Are you searching for a top-notch education at a historically and culturally rich study abroad location?

Studying in the UK offers a path to a promising future, with world-ranked universities providing innovative teaching methods and an unforgettable student experience. Additionally, post-study work opportunities enhance the overall appeal, making the UK an ideal destination for higher education.

Why study in the UK

  • The UK is globally renowned for its top-notch education in an evolving, lively and encouraging multicultural learning environment.  

  • UK universities are among the best in the world and the country's higher education has a long history of being of the highest caliber.  

  • The UK offers a diverse variety of programs, from bachelor's to doctorate level.  

  • The UK ranks among the top five countries globally for industry-university collaboration, and a degree from a UK university includes practical work placements, giving you a head start in the real world. 

  • You will gain a competitive edge through work placements, volunteer opportunities, internships, and university societies, 

  • Most importantly, the new Graduate Route lets you stay in the UK for two years after you graduate, allowing you to advance your career in the UK.

Top universities in the UK; rankings and fees

It’s essential to consider the general cost structure for the course you want to study and the global university rankings when choosing your university. This enables you to assess and understand the rankings of universities and the position of your preferred school on the world map. The top universities in the UK, as listed in the QS World University Rankings 2025, are as follows:

Institution 

QS Ranking 2025 (Globally) 

University of Oxford 

The University of Cambridge 

Imperial College London 

UCL (University College London) 

The University of Edinburgh

27 

The University of Manchester

34 

King's College London 

40 

London School of Economics  
and Political Science (LSE) 

50 

The University of Warwick 

69 

University of Bristol 

54 

The best courses to study in the UK

The UK is well known for providing high-quality education in various subjects. The following are some of the most popular courses offered in the UK:

Highest paying degrees in the UK

In the UK, certain degrees have a higher earning potential, even though salaries can vary based on industry and experience. Among these are degrees in:

Remember that factors such as individual skills, market demand and career advancement also affect employability and salary.

Intakes in the UK

Several intakes are available to international students all year long, giving them flexibility in their selection. There are three primary intakes:

  • January to April 

  • April to June 

  • September to December

Admission requirements in the UK for Pakistani students

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

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

Cost of studying and living in the UK

Cost of studying in the UK

The cost of studying in the UK depends on the type of degree and the institution or university attended. The UK is home to various prestigious educational institutions, each setting its tuition fees. Take a look at the average fees to study at a university there:

Study Program 

Average Annual Tuition Fees in GBP 

Bachelor’s degree 

10,000 to 20,000 

Master’s degree 

10,000 to 20,000 

Doctoral degree 

15,000 to 24,000 

Cost of living in the UK

You need to keep a little money aside for your grocery shopping, social activities and emergencies.

You should also consider these common expenses when creating your budget: 

Expenses 

Approximate Cost (monthly) 

Bills (electric, gas, water) 

£40 to £50 

Food and housekeeping 

£160 to £200 

TV licence (mandatory with TV or watching BBC online) 

£12.56 (£150.50 per year) 

Mobile phone 

£15 to £50 

Clothes and shoes 

£25 

Leisure & sports (calculated based on the students’ sports centre membership fees) 

£10 to £20 

Books & stationery 

£21 

Socialising 

£120 

Travel & transport (based on the monthly cost of a student bus pass) 

£32 

Childcare (if needed) 

£656 

Please note that all figures are indicative.

Try our handy Cost of Living Calculator to find out more about living expenses according to your individual lifestyle.

Scholarships for international students in the UK

Many scholarship programs in the UK are designed to equip international students with the skills to make a difference in their country. Many of these scholarships are also offered for international students who want to undertake postgraduate study.

Here are some popular government scholarship programs in the UK you can apply for as a Pakistani student: 

Scholarship Name 

Description 

Chevening Scholarship 

Chevening scholarships are offered by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, which provides funding for these master's degree scholarships. Applicants must be citizens of one of the 144 qualifying countries and must agree to work in their home country for a minimum of two years following graduation. 

Commonwealth Scholarships 

The scholarships are available to master's and PhD students from 62 Commonwealth countries. The scholarship will normally pay for all your expenses, including tuition fees, housing and transportation to and from the UK. 

GREAT Scholarships 

GREAT scholarships are part of the British Council's international student funding program in the UK. It's important to note that each country has a unique application process. Each scholarship is worth at least £10,000 and most scholarships are available in all subjects. 

Check out more scholarships, discounts and offers in the UK here.

Student visa requirements in the UK

The required student visa for the UK will be determined by your age and the type of studies you intend to pursue. Here’s an overview of the types of study visas and their application requirements:

Type of student visa 

Purpose 

When to apply 

Arrival in the UK 

Tier 4 (General)  
Student Visa 

Students aged 16+ who have been offered a place in a course at a UK educational institution with a valid Tier 4 sponsor. 

Three months before the start of your course. 

-Up to one week before, if your course lasts six months or fewer. -Up to one month before, if your course lasts more than six months. 

Short-Term Study Visa 

Students who have been offered a place in a short-term course in the UK, such as an English language course or training course. 

Three months before your date of travel to the UK. 

Depends on your nominated travel dates. 

For the most part, you will need:

  • A current passport or other valid travel documentation.   

  • Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number and documents used to obtain CAS.   

  • Evidence of funds to cover your living expenses for the duration of your course.   

  • Passport-sized coloured photograph.   

  • Assessment documentation Tuberculosis screening (if required).   

  • Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) clearance certificate (if needed). 

Job opportunities in the UK

The United Kingdom offers many job opportunities, helping you build required skills and start a successful career. Whether you are looking for part-time jobs, internships, or graduate programs, there are plenty of options for different interests and fields of study.

Moreover, numerous universities offer specialised career services aimed at helping students secure suitable job placements. Furthermore, the UK's multifaceted finance, technology and creative arts industries offer abundant prospects for acquiring valuable work experience and forging significant professional networks.

UCAS Clearing

Clearing is a service offered by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS) to students who don’t currently hold offer letters from any UK university and are looking for alternative undergraduate programs available for enrolment. 

This way, international undergraduate students still have a chance to study at UK universities if they miss the opportunity to get accepted at their preferred university.

Click here to read more about it.

Student Essentials Services for Pakistani Students

Our expert counsellors are here to offer you free guidance on the below essential arrival services:

FAQs

How to get PR in the UK after studying?  

Step 1: Enrol in a UK university. 

Step 2: Obtain a student visa for the UK. 

Step 3: Gain work experience while studying in the UK. 

Step 4: Secure employment. 

Step 5: Pursue permanent residency in the UK. 

How much does it cost to study in the UK? 

The tuition fees in UK universities vary based on the level of study. Here’s a breakdown: 

Undergraduate bachelor's degree: £10,000 to £20,000 per year 

Postgraduate master's degree: £10,000 to £20,000 per year 

Doctoral degree: £15,000 to £24,000 per year 

Find out everything related to the cost of studying in the UK here

Top universities in the United Kingdom

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