Study in United Kingdom
Welcome to the UK - home to over 500,000 international students each year.
Study at pioneering universities and gain skills that top global employers seek. Experience the culture that shaped the modern world. Join a diverse community of changemakers.
The UK offers:
- World-leading education and research
- Vibrant and inclusive student life
- Pathways to build your future
- Immersion in English
“The UK felt like a place of real freedom.” - KP, University of Ulster
But making the move to study in another country can be overwhelming. Will your academics and experience transfer? Can you get a visa? How will you pay for it?
Unlock your UK study dreams with Edvoy
From matching you with the perfect UK university to supporting you through visa and immigration, Edvoy makes your overseas study journey smooth and successful.
With insider tips, community connections, and advice on funding, we've empowered thousands of students to thrive in the UK – and you could be next!
Make your mark in the UK.
Start your journey today and find your perfect UK university!
Why study in the UK?
| S.No | Reasons to study in the UK | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | High quality learning | The UK's education quality is globally recognised, with four of the top 10 universities in the world. Universities like Oxford and Cambridge, known for producing Nobel laureates, exemplify this high calibre of education. |
| 2 | Multicultural, safe and supportive | UK universities are diverse and inclusive, with students from over 150 countries. Dedicated support and a reputation as one of the safest countries make the UK an appealing choice for international students. |
| 3 | British education respected worldwide | A UK degree is highly valued globally, enhancing employability. Graduates from UK universities have gone on to lead corporations like Vodafone, BP, and Unilever. |
| 4 | Post-study work opportunities | The UK offers Post-Study Work Visas, allowing you to stay for 2 years after graduation. With booming industries in cities like London and Manchester, 69% of international graduates feel a UK degree meant they could progress more quickly in their career. |
| 5 | Shorter degrees than other countries | UK degrees are typically completed in three years, offering a faster path to your career. This shorter timeframe can save students up to 25% in tuition and living expenses compared to other countries. |
Student visa requirements
Understanding the right visa for your UK study and the associated requirements is vital for a smooth transition. The table below outlines the different types of student visas available in the UK, who they're suitable for, when to apply, and other key details.
| Type of student visa | Who it's for | When to apply | Arrival in the UK | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short-term Study Visa | Students aged 16 or older studying for a short duration. | Three months before your date of travel to the UK. | Depends on your nominated travel dates. | Unconditional offer from a licensed visa sponsor (UK university). Good English language skills. Required documents. May include IELTS scores. |
| Student Visa | Students aged 16 or older pursuing longer courses. | Three months before the start of your course. | Up to one week before if your course lasts six months or fewer. Up to one month before if your course lasts more than six months. | Unconditional offer from a licensed visa sponsor (UK university). Good English language skills. Required documents. May include IELTS scores. |
| Child Student Visa | Students aged between 4 and 17. | Consult the UK government's official website for guidelines. | Consult the UK government's official website for guidelines. | Unconditional offer from a licensed visa sponsor (UK school or university). Parental consent. Required documents. |
Cost to study in the UK
Studying in the UK is an investment in your future, and understanding the costs involved is an essential part of planning your journey. Below is a breakdown of the various expenses you might encounter, from visa fees to living expenses.
| Expense type | Cost details |
|---|---|
| Student Visa | Standard: £348 6-month short term: £97 11-month short term: £186 |
| Course Fees | Average: £22,000/year Range: £11,400 to £38,000/year Postgraduate: £9,000 to £30,000/year |
| Living Costs (London) | £1,300 to £1,400/month |
| Living Costs (Outside London) | £900 to £1,300/month |
Please note that these costs are approximate and can vary widely based on factors such as your chosen institution, location, lifestyle, and personal spending habits. It's possible to reduce expenses with careful planning and budgeting.
Similar topics
Scholarships to study in the UK
Securing a scholarship can significantly ease the financial burden of studying in the UK. From government programs to university-specific grants, numerous opportunities are available to support international students in various fields.
| Scholarship Name | Details | Eligibility and Application Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| GREAT Scholarships | An opportunity for international students to have £10,000 towards their tuition fees for one-year postgraduate courses in the UK. Includes course-related costs, such as tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and insurance. | Open to both international and EU students for a wide range of courses. Provide proof of funds, valid travel documents, academic transcripts, a personal statement, and evidence of English language proficiency. |
| Chevening Scholarships | Fully funded master's degree in the UK. Covers all course-related costs, such as tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and insurance. Includes exclusive networking events. | Must be a citizen outside of the UK with an offer on a full-time postgraduate program at a UK university. |
| Commonwealth Scholarships | Scholarships for students from Commonwealth countries to study in the UK. Covers all course-related costs and includes exclusive networking events. | Must be a citizen of a Commonwealth country with an offer on a full-time postgraduate program at a UK university. Provide proof of funds and other required documents. |
| University-specific Scholarships | Many UK universities offer scholarships for international students with varying criteria and value. | Check individual universities for specific details, including eligibility and application requirements. |
| Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships (CWIT) | Grants for Indian students in early or middle stages of their career in heritage conservation, arts, or humanities. | Indian students studying or working in specified fields. Provide required documents as specified by CWIT. |
| Scotland Saltire Scholarships | Scholarship program of the Scottish Government in collaboration with Scottish universities offered in specified areas. | Focus on creative industries, technology, science, medical sciences, healthcare, renewable and clean energy. Provide required documents. |
Read here about scholarships for international students in the UK.
Intakes in the UK
The most common intake for UK universities is in September, which is the traditional start of the academic year. There are also opportunities to begin shorter courses in January and May
| Intake | Admissions |
| January | June-September |
| September | February-May |
| May | January-February |
Find out which intake in the UK is right for you here.
Top universities to study in the UK
The UK is home to some of the world's most prestigious universities. Below is a table detailing the top 15 institutions in the country, ranked according to their overall scores and their placement in the QS World University Rankings for 2024.
| # | University | Overall Score | QS Rank 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Cambridge | 99.2 | 2 |
| 2 | University of Oxford | 98.9 | 3 |
| 3 | Imperial College London | 97.8 | 6 |
| 4 | UCL | 92.4 | 9 |
| 5 | The University of Edinburgh | 86.1 | 22 |
| 6 | The University of Manchester | 82.2 | 32 |
| 7 | King's College London | 79.3 | 40 |
| 8 | The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) | 76.9 | 45 |
| 9 | University of Bristol | 72.4 | 55 |
| 10 | The University of Warwick | 68.6 | 67 |
| 11 | University of Leeds | 65.5 | 75 |
| 12 | University of Glasgow | 65.2 | 76 |
| 13 | Durham University | 65.1 | 78 |
| 14 | University of Southampton | 63.5 | 81 |
| 15 | University of Birmingham | 63.0 | 84 |
Degree options and durations in the UK
The table below highlights key programs, their duration, and features to help guide your academic journey.
| Degree options | Description |
|---|---|
| Foundation Courses (1 year) | Assistance for international students with English language skills or meeting conditional offers; typically lasts one year. |
| Undergraduate Courses (3 years) | Traditional three-year degree course; some subjects in science and engineering may require an additional year. Courses can also be dual-holours combining two subjects. |
| Fast-Track Undergraduate (2 years) | Intensive two-year degrees that cover the same content as a three-year degree. |
| Masters Degrees (1 year) | Generally, 1-year courses, making the UK an attractive option for this level of education. |
| Ph.D. Degrees (3-4 years) | Typically takes 3 to 4 years for full-time students, focusing on original research. |
Learn more about the types of degrees in the UK.
English language and entry exams for studying in the UK
Studying in the UK often requires proof of English proficiency and specific entry exams. Here's a summary:
English proficiency tests:
- Required for: Most courses in the UK for international students.
- Skills covered: Writing, speaking, listening, and reading.
- Common tests: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, Cambridge English Advanced: Generally accepted but verify with your chosen institution.
Note: Always check with your specific course and institution before paying for a test to ensure it's accepted.
Additional entry exams:
- GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test): Required for business graduate programs, evaluates algebra, arithmetic, geometry, grammar, etc.
- GRE (Graduate Record Examination): Similar to GMAT but more broadly used.
- Specialised Tests: Specific exams may be needed for law, medical, and mathematics students.
Top courses to study in the UK
The UK offers a wide variety of degree courses catering to diverse interests. Here are some of the most popular fields of study:
- Business: With a strong emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation, business studies remain at the forefront.
- Natural Sciences: For those interested in the physical world, natural sciences are a compelling option.
- Engineering and Technology: These fields offer cutting-edge opportunities in various disciplines.
- Medicine: Renowned for its medical education, the UK attracts aspiring healthcare professionals.
- Law: Offering a robust legal education, law continues to be a preferred choice.
- Social Sciences: Delving into human behavior and societal structures, social sciences offer enriching perspectives.
- Sports Science: For sports enthusiasts, sports science combines physical education with scientific principles.
- Media and Communication: Ideal for the creatively inclined, these studies focus on modern communication techniques.
- Arts: From fine arts to performing arts, the UK has rich offerings.
- Hospitality and Tourism: With a global reputation in hospitality, this field promises exciting career prospects.
Find out more about popular courses in the UK.
Job prospects in UK
The UK offers a thriving job market across various industries. Understanding the key sectors and top employers can guide international students and professionals in finding suitable employment opportunities.
| Sector | Description & opportunities | Top employers |
|---|---|---|
| Technology and Engineering | Fast-growing tech sector with roles in software development, cybersecurity, etc. Engineering fields also in demand. | Google, Microsoft, BAE Systems, Siemens, Rolls-Royce |
| Healthcare | Opportunities in nursing, pharmacy, general practice, and specialist medicine. | NHS, GlaxoSmithKline, AstraZeneca, Bupa |
| Business and Finance | Banking, investment, marketing, and human resources opportunities in cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh. | Barclays, HSBC, Deloitte, PwC, Ernst & Young |
| Creative Industries | Media, design, arts sectors with roles in film production, graphic design, etc. | BBC, Universal Pictures, WPP, Saatchi & Saatchi |
| Education | Roles in teaching, research positions, administrative jobs, and educational technology. | University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Pearson Education, McGraw-Hill |
| Other Emerging Sectors | Growth in sustainability, renewable energy, biotechnology, and other niche sectors. | Tesla, Johnson Matthey, Genzyme, Vestas Wind Systems |
Highest paying degrees in the UK
The UK offers a variety of educational opportunities in various fields, each leading to promising careers and substantial earning potentials. Below is a table outlining some of the highest-paying degrees in the UK.
| Field of study | Average starting salary | Top universities | Job prospects |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dentistry | £39,467 | University of Bristol, University of Sheffield, Queen's University Belfast | General dentists, orthodontists, oral surgeons |
| Medicine | £34,012 | University of Brighton, University of Exeter, University of Glasgow | Junior doctors, general practitioners, specialists |
| Veterinary Medicine | £34,890 | University of Liverpool, University of Nottingham, University of Central Lancashire | Veterinarians, veterinary specialists |
| Economics | £34,135 | University of Portsmouth, Coventry University, Lancaster University | Economists, financial analysts, consultants |
| General Engineering | £30,809 | Staffordshire University, University of Sheffield, University of Leicester | Various engineering roles, technology and infrastructure |
| Mathematics | £28,498 | University of Bath, Coventry University, Loughborough University | Financial analysts, data scientists, actuaries |
| Physics & Astronomy | £28,125 | University of Exeter, University of Bath, University of Glasgow | Physicists, astrophysicists, academic roles |
| Computer Science | £27,500 | University of Greenwich, University of Bristol, University of Exeter | Software development, data analysis, cybersecurity |
| Business and Administration | £26,496 | London School of Business and Finance, University of Bedfordshire, University of Essex | Various managerial roles, business professionals |
| Architecture | £25,500 | Birmingham City University, Falmouth University, Manchester Metropolitan University | Site supervision, urban planning, building design |
| Politics | £24,945 | University of Liverpool, University of Bath, Aston University | Political analysts, campaign managers, public affairs consultants |
Student life in the UK
The UK offers an enriching student life that extends beyond academics.
Accommodation
- Halls of residence: Convenient, university-affiliated housing for a smooth transition to student life.
- Community: Meet people from diverse backgrounds and create lasting friendships.
Sports and wellness
- Athletic unions: Compete in sports like rugby, football, netball, and swimming.
- Fitness centres: Most campuses have gyms and wellness programs.
Societies and engagement
- Student Unions: Your go-to for joining clubs, societies, and community groups.
- Examples: International Students' Societies, volunteering opportunities, and cultural clubs.
Academic support
- Libraries and study spaces: Quiet places for focused study sessions.
Career development
- Part-time work: Gain work experience and supplement your income.
- Career services: Assistance with CVs, job interviews, and job placements after graduation.
Entertainment and leisure
- Campus events: From music festivals to guest lectures, there’s always something happening.
- City life: Explore local shops, restaurants, and cultural sites near your campus.
FAQs
Can I study in the UK without IELTS?
It is possible to study in the UK without taking IELTS or an equivalent English language proficiency test. Several universities offer courses where this isn’t a requirement, but these are in the minority so you should generally assume it will be needed for most courses, particularly at more competitive universities.
Is UK or US cheaper to study?
Generally it is cheaper to study in the UK than the US, both in terms of tuition fees and living costs, though these can vary from institution to institution and from city to city. However, tuition fees are usually cheaper in the UK than in the US, where there are no limits on what universities can charge.
Is studying in UK worth the money?
This depends on the specific course and university you are planning to apply for, but as a general rule, studying in the UK can get you a qualification that is internationally-recognised. It can also improve your English language skills, make you more employable and you can have a lot of fun while achieving these.
Is UK expensive for international students?
This can vary depending on where you are studying, with much higher living costs for those based in London compared to other cities. However, the cost of living in the UK can be high compared to many other countries in the world, so you need to budget carefully before deciding to study abroad here.
Can I get PR in UK after study?
It is possible to get permanent residence in the UK after you have completed your studies, though your first step would be to get a Post Study Work Visa, which will allow you to stay in the UK for up to two years to find a job. You can then apply for a standard work visa and after five years apply for an indefinite leave to remain visa to become a permanent resident.
What is the IELTS score required for admission to UK?
For a general UK student visa you need an IELTS score of 5.5 overall and in each of the four skills. However, you should refer to the specific requirements of your course and institution.
Which courses are best to study in the UK?
- Nursing courses in UK
- Cyber security courses in UK
- Nutrition courses in UK
- Project management courses in UK
- Marketing courses in UK
- Accounting courses in UK
- Medicine courses in UK
- Interior design courses in UK
- Public health courses in UK
- Physiotherapy courses in UK
- Finance courses in UK
- Graphic design courses in UK
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