The United Kingdom or as it is popularly known as UK, is a country in northwestern Europe. The country is culturally rich with a vibrant past.
The UK is known for its state-of-the-art educational facilities and infrastructure. Over the past few decades, the country has attracted several foreign student populations.
According to a survey in 2018-19, there were around 485,645 international students studying in the UK.
Why Is UK a Popular Destination for Higher Education?
There are several reasons why UK is best for higher education. The UK has several attractive factors that entice students from all over the globe. Some of these factors are :
1. QS World University Rankings
QS World University Rankings is an annual publication of the top rankings of universities on a global level.
The Quacquarelli Symonds World University ranking takes into consideration several factors before ranking the universities:
- Academic peer review
- Faculty-student ratio
- Citation per faculty
- Employer reputation
- International Student Ratio
- International staff ratio among other factors.
The UK has more than 90 universities appearing on the QS World University rankings.
2. High Standard of Education
Another reason why the UK is best for higher education is that the quality of education in the UK is of a high standard. In fact, four universities in the UK figure in the top 10 universities in the world.
These are universities with high standards of global education.
3. Range of Courses
One of the advantages of UK education is that the universities in the UK offer a range of educational courses. There is a course for every student in the country.
From economics to engineering to a course in journalism, the universities in the UK offer some unique courses to fulfill the academic desires of students.
Apart from the different types of courses available in the UK, many short-term courses attract students from all over the world.
The advantage of these short-term courses is that students need not spend large amounts of money on boarding and lodging. At the same time, students enjoy all the benefits of studying in UK.
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4. Student-Friendly
Universities in the UK are student-friendly. These universities welcome students from all parts of the world.
The university campuses cater to the needs of students from different parts of the world, with a range of different food palettes for the comfort of international students. It proves to be an advantage of the UK education system.
5. Safe Country
The UK is a safe country for tourists and students. The country is tolerant to the international population and there are low risks of racial discrimination. Like other European countries, the UK is also safe for students.
6. High Standards of Teaching
Another reason why choose UK for higher education is because the standards of teaching are high. All faculty members are well experienced with proficient academic backgrounds.
The Quality Assurance Agency in the United Kingdom is an independently run agency in the UK.
It reviews the quality of higher education and ensures that colleges and universities maintain the standard set by the United Kingdom.
The Quality Assurance Agency reviews faculty members from time thereby ensuring quality faculty members at all times.
7. Cosmopolitan Crowd
The UK attracts several foreign students every year making it one of the most cosmopolitan countries in the world.
The UK is a meeting point of several diverse cultures and traditions. According to a survey conducted in 2017-18, there were around 458490 international students studying in the United Kingdom.
8. Entertaining Country
Over the weekends’ many students make it a point to visit the historical landmarks of the city. The country has lots to offer, from scenic landscapes to monumental sites.
The favourable location of the United Kingdom in Europe makes it easy to visit other countries in Europe too.
With many countries being just a short duration away, the United Kingdom attracts many students into the country.
9. The Top Country for Scientific Research
One of the advantages of UK education is that it is considered one of the top countries for scientific research.
Students interested in the field of scientific research have ample opportunities in the top universities in the UK.
According to the Nature Index, the United Kingdom remains one of the world’s best in producing high-quality research in the natural sciences, retaining its long-standing fourth rank in the Nature Index Top 50 Countries table.
The UK’s top institutions include the University of Cambridge, the University of Oxford, Imperial College London, and University College London, and its top collaborators for 2018 were the US, Germany, and France.
10. Easy Communication
English is the official spoken language in the United Kingdom. Therefore, international students find it easy to settle down in the country.
France, Germany, and other similar countries, where English is not the official language, students may first have to learn the country’s language before trying to settle down.
11. One of The Largest Libraries in The World
Another reason why the UK is best for the study is that it is home to one of the largest libraries in the world. What more could a student ask for.
The British Library, located near Kings Cross station is one of the largest libraries in the world. The library has a vast collection of books and reading material. It is housed in an impressive building with a large reading room.
12. Earn While Your Study
An advantage of the UK education system is that it allows you to work while you study thus helping students to fund a portion of expenses while they study. The United Kingdom allows students to work while they study.
13. Work Opportunities
The UK offers a high rate of employability to students after their graduation. As of 2021, the rate of employment in the UK was as high as 75.5%.
14. Financial Benefits
The UK offers financial help to students who wish to pursue their higher education in the country. Financial aid can be in the form of scholarships or loans.
Also, higher studies in the UK are known to be for a shorter duration than in other countries. Except for research and medical studies, post-graduate courses are usually for a year. This means less money is spent onboarding and lodging for long periods.
Boarding and lodging outside the city of London are relatively cheaper. Students find it easy to find accommodation at affordable rates.
The Government of the UK also provides financial assistance to deserving students. Students can apply for financial assistance based on their eligibility.
15. Scholarships for The UK
The UK and India provide many scholarships to students intending to study in UK. Some of these scholarships are collaborative efforts by the two countries while some may be private scholarships.
Some of the popular scholarships for students pursuing higher education in the UK are:
- Clarendon Fund Scholarships at University of Oxford
- Bristol University Think Big Scholarships
- University of Sussex Chancellor’s International Scholarships
- UWE Chancellor’s Scholarships for International Students
- University of Westminster Full International Scholarships
- Warwick Chancellor’s International Scholarships
- Gates Cambridge Scholarships for International Students
- Nottingham Developing Solutions Scholarships
- The University of Dundee Scotland Welcomes Indian Scholarship, UK, 2021
- The University of Warwick MA Scholarship Sociology Departmental, UK
- British Chevening Scholarships for International Students
- University of Manchester International Excellence Scholarships, UK
- Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships
- Rhodes Scholarships at Oxford University for International Students
16. Ease of Travel
One of the reasons why choose UK for higher education is because the country provides top of the class public transport facilities.
With well-connected roads, bus and subway services, students can travel easily throughout the city. Unlike many other countries, where the public transport system is not very good.
17. Purpose-Built Student Accommodation
Students studying in UK have an additional choice of staying in Purpose Built Student Accommodation.
According to Property Investments UK, the number of students in the UK is growing year on year whilst the residential housing market is becoming increasingly strained.
As a result, more students are living in PBSA (purpose-built student accommodation). This type of accommodation caters better to student needs, frees up housing for everyone else, and also offers fantastic opportunities for investors.
The PBSAs provide student-friendly facilities with safety and security for students.
18. Easy Visa Application
Visa Application for students in the UK is easy. The UK Government offers easy student visas for international students. The process of visa application can be made 6 months in advance.
19. Prestigious Universities
Degrees earned from UK universities are respected internationally, and there are a wide range of courses you can choose from.
A degree from any British university will look great on a CV, and having a certificate from the UK will be a strong selling point when seeking for work in the future, regardless of the industry and the place.
Universities in UK are renowned worldwide for their innovative and challenging environments that encourage students to perform at their best. They have highly regarded standards, several academic professionals as staff, and consistently rank high in international university rankings.
With its latest teaching methods and high standards for academic achievement, the British universities have long served as a model for higher education standards around the globe.
20. Student Health Benefits
The National Health Service (NHS) will provide you with free medical care while you are studying in the UK as an international student. Students must pay a small International Health Surcharge (IHS) in order to avail this benefit.
Everything you should know about studying in UK
1. Banking
In UK, opening a bank account is highly advised. The majority of banks will ask for your passport and proof of residency. In some circumstances, student occupation proof is also necessary.
By opening a bank account, you can avail the outstanding student benefits as well as avoid the inconvenience of exchange rates.
2. Student Visa
It is essential that students have the proper documents so that they can live and study in UK. The documents should be taken care of priorly in advance because it may take some time for the visas to be processed. International students must be familiar with the UK’s immigration and visa rules.
It is important to comprehend the application procedure, necessary documents, financial requirements, and any limitations on working while enrolled in college.
Accommodation plays an important role while studying abroad. There are numerous possibilities accessible for foreign students, and the university’s website will showcase all of them.
The majority of institutions provide university-owned hostels, known as “halls” in the UK. Privately owned housing, such as rented apartments and house shares, is another choice.
3. Healthcare System
By paying an immigration healthcare fee along with their visa application, international students can utilize the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK.
After receiving an IHS number, students must include it on their visa application.
International students will have the same access to the NHS as everyone else in the UK once their visa is approved. This covers GP appointments, clinics, and medical facilities.
4. Cost of Living
Depending on the city, the cost of living in the UK varies. Living costs in large cities like London are typically greater than in smaller places.
Consider the costs associated with living accommodations, meals, travel, utilities, and personal expenses. Make a sensible budget and, if your visa allows it, look for opportunities for part-time work to help you out financially.
5. Part Time Job Opportunities
Students might have the chance to improve their job opportunities and obtain work experience while studying in UK.
Learn about the rules governing part-time employment for international students and look into on-campus jobs or internship options in your field of study.
Utilize the university’s career guidance services as well to get advice on how to apply for jobs, prepare for interviews, and find networking opportunities.
6. Transportation
Buses, trains, trams and the London Underground are just a few of the many modes of public transit available in the UK.
Learn about the available local transit alternatives, the ticketing systems, and student discounts. To save money on frequent trips, consider getting a railcard or other cheap travel cards.
7. Tuition Fees
Depending on the university and degree, tuition fees in the UK might differ greatly. Fees for international students are typically greater than those for domestic students.
It’s critical to budget and plan appropriately. To reduce financial difficulties, look into scholarship options provided by universities, outside organizations, and government programmes.
Benefits of Studying in UK
- The UK is known for its prestigious universities and academic institutions that offer a challenging and all-encompassing education in a variety of fields.
- The variety of programs and specializations available to students ensures that they can choose a course that fits their interests and professional aspirations.
- UK degrees are widely appreciated and regarded internationally, improving work prospects and providing access to new business opportunities.
- The UK provides a wealth of research opportunities, allowing students to collaborate with top researchers and make ground-breaking inventions.
- Students can engage with people from different origins, enjoy a rich cultural tapestry, and enhance their view on the world by studying in UK.
- Since English is used as the primary medium of instruction, it is a great place for non-native English speakers to develop their language abilities and increase their employability.
- In contrast to other countries, students can earn postgraduate degrees in one year and undergraduate degrees normally take three years to complete.
- Universities in the UK provide a range of support services to aid overseas students in adapting to their new surroundings, such as orientation programmes, counseling, and academic assistance.
- Universities in the UK make considerable investments in latest equipment, libraries, laboratories, and technology to give students a comfortable environment for learning.
Conclusion
The United Kingdom is home to more than 150 universities. These universities offer a range of courses for international students. The universities in the UK are prestigious, offering top-class educational infrastructure and facilities.
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FAQ’s
1. Why UK is a better place to study than other countries?
Ans: For a number of reasons, the UK is regarded as one of the top destinations for higher education. Few of them are: QS World University Rankings, High Standard of Education, Range of Courses, Student-Friendly, High Standards of Teaching.
2. Can I obtain permanent residency after completing my studies in the UK?
Ans: After working five consecutive years in a job, international students can apply for a permanent residence card in the UK.
3. Is studying in UK expensive?
Ans: One of the most expensive study abroad destinations is the UK. However, the expense can be reduced with proper financial planning. While pursuing higher education in UK, students may expect fees on an average of £24,000 to £55,000 each year.
4.How should I get ready for UK universities?
Ans: Research and select your desired course and university, familiarize yourself with the curriculum and academic goals, make sure you meet the language requirements, gather the necessary documents for your visa application, make financial arrangements, arrange accommodation, and mentally be prepared for cultural adjustments.
5. Which are the top 5 universities in UK?
Ans:
University of Oxford
The University of Edinburgh
University of Cambridge
University College London (UCL)
Imperial College London
6. What regulations apply to studying in the UK?
Ans: The prerequisites to study in the UK include getting a current student visa, fulfilling the university’s academic standards, attending courses on a regular basis, adhering to the terms of the visa, following immigration laws and regulations, and maintaining a good academic standard.
7. Are there any other alternatives for IELTS?
Ans: When determining how to demonstrate your English language proficiency, you have a variety of possibilities. One of the most popular IELTS substitutes is the TOEFL.
8. What minimum bank balance is required for a student visa in the UK?
Ans: Students must certify that they have the resources necessary to support themselves while enrolled in a UK university. It costs £1,334 per month for courses in London and £1,023 per month for courses outside of London.
9. How much do students make an hourly wage in the UK?
Ans: The position and duties will determine how much you are paid. For workers aged 23 and above, the National Living Wage is £9.50 per hour.
10. What qualifications are needed to study in the UK?
Ans: An overseas student must fulfill the following requirements in order to study in UK:
IELTS test for English language proficiency.
Admission requirements
Visa
Letter of recommendation
Statement of purpose (SOP)
Financial assistance
Medical insurance
11. Are UK degrees regarded and recognised internationally?
Ans: Yes, worldwide employers value UK degrees highly, increasing employability and providing access to global job prospects.
12. What kind of assistance is offered to foreign students in UK?
Ans: To help foreign students adjust to their new surroundings, UK universities offer a variety of support services, such as orientation programmes, academic assistance, and counseling.
13. Can foreign students who are studying in UK also work part-time?
Ans: Yes, overseas students are permitted to work part-time during their studies, giving them the chance to expand their financial resources and get real-world experience.
14. What types of research opportunities are available to students in the UK?
Ans: The UK offers a wealth of research possibilities that let students collaborate with top researchers and make significant contributions to numerous fields of knowledge.
15. Why UK is better than India for study?
Ans: The UK’s academic reputation is the main reason. The highest academic standards in the world are maintained by UK universities. Leading UK universities frequently appear in the top 10 and top 20 lists of international rankings services.
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