 9 months or more.

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