If you wish to study abroad, the UK is one of the best places to choose. Studying abroad is a life-changing opportunity to experience the best education, especially when the world is so competitive. Studying abroad will be an added advantage in finding the right employment, and it's one of the best ways to enhance all your hidden skills. Known for its exceptionally high education standards, the United Kingdom is one of the top study destinations and hosts the world's largest international student communities. It offers many flexible and recognised courses worldwide, specialising in MBA, Arts, Medicine, and STEM subjects. Some of the world's best student cities in the UK offer an unbelievable study experience.
It is sure by now that you have given studying in the UK a try, which is worth appreciating!
Do you know that the UK has some of the best student cities? Are you aware of the eligibility criteria to study in the UK? Won't it be beneficial to know about the scholarships available? Why should I study in the UK? If these are some of the questions you need answers to, then you are at the right place. Read the blog completely, as this is your complete UK guide!
Table of Contents
- Why Study in the UK?
- Advantages of Studying in the UK
- Intakes in the UK
- Best Cities to Study in the UK
- Best Courses to Study in the UK
- Top UK Universities & UK University Ranking
- Top Universities in the UK to Pursue UG Courses
- Top Universities in the UK to Pursue PG Courses
- Top Universities in the UK to Pursue MBA
- Top Universities in the UK to Pursue PhD Courses
- Exams Required to Study in the UK
- Study in the UK Without IELTS
- Cost of Studying in the UK
- Cost of Living in the UK
- Scholarships to Study in the UK
- UK Student Visa
- How To Apply for the UK Student Visa?
- FAQs
Why Study in the UK?
For a long time now, top universities in the UK have offered a wide diversity of courses, from the most traditional academic areas to the most practical methods with a vocational orientation. Each university has its strengths and areas of specialisation; they are all significant contributors to the research and development in the UK university ranking. If you want to know the reasons to study in the UK to convince both yourself and your parents, here are some points to help you.
- The courses' duration is less, helping curb tuition fees and living expenses in the UK.
- A UG program duration is three years, and the full-length Postgraduate programs last for one year.
- The course structure is simpler and more manageable to bring out students' best.
- The expert tutors in the universities deliver the syllabus content with ease.
- There are several scholarships available that cover your tuition and living expenses partially or entirely.
- There are part-time job opportunities available.
- Some of the top UK universities have an employability rate of 90%.
Advantages of Studying in the UK
British Universities have gained a global reputation for excellence in education. By following a regular review process, the top UK universities ensure they take the highest possible international standards. The British education approach is now recognised as the best and most innovative. A few benefits of studying abroad in the UK are given below.
1. Globally acknowledged Universities.
UK universities have a remarkable reputation. The UK degree is globally recognised by international students, top employers, and government bodies, creating many chances to get placed with leading companies.
2. Education Quality
The UK education system and its quality are considered the best globally. Many countries are trying to adopt this system. QAA regularly inspects UK universities to assess teaching, learning, and research standards to ensure that set benchmarks are met.
3. Opportunities offered by the UK Education System
UK universities promote the integration of various subjects in a single course. Support for the English language improves excellent language skills, which are vital in the global digital arena and increase job chances.
4. Distinctive Culture
The unrivalled cultural diversity of life in the United Kingdom offers you the opportunity to experience a multicultural world, meet fellow international students, and build a variety of desirable skills required to be part of today's global workforce.
5. Earn while you Learn.
You will always have the chance to prove yourself if you choose to study in the UK because you can opt for part-time work or an internship. This would be an added experience along with the working skills you obtain. Your universities will provide full-time working options after your studies.
6. Robust Research
The Research Excellence Framework (REF) classified 30% of UK universities as 'world-leading' and 46% of them as 'internationally excellent.'
7. Support System
International student societies are not just conducting events, planning activities, and outings, but also helping in the rough days and giving advice on personal problems, and assisting you as you fit in.
8. Scholarships to Study in the UK
Most UK universities offer merit-based scholarships for international students in the UK to support their studies and living expenses in the country. The first and foremost, you should have gained acceptance to the particular course of study.
9. Student visa for UK
One needs to get a UK Tier 4 General Student visa to study at UK Universities. It is relatively easy to obtain. The process is more straightforward, transparent, and user-friendly for international students who have received an offer/CAS and can show the required funding available.
Intakes in the UK
There are two major intakes in the UK; Fall intake and Spring intake. There are also a few universities that provide Summer intake. The table below helps you know the tentative months.
|
Intakes |
Months |
|
Autumn/Fall |
September to December |
|
Spring |
January to April |
|
Summer |
April to June |
September Intake
September intakes are the major intakes in UK. It is also called autumn intake in the UK. Almost all the courses are offered in many UK universities in the September intake.
For the September intake, the application deadlines are between February and May of that particular academic year. These deadlines may vary for different universities and courses. It is advised to always check with the respective universities for more details on application deadlines.
January Intake in UK
September intake being the major intake in the UK, the January intake is the secondary one. Compared to the September intake, January intake does not offer many courses as this is not a major intake in the UK. Still, this intake allows the students who have missed the admission in the main intake. It gives students some more time to work on their applications.
May intake in UK
The most popular and preferred intakes that many students opt for are the May intakes in the UK. The primary reason for May intakes is that the top Universities in the UK don't participate in this particular intake. Even if some of them do, the choice of courses offered is minimal.
Best Cities to Study in the UK
The United Kingdom has been a constant attraction for all international students with its fabled history of universities. Apart from the exceptional quality of education and the magnificent architecture, there are incredible places to visit and the best cities you can make memories with. From the alluring city of Birmingham to cobbled streets in Manchester, from the fascinating history of Bristol to the Scottish charm of Edinburgh, the UK has always been a place of celebration. The cities of the UK are distinctive and historic. Since there are numerous options for the best cities in the UK, it might be challenging to research each one. We made it easy for you by gathering some details on those great cities in the UK! Scroll through to know which city is ideal for you!
- London
- Edinburgh
- Manchester
- Glasgow
- Nottingham
- Birmingham
- Newcastle
- Aberdeen
- Brighton
Best Courses to Study in the UK
A complete guide to the UK will be incomplete without providing details about the best courses to study in the country. We have listed below a few courses that are popular in the UK.
- Accounting and Finance
- Business Management
- Computer Science
- Engineering and Technology
- Media and Communication
- Medicine
- Law
- Social Sciences
Top UK Universities & UK University Ranking
- Education is an enjoyable experience in the United Kingdom. And if you're an international student looking to pursue your degree, we're sure you've already begun to search for the best universities in the UK!
- It's no surprise that Institutions in the UK are considered the best internationally. The United Kingdom is proving time and time again to be an excellent place for international students with top UK universities, UK university rankings, well-liked courses, exclusive adventure islands, and grand architecture.
- But how exactly does one choose the best university to obtain a degree?
- One dependable method is to understand the international University ranking tables.
- These will tell you the UK University Rankings and which globally renowned universities are on the top list. Don't be concerned! We're going to walk you through everything.
- The UK University Rankings have been summed up. Read further to know more about it.
The Rankings
Every year, the Times Higher Education, widely known as 'THE,' presents World University Rankings for universities. They have consistently helped students to determine and comprehend what each university offers. Based on five core criteria, universities are ranked and analysed: teaching, education, citations (influence of research), industry income, and international outlook.
QS Rankings
The Quacquarelli Symonds Rankings, generally referred to as 'QS Rankings,' operate as a trusted source of university-related data and are accompanied by high-quality analysis and systematic assessments. Each year, their analytical approach to data collection and ranking development has helped students assess their choices well and choose the best universities.
Top Universities in the UK to Pursue UG Courses
It is a good idea to pursue a Bachelor's course in the UK as it will highly benefit your future. After your Bachelor's, you can pursue a Master's in the country or opt for doing a job. The table below shows some of the best universities to pursue a UG course.
|
Top Universities |
Top Courses |
QS Ranking 2023 |
Average Annual Tuition Fees (in INR) |
|
University of Oxford |
BA Computer Science |
4 |
INR 36,41,000 |
|
University of Cambridge |
BEng |
2 |
INR 29,41,000 |
|
Imperial College London |
MBBS |
6 |
INR 32,76,000 |
|
University College London |
BS Computer Science |
8 |
INR 32,76,000 |
|
London School of Economics and Political Science |
BS Accounting and Finance |
56 |
INR 28,89,000 |
|
University of Manchester |
BA Criminology |
28 |
INR 20,58,000 |
|
University of Warwick |
LLB |
64 |
INR 26,52,000 |
|
University of Glasgow |
Bachelor of Nursing |
81 |
INR 26,07,000 |
|
University of Bristol |
BS Cancerology and Immunology |
61 |
INR 26,39,000 |
|
University of Birmingham |
BA English Language |
91 |
INR 19,38,000 |
Top Universities in the UK to Pursue PG Courses
A Postgraduate degree from the UK will help you get a good job both in the UK and in your home country. A certificate from the UK is highly revered all over the world. A few top universities are given below. You should note that these universities also offer Bachelor's and Doctoral degrees.
|
Top Universities |
Top Courses |
QS Ranking 2023 |
Average Annual Tuition Fees (in INR) |
|
University of Edinburgh |
MS Computer Science |
15 |
INR 33,51,000 |
|
King’s College London |
MD Data Science |
37 |
INR 29,22,000 |
|
University of Sheffield |
MS Management |
96 |
INR 24,45,000 |
|
Queen Mary, University of London |
MS Artificial Intelligence |
125 |
INR 22,98,000 |
|
Lancaster University |
MArch |
146 |
INR 20,51,000 |
|
University of Southampton |
MBA |
78 |
INR 26,13,000 |
|
University of Leeds |
MS Data Science |
86 |
INR 24,03,000 |
|
University of Nottingham |
MS Business and Management |
114 |
INR 25,73,000 |
|
University of Exeter |
MEng |
163 |
INR 29,98,000 |
|
Newcastle University |
MS International Business Management |
122 |
INR 27,97,000 |
Top Universities in the UK to Pursue MBA
The UK is home to some of the best universities in the world that offer MBA. You will find several MBA specialisations to choose from, thus helping you get what you want. You can expect an average annual tuition fee from INR 17,00,000 to INR 64,00,000, depending on the university you choose. Some of the best universities in the UK that offer MBA are given below.
- University of Oxford
- University of Cambridge
- Imperial College London
- University of Edinburgh
- University of Warwick
- University of Manchester
- University of Glasgow
- University of Birmingham
- University of Sheffield
- Lancaster University
Top Universities in the UK to Pursue PhD Courses
It is a great idea to study PhD abroad as the course options and universities are more in the country. You will research under a qualified guide, which will benefit you. A few universities you can consider for your Doctoral degree in the UK are given below.
|
Top Universities |
Top Courses |
QS Ranking 2023 |
Average Tuition Fees (in INR) |
|
Durham University |
PhD in Management and Marketing |
92 |
INR 20,57,000 |
|
University of York |
PhD in Law |
162 |
INR 26,01,000 |
|
University of Leicester |
PhD in Education |
279 |
INR 14,56,000 |
|
Cardiff University |
PhD in English Literature |
166 |
INR 18,46,138 |
|
University of Bath |
PhD in Architecture |
179 |
INR 24,83,000 |
|
Queen’s University |
PhD in Mechanical Engineering |
233 |
INR 21,61,000 |
|
University of Surrey |
PhD in Computer Science |
305 |
INR 21,84,000 |
|
Anglia Ruskin University |
PhD in Health and Social Care |
– |
INR 13,35,000 |
|
University of Essex |
PhD in Biostatistics |
465 |
INR 17,82,000 |
|
University of Kent |
PhD in Management |
375 |
INR 16,33,000 |
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Exams Required to Study in the UK
If you wish to study abroad in the UK, you need to take a few tests. These will be English language proficiency tests and subject-specific tests, which not all universities ask for. Thus, it is better to check the university's official website to ensure whether you need to take the test or not. A few standard tests are listed below.
- IELTS: This is the standard English proficiency test that almost all universities accept.
- TOEFL: You can take this English test as a paper-based or internet-based test.
- PTE: You can take this English test after ensuring that your university accepts the score.
- GMAT: If you wish to pursue MBA abroad, you may need to take this test.
- GRE: Pursuing a PG course in the UK requires you to take a GRE.
- LNAT: This is a test you need to take if you wish to pursue a Law degree.
Study in the UK Without IELTS
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a standardised language assessment test used by universities worldwide to evaluate their prospective international students' language skills. This test has four parts - reading, writing, listening and speaking. After taking the three-hour test, students will get an aggregate score on all their required English language skills. Through such examinations during the application stage, English-speaking nations such as the UK evaluate your language skills. However, this is not always the case. You may be exempted from taking the IELTS test if you satisfy a few other requirements. They are as follows.
- If your primary instructional language in high school was English.
- If Your university conducts its interviews for admission.
- If you take other language assessment tests.
Cost of Studying in the UK
One of the first thoughts that come to your mind when you decide to study abroad is the cost of studying and living. We have provided the annual average tuition fees at different universities for different levels of study. The average annual cost of studying a Bachelor's course ranges from GBP 10,000 to GBP 20,000. The average annual tuition fee for Master's courses is almost the same as a Bachelor's course, from GBP 9000 to GBP 15,000. A PhD course in the UK costs from GBP 15,000 to GBP 24,000.
Cost of Living in the UK
The cost of living in the UK can vary depending on your place of living and spending habits. As such, it is not easy to give a standard living cost. However, it is possible to give the average cost of living in the country. You should expect a monthly cost of living between GBP 900 to GBP 1300 in the UK. this includes your expenses on food, utilities, transportation, entertainment, accommodation etc. These big numbers need not worry you, as there are several ways to save money. You will also find scholarships and fellowships to aid you in your studies.
Scholarships to Study in the UK
The United Kingdom is a fascinating multicultural country and a renowned destination for studying abroad, carrying up to 20 per cent of its international student population. Many students pursue their UG courses in the UK through scholarships provided by state and private universities and have significantly benefited from them. A few popular scholarships are listed below. From our scholarship page, you can get detailed information about all scholarships available for Indian students in the UK.
- GREAT Scholarship
- Scotland Saltire Scholarship
- Chevening Scholarship
- Commonwealth Fellowship and Scholarship
- Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarship
UK Student Visa
You have to follow a few steps to apply for the UK student visa. You can apply for the student visa as soon as you receive the acceptance letter from a recognised UK university and three months before the commencement of the study program. You can apply for the Tier 4 visa as it allows you to work part-time in the UK for 20 hours a week during your course of study. The visa may take up to 30 days to arrive, and the application fee can come to around INR 30,000.
How To Apply for the UK Student Visa?
The application process for a UK student visa is not difficult. However, you need to avoid making any mistakes throughout the application process. The steps to be followed to apply for the UK student visa are as follows.
- The UK visa application process begins with selecting a letter of "Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies" (CAS).
- Before applying online, supporting papers, funds to cover your course expenses, etc., must be kept handy.
- On the official UKVI visa website, register and create an account.
- Complete the online application form, receive a copy, sign the completed application form, and reserve an appointment at the visa application centre.
- Pay from the bank for IHS for the entire duration of your stay in the UK (Health Care Surcharge).
- After completing the online application, you will receive a confirmation message along with your application number.
- By reaching out to the bank branches or by Demand Drafts, pay your application fee. You can also use a Visa or MasterCard to pay the visa application fee online.
- Visit the visa application centre, and apply for your application and biometric details on the specified date.
We hope we have given a complete UK guide here. Studying in the UK is not as expensive as you think it is if you manage your finances and plan well. If you have any questions or queries on anything, you can contact AECC.
AECC is one of the leading overseas education consultants that has been assisting students in realising their study abroad dreams. From researching the best courses and universities to visa guidance, we will help you with everything. Feel free to contact us and get free assistance!
FAQ About the UK
1. How Much is bank balance required for a UK student visa?
- You'll need either: £1,334 per month (for up to 9 months) for London courses. For courses outside London, £1,023 a month (for up to 9 months).
- The total living expenses in UK for international students - £ 2.249 per month for a single person on average.
2. How long does a student visa to the United Kingdom take?
Currently, the application process outside the UK takes about 15 working days (3 weeks) from the day you attend the visa application center appointment.
3. How much gap is accepted for study in UK?
Recent pass-out candidates will always be preferred, but with clear gap proof, cases with a two-year study gap may be appropriate.
4. What is CAS?
UK immigration laws require the university to sponsor your student visa application. CAS stands for Assurance of Approval for Studies (this is not the same as financial sponsorship). You will need a CAS number to apply for a visa.
5. Is it easy to get PR in UK?
To get PR in the United Kingdom, along with a full-time job and good moral behavior, one needs to show stable revenue. A full-time job should be obtained after finishing the studies. One can apply for the 'indefinite leave to stay' ILR Visa after 5 years of working, which gives them the 'permanent resident' status.
SO. WHAT. ARE. YOU. WAITING. FOR! Be a part of this extravagant student community of the United Kingdom & kick start your study abroad journey in full swing.
Reach out to our counsellors to start studying in the UK!