Business in the UK

Course overview

Students globally choose to study business in the United Kingdom due to it being the fifth-largest economy in the world and a hub for international commerce. The UK's cosmopolitan cities boast over a hundred business schools, 7 of which have 5 Palmes of Excellence, ranking them among the world's foremost institutions. Undergraduate programs prepare students for careers in industries ranging from governance to finance to the charitable sector. Students may specialise in a variety of majors, including international business, marketing, strategy and information systems, and accounting.

The United Kingdom's English environment provides students with the opportunity to hone their language skills integral to success in the business world. Exposure to industry leaders and peers from a range of backgrounds allows students to view the world from a higher vantage point with a broader perspective. Critical thinking, creative, and analytical skills picked up from these diverse experiences have raised the employability of graduates from UK universities. In the Global University Employability Ranking 2020, 14 universities from the UK were featured, evidencing the success of its programmes. Students also benefit from a range of internship opportunities to gain work experience.

Taking a business degree in the UK sets one on the path towards career opportunities both internationally and locally.

Why study business in the UK?

• Many of the business programmes offered are accreditated. The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) inspects universities regularly to ensure they uphold stringent standards of academia and learning.

• Business schools in the UK ensure students are equipped with both the relevant skillset and soft skills. Students participate in projects tackling real-world problems and seminars with industry leaders to gain perspective.

• Choose from a range of disciplines, including marketing, logistics management, global business, strategy, and finance.

• Excellent employment opportunities await students who study business both internationally and locally.

Key facts about studying business in the UK

• 84 universities in the UK were featured on the QS World University Rankings 2021, four of which - the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, UCL, and Imperial College London - were featured in the top ten.

• Upon graduation, international students will be offered a two-year work visa.

• The United Kingdom is ranked 33rd on the Global Peace Index in 2021, improving by 6 ranks from 2020.

Choosing your business university

When selecting a business school in the UK, here are some things you should look out for:

• Academic Excellence

  - A good business programme will extend beyond the boundaries of traditional education by providing internship opportunities to students. In addition, Research on reviews and teaching professors can give a good insight into the course curriculum in addition to course descriptions.

• Cost

  - While tuition fees shouldn’t vary too much for the same course, the kind of financial assistance and scholarships available to you may differ more substantially. Look for a university that offers scholarships and determine if you are eligible, some scholarships are only awarded to students in certain countries and regions.

• Location

  – Whether it’s the urban cosmopolitanism of London or the more rustic vibe of Cambridge you prefer, look for a university situated in a region that offers you the best mix of lifestyle and standard of living.

• Linked MBA Programmes

  - Some business programmes fast-track you straight to an MBA with exemptions. This not only accelerates your learning but also saves you some time on your applications.

• International Student Support

  - Find a university that offers well-planned support for international students, as they can advise on essentials such as accommodation, student welfare, and post-graduate employment opportunities.

Admission requirements for universities in the UK

To gain admission to a UK university, you’ll need academic transcripts from your prior qualifications, be that your ‘A’ or ‘O’ level transcripts or high school records, ID documents, personal statement, and references.

You'll also need to prove your proficiency in English by taking a language test. While the IELTS is the most commonly accepted test, you may also opt for TOEFL or UCLES. For undergraduate programmes, you'll need an overall IETLS (Academic) score of 6.0 and no less than 5.5 in each section. For postgraduate programmes, the requirement is 6.5 and no less than 6.0 in each band.

The application process differs from university to university, but most UK universities require you to take an entrance exam and attend an interview. For international students, Skype interviews are the norm.

Finding what fits you best can be overwhelming. Let us help! We will help guide you through the entire process from course selection to university and visa application. Speak to our education specialists now for free.

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