The UK educational system is ranked no.2 over the globe. International pupils seeking the opportunity for a top-notch education from some of the most esteemed universities in the world should consider studying in the UK. Here are some key aspects of studying in the UK.
Why the UK?
The UK boasts a number of the greatest universities in the world and a long tradition of intellectual brilliance. The UK has a top-notch educational system that gives students access to cutting-edge research, cutting-edge facilities, and a varied student body. With its fascinating history, magnificent architecture, and varied cultural events, the UK also provides a distinctive cultural experience.
Top Ranked Universities in the UK
An elite grouping of 24 top British institutions with a focus on research makes up the Russell Group. This is a list of UK Russell Group universities together with their 2021 global rankings:
- Oxford University, ranked second in the world
- University of Cambridge, third-ranked globally
- Imperial College London, which is eighth globally.
- University of Edinburgh, which is ranked 20th worldwide.
- University of Manchester, which is ranked 27th worldwide
- King’s College London, which is ranked 31st globally
- The 49th-ranked London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
- University of Bristol, which is rated 58th worldwide
- University of Warwick, which is rated 62nd worldwide
- University of Glasgow, which is ranked 77th worldwide
- University of Sheffield, which is ranked 90th worldwide
- Queen Mary University of London, which is ranked 110th worldwide.
- University of Leeds, which is ranked 120th worldwide
- University of York is ranked 143rd in the world.
- University of Southampton is ranked 127th.
- University of Nottingham, which is ranked 152nd.
- University of Birmingham is ranked 154th in the world
- Newcastle University, which is ranked 175th worldwide
- University of Liverpool, which is ranked 186th globally
- University of Sussex, which is ranked 191st worldwide
- University of St. Andrews, which is ranked 198th worldwide
- University of Manchester (University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology) (UMIST)
- University of Southampton (University of Southampton Institute of Science and Technology) (SIST)
- University College London (UCL), which ranks 10th in the world but isn’t a recognized member of the Russell Group.
Here are some other top-ranked universities in the UK:
- University of Bath – ranked #179 globally
- University of Birmingham – ranked #112 globally
- University of Brighton – ranked #801-1000 globally
- University of Central Lancashire – ranked #801-1000 globally
- Coventry University – ranked #571-580 globally
- University of East Anglia – ranked #194 globally
- University of Essex – ranked #301-350 globally
- University of Hertfordshire – ranked #601-650 globally
- Lancaster University – ranked #128 globally
- Loughborough University – ranked #319 globally
Our Partner Universities:
We have a number of prestigious UK universities on our panel, a few of them are:
- Anglia Ruskin University
- Bangor University
- Cranfield University
- De MontFort University
- Edinburgh Napier University
- Lancaster University
- Middlesex university
- Northumbria University
- Teesside University
- University of East Anglia
These institutions are well known for their academic prowess, research exploits, and global credibility. They provide an extensive selection of undergraduate and graduate programmes in many disciplines, including business, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. These colleges offer the finest resources, incentives for personal and professional development, and facilities to its students.
Scholarships Available for International Students
The number of scholarships available to foreign students who want to study in the UK is substantial. Among the scholarships offered are:
- Chevening Scholarships: This international scholarship programme of the UK government offers merit-based full scholarships to deserving students from throughout the world to attend any university in the UK.
- Commonwealth Scholarships: This is a programme for students from Commonwealth nations to receive fully-financed scholarships to attend any UK university. It is funded by the UK government.
- Gates Cambridge Scholarships: It is funded by The Gates Foundation, which offer deserving international students’ full scholarships to attend the University of Cambridge.
- Rhodes Scholarships: The Rhodes Trust funds these scholarships, which offer deserving international students complete funding to attend the University of Oxford.
- British Council Scholarships: The British Council provides a number of financial aid opportunities, such as the GREAT Scholarships and the Future Leaders Connect programme, for international students planning to study in the UK.
- University Scholarships: The University of Bristol International Scholarships, the University of Warwick International Scholarships, and the University of Sussex Chancellor’s Scholarships are just a few of the numerous UK universities that provide financial aid to international students.
The eligibility requirements for these scholarships vary based on the scholarship, making them extremely competitive.
What is a Student Visa in the UK?
A student visa, also known as a Tier 4 (General) visa, is a type of visa that allows non-European Economic Area (EEA) nationals to study in the United Kingdom (UK). It is a points-based system where applicants must score enough points to meet the eligibility criteria. This visa allows students to stay in the UK for the duration of their course, and they may be able to work part-time during their studies and full-time during holidays.
The UK government has made some changes to the visa system in recent years, including the introduction of Tier 4 (General) visa, which replaced the old student visa category. The new visa system is designed to make it easier for genuine students to come to the UK to study, while at the same time reducing the number of people coming to the UK under false pretenses.
Student Visa Requirements
Following are the requirements of a study Visa for UK:
- Acceptance into a UK university: Students must have a confirmed place at a UK university before applying for a student visa.
- Proof of funds: Students must show that they have enough money to cover their tuition fees and living expenses during their stay in the UK. This can be done by providing bank statements or a letter from a financial sponsor.
- English language proficiency: Students must demonstrate their proficiency in the English language through a recognized language test such as IELTS or TOEFL.
- Tuberculosis test: Students from certain countries must provide evidence of a negative tuberculosis test before coming to the UK.
- Biometric information: Students must provide biometric information such as fingerprints and a photograph as part of their visa application.
- Health insurance: Students must have health insurance that covers them during their stay in the UK.
- Criminal record check: Students may be required to provide a criminal record check from their home country or any country they have lived in for more than 12 months.
It is important to note that the specific requirements may vary depending on the individual’s circumstances and the type of course they will be studying.
Study Without IELTS Option for International Students in the UK
IELTS-free enrollment is an option at some UK universities. A student must fulfill certain requirements, such as having studied in an English-medium institution for a specific amount of time or attaining a specific score on a recognized English language test, in order to be eligible for this option.
International students have the option to enroll in several UK universities without taking the IELTS exam. Depending on the university and the subject, different requirements and alternatives to IELTS may apply. Nonetheless, some frequent alternatives include:
TOEFL: Many UK universities accept the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) in place of the IELTS.
Cambridge English Qualifications: Many universities also accept Cambridge English Qualifications as a substitute for the IELTS exam, such as the Cambridge Advanced or Cambridge Proficiency exams.
Duolingo English Test: Some UK universities will accept the Duolingo English Test instead of the IELTS as proof of English ability.
Intensive English language courses: For overseas students who don’t have the necessary level of English language competency, some universities provide rigorous English language classes. Students may be allowed to continue on to their preferred degree programme after successfully completing the course.
Job
Foreign students are permitted to work in the UK for up to 20 hours per week during the entire academic year and during breaks. International students have a variety of job options at their fingertips, including on-campus employment, internships, and part-time employment.
International students in the UK are qualified to apply for a Tier 2 (General) visa after completing their studies, which grants them permission to work for a maximum of five years in the nation. The receipt of a job offer from a UK employer in one of the permitted professions is a criterion for receiving the visa, as is meeting other criteria like the necessary wage threshold.
Depending on a number of factors, international students in the UK have a choice of employment options.
Living Expenses for a Single Student in the UK
Depending on the city and location you are studying in, different parts of the UK have different costs of living. A single student in the UK should budget between £12,000 and £15,000 per year for living costs, which include housing, food, and transportation.
- Lodging: Depending on the type of lodging and the area, the cost of lodging might vary greatly. Private rental fees can range from £120 to £200 per week, while on-campus housing might cost anywhere from £90 to £150 per week. The cost of lodging might be significantly greater in London.
- Food: Instead of frequently dining out, students can save money by preparing their own meals. Weekly grocery expenses typically range from £30 to £40.
- Transportation: The price of transportation will vary depending on where you are going and how you are getting there. A monthly bus pass can run you about £60, while a monthly train fare, depending on the distance, can run you anywhere from £100 to £400.
- Utilities: These include gas, water, and electricity costs, which can cost anywhere between £20 and £50 per month, depending on location and usage.
- Internet and phone: Monthly charges for internet and phone service can range from £20 to £40.
- Miscellaneous: This category includes costs for things like entertainment, clothing, and toiletries. Depending on lifestyle and personal preferences, prices can vary substantially.
Accommodation Options for International Students
- University Halls of Residence: Students can live in halls of residence at the majority of UK universities. They are typically found on or close to campus and provide a variety of options, such as single rooms, shared apartments, and en-suite rooms.
- Private Accommodation: Several online resources are available to help students find private housing. Many options are available to students, including private apartments, shared homes or flats, and studios.
- Homestay: For international students who want to experience living with a local family, homestay is a common choice. Homestay agencies pair students with host families who give them a room and meals for a predetermined amount of time.
- Purpose-Built Student Accommodation: In the UK, purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) is growing in acceptance. They are privately owned structures that provide top-notch housing for students, frequently with a variety of amenities like gyms, common areas, and study rooms.
