- Population: 65,000,000
- Currency: Pound Sterling (GBP)
- University Students: 2,320,000
- International Students: 450,000
- English-taught Programs: 18,300
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland or UK (United Kingdom) includes the countries of England, Wales, Scotland as well as Northern Ireland.
The UK is renowned for its excellence in higher education and currently attracts over 600,000 international students. It is also the obvious and first choice for students that are seeking an education taught in English. International students in the United Kingdom come from over 200 countries, with the bulk coming from China, India, Nigeria, Malaysia and the United States.
The UK is home to some of the most famous Universities in the world, such as Cambridge University and Oxford University and has a high reputation for world-class research. Thus, it comes as no surprise that higher education qualifications from the UK are recognised worldwide. Given that the UK is already home to a very diverse set of cultures and races it also makes it quite easy for students from far afield to study there and integrate into daily life.
The UK offers very wide range of cuisine and is known for a very complete public transport, making it a convenient place to study as an international student. Another attractive element of studying in the UK is the many clubs and societies on campus.
Universities in The United Kingdom
The UK is home to over 140 universities, many of which rank highly in international rankings with dozens of them usually featuring in the top 100. If we include also Colleges and Business Schools, then the UK is home to nearly 400 higher education institutions.
In order to apply to a University or higher education program in the UK, students must process a UCAS application.
Some of the most notable Universities in the UK include:
- University of Oxford
- University of Cambridge
- Imperial College London
- University College London
- London School of Economics and Political Science
- University of Edinburgh
- King’s College London
- University of Birmingham
- University of Exeter
- University of London City
Business Schools in The United Kingdom
The UK also offers a strong selection of Business Schools, including:
- London Business School
- Durham University Business School
- City University: Cass Business School
- HULT Business School
- University of Cambridge: Judge Business School
- University of Warwick: Warwick Business School
- Henley Business School
- University of Bath: School of Management
Tuition Fees in The United Kingdom
Tuition fees in the United Kingdom for public educational institutions is split into two levels: a lower fee for UK citizens and a higher fee for students from abroad. The fees may vary by the country of the UK: England; Scotland; Wales; or Northern Ireland.
Tuition fees for overseas students can be anything between £3,500 (4,000 EUR) to about £18,000 (20,400 EUR) per academic year, depending on the program but a typical undergraduate Bachelor degree will usually cost you £9,250 (10,500 EUR) per year as a home student while overseas students will pay anything between £11,750 (13,300 EUR) to £50,000 (56,000 EUR) per year depending on the type of undergraduate program and institution.
Scholarships to Study in The United Kingdom
There is a wide range of scholarships for international students to study in the UK. Some scholarships are funded by the UK government, while others are directly provided by the institution, a trust or a specific University. Examples of scholarships, funding and grants include:
- The Cambridge Trust provides scholarships to study at the University of Cambridge.
- The British Chevening Scholarships are aimed at international students who seek to pursue full-time graduate programs.
- Marshall Scholarships are for US students that are looking at pursuing a postgraduate degree in the UK and awarded on merit, leadership potential and ambassadorial potential.
- The Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship Programme is for international students from Africa and awarded on need.
- The UKCISA (UK Council for International Student Affairs) website outlines eligibility criteria for loans and financial aid from the UK government.
Costs of Living in The United Kingdom
The cost of living in the UK varies depending on the country and region but as a ball park figure, we recommend you calculate with living costs of around £7,000 – £9,000 per year.
Internships & Company Placements in The United Kingdom
Many Universities in the UK provide students with the opportunity to gain work experience during their studies. Some work placements may even be compulsory. Just like in other countries, internships or company placements in the UK can be paid or unpaid. Placement UK, lists a variety of company placements on their website.
Working in The United Kingdom
Students who hold a valid Tier 4 visa sponsored by a higher education institution and are studying full-time can opt to work alongside their studies. The specifically permitted work conditions are usually detailed on your visa sticker or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).
Applying for a Student Visa to Study in The UK
The Tier 4 visa is the (General) student visa for those aged 16 and older. To be eligible for application you will need to have been offered a place on a course, you must be able to demonstrate your fluency in the English language (speak, read and write) and have enough money to prove you are able to cover tuition and living expenses.
The cost of applying for a UK student visa is currently £348. For the most up-to-date information and guidelines on applying for a student visa to study in the UK we recommend you visit the British Government’s student visa website.