Top Universities in the UK for International Students - Courses, Cost & Requirements

Earn an esteemed degree from a top UK university and build a successful career path

If you thought the UK was famous for only Big Ben, David Beckham, or fish and chips, think again.
The United Kingdom is renowned globally for its exceptional standard of education, consistently ranking high in QS and THE World University Rankings. UK universities and colleges are recognised for their quality courses, resulting in their high global rankings. Graduates studying in the UK can expect rewarding career opportunities in the UK and internationally upon completing their courses.

Why Study at UK Universities?

The UK portrays a long history of welcoming international students to study at its leading universities and colleges. This is evident in the country’s friendly immigration policies that allow students from other parts of the world to earn while they learn in the UK. Listed below are some of the top reasons why universities in the UK are the #1 choice for international students, including those from Sri Lanka:

1. UK universities welcome students from all parts of the world. The earn-as-you-learn practice prevalent in the country (up to 20 hours/week) attracts Sri Lankan students to pursue higher education in the UK .

2. The educational standards of UK institutions are well at par with the best colleges and universities in the world.

3. Students arriving in the UK can choose from many course options per their interests and preferences. Moreover, pursuing a dual honours degree in two disciplines in parallel is also possible in the UK!

4. International students can avail scholarships and funding facilities , which makes studying in the UK highly affordable and attractive.

5. The UK job sector employs a high percentage of graduates from different disciplines every year at competitive pay scales. This means you can look forward to a promising career in the country after completing your studies at an esteemed UK university.

Ranking of Top Universities in the UK for International Students

The global rank of an international university holds great importance for students selecting a higher education institution. Recognising this, we provide the QS and THE World University Rankings for top UK universities for international students. Additionally, the Complete University Guide (CUG) and Guardian University Rankings, dedicated to UK universities , are also included below for reference.

Source: https://www.topuniversities.com/university-rankings/world-university-rankings/2023

Source: https://www.idp.com/india/university-rankings/cug/united-kingdom/

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/education/ng-interactive/2022/sep/24/the-guardian-university-guide-2023-the-rankings

Top UK Universities for Undergraduate Degrees

The UK is home to several universities that offer top-class courses at the Bachelor’s level. Here are some of the popular undergraduate programs offered in best UK universities.

Top Universities in the UK for Master’s Degrees

Planning to advance your studies to the next level? Make that leap with the following popular UK universities offering MS-level courses to international students:

Admission Requirements to Study in Top Universities in the UK

The UK is a warm host to Sri Lankan students; however, the country does lay out certain specific criteria for these students to enter a university for higher studies. Note that the study in the UK requirements for international students may vary from one university to another, depending on the course curriculum, duration, research, and other facilities on offer.

Some of the most standard criteria acceptable by most UK universities for students arriving from Sri Lanka include:

• Letters of Recommendation from the previous institute of study/employer (minimum 2 required)

• Certificate proving No Criminal Record

• Official academic transcripts (English)

• Certificates of prior work experience (if applicable)

• Valid passport to the UK

• Statement of Purpose or SOP

• Updated Resume

• Test scorecard of IELTS English proficiency tests

• Research Proposal (applicable for students pursuing MPhil or Ph.D.)

Cost of Studying in UK Universities for Sri Lankan Students

The approximate university fees in the UK for different courses imparted at different universities may differ. That said, the cost involved in completing a course in a foreign land is always noteworthy. Most Foundation Courses in the UK may cost between GBP 9,000 and GBP 20,000 annually. This cost may vary for UG and PG courses and Doctoral courses such as Ph.D. or MPhil. It is always considered best practice to check with the specific university you apply to for its fee structure for international students.

FAQs

1. How to apply to UK universities from Sri Lanka?

A. Sri Lankan students applying to various UK universities may need the following:

• IELTS scorecard as proof of English language proficiency

• Statement of Purpose written by the student/applicant

• Valid passport to the UK

• Valid Student Visa to the UK

2. How much IELTS score is required for UK universities?

A. Most universities in the UK allow applicants with a total of 6.5 in the IELTS band as proof of their English language proficiency.

3. Which courses are best to study in the UK for Sri Lankan students?

A. A vast number of Sri Lankan students applying to the UK for higher studies primarily opt for the following courses in the country:

• MBA

• Finance, International Business, and Accounting

• Fashion and Interior Designing

• MBBS

• Business Analytics

4. How many hours can an international student work in the UK?

A. The UK allows international students in the country to work up to a minimum of 20 hours every week during the course duration of their chosen discipline.

5. What are the UK student visa requirements for Sri Lankan students?

A. To apply to study at a UK university, students from Sri Lanka must first obtain a UK student visa . The following documents are required to secure the student visa for the UK:

• A valid Sri Lankan passport

• Recent passport-sized colour photographs of the student

• Proof of funds to portray financial stability and independence to support oneself during the stay in the UK

• Reference number of Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the university applied to for the course