Everything You Need to know to Study in the UK

 

One random spring evening in 2021, I decided to come to the UK to attend my grad school. After a year of surfing the internet, scrolling through, what seemed like a thousand University catalogues, calculating funds, and preparing a handful of documents, I am finally here.


From starting the application to reaching here, the process was undoubtedly overwhelming and time-consuming. During that journey, I wished nothing more than to have a direct contact who had gone through this recently. So to make it happen for future applicants here’s your ultimate guide for studying in the UK.

Why Should You Consider Studying in the UK

With over 6,00,000 international students enrolling each year, the United Kingdom is one of the most popular locations for students.

International Students in the UK

What attracted me most to pursue studies in the UK - 

High-Quality Education System: 

UK institutions, which are ranked first in the world, have a reputation for providing the talents that businesses need. You will actively engage with your professors through exciting seminars, discussions, and practical projects, not just attend lectures. This will aid in developing critical thinking, creativity, and self-assurance.

Get a Quick Degree: 

You can finish your course faster in the UK than in other nations. A Bachelor's degree is completed in three years, while a Masters's program is completed in one year. Shorter course terms allow us to advance your professional career more quickly. This also reduces your overall costs of pursuing overseas education.

Affordable Universities: 

Universities in the UK provide good value for money in terms of affordable bachelor's and graduate courses that are often shorter than those in other countries. Compared to Australia and the USA, the tuition fees are much less. So, if you are looking for an affordable way to study abroad, the United Kingdom is the answer.

Work After Study:

The newly introduced law in the UK allows international students to stay and work after graduation. This is called the Graduate Route Visa. Also, Internships at British multinational corporations can undoubtedly raise your profile while you compete for the employment you desire.

If you are already convinced, check this video to start your application process ASAP!

Popular University Courses in the UK

In the UK, over 10,000 undergraduate and graduate courses and professional degree programs and certificates are currently available. However, some course topics are more popular among students than others. Here’s a brief overview of popular degrees in the UK for master's and for bachelor's.

Top Universities in UK

There are many Best Universities in the UK that have excellent academic programs and professional opportunities that will help you secure a stable and successful future. Among all, here are my top recommendations based on both quality and affordability: 

1. University of Northampton
2. University of Strathclyde
3. Coventry University
4. University of Bristol 
5. Edinburgh University
6. University of London
7. London Metropolitan University

UK University Fees

The cost of studying in the UK is dependent on a variety of factors. The University of your choice, the course you intend to study, your level of study, and finally your lifestyle choices. But here's a breakdown for you in a general sense.

Tuition Fees in the UK Universities: 

Study Level	Approximate Fee in GBP per year
Bachelor’s or undergraduate level	GBP 10,000 to GBP 20,000
Master’s or postgraduate level	GBP 10,000 to GBP 20,000
Doctoral and Ph.D. level	GBP 15,000 to GBP 24,000

To know more about tuition fees and living cost in the UK, Click Here. 

Entry Requirements to Study in the UK  

For international students, it is mandatory to have completed the past 12 years of education (HSc or A-Level) for the Bachelor’s Degree and at least 15 years of education for the Master’s Degree (a 3year undergraduate degree is acceptable). 

Additionally, a minimum of 60% grade points are needed to secure a place. 

English Language Requirement: 

• IELTS: Minimum overall score of 6.0 
• TOEFL iBT® (Internet-based test): ranging from 79-91
• PTE: Minimum score of 54
• Duolingo: No less than a score of 90 

Some Universities may allow you to apply without IELTS, but you'd have to sit for their internal English language test after arriving. 

Document Checklist for Applying: 

1. Scan copy of the bio page of your passport
2. Academic Transcripts of your formal education
3. Statement of Purpose/ Letter of Motivation
4. English Language Proficiency Test Certificates 
5. Letter of Recommendation
6. Work experience letter (if required)
7. Other supporting documents of extracurricular or voluntary activity (if any) 

Requirements for UK Student Visa

Visa Eligibility:

To be eligible for a Tier 4 student visa, you must meet the following requirements:

• Have an unconditional offer from a university on a course with a licensed Tier 4 sponsor
• Ability to speak, read, write, and understand English 
• Financial proof, i.e., demonstrating sufficient funds to support yourself and pay for your course
• Paid the Visa fees

Documents Checklist to Apply for Visa: 

To apply for the Tier-4 Student Visa, you must have : 

• A valid passport 
• Evidence of financial resources to cover your living expenses for the duration of your course
• The reference number for the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) and the documents necessary to receive CAS
• A colored Passport Sized Photo
• Tuberculosis testing

Worried about affording to live in London and finding a part-time job? Head over to this post and learn about easy ways to secure a part-time job in the UK!