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Easiest universities to get into the UK

Study in the UK for international students

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Looking for a place to study abroad that is rich in culture and history and offers a top-notch education?

Thousands of international students choose to study in the UK every year. Besides being home to the most prestigious universities in the world, it is also considered a cultural centre in Europe, with a lot of perks to consider.

Why study in the UK?

Choosing to study at UK universities offers numerous economic, cultural, and social benefits. You can get ahead in your profession and save down on expenses by taking advantage of a shorter, more intensive course. The UK also has a number of programs that offer students discounts, access to low-cost public transportation, and study materials.

Top universities in the UK and their rankings

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.

University Name

QS World Ranking

University of Cambridge

2

University of Oxford

3

Imperial College London

6

UCL

9

The University of Edinburgh

22

The University of Manchester

32

King's College London

40

The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

45

University of Bristol

55

The University of Warwick

67

The best courses to study in the UK

The UK is renowned for its quality education across various fields. Some of the best courses to study in the UK include:

  • Business and Management

  • Engineering

  • Computer Science

  • Law

  • Medicine

  • Architecture

These areas offer excellent academic programs with a strong focus on practical learning, industry connections, and internships or work placement opportunities.

Highest paying degrees in the UK

While salaries can vary depending on factors such as experience and industry, some degrees tend to have higher earning potential in the UK. These include degrees in:

  • Medicine & Dentistry

  • Engineering (Especially Petroleum and Chemical Engineering)

  • Economics

  • Computer Science

  • Law

  • Business

Keep in mind that employability and salary also depend on individual skills, market demand and career progression.

Admission requirements in the UK for international 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.

Intakes in the UK for international students

International students have the flexibility to choose from multiple intakes throughout the year. The three main intakes are:

  • September to December

  • January to April

  • April to June

How much does it cost to study 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 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.

Study Program

Average Annual Tuition Fees in GBP

Bachelor’s degree

10,000 to 26,000

Master’s degree

13,000 to 32,000

Scholarships to study in the UK

The majority of 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:

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.

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. Learn more about the types of UK visas available for international students.

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 colored photograph.

  • Assessment documentation

  • Tuberculosis screening (if required).

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

Cost of living in the UK

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:

Expenses

Monthly Cost

Food and housekeeping

£160 - £200

Bills (electric/ gas/ water)

£40 - £50

Mobile phone

£15 - £50

Clothes and shoes

£25

Books and stationery

£21

Socialising

£120

Job opportunities in the UK for international students

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.

Student Essential Services for UAE international students

Considering the following essentials will help UAE 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.

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