1. The UK is well-known for giving entry to top universities and its outstanding teaching.
The United Kingdom is a top destination for advanced education, boasting extraordinary credentials. It hosts two of the world’s top three universities, with 26 institutions ranking among the top 200 (QS numbers. 2023). Likewise, the UK has played a significant part in nurturing geniuses, as substantiated by the fact that 38 percent of Nobel Laureates entered their education there (British Council, 2016). This remarkable track record places the UK in the front line, making it the highest-ranked country for pursuing advanced education (GREAT Crusade, 2021).
2. Get adaptable courses and acquire employer-friendly skills.
It’s not just the world-famous universities of the UK that make it the best choice for foreign scholars, in fact, every UK degree is made to support the UK postgraduate programs including numerous one-time MBA courses, in shorter durations compared to the USA and Australia. This not only provides a better return on investment but also allows to apply knowledge in real-world situations quickly. The objective is to develop skills that are required by employers and recruiters. Seven out of ten foreign scholars firmly believe that they are progressing further, getting promoted quickly, and generating higher income because of the innovative UK education.
Once a student is part of the UK education system, (s)he is able to develop an ability to recognise good ideas and gets inquisitive about information and theories. The system educates how to weigh different arguments against each other and use strong evidence to present own fresh perspectives, opinions, and ideas. All these skills easily impress the potential recruiter/employer because the student by then is able to ask the right questions and find innovative ways to face any professional challenge. The skills include good communication, dependability, teamwork, adaptability, and the ability to work with the latest technology.
Good communication skills do not only mean speaking fluently, but it is also about making lasting impressions at interviews, and putting forward good opinions in professional situations.
Dependability is all about the trust of the employers that the employee would successfully manage projects and accomplish important tasks within the timeline.
Teamwork is another essential skill that employers look for in their employee – whether (s)he is ready to actively listen to and support his/her colleagues when in need both personally and professionally.
Adaptability requires one to be flexible and be able to learn things fast, organise time well, and prioritise work towards meeting organizational goals.
Ability to work with new technology helps to move ahead with time irrespective of any career the student chooses.
The UK – A place to stand out from peers
The UK graduates after completing their courses acquire these traits that any employer looks for:
Excellent command of English
Awareness of new research and current professional practices
Understanding of how modern business works.
Quick adaptability to all kinds of professional cultures.
What exams are required to study in the UK
If a student is planning to study in the UK, (s)he should be familiar with the UK entrance-exam requirements.
The UK exams required for admission are broadly divided into two categories – 1. Language Proficiency Test and 2. Academic Tests. The former tests the English proficiency and the latter evaluates knowledge in the subjects the students are willing to study.
English Language Proficiency test
English is an international language of communication and when it comes to a country where it is the first language, for example the UK, language proficiency test is mandatory to demonstrate ones’ language skills.
IELTS: International English Language Testing System is the pioneer of any language proficiency test and is widely accepted for assessing English language proficiency. Not only in the UK, IELTS test score is also recognized in countries like Canada, the USA, Australia, New Zealand, and some of the top study-abroad destinations.
The test is divided into four parts: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking for both the IELTS Academic Test takers and the General Training Test takers (General Training Test is for PR). The score is evaluated on a band score of 0-9, 9 band being the highest.
A band score of 6 in any particular module and overall 6.5 is the minimum requirement in the universities of the UK. However, a band score of 6.5 to 7.5 is usually acceptable in each section.
The test duration is 2 hours and 30 minutes for LRW (Listening, Reading, and Writing) without any break in between and the Speaking test lasts for 11-14 minutes. Both the computer delivered and paper based test are available. The application fee for IELTS is approximately INR 16,250-16,500.
PTE: The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is another English language proficiency test which is also accepted depending on the university one is applying to.
The PTE is an online exam to assess listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills.
It is divided into three parts: 1. Speaking and Writing, 2. Reading, and 3. Listening. An overall score of 60-70 out of 90 is required to secure admission with at least 60 in each section.
The test fee is approximately INR 15,900.
TOEFL: Test of English as Foreign Language is another widely recognised language proficiency test for the students to be eligible for admission in the universities of the UK. The total score is calculated on a range from 0 to 120, with 0 to 30 for each section i.e. listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
While Top-tier universities require a score of 110 or higher, Tier-1 and Tier-2 universities accept a score ranging from 82-90 or higher.
Approximately INR 16,000 need to be paid as application fee.
The TOEFL exam is available on two formats:
● TOEFL iBT test (online) – It is a computer-based test which can be taken from home or a designated centre. The test duration is less than 2 and a half hours.
● Paper-based test (offline) – The paper-based test has three sections: listening, reading, and writing, which are taken in a designated test centre, and the speaking test is taken online from home.
Study in the UK without IELTS
IELTS is required for studying in the UK. It is used as an evidence which shows the English language proficiency level of the students aspiring to study in the UK. The required band score depends on the institution and the course applied for. However, there are some other English language proficiency tests that are accepted other than IELTS by some of the UK universities. For example, TOEFL, PTE, Cambridge English assessment test. Students should look for alternative requirements if they are not comfortable with IELTS.
Conditions to Study in the UK without IELTS
1. An assessment of Standard X and XII English language scores
Some UK universities consider student’s English language score in class X and XII. If (s)he has scored more than 70% or above, then English language proficiency test is exempted for him/her.
2. Studied at an English medium school
IELTS requirement is waived off for the students who have studied in schools with English as the main medium of instruction and have acquired overall good grades.
3. Telephone/online interview
There are some universities which interview students over telephone calls or online. If the students are able to impress the interviewer enough, there is a high possibility that IELTS requirement gets waived off.
Documents mentioned below are required to Study in the UK Without IELTS:
Class X mark sheet
Class XII mark sheet
Provisional certificate & consolidated mark sheet
Medium of Instruction certificate
Passport
Letter of Recommendations
Resume
Statement of Purpose
Offer letter
Experience letter (if any)
Cost of Studying and Living in the UK
The average cost of studying in the UK is lower than in both the USA and Australia. The UK graduates are not only among the most employable in the world, in fact, they progress further, get quicker promotion, and earn more because of their UK education.
The average cost of studying in the UK ranges somewhere from INR 9.5 Lacs to INR 36.5 Lacs with higher costs in London. The average tuition fee is around INR 9 Lacs per year. Studying social sciences and humanities cost approximately INR 10 Lacs. Medical programs and other disciplines cost somewhere between INR 10 Lacs to INR 38 Lacs for both domestic and international students.
Study cost in the UK for Indian students at a glance:
| Types of Expenses to study in UK | Cost in INR |
| Ticket cost | INR 30,000 to INR 1,00,000 or more |
| Visa and other costs | INR 34,800 (application fees) |
| Travel expenses | INR 4,000 per month |
| Accommodation | INR 35,000-55,000 per month |
| Tuition fees | INR 8 lakh-30 lakh (UG), INR 12 lakh-35 lakh (PG) |
| Other costs | INR 50,000 per month |
Cost of studying in some prestigious private colleges in the UK
1. University of Buckingham
Tuition fees in the University of Buckingham, in England, can vary depending on the program of study ranging approximately from INR 12 Lacs to INR 24 Lacs per year for undergraduate programs.
2. Regent’s University London
Regent’s University London offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs across disciplines like business, arts, humanities, and social sciences. Tuition fees here can vary depending on the specific program, with undergraduate fees ranging approximately between INR 17 Lacs to INR 22.5 Lacs per year.
3. University of Law
The University of Law is especially famous for legal education and professional development. Fees for UG programs range approximately INR 9.2 Lacs to INR 15 Lacs per year. The PG programs’ fees vary based on the specific course.
4. BPP University
This University offers range of programs in business, law, finance, and health-related disciplines. UG Tuition fees here vary depending on the program of study ranging from approximately INR 6 Lacs to INR 9.2 Lacs per year. PG programs’ fees differ depending on the specific course and level of study.
5. St. Mary’s University
St. Mary’s University is well known for its rich history, academic excellence, and lively campus life. Tuition fees for UG programs here range approximately from INR 9.2 Lacs to INR 15 Lacs per year.
6. Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland is in Glasgow. Tuition fee at this university for UG students is approximately INR 21 Lacs per year. For PG students, fees range from approximately INR 21 Lacs to INR 34 Lacs per year.
Cost of studying in some top prestigious public colleges in the UK
1. University of Oxford
The University of Oxford is one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions renowned for its academic excellence. Tuition fees here vary depending on the course chosen and the student’s nationality. International UG students pay fees approximately between INR 27 Lacs to INR 38 Lacs per year. PG fees varies with some programs exceeding approximately INR 45.2 Lacs.
2. University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge, England, is acclaimed for its rich history and academic excellence. For international students, the fees may range approximately from INR 19 Lacs to INR 38 Lacs per year.
3. University College London (UCL)
University College London (UCL), England, established in 1826, has a world-wide reputation for its pioneering research and academic excellence. Fees for international UG students can range from around INR 18 Lacs to INR 32 Lacs while fees for PG students can range from approximately INR 16 Lacs to INR 33 Lacs.
4. Imperial College London
Imperial College London is especially recognised for science, engineering, medicine, and business. For international UG students, tuition fees range approximately from INR 30 Lacs to INR 43 Lacs per year, while PG students’ fees range approximately from INR 30 Lacs to INR 47 Lacs.
5. University of Manchester
The University of Manchester is famous for its research and education. Tuition fees range approximately between INR 19 Lacs to INR 26 Lacs for international UG students, while PG students pay tuition fees somewhere around INR 19 Lacs to INR 28 Lacs.
6. University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh is an outstanding institution which is known for its academic excellence and research contributions. International UG students pay tuition fees approximately between INR 19 Lacs to INR 33 Lacs, while PG students pay around INR 14 Lacs to INR 28 Lacs per year.
Cost of studying in the UK – Course-wise
International students willing to study in the UK must know some other essential factors apart from tuition fees. Fees for lecture-based UG courses typically vary between £10,000 to £25,000 per year, while fees for medical-based courses are usually high – on an average £20,000 to £45,000 per year. PG students’ fees are around £12,000 to £30,000 per year. Doctoral degrees on an average cost £15,000 to £25,000 per year.
Average Living Cost in the UK for Indian Students
The table below provides an approximate overview of Living Cost while studying in the UK.
| Particulars | Average Expense per month |
| Mobile phone bills | ₹1,400 to ₹2,800 |
| Food shop expenses | ₹18,700 to ₹28,000 |
| Monthly travel pass | ₹5,600 to ₹14,000 |
| Clothing | ₹4,700 to ₹9,400 |
| Utility bills | ₹7,500 to ₹14,000 |
| Internet and broadband | ₹2,800 to ₹4,700 |
| Eating out | ₹940 to ₹2,800 |
| Entertainment | ₹940 to ₹4,700 |
| Gym or fitness memberships | ₹1,900 to ₹5,600 |
| Personal care and toiletries | ₹1,900 to ₹2,800 |
| Miscellaneous expenses | ₹4,700 to ₹9,400 |
Expenses for UK Student Visa Application
The table below depicts breakdown of the expenses for UK student visa applications, including the costs for applying from outside the UK:
| Visa Type | Application Expense |
| Student Visa from outside the UK | Approximately INR 34,800 |
| Extend or switch to Student Visa | Approximately INR 47,500 |
Terms and Conditions for applying a student visa to study in the UK:
Age Requirement: Student must be 16 years of age or older.
Admission Letter: An admission letter from a UK university confirming acceptance into a recognized educational program for the student.
Financial Proof: Proof of education sponsorship or bank statements with sufficient funds to support student’s education and living expenses in the UK.
Parental Consent (for minors): Consent letter from parents or legal guardian in case of minors to be allowed to study in the UK.
English Language Proficiency Test: Proof of proficiency in the English language with minimum required score from an approved English language test, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.
Some money-saving tips for students studying in the UK:
It is quite challenging to balance education fees and living expenses for international/Indian students. However, there are always some ways to reduce expenses and save money which includes seeking scholarships, choosing cost-effective accommodations, managing finances wisely, and exploring part-time job opportunities. These things will obviously help students to steer through the financial demands of their education while pursuing academic journey.
Some common tips:
Scholarships and grants: Explore opportunities for scholarships and grants which can ease the burden of tuition costs and other educational expenses.
Look for affordable accommodations: Options such as shared apartments or student residences, have lower rents compared to private accommodations.
Create and stick to a budget: Make a monthly budget expenses and incomes. Track the expenses and identify areas where they can be cut down.
Avail student discounts: Discounts are offered by various retailers, restaurants, entertainment venues, and transportation services. Carry student ID card and avail them.
Cook and eat at home: Consider cooking and eating at home instead of eating out. Buy groceries in bulk to get higher rate of discount.
Go for public transportation: Commute on public transportation instead of cabs or private cars. Get a monthly travel pass.
Search for part-time jobs opportunities: Looking for some part-time job opportunities add on to savings. However, make sure that it does not adversely impact the studies.
Work Permit after study in the UK
All the international students studying in the UK, whether a graduate or a postgraduate, are entitled to get a Post Study Work Permit in the UK of 2 years through the Graduate route. The Ph.D. students of the UK can work there for three years. Through the graduate route the international students who have earned their degree from any recognized university in the UK can live and work in the UK for at least two years. They do not need to have a job offer to apply for a post-study work visa.
PSW visa holders after their first year of graduation can work in any job until they find work to move towards a general work visa. This rule makes the UK the top choice for international students. These students are allowed to do any work other than their area of study during this period. Post the expiry of the PSW visa the students who are willing to stay longer in the UK need to apply for a skilled work visa or general work visa which is called Tier 2 Visa. However, the student must be earning a minimum of GBP 30,000 per year to get a Tier 2 visa.
How many years of gap is accepted for study in the UK?
Students who are dreaming to study in the UK are usually worried about their study gap. In fact, they should not because academic institutions in the UK accept students’ applications who have a study gap. In the UK a gap of 2 years for undergraduates and 5 years for post-graduates is acceptable.
What Is a Study Gap?
There are students who take break from their previous and current qualification for reasons like preparing for competitive exams, gaining work experience, pursuing hobbies, taking up short courses, medical treatment, financial requirements, etc. To do any of these, If the students have taken long break, they must have justifiable reasons.
How Many Years of Study Gap is acceptable in the UK?
As stated above, the acceptable study gap is 2 years for UG program and 5 years for PG program. However, it depends on the requirements of the universities of the UK. For example, University College, Birmingham accepts a study gap of 5 years subject to relevant reasons and high IELTS band score.
The acceptable number of years of study gap for Postgraduates in the UK
It is limited to 5 years. However, if the students have justified reasons, then Universities like Ulster, Coventry, and Bangor accept a study gap of 10 years. As justified reasons, students need to submit documents like job experience letters, business documents, projects, research papers, etc. as evidence to prove which activity they were involved in during the gap.
How to cover the study gap in the UK?
Some of the following are valid reasons and documents that can justify the study gap:
1. Work experience or internships
Usually, many students take study gap to do internships to support their family, build their career, etc. This can work as a valid reason to justify the gap. Many universities in the UK value applicants who have full-time or part-time job experience and they provide them easy admission. It is important for the students to show the officials that they were busy and occupied with work while they were on study break. To prove, they can submit salary slips, work experience letters, or any other relevant documents.
2. Appeared for competitive exams or taken short courses
In order to improve their technical knowledge, international students take breaks to prepare for government exams or enrol in short vocational courses. These are considered as valid reasons by the UK universities. The universities analyse whether the skills acquired by the students and their qualifications are in sync with their applied program. This provides them to give admission to the students accordingly.
3. Health issues
Students could take a break due to unavoidable health issues. These circumstances cannot be avoided and the UK universities consider these situations as a valid reason. Students must submit their medical reports, certificates, and treatment details as proof to the university admission committee. These work as proofs that the study gap was inevitable because of unavoidable health issues. Despite these personal statements, the students need to showcase that they are knowledgeable and they can contribute significantly to the applied program and the university.
4. Family issues
Students who could not continue their studies due to various family issues must ensure to explain and present the situation honestly and perfectly to the UK immigration authorities to increase the chance of student visa acceptance.
5. Provide the best SOP stating your goals and determination
A strong statement of purpose (SOP) outlining the objectives, the proof, and the causes of the break is required for the approval of admission application.
Masters study in the UK
Master’s course is the postgraduate course in the UK after completion of an undergraduate degree. The course duration is generally one year compared to two-year master’s programmes elsewhere in the world which ultimately helps students save time and money and begin their careers quickly with a highly prestigious UK postgraduate degree.
Types of Masters’ Degrees
1. Taught Masters
Master of Arts (MA), Master of Science (MSc), Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Engineering (MEng), are four main types of taught masters with each lasting 1-2 years full-time. On a taught programme, students attend weekly seminars, tutorials and lectures. The assessment is done by exam, dissertation or project.
2. Research Masters
A research degree allows students to do PhD and complete the same in 3-4 years. It involves writing a thesis between 60,000 and 100,000 words and then presenting in an oral examination. The students take more responsibility for their work and schedule and do their thesis under the supervision of an academic. Master of Science (MSc), Master of Philosophy (MPhil), and Master of Research (MRes) are some other types of research degrees. These degrees are similar to a PhD but less academically demanding with shorter papers.
Popular Masters at the UK Universities
1. Business and Management
A Master’s in Business and Management (MBM) comprises of study of finance, marketing, human resources, strategy, and operations. The study is a combination of theoretical and practical applications which helps students develop their skills in leadership, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
Computing
A Master’s in Computing degree is all about programming languages, recent advancements in computer science, and practical skills. Students, after completing this degree, have a strong foundation in computer science and they get ready to start a career in software development, data analysis, or artificial intelligence (AI).
Engineering
Students of Master’s in Engineering look for more independent and complex roles in technical workplaces. They find employment in various fields of manufacturing, production, maintenance, quality control, etc.
Medicine
A Master’s in Medicine (MMed) is a postgraduate degree provided by medical schools for doctors that lasts for three to four years and provides advanced training and specialisation in a specific medical field. The degree is a combination of classroom instruction, clinical rotations, and examinations, that enable doctors to gain expertise and knowledge in areas of surgery or internal medicine. It is required to become a registered specialist and can be pursued alongside or after completing a fellowship.
Social Science
Students of Master of Social Science focus on studying and understanding society and human behaviour. This postgraduate degree allows them to specialise in areas that interest them within the broad social science field. After the end of this program, the students can pursue careers as social researchers, academics, social workers, consultants, and in the fields of media or business.
Best scholarships for Indian students to study in the UK
Studying in the UK is an investment for future for the students. A prestigious degree from the UK is a valuable and transformative experience that takes students’ education and their employability to the next level.
There are many funding options available starting from part funding to full funding for international students who want to study in the UK.
Top Scholarships to Study in the UK for Indian Students.
Certain institutions provide up to 100% of tuition fees including living expenditures for certain research programs. The competition is higher when students apply for government scholarships in comparison to the university scholarships. Therefore, the suggested time to start with the procedure is about 8-12 months before any of the preferred intakes commence.
Some popular government scholarship programs for Indian students to study in the UK are as under:
1. Chevening Scholarship
Any professional with a track record of academic achievement and leadership potential can avail this scholarship which provides tuition, a monthly stipend, travel expenses, and other expenditures.
Although it is available for 12 months, it can be extended after 1 year under the special case subject to approval by FCO.
2. Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship
This scholarship is exclusively for exceptional students from Commonwealth nations who are dreaming of a postgraduate degree in the UK. All the travel, tuition, and other expenditures are covered under this scholarship. The Commonwealth Scholarships offers:
Commonwealth PhD Scholarships
Commonwealth Split-site Scholarships
Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships
Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships
Commonwealth PhD Scholarships
Commonwealth Professional Fellowships
3. GREAT Scholarship
This scholarship is funded jointly GREAT Britain Campaign of the UK Government and the British Council. There are 13 PG scholarships for Indian students provided by 12 higher education institutions in the UK. The amount of each scholarship is around £10,000 which is equivalent to one year’s tuition for a postgraduate (taught) degree.
4. Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships (CWIT)
Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships (CWIT) is the scholarship funded by Charles Wallace India Trust. Tuition, travel, and other expenses are taken care of under this scholarship for Indian students who are researchers in the fields of arts or historic conservation. They are of three types:
CWIT long-term grants
CWIT Short Research Grants
Grants towards the final year of Doctoral study in the UK
5. Scotland Saltire Scholarships
This scholarship program is provided by the Scottish Government in collaboration with Scottish universities in the areas of creative industries, technology, science, medical sciences, healthcare, and renewable and clean energy. For any one year full-time postgraduate master’s program at any Scottish higher education institution, it offers up to 50 awards of each £8000 which includes tuition fees too.
Scholarship for Masters in the UK for Indian Students
There are many colleges in the UK that provide scholarships for pursuing a master’s degree. Some of the popular ones are:
University Scholarships Amount
Leeds and Beckett University Postgraduate Scholarship £ 3,000
University of East Anglia UEA India Award PG – £ 4,000 – £ 5,000
Lancaster University Global Scholarship £ 5,000
University of Greenwich PG Scholarship Up to £ 1,500 GBP
Cardiff University Vice-Chancellor Scholarship £ 2,000
UK scholarships for undergraduate international students
UK universities always welcome meritorious international students and help them fund their studies either fully or partially depending on the criteria, course, and duration. Here are some popular ones:
University Scholarships Amount
Leeds and Beckett University Undergraduate Scholarship £ 1,000
University of East Anglia Actuarial Science Scholarship UG – £ 6,000
Lancaster University Global Scholarship £ 5,000
Kingston University London UG Scholarship Up to £ 3,000 GBP
University of Leicester UG Scholarship Up to £ 2,500 / Year
MBA Scholarships in the UK for Indian Students
Masters of business administration (MBA) is one of the most popular courses that most of international students prefer to study in the UK. Scholarships offered by some universities are:
University Scholarships Amount
Leeds and Beckett University MBA Scholarship £ 1,500 /Year
Lancaster University MBA Scholarship £ 8,000
Aston University MBA Dean Award 50 % of Tuition fees
University of Bath MBA scholarship £ 10,000 or £ 15,000
