Study Abroad in UK
Discover top universities, affordable tuition, scholarships, and post-study work opportunities in the UK. Stubard guides Indian students for applications, visa processes, and course selection to study in UK.
Study Abroad in UK: Step-by-Step Guide for Global Students
Studying in the UK? Feels like a big step, right? But it’s also one of the best moves you can make for your future. Whether it’s for the academic edge, the culture, or just chasing that dream, the UK has it all – and then some.
In 2022–2023, UK welcomed over 758,855 international students, the highest it’s ever recorded. That’s not just a number, that’s thousands of students just like you, choosing the UK to shape their future.
You’ve got the big names like Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial, but also tons of brilliant unis offering courses in everything from AI to fashion design. And the beauty? Most master’s degrees take just one year, saving both time and money.
But it’s not only about classes and grades. It’s about living a new life, learning to queue, loving the rainy days, making mates from all over, and maybe picking up a British accent along the way.
This guide’s gonna break it all down for you step by step from course hunting to visas. Let’s get started. Your UK journey begins here.
Why Should You Study in the UK as an International Student?
So, what’s the big deal about studying in the UK? Honestly, it is one of those places where tradition meets innovation and the result is a pretty solid study abroad experience.
First off, the numbers speak loud. United Kingdom is the second most popular study destination in the world, with over 758,855 international students choosing it in 2022/23. And it’s not just about Oxford and Cambridge, universities across London, Manchester, Edinburgh, and Birmingham are also world-renowned.
Now here’s the real win. Most UK masters degrees wrap up in just 1 year, not 2 like in many other countries. That means lower tuition, less living expenses, and you are job-ready quicker.
UK also has a post-study work visa that lets you stay for up to 2 years to find work and 3 if you have done a PhD. That’s huge if you are looking to build a future abroad.
And let’s not forget, United Kingdom is home to a rich mix of people. You will bump into students from India, Nigeria, China, Malaysia, and many other countries. Makes life easier when you know you are not alone in it.
Bottom line? The United Kingdom offers a globally respected degree, solid work opportunities, and an unforgettable experience.
Quick Facts
Aspect | Details |
Total International Students | 732,285 (Source: HESA UK) |
Top University | University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London |
Tuition Fees (UG) | £11,400 – £38,000/year |
Tuition Fees (PG) | £9,000 – £30,000/year |
Cost of Living | £1,100 – £1,400/month |
Top Courses | Business, Engineering, Computer Science, Law, Medicine |
Major Intakes | September (major), January & May (limited courses) |
What Is the Education System Like in the UK?
If you’re thinking long-term about your career, the UK education system is kinda hard to beat. It’s not just about the posh accents or old buildings. It’s got structure, flexibility, and solid global respect.
In the UK, students usually go for a three-year bachelor’s degree. That’s one year shorter than in a lot of places. And for a master’s? Just one year. Saves both time and money. In fact, a report by HESA (Higher Education Statistics Agency) showed that over 758,855 international students were enrolled in the UK in 2022–23. So, you’re not alone in choosing it.
The system’s broken into four phases, but what most global students care about is higher education – that’s your university time. And yeah, UK degrees are accepted pretty much everywhere in the world. Plus, most courses mix theory with real-world projects, which makes it a good fit if you hate just sitting through lectures all day.
They’ve also got rolling intakes. September’s the big one, but January and even May are options at some places. Teaching is in English (obviously), and most universities offer English language help if you’re not super confident yet.
Overall? The vibe is academic but chilled. It’s structured but leaves room to be creative. You’re pushed to think, to question, and honestly – to grow up.
What Are the Top Courses to Study in the UK?
The UK has been a student magnet for decades and no, it’s not just because of Harry Potter vibes or red buses. It’s the kind of place where education actually opens doors. And when it comes to choosing a course, you’ve got more options.
In-Demand Courses in the UK:
Business & Management
UK business schools like London Business School or Warwick are globally recognised. MBAs here come with access to global firms and internship chances. And yes, they don’t just teach theory, you’ll be solving real-world case studies.
Engineering & Technology
From aerospace to AI, the UK is ahead of the curve. Unis like Imperial College London and the University of Manchester offer cutting-edge programs.
Computer Science & IT
If you’re into coding, data, or cybersecurity, the UK has loads of great options. And with the digital economy booming, job prospects post-study are strong.
Health & Medicine
Medical schools in the UK are super competitive, but worth it. Places like King’s College London and the University of Edinburgh produce world-class doctors and researchers.
Law
Think Oxford, Cambridge, or LSE. A law degree from the UK carries serious global weight, especially if you’re eyeing international law or corporate roles.
Creative Arts & Design
Whether it’s fashion, film, music, or animation, the UK is buzzing with creative energy. Schools like Central Saint Martins and Goldsmiths are legendary in the arts space.
Social Sciences & Humanities
Politics, history, international relations – these courses are not just academic here; they’re deeply connected to the UK’s cultural and global influence.
According to HESA, business and engineering remain the top subjects among international students, followed by computing and law.
So yes, whether you’re aiming for a career in tech, healthcare, finance, or even filmmaking, the UK has a course for you.
What Are the Admission Requirements to Study in the UK?
Applying to study in the UK sounds fancy, but its pretty doable once you know whats needed. Whether you are eyeing an undergraduate or a postgraduate degree, UK welcomes thousands of students every year, especially from India, Nigeria, Nepal, and Southeast Asia.
For Undergraduate Courses:
If you have finished 12 years of schooling, you are halfway there. But UK universities look beyond grades. They want to know you are a good fit for the course.
What you usually need:
- Class 12th marks, at least 70% for top universities
- English language test: IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo
- Personal statement – talk about why you love the subject
- Academic references (1 or 2)
- Some universities may ask for entrance tests like UCAT for medicine
For Postgraduate Courses:
Things get a bit more detailed here, but again very doable.
You’ll generally need:
- A bachelor’s degree (usually with a 2:1 or equivalent, around 60%+)
- Proof of English skills (IELTS or similar)
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendations
- Updated CV
Some courses, like design or media, may ask for a portfolio. Others, like business analytics or AI, might expect you to know a bit of coding or maths. But don’t worry, each university clearly lists its own requirements on their site.
A lot of UK universities also accept applications through UCAS (for undergrad) or their own portals (for postgrad). Just be sure to check deadlines for many top universities close early.
Documents Required for Studying in the UK
Whether you’re applying for a bachelor’s or master’s course, these are the key documents you’ll need:
- Academic Documents
- Proof of English Language Proficiency
- Personal Statement / Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
- CV / Resume (Mostly for postgraduate or MBA applicants)
- Portfolio (if required)
- Passport
- Application Form
What Are the Student Visa Requirements for Studying in the UK?
Applying for a UK student visa sounds scary at first, but it’s not as bad once you break it down. If you’re heading to the UK for more than 6 months to study, you’ll need what they call a Student Route visa. Yeah, it used to be called Tier 4.
First things first, you must have an offer from a UK university. Not just any offer, it needs to be unconditional, meaning all your documents and tests are cleared. Once they give you that CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) number, that’s your green light to apply.
Now the money bit. You’ll need to show that you can pay your tuition fees and cover your living costs. As per 2025 rules, it’s around £1,483 per month if you’re living in London or £1,136 outside London, for up to 9 months. That’s about ₹1.3 to 1.8 lakhs per month in Indian currency, so yeah – start saving or show sponsor proof.
You’ll need these docs:
- Your passport (obviously)
- The CAS letter your uni sends you
- A recent bank statement or financial proof
- IELTS/TOEFL scores, unless your school accepts Medium of Instruction
- A TB test report if you’re from India, Bangladesh, or some African countries
- The visa form filled online
- Visa fee
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £776 per year
You should apply at least 6 months before your course starts. Most visas come through in around 3 weeks, but sometimes it drags a little, so don’t leave it till the last minute.
Also, quick heads up: you can work part-time, around 20 hours a week during term time. Helps with extra cash and getting that UK work exposure.
And yes, double check every document. Even a small spelling error in your CAS or bank statement can delay things.
How Much Does It Cost to Study in the UK?
Studying in the UK isn’t exactly cheap, but it’s worth it if you plan smart. The cost of studying in UK can vary like crazy depending on your course and university.
If you’re doing an undergrad degree, expect to pay £11,400 – £38,000 a year. That’s around ₹13 to ₹45 lakhs. Popular courses like Engineering or Science may cost more. And if you’re looking at top names like Oxford or Imperial? Yeah, it can go even higher.
For postgraduate courses, it’s a bit more compact, somewhere between £9,000 – £30,000. Business schools and MBAs can even hit £30,000+, so prepare for that if you’re heading into that lane.
What Is the Cost of Living in the UK for Students?
Let’s be real – living in the UK as an international student is exciting, but it’s not exactly cheap. On average, students’ living costs in the UK are about £1,100-£1,300 a month, depending on where they’re based. And if you’re planning to live in London, you might need to bump that number up to £1,400 or more. Big city, big price tag.
Smaller cities like Sheffield, Manchester, Leeds, or Birmingham? Way easier on your wallet. Plus, life outside of London has its own charm – less crowded, friendlier, and still packed with things to do.
The good news? Student discounts are everywhere. From travel passes to NUS cards, you’ll save on everything from public transport to shopping. And yes, with a valid Tier 4 (Student) visa, you’re allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time. That can ease the pressure a bit.
Which Are the Best Universities in the UK for International Students?
Thinking of heading to the UK for your further studies? You’re not alone. With over 732,285 international students enrolled in 2023–24 (UKCISA), It’s about world-class universities, research-driven teaching, and real career chances after graduation. Whether you are aiming for Oxford or want a vibrant city vibe like Manchester or Glasgow, the UK’s got options.
Top universities in UK that international students love:
University Name | QS World Rank | Location |
Imperial College London | 2 | London |
University of Oxford | 4 | Oxford |
University of Cambridge | 6 | Cambridge |
University College London | 9 | London |
King’s College London | 31 | London |
University of Edinburgh | 34 | Edinburgh |
University of Manchester | 35 | Manchester |
University of Bristol | 51 | Bristol |
London School of Economics and Political Science | 56 | London |
University of Warwick | 74 | Coventry |
What Scholarships Are Available to Study in the UK?
Thinking about studying in the UK but worried about fees? Don’t stress. There’s a heap of scholarships out there from government-funded ones to awards from top universities. Some cover full tuition, living costs, and more. Here’s a friendly rundown to help you see what’s out there.
Top Scholarships in UK for International Students
| Scholarship Name | Offered By | Level of Study | Coverage | Target Group |
| Chevening Scholarships | UK Government | Postgraduate (Master’s) | Full tuition fees, monthly stipend, travel costs | Students from over 160 countries |
| Commonwealth Scholarships | UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office | Postgraduate (Master’s, PhD) | Tuition, airfare, and living expenses | Students from Commonwealth countries |
| GREAT Scholarships | British Council & UK Universities | Postgraduate (Master’s) | Minimum £10,000 towards tuition fees | Students from selected countries (incl. India, China, Malaysia) |
| Rhodes Scholarship | Rhodes Trust & University of Oxford | Postgraduate (Master’s) | Full tuition, living costs, travel | Outstanding students worldwide |
| Gates Cambridge Scholarship | Gates Cambridge Trust | Postgraduate (PhD) | Full tuition, allowance, airfare | Non-UK students |
| Clarendon Fund | University of Oxford | Postgraduate (Master’s, DPhil) | Tuition and generous grant for living costs | International students applying to Oxford |
| Edinburgh Global Research Scholarship | University of Edinburgh | PhD | Partial tuition fee coverage | International students |
| University of Westminster Scholarships | University of Westminster | Undergraduate & Postgraduate | Tuition fee waiver | Developing country applicants |
| UCL Global Masters Scholarship | University College London | Master’s | £15,000 toward tuition | Low-income international students |
| University of Bristol Think Big | University of Bristol | Undergraduate & Postgraduate | £6,500 to £13,000 tuition waiver | International students |
When Are the Intakes to Study in the UK?
Thinking of joining a UK university? You’ve got three main intakes to consider: September, January, and sometimes May/June.
September intake is the big one. It’s when most bachelor’s and master’s programs begin. You’ll find the widest choice of courses, universities are buzzing with new students, and student support services are in full swing. If you’re aiming for a traditional UK uni experience, this is it.
January intake is smaller, but it’s coming up fast. A lot of postgraduate courses open again in January, which is perfect if you missed the big September deadline or want a fresh start in the new year.
Some universities and private colleges offer May or June start dates – usually for vocational diplomas, certificate programs, or short courses. Not everyone offers it, so check with your course.
Deadlines for September usually close around June–July, and January apps wrap up by October–November. Let me know if you want help mapping out your own application timeline.
Cost of Living in United Kingdom
Related Content
Frequently Asked Questions
The UK offers globally recognized degrees, a one-year master’s model, strong career prospects through a 2-year (or 3-year PhD) post-study work visa, and a culturally diverse campus life with 758,855 international students in 2022–23.
Undergraduate fees range from £11,400–£38,000/year, while master’s programs cost £9,000–£30,000. Living expenses average £1,100–£1,300/month, rising to £1,400+ in London.
Students typically spend £1,100–£1,300 monthly on rent, food, transport, internet, and lifestyle. London living can go up to £1,400+, but smaller cities like Manchester or Birmingham are more affordable.
Top-ranked universities include Imperial College London (#2), Oxford (#4), Cambridge (#6), UCL (#9), King’s College, Edinburgh, Manchester, Bristol, LSE, and Warwick.
Some universities can accept Duolingo scores or English MOI letters. However, if you don’t have those, IELTS/TOEFL remains the standard requirement per visa and course regulations.
Yes. Students need a Student Route visa for courses longer than 6 months, which requires a CAS from a licensed sponsor. Visa costs £524 plus the Immigration Health Surcharge (~£776/year).
If applying from abroad, visas are processed typically within 3 weeks; switching or extending inside the UK takes around 8 weeks.
Yes. You can work up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time during holidays on a Student Route visa.
Yes. You can apply for a Graduate visa to stay two years after completing a bachelor’s or master’s, or three years if you have a PhD.
The main intake is in September. Some courses also start in January and a few offer May/June starts, especially vocational or diploma programs.
- Undergrad: Class 12 with ~70% for top universities, IELTS/TOEFL, personal statement, references, and occasionally entrance tests (e.g., UCAT).
- Postgrad: Bachelor’s degree (2:1 or ~60%), IELTS, SOP, LORs, CV, and sometimes portfolios or coding/math prerequisites.
Undergraduates apply via UCAS—choose up to five courses, submit personal statement and references, and pay the ~£28.50 fee. Postgraduates apply directly to universities via portals.
You’ll need a valid passport, CAS, financial proof (£1,483/month in London or £1,136 outside), English test results, TB certificate (for some countries), visa fee, and Immigration Health Surcharge.
Yes. This is covered by paying the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of your visa, giving you full access to the NHS throughout your stay.
Yes. Prestigious awards include Chevening, Commonwealth, GREAT, Rhodes, Gates Cambridge, Clarendon, Edinburgh Global, UCL Global, Bristol Think Big, and Westminster, covering partial to full tuition and living costs.
Yes. Bachelor’s degrees are typically 3 years, and master’s degrees are just one year. Courses also follow a theory-plus-real‑world approach, supported by English writing assistance for non-native speakers.
Generally, yes. UK cities are student-centric with low crime rates. Universities provide strong support services. Common-sense precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night still apply.
Yes. if you’re a postgraduate student on a degree-level course and can show you have enough funds to support yourself and your family.