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United Kingdom - A Study Destination

uk

The United Kingdom is one among the top countries for education. The UK is a country that has been actively working on their education systems for decades together. The United Kingdom is also referred to as an educational hub of the world. Universities in the United Kingdom conduct a broad range of programs however the most established include Business, Arts, Engineering and Science related degrees. The UK is noted as being one of the best destinations for scientific research. The UK is not only a great education destination but also for experiencing international living. Several universities in the UK are considered as the best for education.

As a student studying abroad, you must always look into the following points for an excellent study abroad experience – weather, expenses, benefits, future prospects, and education quality. The United Kingdom is indeed a great option since it offers all that and much more!

Quick points to note before for applying to study in the United Kingdom -

Capital: London

Major Cities to study in the UK:

  • London
  • Edinburgh
  • Birmingham
  • Manchester
  • Glasgow

Time Zone: United Kingdom has 1 type of time zone which is British Summer Time (BST) – India is 4 hours 30 minutes ahead of United Kingdom

Currency: Pounds

Language Spoken: English

Study in the UK for Indian Students

The United Kingdom is highly considered as an educational hub of the world, therefore, several students visit the country for quality and reliable education. Moreover, the environment in the UK is wonderful and is often referred to as pleasant and calm. Indian students definitely have the scope learn in plentiful mainly because of the independent living and an upgrade to lifestyle. The benefits of studying in the UK also include exploring Europe – One of the top continents for tourism. Several Indian students have claimed this country to be one of the best, of course, experiences differ for each student but by far the United Kingdom is a top choice for many international students

Why study in the UK?

You can study in the UK whilst enjoying the flattering weather and locations spread through the country. Education in the UK is rated among the best 10 countries to study abroad. The top reason to consider applying to universities of the UK is that the structure followed in classrooms are very familiar and easy to equip yourself with. Universities are also globally recognized making it in easier for you to apply for jobs all around the world.

The Britain culture is considered highly influential by many countries especially because of their time management and discipline skills which will definitely benefit you in the long run. By living and studying at top universities in the UK you will most probably get equipped these job and personality development habits.

Top five reasons to choose the United Kingdom for higher education:

  • Globally recognized universities
  • Scientific Research set up
  • Standard of Living
  • Variety of Courses
  • Amiable Environment

More reasons to study in the United Kingdom!

United Kingdom Education System

The education system in the UK is similar to the Indian education system but more advanced, the universities help students expand their knowledge with various activities. The education structure is divided into four categories i.e. Primary Education, Secondary Education, Further Education, and Higher Education. Children up till the age of 16 have to compulsorily complete their education, after the age of 16 Education is optional. This structure is followed in the United Kingdom’s four nations Northern Ireland, England, Scotland, and Wales.

International students often opt to pursue higher education, in which degree and certificate courses are included i.e. undergraduate, post-graduate, diploma. The United Kingdom conducts programs for all the above-mentioned levels for international students. The globally recognized universities and institutions will equip you with quality information that you can use throughout your careers.

Types of courses

A plethora of courses are offered across UK universities. Almost every kind of program is taught in the United Kingdom. Naturally, like any country, United Kingdom has its top specialized subjects such as Law, Business, Physiotherapy, Medicines, Management, Engineering, Computer Science, Communication, and etc. courses are strong suit contexts of UK universities.

Individuals can acquire any level of degree listed in top universities in the UK. The UK hosts foreign candidates for higher education starting from undergraduate courses. So, if you are a student who happens to have just passed your 12th grade, you can start applying universities of UK for your undergrad degree! Masters in the UK is a degree that is probably most sought after by international students. Ph.D. courses in this country are also popular among the foreign crowd.

Education pedagogy followed in institutes of the United Kingdom is great as they cover almost every needed topic to graduate in that subject. The various educational activities conducted at universities are also one of the reasons why the education system in the UK is ranked among the best. Indian students have an opportunity to engage in a different educational setting which has acquired the award of being highly reputed for impartment of knowledge.

Under Graduation in the United Kingdom

Many Indian students visit the UK for their undergraduate studies. Typically, undergraduate degrees in the United Kingdom are 3-years or 4-years in duration. The UK also offers fast-track 2-year undergraduate degrees.  This is the best part of studying abroad in the UK! A fast-track degree not only caps the tuition fees and living expenses but also offers a chance to kick-start your career sooner. Thus, international students opting for an undergraduate course in the UK must consider universities that offer fast-track degrees. 

If this is not enough, an international student in the UK can also enjoy the benefit of studying two degrees at the same time! The dual-honours or joint degree allows students to enjoy the study of two different courses, by splitting time between both.  This equips a student with a wiser choice of job opportunities after graduation.

Further, international students can opt for a sandwich course-this lasts for years, and includes a year of work placement in your field of study. This means you get legit job experience while you are on your student visa!

Top undergraduate branches in the UK:

  • Bachelors of Business Accounting
  • Bachelors of Economics
  • Bachelors of Engineering
  • Bachelors of Arts
  • Bachelors in Psychology

Pre-Masters in the United Kingdom

Worried that your academic scores or English language skills are falling short of requirements? Do not be discouraged, as the UK welcomes international students to complete a Pre-Masters course. This acts as a bridge between your current undergraduate qualifications and pre-requisites for a Masters in the UK.

Masters/Post-Graduation in the UK

If you are a graduate on the lookout for advancing your qualifications further, Masters/Post-Graduation in the UK is a great next step. Universities in the United Kingdom generally offer one-year Masters Programmes as compared to two-year courses available elsewhere. This is a great advantage to international students, as they obtain a renowned UK postgraduate degree in record time. It saves time, expenses, and allows students to start working within a year.

Top Masters Branches in the UK:

Those holding a Master’s degree can give an edge to their educational portfolio with a Ph.D. or research degree from the United Kingdom.  Admission to a Ph.D. program in the UK requires a student holding an undergraduate degree with honors, as well as a Master’s degree. Further, an international student must prove their English language skills in order to be considered as a prospective Ph.D. student in the UK. All students are also required to submit a research proposal that elucidates on your research topic, the significance of your research, and how you plan to carry it out.

Top Ph.D. Branches in the UK:

  • Ph.D. in Engineering
  • Ph.D. in Literature
  • Ph.D. in Statistics
  • Ph.D. in Pharmacology
  • Ph.D. in Chemistry

Doctorate in the United Kingdom

  • Masters in Literature
  • Masters in Accounting and Finance
  • Masters in Business Management/Administration
  • Masters in Law
  • Masters in Marketing and Communication

Cost of studying in the UK

The costs of studying in the UK are considered to be on the higher side for international students.  The tuition fees vary quite a lot, and largely depend on your chosen area of interest, the university you are applying to, and your destination. Also, the economic slow-down of the country may be a cause of concern for students planning to study abroad in the UK.

However, the British government’s assures that tuition fees and student loans will remain unaffected in the coming academic year. Also, as several UK universities offer accelerated programs, the cost of studying in the UK is worth it in the long run. On average, an international student is likely to spend roughly US$ 31,000 (£22,200) each year, on tuition and accommodation together.

While these costs are daunting, there are several scholarships that can gain you entry to a top UK based university. You can also opt for education loans to study in the UK!

These are top UK university that conducts several and major attractive courses in their specific university – 

  • University of Cambridge
  • University College London
  • King’s College London
  • Durham University
  • University of Oxford
  • London School of Economics
  • Lancaster University
  • University of Bath
  • The University of Manchester
  • University of Bristol

*Note: The universities have been listed randomly and not according to any specific ranking.

Read: Pocket friendly activities to do while studying in the United Kingdom

Exams to Study Abroad in the UK

With nearly 400 universities and scores of courses to choose from at different levels f study, most UK universities have some sort of criteria for pursuing a course.  While each university has its own set of qualifications and criteria, some general requirements are listed below:

Grades and Qualifications– The grades of your current qualification is the first criteria when applying to pursue studies in the UK. Different schools have different criteria- though most UK universities have a high cut-off.

Entrance Tests– Nearly all UK universities employ entrance tests to select the most suitable candidates for their courses. This is especially important for international students, as these entrance tests help evaluate the eligibility of a student with a foreign degree to apply for the right educational course in the UK.

Language Proficiency– As an international student, there are chances that you are not a native English speaker. English proficiency plays an important role when applying to UK universities, as most schools require a particular level of proficiency. While several standardized tests exist for the same, universities in the UK commonly admit IELTS scores. However, TOEFL and UCLES scores are also accepted in most schools.

Interviews– While not an entry requirement, an interview is a part of the final processing stage of a UK college application. The interview is generally structured around the student’s goals, motivations, and course suitability.

Entry Requirements for UK Universities

Find below basic mandatory prerequisites for university application submission to study in the United Kingdom –

Under-Graduate courses in the UK

Bachelors of Arts – Specializations include Social Science, Humanity or Fine Arts related program

CourseBachelors of Arts
SAT No

Letter of Recommendation

Yes
Statement of Purpose Yes
English Proficiency TestYes
Resume/CVYes

Bachelors of Engineering – Specializations include Computer, Mechanical, Civil, Electronics and many more…

CourseBachelors of Engineering
SAT Yes

Letter of Recommendation     

Yes
Statement of Purpose Yes
English Proficiency TestYes
Resume/CVYes

Bachelors of Business Administration – Specializations include Finance, Marketing, Information Management, Risk, Logistics, Sports Management and many more…

CourseBachelors of Business Administration
SAT Yes

Letter of Recommendation

Yes
Statement of Purpose Yes
English Proficiency TestYes
Resume/CVYes

 Bachelors of Science â€“ Specializations include Mathematical and Physical Science related subjects.

CourseBachelors of Science
SAT Yes
Letter of Recommendation Yes
Statement of Purpose Yes
English Proficiency TestYes
Resume/CVYes

Post-Graduate courses in the UK

Masters of Business Administration â€“ Specializations include Marketing, Human Resources, Logistics, Engineering, Executive MBA,Entrepreneurship, and many more…

CourseMasters of  Business Administration
GREYes
GMATYes
Letter of Recommendation Yes
Statement of Purpose Yes
English Proficiency TestYes
Resume/CVYes

Masters of Arts â€“ Specializations include Graphic Designing, Theatre, Media and Communication, Social Science, Natural Science, and many more…

CourseMasters of  Arts  
GRENo
GMATNo
Letter of Recommendation Yes
Statement of Purpose Yes
English Proficiency TestYes
Resume/CVYes

Masters of Science â€“ Specializations include Engineering, Marketing, Computer and IT, Natural Science, Social Science, Development, Business and Management

CourseMasters of  Science   
GREYes
GMATYes
Letter of Recommendation Yes
Statement of Purpose Yes
English Proficiency TestYes
Resume/CVYes

Masters in Engineering â€“ Specializations include Chemical, Civil, Mechanical, Computer, Electronics, Engineering Management, etc.

CourseMasters of  Engineering
GREYes
GMATYes
Letter of Recommendation Yes
Statement of Purpose Yes
English Proficiency TestYes
Resume/CVYes

Doctoral or Ph.D. courses in the UK

Ph.D. courses are research specific almost every subject with the scope of research can be pursued to obtain a Doctoral degree

CourseDoctor of Philosophy / Ph.D.
Letter of Recommendation Yes
Statement of Purpose Yes
English Proficiency TestYes
Resume/CVYes

Application Process to Study in the UK

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The application process to study in the UK is often dynamic. They vary from university to university, and it is advised that the student keeps a tab on each requirement and cross-check multiple times.

Another thing to keep in mind while applying to study abroad in the UK is DEADLINES. Consider a wide berth for unforeseen delays, so ensure a balance between scrambling for documents and meeting deadlines.

Get your guide for the university application process in the United Kingdom.

Applying for UK Student Visa-

Visa processes are cumbersome.  To know the UK student visa application process, read this guide to know details about the requirements, list of documents requires application fees,  when and how to apply, and more.

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