United Kingdom

Studying abroad in the United Kingdom is a highly sought-after opportunity, captivating the aspirations of many. While the names Oxford and Cambridge are synonymous with British education, the UK offers much more. In recent times, the UK has become an even more appealing destination for international students, especially as visa regulations in the USA grow more stringent. Why should you consider studying in the UK as an international student? Here are some compelling reasons:

Top-Ranked Universities:

The UK is home to globally acclaimed universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, and UCL. An impressive 76 UK universities feature in the QS World University Rankings.

Diverse Course Offerings:

Regardless of your academic background, the UK provides an array of courses in its top universities. From humanities to engineering, computer science to social studies, there is a broad spectrum of options. Notably, Oxford and Cambridge excel in Arts and Humanities and Engineering and Technology, offering extensive research opportunities.

Efficient Education:

One key advantage for international students is the shorter duration of courses in the UK. Many Master's programs take just one year, allowing students to graduate faster than in other countries. Coupled with the prestige of British universities, this provides endless opportunities.

Cost-Efficient Education:

Shorter courses translate to lower tuition fees and reduced living expenses for international students. Consequently, the overall cost of education in the UK tends to be less than countries like Australia and the USA, particularly for Master's programs.

Scholarship Opportunities:

The UK offers various scholarships for international students, ranging from need-based to merit-based. These scholarships can cover tuition fees and provide financial aid. In some cases, fully funded scholarships cover tuition, travel, living expenses, and more.

Employment Prospects

The UK boasts high employment rates for international students, as evidenced by the QS Graduate Employability Ranking.

Enriching Campus Life:

British universities emphasize the holistic development of students. Extracurricular activities, from sports clubs and gyms to drama societies, offer something for everyone, contributing to overall personal growth.

Work and Study:

International students can start earning while studying in the UK. The government permits up to 20 hours of work during semesters and full-time employment during semester breaks, which can help cover daily expenses and tuition costs.

Health Benefits:

Full-time students can access various medical benefits. The National Health Service (NHS) provides free or subsidized treatment for periods of six months or longer. Many private and non-supported colleges and universities in the UK also offer medical benefits to students.

Language Improvement:

Studying in the UK presents an excellent opportunity for international students to enhance their English language skills. Daily interactions in English encourage language development, which can be invaluable when traveling to other English-speaking countries.

Studying in the UK offers a comprehensive educational experience, a chance to improve language skills, and a strong foundation for future success.

If Students are applying to any university in the UK, they need to meet certain requirements. They need to submit some of the important documents while applying. These documents serve as proof of their skills, abilities, nationality, and identity. Universities ask for documents depending on the student's study level and course of study. However, to study in the UK, they will need the following documents:

Personal Statement :

A personal statement is required when applying to UK universities. In it, students are tasked with writing about what they hope to do on the course, what they hope to do after the course, and why they are applying.

Reference Letters :

References are usually written by someone who knows a student academically or professionally. Most references will talk about their from a teacher's or supervisor's perspective: how they interact with other students and their performance in classes and seminars.

Academic Transcripts (photocopies) :

Transcript - usually an additional document that comes with a certificate, detailing the student's grades achieved per module of their degree program (s) and the overall grade. The following academic transcripts must be enclosed:

• Class X mark sheet
• Class XII mark sheet
• Mark sheets of the degree course
• Provisional/Degree certificate
• Any other diploma or certificate or extra-curricular activity certificates

Work Experience Certificate :

In case if students are working, they should get a Work Experience letter/ certificate from their employer stating the duration and nature of work done in the company or Institute, or Organization.

Sample work :

Students may be required to submit a piece of example work— usually a short written piece (common for programs such as Creative Writing or English Literature); music composition or performance for those looking to study music-related programs.

Language proficiency :

If they are not a native whose first language is not English, to apply at a UK university they will need to show excellent language proficiency. There are various English standardized tests admitted at UK universities.

• IELTS
• TOEFL
• PTE
• Skills for English

When taking one of these exams, make sure to score high because language proficiency is not only a requirement to proceed with the application further but also add points to their application.

Curriculum Vitae :

The CV is a student's business card. They want to see how their experience matches or shows their interest in the program they want to study. Students should focus on including in their CV published academic papers, and work (paid or unpaid) in academic groups, relevant think-thanks, etc.

Passport :

To prove a student's identity they may need to provide their passport number. Having an up-to-date passport is also essential after they are accepted. Do not start their application until they have a valid passport.

Note: This document checklist may vary on the requirement of different Universities

Once the students get their Offer letter from the University of UK, they can start the Visa Process. It is advisable to start the Visa process as soon as possible so that they can reach the UK on time before their classes begin. Here is the Visa process- step by step guide:

Step 1

Students should get all their documents ready for visa application. All documents must be original and in English. Documents issued in a different language have to be translated into English.

• Application form
• Educational Documents (As per CAS)
• A valid passport.
• Parental or legal guardian consent with proof of relationship if the student is under the age of 18.
• University letter of acceptance along with the CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) number. The university will provide the CAS reference number.
• Finance Documents - Bank Passbook / Bank Statement on original Letterhead/ Original Fixed deposit and letter from the bank stating the same.
• Medical examination report testing for diseases like Tuberculosis.
• Criminal record certificate
• Recent passport size photograph.

Step 2

Go to the official UK Visa Website and create an account.

Step 3

Fill out the visa application form online. Take a printout of the completed form to sign and submit at the visa center later.

Step 4

Students should book their appointment to visit the visa center using the online appointment calendar. Once students finish this part of the process, they will receive an application number via email. Note this number down for future reference.

Step 5

Students should pay their visa processing charge in one of the following three ways:

• Online using Visa Card or Mastercard.
• Through a demand draft from Standard Chartered Bank or a nationalized/foreign bank. Students should get the demand draft in favor of 'The British High Commission'.
• Pay in person at the visa center while submitting their application.

Step 6

Students should go to the visa center at the appointed date and time to submit their applications. Original document verification and visa interview will be conducted. Students fingerprints and photographs will also be taken at this point.

How long does it take to process a UK student visa?

Usually, it takes about 3 weeks to receive the Tier 4 Student Visa. But depending on the place from where students are applying, they should start the visa application process 3 months in advance. Students should make sure to have the certificate of acceptance for studies (CAS) from their university before applying for the student visa.

Work while studying with the Student Visa

Students should ensure they are aware of the University's working restrictions which are generally stricter than the number of hours international students can work on a student visa. The following is therefore provided for information.

A student visa issued for full-time degree-level studies allows them to work for a maximum of 20 hours per week during term-time. This is a maximum of 20 hours in total in any one week, including paid or unpaid work and for one or more organizations. The 20 hours cannot be averaged over a longer period.