Study in UK:
Top Universities, Courses, Scholarships, Course Fees and Job Opportunities
The United Kingdom has a long-decorated history of giving international students a warm reception. With the world's most prestigious universities, it is one of the sought-after destinations for students. Studying in the UK also provides ample opportunities for cultural immersion, with a rich history and diverse population. Furthermore, the UK offers numerous scholarships and funding options for international students, making it an accessible destination for those seeking financial support.
Statistical Numbers of Indian Students Studying in the UK
According to the 2021-22 census report, Indians make up most of the student population in the UK, with a soaring 43,175. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), which analyzed the census data collected from England in March 2021, India accounted for 11.6% of non-UK-born students. The ONS has released this information across various subcategories based on the responses received.
The census also reports that the new enrollments in the UK from India totaled 87,045 students in 2022.
Benefits of Pursuing Higher Education in the UK
As an Indian student pursuing higher education, the prospects of increased exposure, expanded network, and access to lucrative career opportunities are high. To fully understand the advantages of studying in the UK, let's explore these benefits in more detail.
- High-Quality Education: Universities in the UK are globally recognized for their high academic standards and rigorous coursework, providing students with a top-notch education.
- Competitive Job Market: UK degrees are highly valued by employers worldwide, giving graduates an edge in the job market. Additionally, many UK universities have strong career services departments that offer support and guidance to help students find employment.
- Diverse Culture: Studying in the UK allows students to engage with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, expanding their worldview and gaining valuable cross-cultural skills.
- Research: UK universities are at the forefront of research in various fields, providing students access to cutting-edge research facilities and opportunities to work alongside renowned scholars and researchers.
- Student-Friendly Life: The UK is a safe and welcoming country with a rich history and culture, offering students a high quality of life with excellent healthcare, public transportation, and social services.
Study in the UK: Top 20 Universities for Indian Students with Rankings
S.No |
List of Universities in the UK |
QS World University Ranking 2023 |
The University Ranking 2023 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
|
2 |
4 |
1 |
|
3 |
6 |
10 |
|
4 |
8 |
22 |
|
5 |
15 |
29 |
|
6 |
28 |
54 |
|
7 |
37 |
35 |
|
8 |
56 |
37 |
|
9 |
61 |
76 |
|
10 |
64 |
104 |
|
11 |
78 |
108 |
|
12 |
81 |
82 |
|
13 |
86 |
128 |
|
14 |
91 |
108 |
|
15 |
92 |
198 |
|
16 |
96 |
114 |
|
17 |
96 |
201 |
|
18 |
114 |
130 |
|
19 |
122 |
139 |
|
20 |
125 |
124 |
Top Courses for Indian Students in the UK
The UK presents numerous exciting opportunities for prospective applicants, offering diverse study abroad programs. From STEM disciplines to Humanities and an array of unconventional courses, there is a course suitable for every interest. What's particularly intriguing is the extensive range of programs available, accommodating durations as short as six months to more comprehensive programs spanning 5 to 6 years. These courses not only cater to individual passions but also align with the criteria of being among the best choices for career prospects in the UK. Students must also ensure they choose the perfect graduate program that resonates with their interests.
Explore a diverse array of top-notch courses that cater to a wide range of interests and career aspirations. From cutting-edge technology programs to business and finance courses, creative arts and design, healthcare, and life sciences, you'll find abundant opportunities to nurture your passion and unlock your full potential.
Study in the UK: Top Under-Graduate Courses
S.No |
Bachelor’s Degree Name |
1 |
B.Sc. Data Science, Business Analytics |
2 |
B.Sc. Computer Science |
3 |
B.Sc. Biotechnology |
4 |
B.Sc. Bioinformatics |
5 |
BE Computer Engineering |
6 |
BE Electrical and Communications Engineering |
7 |
BE Mechanical Engineering |
8 |
B.Tech Information Technology |
9 |
B.Tech Aeronautical Engineering |
10 |
B.Tech Electrical Engineering |
11 |
Bachelor in Medicine MBBS |
12 |
B.Com in Finance and Management |
13 |
BMBS Medicine |
14 |
B.Sc. Fashion Technology/Management |
15 |
B.Sc. Microbiology/ Nanotechnology |
Study in the UK: Top Postgraduate Courses
S.No |
Master’s Degree Name |
1 |
M.Sc. Business Analytics |
2 |
M.Sc. Business Analytics and Management Sciences |
3 |
M.Sc., Business Analytics and Big Data |
4 |
M.Sc., Computing Science |
5 |
M.Sc., IT Security Management |
6 |
M.Sc., Data Science |
7 |
M.Sc., Cyber Security |
8 |
Master in Advanced Practice in Health Care |
9 |
M.Eng. Chemical Engineering |
10 |
M.Eng. Civil Engineering |
11 |
M.Sc. Mechanical Engineering |
12 |
MA Fashion Marketing |
13 |
Master of Surgery in Orthopedics |
14 |
MD in Anatomy |
15 |
Masters in Aesthetic Medicine. |
16 |
Masters in Anesthesia |
17 |
MDS Prosthodontics |
18 |
MDS Microbiology |
19 |
MDS Oral Medicine and Radiology |
20 |
MDS Pedodontics & Preventive Dentistry |
Study in the UK: Top Ph.D. Courses
S.No |
Ph.D. Courses Name |
1 |
Ph.D. in Astrophysics |
2 |
Ph.D. in Biochemistry |
3 |
Ph.D. in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence |
4 |
Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering |
5 |
Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering |
6 |
Ph.D. in Neuroscience |
7 |
Ph.D. in Machine Learning Decisions |
8 |
Ph.D. in Biotechnology |
9 |
Ph.D. in Bioinformatics |
10 |
Ph.D. in Applied Sciences |
How to Study in the UK: Admission Process, Requirements, Intakes, to Apply to Universities
This section is the stepping stone to taking action to wing study abroad dreams. Also, where students hesitate to move, giving importance to potential setbacks. To overcome obstacles, students must begin and commit to the application process. Prior knowledge is also crucial for success. To ensure a smooth application process for UK universities, consider implementing the following straightforward practices.
How to Apply?
- Extensive groundwork is required prior to deciding on a university and course: To choose the right University and course, students should read as much as possible about the University and courses from their official website and compare.
- Students must apply to universities and await a reply from the other end. They should also prepare an accurate SOP and LOR and support the admission process.
- Accept the right offer: Leverage decision-making skills and choose an unconditional or conditional offer that suits academic needs.
- Seek scholarships: Indian (Non-EU) students should support their studies financially to cover the costs of tuition fees and accommodation.
- Applying for a visa: As an Indian student, it is essential to get visa approval to hit the final stages.
- Ready your accommodation: The final step, plan for student accommodation to stay and make a living in the host country.
Application Requirements to Study in the UK
To proceed with a university application, Indian students must meet the following requirements. Firstly, let's get started with them.
- Educational Qualifications Students must meet specific academic criteria, such as completing 12 years of education in undergraduate programs and holding a relevant bachelor's degree for postgraduate courses.
- English Language Proficiency: Students must often demonstrate their English language proficiency through standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL unless they are from English-speaking countries or have studied in English-medium institutions. Students require an IELTS band of 6 or above and a TOEFL score of 90-100 to get admission to top universities in the UK.
- Letters of Recommendation: Many UK universities require that applicants submit letters of recommendation from their college professors or employers to assess their academic and personal capabilities.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): A well-crafted SOP is essential, particularly for postgraduate applications, as it helps showcase the applicant's motivations, aspirations, and suitability for the chosen program.
- Transcripts and Certificates: Applicants must provide official transcripts and certificates as evidence of their previous academic achievements.
- Visa and Financial Documentation: International students must apply for a student visa and demonstrate sufficient funds to cover their tuition fees and living expenses while studying in the UK. Ir is recommended that Indian students check theUK study visa requirements prior to applying for visa.
Study in the UK: Language Proficiency Exams:
Language proficiency tests are essential to apply to abroad universities, especially in English-speaking countries. Top UK exams evaluate students' aptitude in English and determines how they can sustain the environment. Indian students can choose IELTS or TOEFL and need to score decent bands to get admission to top universities.
The following describes the concept and importance of IELTS and TOEFL.
- IELTS:
When applying to UK universities, the minimum IELTS score required varies depending on the course and level of study. Generally, undergraduate programs expect a score of 6.0 to 7.0 in each section (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking), while postgraduate programs may require scores ranging from 6.5 to 7.5 or higher. The IELTS test evaluates English language proficiency in four areas - Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The test options include paper-based and computer-based. The test measures a candidate's ability to communicate effectively in academic and everyday situations. - TOEFL:
Required Scores: UK universities also accept TOEFL scores for Indian students. The minimum required scores may vary, but a total score of 80 to 100 or higher is generally expected for most undergraduate and postgraduate programs. - Test Format: TOEFL is an internet-based test (iBT) that assesses English language skills in four sections - Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. The test measures a candidate's ability to understand and use English in academic settings.
Test Availability: TOEFL iBT tests are available annually at authorized test centers worldwide, including India.
Study in the UK: Admission Intake and Best Universities
Over the years, Indian student enrollment in the top 10 UK universities has consistently increased due to the country's reputation as a top destination for higher education. UK universities have a global appeal, providing various courses and research opportunities across multiple disciplines. The UK's multicultural environment and academic excellence attract students from all over the world. Furthermore, the UK government and universities have introduced several initiatives to encourage Indian students to pursue their education there, resulting in a diverse and lively Indian student community. This enriches the educational experience and cultural diversity within the UK's higher education institutions.
A Comparison Between Admission Intakes in the UK
January Intake |
September Intake |
May Intake |
Winter / Spring Season |
Fall / Autumn Season |
Summer Season |
Secondary admission intake with 20-30 applicants |
Primary admission intake with 80% of applicants |
Only selective universities offer admissions |
Less number of applications offered |
Maximum number of applications provided and highly competitive |
Few applications with the least student competition. |
Less number of courses/programs offered |
Main programs offered by leading universities |
Least choice of programs available. Mostly Non-STEM. |
Application opens from September to November |
Application open from December to July |
Application opens from January and February |
Session starts from January |
Session starts from September |
Session starts from September |
Limited opportunities for financial aid/student scholarships |
Maximum availability of student loans and scholarships (fully-funded and half-funded) |
Least availability of student scholarships and bank loans. |
Top 10 Universities in the UK Accepting Fall Intake:
Some top 10 universities accept Fall (September) intakes for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
- University of Cambridge
- University of Oxford
- Imperial College London
- London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
- University of Edinburgh
- King's College London
- University of Manchester
- University of Warwick
- University of Bristol
- University of Glasgow
Top 10 Universities in the UK Accepting Winter Intake:
Here are a few universities in the UK that have been known to consider January/February intake:
- University of Westminster
- Northumbria University
- Kingston University London
- Coventry University
- University of East London
- University of Greenwich
- Birmingham City University
- Robert Gordon University
- Heriot-Watt University
Top Universities in the UK Accepting Summer Intake:
May intake is a new provision for Indian students to apply to universities in the UK. The student batch for this intake rolls out next year, and currently, the following universities are offering applications for Indian (International) students, which will be available till January.
- Kingston University
- Cranfield University
- University of Roehampton
- University of Greenwich
- Bedfordshire University
- University of West London
- Keele University
- BPP University
Application Deadline for Indian Students to Apply in UK
Indian students who wish to apply to colleges must ensure that they are shortlisted by submitting their applications before November. It is important to upload all required documents on time. The college will notify applicants of their admission decisions, typically in April.
Study in UK: Cost to Study in Universities
The United Kingdom is a popular destination for Indian students seeking undergraduate, postgraduate, and Ph.D. studies due to its outstanding reputation and academic standards. However, this quality education comes with a high price tag, meaning that students must be financially prepared to cover studying, living, and other expenses. The cost of studying in the UK has significantly increased in recent years. Students from India who wish to attend reputable universities must budget for a minimum of £9,250 or INR 9,45,360,71 as of 2023. Additionally, the fees for specific courses and specializations may vary. Below are the current fee structures for undergraduate and postgraduate courses offered by UK universities.
Cost of Undergraduate Courses in the UK
STEM courses are highly sought after in the United Kingdom, with an average annual tuition fee ranging from £9000 to £38000 (INR 9,27,00 to 39,14,000). In addition to tuition, other expenses like accommodation, living expenses, and miscellaneous costs can range from £12000 to £15000 (INR 12,00,000 to 15,00,000) per year.
Cost of Postgraduate Courses in the UK
- Master's Degrees: Tuition fees for master's programs typically range from 10.04 to 26.12 lakh (59 lakhs for medical programs) per academic year for Indian students.
- Ph.D. Programs: Tuition fees for Ph.D. programs can vary significantly based on the field of study and University. On average, Indian students can expect to pay around 15.08 to 24.13 lakhs per academic year for Ph.D. programs in the UK.
Study in UK: Cost of Living for Indian Students
The United Kingdom is among the most expensive countries, especially for non-EU students with currency values. Students are expected to combat different sorts of expenses, and they cover,
Student Expenses |
Cost in GBP to INR |
Fees for visa application |
348 GBP (INR 35,000) approx. |
Monthly Housing Rent |
500 GBP (INR 51,000) approx. |
Transportation |
150-200 GBP (INR 15,000 to INR 20,000) approx. |
Food and Groceries |
150 – 200 GBP (INR 14,883 to INR 20,500) approx. |
Clothing and Leisure |
60 GBP (INR 7,000) approx. |
Telephone and Mobile |
50 GBP (INR 5,148) approx. |
Single Person Living Per Month |
£859 or INR 85,000 approx. |
Single Person Per Year |
£10,308 or INR 10.30 lakh approx. |
Accommodation Costs for Indian Students in the UK
Indian students have two accommodation options to stay in the UK. Also, choosing the right UK city is influential in getting affordable student accommodation. Otherwise known as non-EU students, they are provided with the following,
- University Accommodation: Consider on-campus or university accommodation reduced housing options offered by your college as an Indian student. University residence halls are usually the most affordable and convenient choice.
- Private Accommodation: Choose a residence close to the University for better studying and living. Expect to pay £350-£550 monthly.
Study in the UK: Scholarships and Loans for Indian Students
Indian students studying in the UK can benefit from various scholarships and awards, covering up to 100% of their study expenses. The UK government and universities offer a range of financial support options, including merit-based scholarships and studentships, to assist Indian applicants. However, scholarships for postgraduate and doctoral courses often have stringent eligibility criteria, which means students must know how to get UK scholarships. Also, scholarships are only available to some candidates with great academic records.
Types of Student Scholarships:
Name of the Scholarship |
Scholarship Stipend |
Student Eligibility |
Commonwealth Scholarship |
£10,000 to £26,000 |
Citizen of Commonwealth Country |
British Council Scholarship |
Fully-Funded |
Indian Citizen, STEM Background, Enrollment is required at the chosen universities. |
Rhodes Scholarships |
£17,000 Per year |
Good Academic Scores, IELTS, Selected Universities |
GREAT Scholarship |
GBP 10,000 Tuition Fee |
IELTS 6.0 or above, Indian Citizen, Good Academic Record |
Job Opportunities for Indian Students in the UK
Indian students studying in the UK can access various job opportunities during and after their studies. The UK offers a thriving job market with diverse industries and sectors. Furthermore, Indian students require a post-study UK visa in order to work in the UK.
Some of the job opportunities for Indian students in the UK include.
- Part-time Jobs: Many students work part-time while studying to support living expenses. Typical part-time roles include retail, hospitality, tutoring, and administrative positions.
- Internships: Universities often provide internship opportunities, allowing students to gain valuable work experience in their field of study.
- Graduate Schemes: Several UK companies offer graduate schemes designed to train and develop recent graduates for long-term career growth.
- Research and Academic Jobs: Indian students pursuing research-focused degrees may find opportunities to work as research or teaching assistants within their departments.
According to various surveys, it is reported that the UK boasts about a 75% international student employment rate. It is also said that the rate is expected to grow by 23% by 2030. This is a significant reason why Indian students seek permanent working visas in the UK.
Top Designations and Salary Offered in the UK
In the UK, Indian students can find job opportunities in various fields such as software development, data analysis, marketing, and finance, with salary ranges generally ranging from £20,000 to £60,000 per year, depending on the role and experience. Also, the UK has successful job market trends for Indian students to earn high salaries.The top roles are given below,
- Software Engineer/Developer: £30,000 to £50,000 per year
- Data Analyst: £25,000 to £40,000 per year
- Business Analyst: £30,000 to £45,000 per year
- Marketing Coordinator/Manager: £25,000 to £45,000 per year
- Financial Analyst: £30,000 to £50,000 per year
- Management Consultant: £35,000 to £60,000 per year
- Project Manager: £35,000 to £55,000 per year
- Sales Executive/Manager: £20,000 to £40,000 per year
- Mechanical Engineer: £25,000 to £45,000 per year
- Healthcare Professionals £25,000 to £45,000 per year
Conclusion
The United Kingdom is a highly sought-after destination for international students due to its prestigious universities, diverse culture, and stunning scenery. This blog delves into the top universities in the UK for international students, the advantages of studying there, the upcoming student intakes for 2023-2024, the expenses associated with looking in the UK, and the financial support and scholarships offered to international students. If you need assistance with the immigration process, Sulekha.com can connect you with the best consultants to assist you every step of the way.