Top Reasons to Study in the UK for International Students

Here are the top 10 reasons why studying in the UK is a great choice: 

1. World-Class Universities 
   The UK is home to some of the best universities in the world, like Oxford, Cambridge, and many more. 

2. Shorter Course Duration 
   Degrees in the UK are typically shorter (3 years for undergrad, 1 year for a master’s), saving you both time and money! 

3. Cultural Diversity 
   The UK is a melting pot of different cultures, offering a rich, multicultural environment to live and study in. 

4. High-Quality Education 
   British universities are known for their high academic standards and rigorous quality checks, making sure you recieve a top-notch education. 

5. Great Travel Opportunities 
   While studying in the UK, you’ll be a short plane or train ride away from exploring other parts of Europe. 

6. Improve Your English 
   Living in the UK is a fantastic way to sharpen your English language skills, which is always a plus for your future career. 

7. Work Opportunities 
   The UK offers great part-time job opportunities for students and a post-study work visa option to kickstart your career. 

8. Historical Landmarks Everywhere 
   The UK is packed with history! From castles to museums, every corner has something interesting to explore. 

9. Global Recognition 
   UK degrees are recognised and respected by employers all around the world, giving you a competitive edge. 

10. Student Support 
    UK universities provide excellent support services for international students, from housing to academic help. 

The UK is home to several prestigious universities known for their academic excellence and rich history. Some of the top universities in the UK according to the QS World University Rankings 2025. 

Here’s a look at the highest-paying degrees in the UK, giving graduates great career opportunities and high starting salaries. 

1. Dentistry  

Dentistry is all about diagnosing, preventing, and treating oral health issues. It’s also one of the top-paying degrees in the UK in 2024, giving graduates a fantastic chance to build a rewarding and well-paid career in healthcare. Starting salary: On average, dentistry graduates start off earning around £39,467. Career prospects: Graduates have plenty of career options, from working as general dentists, orthodontists, or oral surgeons to roles in dental public health. Plus, with over 90% of dentistry grads landing a job within six months, it’s a field with solid job security and great opportunities.  

2. Medicine  

Medicine focuses on diagnosing, treating and preventing diseases, offering graduates the chance to make a real difference in the health and well-being sector around the globe. Starting salary: Medicine graduates start with an average salary of £34,012. Career prospects: Graduates can work as junior doctors, GPs, or specialists in fields like cardiology or psychiatry. As they gain experience and specialise, their earning potential can rise significantly, making medicine a highly rewarding career path with strong growth opportunities.  

3. Veterinary Medicine 

Veterinary Medicine focuses on the health and care of animals, with graduates dedicating their careers to improving animal welfare and promoting responsible pet ownership.  Starting salary: Veterinary Medicine graduates start with an average salary of £34,890.  Career prospects: Graduates can pursue careers as veterinarians and veterinary specialists, or work in research and academia. With experience, professionals in this field can see their earning potential rise to around £70,000, making it a fulfilling and well-compensated career choice. 

4. Economics  

Economics explores how wealth is produced, distributed and consumed. Graduates in this field can apply their skills across various industries, from finance and banking to public policy and international trade, playing a key role in shaping economic growth and stability worldwide.  Starting salary: Economics graduates typically begin with an average salary of £34,135.  Career prospects: Graduates can pursue careers as economists, financial analysts, or consultants. After ten years, the average salary rises to around £40,000, with the top 10% of earners making over £100,000, making economics a lucrative and diverse career option.  

5. General Engineering 

General Engineering applies scientific and mathematical principles to design, develop and maintain systems and structures, making it a promising field for those interested in innovation and problem-solving. Starting salary: General Engineering graduates typically earn an average starting salary of £30,809. Career prospects: Engineers are in high demand, driven by the growing need for advanced technology and infrastructure. The average salary in this field is around £47,000, with top positions offering salaries up to £75,000, making it a rewarding and dynamic career choice. 

6. Mathematics 

Mathematics explores the world of numbers and problem-solving, opening doors to a range of high-paying careers across sectors like accounting, finance, investment, data science, and analytics. Starting salary: Mathematics graduates can expect an average starting salary of £28,498. Career prospects: With a degree in Mathematics, graduates can pursue various roles such as financial analysts, data scientists, actuaries, and statisticians, offering diverse and rewarding career paths. 

7. Business and Administration  

Business and Administration is a flexible field that prepares graduates for leadership roles, providing key skills applicable to many industries. It’s a great choice for those looking for high-paying career options.  Starting salary: Business and Administration graduates earn an average starting salary of £26,496. 

 Career prospects: With increasing demand for business professionals across multiple sectors, graduates can look forward to a wide range of job opportunities and a competitive job market.  

8. Architecture 

Architecture is a field that focuses on designing and planning buildings, playing a key role in shaping our environment. It offers a promising career with great job opportunities.  Starting salary: Architecture graduates can expect an average starting salary of £25,500.  Job prospects: Architects can work in various roles such as site supervision, urban planning, or designing iconic structures, making it a diverse and rewarding career path. 

Most scholarships available in the UK are for international students who pursue postgraduate studies. There are a few scholarships available for undergraduate students, however, and they are usually offered by the university. 

Here are some of the most prestigious scholarships for international students in the UK: 

When applying to a university in the UK, you'll need to send in some important documents, like: 

• Your official academic certificates 

• Personal statement or (statement of purpose) 

• Letters of recommendation 

Check whether your qualifications are recognised in the UK and/or if you need an equivalency certificate. 

The cost of studying in the UK depends on the type of degree and the institution or university attended. The UK is home to a wide variety of prestigious educational institutions, each of which sets its own tuition fees. Let's take a look at the very minimum it takes to go to a university there. 

The cost of living in the UK varies depending on the region and lifestyle. Generally, larger cities like London tend to be more expensive, while smaller towns or cities may offer more affordable options. You can use IDP’s cost of living calculator to estimate your budget based on your needs. 

Here is a list of the bare minimums you'll need to spend each month to get by in the UK: 

The UK offers a plethora of job opportunities that can enhance your skills and pave the way for a successful career. From part-time employment to internships and graduate programs, there are options to suit every interest and field of study. 
 
Many universities also have dedicated career services to assist students in finding suitable job opportunities. In addition, the UK's diverse industries, such as finance, technology, and creative arts, provide numerous chances to gain valuable work experience and make valuable connections. 

The following essentials will help Pakistani international students have a comfortable and convenient experience while studying in the UK. Contact your counsellor today for more details! 

• Health Cover: Secure comprehensive health insurance to cover medical expenses in the UK. 

• Accommodation: Compare and choose suitable accommodation options such as student housing, private rentals or shared apartments. 

• Transfer Money: Use reliable international money transfer services to efficiently manage finances for tuition fees and living expenses. 

• Student Banking: Open a student bank account in the UK with IDP for easy access to funds and additional student-oriented services. 

FAQs 

How much of a study gap is acceptable in the UK? 

The acceptable study gap in the UK varies depending on the university and course. Generally, universities prefer applicants with recent academic qualifications. However, some universities may consider applicants with a study gap of up to 2-5 years, depending on the circumstances and the applicant's overall profile. 

After an MBA, what’s next to study in the UK? 

After completing an MBA, there are various options to consider. Some popular choices include specialised master's degrees in fields like Finance, Marketing, Entrepreneurship or International Business. Another option is pursuing a Doctorate (PhD) in Business Administration, providing an opportunity for advanced research and academic career prospects. 

How can I get PR (Permanent Residence) in the UK after studying? 

Obtaining Permanent Residence (PR) in the UK after studying depends on various factors, such as the type of visa and eligibility criteria. After completing the degree, international students may be eligible to apply for a post-study work visa, such as the Graduate Route. This visa allows graduates to work or seek employment in the UK for up to two years. Meeting specific requirements, such as securing a job offer or meeting the income threshold, can further contribute to the eligibility for PR in the future. 

What is the age limit to studying in the UK? 

There is no specific age limit to study in the UK. However, universities generally require students to have completed their secondary education (12th grade or equivalent). Applicants should check the specific admission requirements of the chosen university or course to ensure they meet the necessary criteria. 

How to study in the UK after 12th grade? 

After completing 12th grade or equivalent, international students can apply for undergraduate programs in the UK. The application process typically involves researching universities and courses, meeting the entry requirements, which may vary depending on the institution and program and applying through the UCAS system. It's important to review and meet application deadlines and prepare supporting documents like transcripts and English language proficiency test scores. 

How can I apply for a UK Student visa in Pakistan? 

To apply for a UK Student visa in Pakistan, applicants can follow the online application process provided by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. They will need to pay the required fees, submit necessary documents (such as a valid passport, acceptance letter from a UK university, financial documents, and proof of English language proficiency), and attend a biometric appointment at a visa application centre. It is recommended to start the visa application process well in advance and ensure all requirements are met to increase the chances of a successful application.