The United Kingdom has some of the world’s oldest universities and colleges. These institutions were founded in the 12th and 13th centuries. And have set the standard for educational excellence that other countries strive for.
The UK is one of the top study destinations for Indian students.
| Student Visa (Types) |
The visa is for you if | When should you apply | When to arrive in the UK |
| Tier 4(General) Student Visa |
1. You are 16 years or above. 2. You have received an offer letter for a course from a UK educational institution. 3. You have a valid Tier 4 sponsor. |
3 Months before your course starts
|
Depending on your course duration:
1. One week before (if the duration of the course is less than 6 months) 2. One month before (if the duration of the course is more than 6 months) |
| Short-Term Study Visa | 1. You’ve been offered a place in the UK’s institution for a short-term course.
2. Short-term courses such as English Language or training courses. |
3 Months before your date of arrival in the UK | Depends on your nominated travel dates |
Cost to Study in the UK
Most prestigious universities and colleges in the UK have their fee structures. The amount you pay for tuition fees will vary depending on the type of degree or course you choose. The fees also depend on the university or college you attend.
Below we have mentioned the average tuition fees for pursuing your studies in the UK.
| Programs | Average Annual Fees in EURO* |
| Undergraduate | GBP 10,000 to GBP 20,000 |
| Postgraduate | GBP 10,000 to GBP 20,000 |
| Doctoral | GBP 15,000 to GBP 24,000 |
Scholarships in the UK
The amount and type of funding offered by institutions can vary. Certain research programs may cover up to 100% of tuition and living expenses.
There are various scholarships that you can apply to. This can help you lower your educational expenses. Fully funded options are also available in the UK. If you’re an Indian student looking to study in the UK, there are several government scholarship programs you can apply for.
These are some of the most popular:
Chevening Scholarship
The Chevening Scholarship is a UK government-funded international scholarship program. It provides scholarships to outstanding students worldwide to pursue one-year master’s degree programs at UK universities. The Scholarship pays for tuition, living expenses, and airfare to and from the United Kingdom. Applicants for the Chevening Scholarship must have strong academic and professional backgrounds, a commitment to their chosen field of study, and leadership potential. The Chevening Scholarship application process is highly competitive and includes an online application, educational transcripts, CV, personal statement, and references.
Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship
The Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship allow international students from Commonwealth countries the opportunity to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK. Designed to provide access to higher education, this scholarship scheme allows students from Commonwealth nations to further their studies in the UK.
GREAT Scholarship
In the 2023-24 academic year, the GREAT Scholarship will provide £10,000 towards tuition fees for 200 students from 14 countries. This scholarship offer is available for various one-year taught postgraduate courses at 49 universities across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. The GREAT Britain Campaign and the British Council have partnered to offer 99 postgraduate scholarships from 36 UK universities in various disciplines. Additionally, 12 UK higher education institutions are offering 13 postgraduate scholarships specifically for Indian students.
The Charles Wallace India Trust
The Charles Wallace India Trust offers grants to Indian citizens in the early or middle stages of their careers residing in India and pursuing a career or education in the arts, heritage conservation, or the humanities. These grants allow successful applicants to achieve their artistic, academic or professional objectives by traveling to the United Kingdom. Various forms of grants are available, such as fully-funded awards, visiting fellowships for specified subjects in certain institutions, research and professional visit grants, and grants for doctoral study.
Intakes in the UK
Many universities in the United Kingdom offer two major intakes for students, but some also provide additional summer intakes.
These are the following intakes-
| Intakes | Duration |
| Autumn/Fall | September to December |
| Spring | January to April |
| Summer | April to June |
Top Courses to Study in the UK
Knowing the popular courses offered by UK universities can help you make the most of your career choice. The UK is an excellent choice for international students due to its world-class universities, experienced faculty, and various field opportunities. Research the courses available to decide which is the best fit for you and your future.
- Business Analytics
- Data Science
- Computer Science
- MBA and MIM
- MBBS
- Finance, International Business and Accounting
- Law
- Architecture and Construction Management
- Engineering
- Fashion and Interior designing
Top Universities to Study in the UK
When choosing a university to attend, it is important to consider the world university rankings. This will allow you to compare the rankings of different universities, so you can understand where your desired university stands on a global scale.
| UK Ranking 2023 | Institution | QS Ranking 2023 |
| 1 | University of Cambridge | 2 |
| 2 | University of Oxford | 4 |
| 3 | Imperial College London | 6 |
| 4 | University College London | 8 |
| 5 | University of Edinburgh | 15 |
| 6 | University of Manchester | 28 |
| 7 | King’s College London | 37 |
| 8 | London School of Economics | 56 |
| 9 | University of Bristol | 61 |
| 10 | University of Warwick | 64 |
Highest-paying Degrees in the UK
UK universities offer some of the most sought-after degree courses in the job market, with the potential to earn a high salary. Here are the best-paying degree courses in the UK.
- Medicine
- Computer Science
- Law
- MBA
- Finance
- Engineering
