Why Study in UK? The United Kingdom remains a top choice for international students. Every year, over 450,000 students from across the globe enroll in UK universities, drawn by high academic standards and globally recognized degrees. Historic institutions like the University of Oxford and University of Cambridge are ranked among the world’s best, making UK education prestigious and respected everywhere.
So, why study in the UK? Students choose it because of:
Globally recognized degrees that open international career opportunities
Financial support through scholarships and government loans
Post-study work options allowing two years to work after graduation
This blog will guide you through top courses, universities, costs, scholarships, and career opportunities in the UK, giving you a clear roadmap to plan your studies abroad successfully.
Studying in a country or a particular city does not only mean receiving the theoretical knowledge taught in colleges or universities. As you choose a college to study in a city, you also learn a lot about the culture of that place, and it shapes you as a person. This is why looking in the UK is always given preference, and it does make a difference.
From having some of the top universities to having an excellent healthcare service, the United Kingdom has been a sought-after destination for higher education.
Let us shed some light on the facts about studying in the UK.
1. The UK attracts more than 450,000 international students each year
As per several reports, over 450,000 students get admitted to colleges and universities in the UK every year. Economics, Psychology, Engineering, Music, Art, etc. You will get the best possible quality of education in whichever field you choose.
2. The UK has over 2 million students
As mentioned earlier, the number of students in the UK is increasing every year. In every 20 people, 1 person is a student in the UK.
3. Variety of courses and specializations
In the UK, you can come across various types of specialization that you will not find in other countries. Aerospace Engineering, Marine Biology, Naval Management, Dramatherapy, Forensics, and many more, you name it, and you will find it. However, you need to be sure that the university you are interested in is offering your preferred course or not.
4. Tuition Fee Loans for students
The British Government granted the government loan that fully covers the total tuition cost for the Bachelor’s studies in the UK. The students pursuing their Master’s can get a postgraduate loan of 11.222 pounds. The loan can be repaid only after graduation or post-graduation is over, and it also depends on the salary of the students.
5. Courses start in January
Even if you have missed filling the forms in September or October for the foreign universities, fret not. The courses in universities and colleges in the UK start in January. There is no way that you are going to miss out on the courses.
6. The national online admission system
There are online applications through which the students can submit their applications online to a certain number of British universities. This means, the applications can be submitted faster and the process is hassle-free.
The UK is considered one of the top countries for pursuing higher education. Here are some of the most important points that make studying in the UK a viable option.
1. Academic excellence
According to the recent World University Rankings, out of ten top universities in the world, four of them are in the UK. These universities include the University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford. Along with providing quality education, the universities also focus on the faculty members who are among the world’s best. Although the UK has just 0.9% of the global population, the country produces 15.2% of the most highly cited researchers in the world, according to Elsevier, which is a global analytics company.
2. It is global and welcoming
We all love a place where we feel welcomed, isn’t it? One of the major benefits of studying in the UK is that international students feel welcomed. From historic destinations to theatre, music, and arts, students can find a lot of options of their interest. As a student, you can very easily become a part of the vibrant culture of the country, and the universities make sure that the students feel comfortable and settle in the new environment. As per the findings of the iGO, around 86% of students who have completed their education from the universities in the UK have felt welcomed in the country.
3. You can start working after graduation.
One of the advantages of studying in the UK is that you can start working for an extra two years after completing your graduation. This is possible because of the new post-study work visa which has recently been announced by the UK Govt. The eligible students can look for work in the fields they are interested in right after their graduation. This means you do not have to move to a different country right after graduating and can find a suitable job in the UK itself.
4. A major benefit of studying in the UK – Financial support
Next time you wonder why the UK is the best for study, consider the financial support. Living in the UK is not that simple since almost everything is expensive, especially if you are going from a country like India. However, one of the benefits of studying in the UK is that the colleges and universities offer scholarships which make the experience for the students much more affordable and financially stress-free. In 2018-19, 480 scholarships were offered to the Indian students by the UK government and the British Council.
5. Why study in the UK? – Employment
One of the major reasons why students opt for foreign universities is the job opportunities. And the UK colleges and universities are just the right choices for this reason. As per the reports from iGO, 82% of the Indian students who completed their graduation from UK colleges and universities are highly satisfied with their careers.
6. Students can continue their studies
Once you have completed your undergraduate course in the UK, you can pursue further education in the country. The education system in the UK promotes a close working relationship between the students and the faculty members. The universities in the UK maintain a dedicated support team set up that helps in providing information as well as advice on careers, visas, and well-being so that the students can be helped throughout their education.
Popular Courses for International Students in the UK
1. Business Studies
Business studies is one of the courses opted for by international students in the UK. Some of the universities that offer this course are:
a) Durham University Business School
b) University of St Andrews School of Management
c) Kings College London Kings Business School
d) Loughborough University School of Business and Economics
e) University College London School of Management
f) University of Warwick Business School
g) University of Strathclyde Business School
h) University of Cambridge, Judge Business School
i) University of Bath School of Management
j) University of Exeter Business School
k) University of Glasgow Adam Smith Business School
l) University of Leeds Business School
m) University of Oxford Saïd Business School
2. Undergraduate Law
This is again one of the courses many international students prefer to pursue in the UK. While students are doing this course, they can also combine other subjects such as Journalism, Politics, and Business. Some of the universities in the country offering the course are:
a) King’s College London
b) London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
The course helps students gain theoretical as well as practical understanding of the core financial practices. Some universities that offer this course include:
a) London School of Economics
b) University of Chester
c) University of Leeds
d) University of Bath
e) University of Glasgow
f) University of Strathclyde
g) Loughborough University
h) University of Exeter
i) University of Birmingham
j) University of Warwick
4. Computer Science:
You can learn Computer Science from some of the best professors in the world when you are doing it in the UK. Let us check out some of the universities that offer courses in Computer Science:
a) University of Edinburgh
b) Imperial College London
c) Lancaster University
d) University of Cambridge
e) University of Bristol
f) University of Surrey
g) University of Manchester
h) University of Birmingham
5. Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering is a discipline of engineering in which the principles of design, physics, and materials science for analysis, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems are applied.
Some of the universities in the UK offering Mechanical Engineering are:
a) University of Leeds
b) Imperial College London
c) University of Bath
d) Loughborough University
e) University of Bristol
6. Politics
Taking a degree in Politics will help the students learn about the core dynamics of various political systems around the world, how governments deal with crises, human rights, and the nature of society. Some of the universities in the UK that offer a degree in Politics include:
a) London School of Economics
b) University of St Andrews
c) University of Cambridge
d) University of Oxford
e) University of Warwick
f) Durham University
g) King’s College London
h) Canterbury Christ Church University
i) University of Bath
j) Aberystwyth University
Apart from these, several other courses are offered in the universities in the UK. You need to make up your mind about the course that you want to pursue further and apply accordingly.
Benefits of Studying in the UK
Studying in your home country is all well and good. But if you aspire to broaden your horizons and achieve global exposure, the UK is an option you must explore.
So, why study in the UK, you may ask?
Let us look into the various benefits of studying in the UK:
Globally recognized universities-
The international reputation of the quality of education provided by institutions in the UK is remarkable. Degrees and qualifications achieved from UK universities are respected and recognized worldwide. The British education system has formed the foundation of quality education globally. This universal recognition is one of the primary reasons to study in the UK.
Multicultural society-
One of the benefits of studying in the UK is its multicultural environment. It is a country largely populated with students from all around the world. This diversity will allow you to socialize and network with people from all parts of the world and expand your social compass.
Brilliant opportunities-
The UK offers many opportunities for students both during and after their study period. As a student, you can work part-time up to 20 hours a week. After completing your degree, the UK government allows you two years to stay and secure a job.
Financial benefits and monetary support-
The UK education system for international students offers several advantages that make it an attractive destination for higher education. Most degrees in the UK take less time to complete than other countries. Additionally, international students are provided with many scholarships and monetary grants, making education considerably cheaper.
The education sector of the UK welcomes thousands of international students every year. With a diverse society and a firm universal standing for quality education, the UK is a highly endorsed location for higher education. Considering the numerous benefits of studying in the UK, it is a top-rated destination chosen by maximum international students for higher education.
The education system in the UK is divided into four parts: primary education, secondary education, further education, and higher education.
While it is compulsory to undergo primary and secondary education till the age of 16, further and higher education is optional. Students may choose to just complete their school and get a job.
Work Opportunities after Studying in the UK
When studying abroad, work opportunities post-graduation are an important aspect for students.
With a working population of 32.4 million people, the United Kingdom is the world’s sixth-biggest economy.
The country has a high employment rate of over 75%, so many overseas students aim to find jobs in the UK after finishing their studies. As of 2019-20, over 538,000 international students enrolled in the UK universities, according to HESA data. India is only second to China when it comes to the most common nation of origin for students seeking higher education in the United Kingdom.
Let’s take a look at the most in-demand programs in the UK, as well as the degree requirements, average income, and top recruiters:
Design and Art
In the United Kingdom, there is a wide range of opportunities in art and design.
Animation, game design, fashion design, product design, graphic design, fine arts, jewellery design, photography, and other occupations are possible.
Requirements for a Degree
MA Illustration, MA Graphic Design, MA Animation, MA Product Designing, MA Game Design, MA Fine Arts and Design, MSc Creative Computing.
Public Relations and Advertising
In the age of social media, the advertising and public relations industry is one of the fastest expanding in the UK. Every organization seeks a capable professional to manage its public relations, communications, and advertising, which results in job chances for overseas students after completing their MS or MA in the United Kingdom.
Requirements for a Degree-
MA Global Journalism and Public Relations, MA International Relations, MA Public Relations and Strategic Communication, MA Public Opinion and Political Behaviour
Engineering
Engineering students in the United Kingdom have access to cutting-edge facilities. You will have the chance to do significant research and learn with the support of practical training that prepares you for the job market as one of the top locations in the world to study Engineering.
Requirements for a Degree
MEng Civil Engineering, MEng Mechanical Engineering, and MEng Electrical Engineering are all Master’s degrees in engineering.
Information Technology and Computer Science
If you’re interested in a career in technology, jobs in the IT sector could be an excellent place to start. Because the UK is home to some of the world’s largest technology companies, you’ll have a good chance of finding work after your MS.
Requirements for a Degree
MSc Information Systems, MSc Advanced Computer Science, MSc Business Information Systems, MSc Software Engineering, and MSc Cyber Security are some of the Master’s degrees available.
Law
A graduate law degree helps take your knowledge and understanding of law principles to the next level. If you are interested in the legal profession, look for an internship at a law firm while in college, and it will help you gain an edge over other candidates when looking for a job.
Requirements for a Degree
Master of Laws, LLM in International Business Law, LLM in Medical Law and Ethics, LLM in International Finance and Commercial Law
Medicine
The United Kingdom is well-known for its excellent healthcare system. Healthcare experts are in high demand across the United Kingdom, and you can expect to get paid well. The increased amount of responsibility associated with this career and the intensity of the programs in this subject necessitates a high level of commitment.
Requirements for a Degree
MBChB Medicine, BSc Medicine, MPH, MSc Nursing
Finance and Accounting
No matter how big or little, every organization requires specialists to manage its money. As a result, accounting and business are two of the most in-demand professions in the UK, with plenty of career prospects for overseas students.
Requirements for a Degree
MBA, MA Economics, MSc Finance, MSc Accounting, MSc Banking and Finance
Major Recruiters in the United Kingdom
The most significant places to get jobs in the UK after a master’s, according to Glassdoor, one of the leading online job search portals, are:
Accenture
KPMG
Deloitte
Italia Bella
SAP
Salesforce
Microsoft
Google
Apple
Meta
PwC
After MS, American Express, J.P. Morgan, AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson, Siemens, EY, The Body Shop, Goldman Sachs, Dell Technologies, Morgan Stanley, and others are the best firms to look for career chances in the UK.
If you earn a master’s degree from one of the best universities in the UK, you will almost certainly have a better chance of finding work following graduation.
Your university’s Career Center may be one of the first places you look for a job. The majority of the UK’s leading universities host career events, webinars, and job fairs to assist graduates in connecting with businesses and exploring job opportunities.
Recruitment Agencies can assist you in narrowing your search based on the type of work and organization you’re searching for, your wage expectations, and a suitable location, among other factors.
The UK Government also offers the “Find a Job” service, which allows Indian students to search for job opportunities in the UK.
Among other well-known social media networks, LinkedIn is for making professional connections, learning about industry standards, and keeping up with the newest advances. Facebook and Twitter are also becoming more popular for assisting consumers in their job hunt through adverts.
Average Annual Pay in the United Kingdom
Legal – £49,700
IT and Telecommunication Directors – £56,100
Software developer – £47,900
Aircraft Pilot and Flight Engineers – £60,800
Health Services and Public Health Managers – £68,400
Advertising and PR Directors – £45,400
Marketing and Sales Director – £54,900
Financial Managers – £43,600
Various aspects, such as your level of education, talents, area of inquiry, employment industry, and so on, impact your job prospects in the UK after completing your Master’s degree. With a fiercely competitive environment among job aspirants in a global economy like the UK, landing a satisfying career will be difficult.
BBA in UK with upGrad Abroad
upGrad Study Abroad program allows you to study in the UK at almost 1/5th of the total cost. Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), a 3 years program at the University of Plymouth, is facilitated by upGrad in collaboration with Indian Partner University. You can get further information at the link provided below.
Disclaimer!! All the salary figures/fees/expenditure are sourced from job portals/university websites and may vary.
Choosing to study in the UK can be one of the most rewarding decisions of your life. With world-class universities, a wide range of courses, scholarships, and post-study work opportunities, the UK offers everything you need to grow academically and professionally.
If you are planning to study abroad, the UK opens doors to endless opportunities. From quality education to career support and a multicultural environment, it gives you the tools to succeed. With careful planning and determination, your journey in the UK can shape a bright and successful future.
FAQs
What are the hidden costs for students in the UK?
Apart from tuition, students may spend on accommodation, transportation, food, books, and leisure. These expenses vary by city and lifestyle. Planning a monthly budget of £1,000–£1,500 is recommended to manage living costs while maintaining a comfortable student experience in the UK.
How fast can Indian students adapt to UK culture?
International students can adapt quickly with university support, orientation programs, and student societies. Engaging with peers from diverse backgrounds, exploring local culture, and participating in campus activities helps Indian students settle socially and academically within the first few months.
Which UK sectors hire international graduates fastest?
IT, finance, healthcare, engineering, and creative industries are among the top sectors. These fields offer internships, entry-level jobs, and full-time positions for graduates. Skills-based demand ensures international students have multiple career opportunities soon after completing their UK studies.
How do UK universities support mental well-being?
Most universities offer counseling, peer support groups, and wellness programs. International students have access to online and on-campus resources to manage stress, academic pressure, and cultural adjustments, ensuring a balanced and healthy student life in the UK.
Are short courses in the UK valuable for careers?
Yes, short-term diplomas, certifications, and summer programs provide practical skills, industry knowledge, and networking opportunities. These programs help students enhance employability, explore new fields, and supplement their main degree with additional qualifications recognized globally.
How important is English proficiency for UK studies?
Strong English skills are crucial for academic success, communication, and daily life. Universities require IELTS or equivalent scores, and students with good proficiency can participate in discussions, write research papers, and interact confidently in professional and social settings.
Can students switch universities in the UK easily?
Switching universities is possible but requires approval from both institutions and meeting academic requirements. Students should plan carefully, understand course compatibility, and maintain academic performance to ensure a smooth transfer without losing study time or credits.
How can international students find housing quickly?
Universities provide accommodation offices, online portals, and advice for private rentals. Booking early, connecting with student communities, and exploring safe neighborhoods ensures students secure affordable housing near campus before the academic year begins.
Are part-time internships available for non-EU students?
Yes, many UK internships accept international students with a valid student visa. These roles provide hands-on experience, enhance CVs, and help students understand the UK work culture while managing academic commitments during term time.
How do UK students access healthcare services?
International students can use the NHS system. By paying the immigration health surcharge, students get access to doctors, hospitals, and emergency care. Universities also provide guidance, medical support, and health insurance options to ensure well-being throughout the study period.
Can students pursue entrepreneurship while studying in the UK?
Yes, universities offer incubators, mentoring, and funding support. Students can start businesses legally while studying, attend workshops, and network with local entrepreneurs. The UK encourages innovation and practical experience, giving students opportunities to test ideas alongside academics.
How does networking help international students in the UK?
Networking connects students with peers, professors, and professionals. Attending seminars, job fairs, and online groups helps build relationships, discover internships, and access career opportunities. Strong networks increase chances of finding suitable employment during and after graduation.
upGrad abroad Editorial Team |2863 articles published
We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education ...
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