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.
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.
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 |
32 | |
40 | |
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) | 45 |
55 | |
67 |
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.
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.
When applying to a university in the UK, you'll need to send in some important documents, like:
Your official academic certificates
Check whether your qualifications are recognised in the UK and/or if you need an equivalency certificate.
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
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 |
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 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. | |
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 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. |
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.
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).
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 |
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.
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!
Secure comprehensive health insurance to cover medical expenses in the UK.
: Compare and choose suitable accommodation options such as student housing, private rentals or shared apartments.
: Use reliable international money transfer services to efficiently manage finances for tuition fees and living expenses.
: Open a student bank account in the UK with IDP for easy access to funds and additional student-oriented services.
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