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Why Choose UK for Studying Abroad? Benefits & Reasons

Updated on 26 March, 2024

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad abroad Editorial Team

Many students are willing to pursue their education in the United Kingdom. However, they get confused with other options and wonder why they should choose the UK to study? The United Kingdom is one of the countries that house some of the best universities in the world. Some colleges and universities even date back to the 12th or 13th centuries, and being an alumnus of those colleges is a matter of pride. Therefore, with such a legacy, the UK has become a benchmark for education for students. This answers the query about why the UK is the best for study.

Interested to Study In UK? Apply for Free Counselling

Read More: Major requirements of studying in UK

Why Should You Study in the UK?

Studying in a country or a particular city does not only mean receiving the theoretical knowledge taught in colleges or universities. As you choose a college to study in a city, you also learn a lot about the culture of that place, and it shapes you as a person. This is why looking in the UK is always given preference, and it does make a difference.

From having some of the top universities to having an excellent healthcare service, the United Kingdom has been a sought-after destination for higher education. 

Let us shed some light on the facts about studying in the UK.

1. The UK attracts more than 450,000 international students each year

As per several reports, over 450,000 students get admitted to colleges and universities in the UK every year. Economics, Psychology, Engineering, Music, Art, etc. You will get the best possible quality of education in whichever field you choose.

2. The UK has over 2 million students

As mentioned earlier, the number of students in the UK is increasing every year. In every 20 people, 1 person is a student in the UK. 

3. Variety of courses and specializations

In the UK, you can come across various types of specialization that you will not find in other countries. Aerospace Engineering, Marine Biology, Naval Management, Dramatherapy, Forensics, and many more, you name it, and you will find it. However, you need to be sure that the university you are interested in is offering your preferred course or not.

4. Tuition Fee Loans for students

The British Government granted the government loan that fully covers the total tuition cost for the Bachelor’s studies in the UK. The students pursuing their Master’s can get a postgraduate loan of 11.222 pounds. The loan can be repaid only after graduation or post-graduation is over, and it also depends on the salary of the students. 

5. Courses start in January

Even if you have missed filling the forms in September or October for the foreign universities, fret not. The courses in universities and colleges in the UK start in January. There is no way that you are going to miss out on the courses.

6. The national online admission system

There are online applications through which the students can submit their applications online to a certain number of British universities. This means, the applications can be submitted faster and the process is hassle-free.

Also Read: Get to settle in United Kingdom (UK)

Reasons Why Studying in the UK is so Popular

The UK is considered one of the top countries for pursuing higher education. Here are some of the most important points that make studying in the UK a viable option.

1. Academic excellence

According to the recent World University Rankings, out of ten top universities in the world, four of them are in the UK. These universities include the University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford. Along with providing quality education, the universities also focus on the faculty members who are among the world’s best. Although the UK has just 0.9% of the global population, the country produces 15.2% of the most highly cited researchers in the world, according to Elsevier, which is a global analytics company.

2. It is global and welcoming

We all love a place where we feel welcomed, isn’t it? One of the major benefits of studying in the UK is that international students feel welcomed. From historic destinations to theatre, music, and arts, students can find a lot of options of their interest. As a student, you can very easily become a part of the vibrant culture of the country, and the universities make sure that the students feel comfortable and settle in the new environment. As per the findings of the iGO, around 86% of students who have completed their education from the universities in the UK have felt welcomed in the country.

3. You can start working after graduation.

One of the advantages of studying in the UK is that you can start working for an extra two years after completing your graduation. This is possible because of the new post-study work visa which has recently been announced by the UK Govt. The eligible students can look for work in the fields they are interested in right after their graduation. This means you do not have to move to a different country right after graduating and can find a suitable job in the UK itself.

4. A major benefit of studying in the UK – Financial support

Next time you wonder why the UK is the best for study, consider the financial support. Living in the UK is not that simple since almost everything is expensive, especially if you are going from a country like India. However, one of the benefits of studying in the UK is that the colleges and universities offer scholarships which make the experience for the students much more affordable and financially stress-free. In 2018-19, 480 scholarships were offered to the Indian students by the UK government and the British Council.                

5. Why study in the UK? – Employment 

One of the major reasons why students opt for foreign universities is the job opportunities. And the UK colleges and universities are just the right choices for this reason. As per the reports from iGO, 82% of the Indian students who completed their graduation from UK colleges and universities are highly satisfied with their careers.  

6. Students can continue their studies

Once you have completed your undergraduate course in the UK, you can pursue further education in the country. The education system in the UK promotes a close working relationship between the students and the faculty members. The universities in the UK maintain a dedicated support team set up that helps in providing information as well as advice on careers, visas, and well-being so that the students can be helped throughout their education.

Must Read: Study in UK for Indian students after 12th

Popular Courses for International Students in the UK

1. Business Studies

Business studies is one of the courses opted for by international students in the UK. Some of the universities that offer this course are:

a) Durham University Business School

b) University of St Andrews School of Management

c) Kings College London Kings Business School

d) Loughborough University School of Business and Economics

e) University College London School of Management

f) University of Warwick Business School

g) University of Strathclyde Business School

h) University of Cambridge, Judge Business School

i) University of Bath School of Management

j) University of Exeter Business School

k) University of Glasgow Adam Smith Business School

l) University of Leeds Business School

m) University of Oxford Saïd Business School

2. Undergraduate Law

This is again one of the courses many international students prefer to pursue in the UK. While students are doing this course, they can also combine other subjects such as Journalism, Politics, and Business. Some of the universities in the country offering the course are:

a) King’s College London

b) London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

c) University of Cambridge

d) University of Oxford

e) University College London (UCL)

f) University of Edinburgh

g) University of Warwick

h) University of Glasgow

i) Durham University

j) University of Kent

Read More: Job opportunities after MS in UK

3. Accounting and Finance

The course helps students gain theoretical as well as practical understanding of the core financial practices. Some universities that offer this course include:

a) London School of Economics

b) University of Chester

c) University of Leeds             

d) University of Bath                  

e) University of Glasgow           

f) University of Strathclyde                   

g) Loughborough University                    

h) University of Exeter

i) University of Birmingham                    

j) University of Warwick            

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4. Computer Science:

You can learn Computer Science from some of the best professors in the world when you are doing it in the UK. Let us check out some of the universities that offer courses in Computer Science:

a) University of Edinburgh

b) Imperial College London

c) Lancaster University

d) University of Cambridge

e) University of Bristol

f) University of Surrey

g) University of Manchester

h) University of Birmingham

5. Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering is a discipline of engineering in which the principles of design, physics, and materials science for analysis, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems are applied. 

Some of the universities in the UK offering Mechanical Engineering are:

a) University of Leeds

b) Imperial College London

c) University of Bath

d) Loughborough University

e) University of Bristol

6. Politics

Taking a degree in Politics will help the students learn about the core dynamics of various political systems around the world, how governments deal with crises, human rights, and the nature of society. Some of the universities in the UK that offer a degree in Politics include:

a) London School of Economics

b) University of St Andrews

c) University of Cambridge

d) University of Oxford

e) University of Warwick

f) Durham University

g) King’s College London

h) Canterbury Christ Church University

i) University of Bath

j) Aberystwyth University

Apart from these, several other courses are offered in the universities in the UK. You need to make up your mind about the course that you want to pursue further and apply accordingly.

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Benefits of Studying in the UK

Studying in your home country is all well and good. But if you aspire to broaden your horizons and achieve global exposure, the UK is an option you must explore. 

So, why study in the UK, you may ask?

Let us look into the various benefits of studying in the UK:

Globally recognized universities-

The international reputation of the quality of education provided by institutions in the UK is remarkable. Degrees and qualifications achieved from UK universities are respected and recognized worldwide. The British education system has formed the foundation of quality education globally. This universal recognition is one of the primary reasons to study in the UK.

Multicultural society-

One of the benefits of studying in the UK is its multicultural environment. It is a country largely populated with students from all around the world. This diversity will allow you to socialize and network with people from all parts of the world and expand your social compass. 

Brilliant opportunities-

The UK offers many opportunities for students both during and after their study period. As a student, you can work part-time up to 20 hours a week. After completing your degree, the UK government allows you two years to stay and secure a job. 

Financial benefits and monetary support-

The UK education system for international students offers several advantages that make it an attractive destination for higher education. Most degrees in the UK take less time to complete than other countries. Additionally, international students are provided with many scholarships and monetary grants, making education considerably cheaper.

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UK Education System for International Students 

The education sector of the UK welcomes thousands of international students every year. With a diverse society and a firm universal standing for quality education, the UK is a highly endorsed location for higher education. Considering the numerous benefits of studying in the UK, it is a top-rated destination chosen by maximum international students for higher education. 

The education system in the UK is divided into four parts: primary education, secondary education, further education, and higher education. 

While it is compulsory to undergo primary and secondary education till the age of 16, further and higher education is optional. Students may choose to just complete their school and get a job.

Work Opportunities after Studying in the UK

When studying abroad, work opportunities post-graduation are an important aspect for students. 

With a working population of 32.4 million people, the United Kingdom is the world’s sixth-biggest economy.

The country has a high employment rate of over 75%, so many overseas students aim to find jobs in the UK after finishing their studies. As of 2019-20, over 538,000 international students enrolled in the UK universities, according to HESA data. India is only second to China when it comes to the most common nation of origin for students seeking higher education in the United Kingdom.

Let’s take a look at the most in-demand programs in the UK, as well as the degree requirements, average income, and top recruiters:

Design and Art

In the United Kingdom, there is a wide range of opportunities in art and design.

Animation, game design, fashion design, product design, graphic design, fine arts, jewellery design, photography, and other occupations are possible.

Requirements for a Degree

MA Illustration, MA Graphic Design, MA Animation, MA Product Designing, MA Game Design, MA Fine Arts and Design, MSc Creative Computing.

Public Relations and Advertising

In the age of social media, the advertising and public relations industry is one of the fastest expanding in the UK. Every organization seeks a capable professional to manage its public relations, communications, and advertising, which results in job chances for overseas students after completing their MS or MA in the United Kingdom.

Requirements for a Degree-

MA Global Journalism and Public Relations, MA International Relations, MA Public Relations and Strategic Communication, MA Public Opinion and Political Behaviour

Engineering

Engineering students in the United Kingdom have access to cutting-edge facilities. You will have the chance to do significant research and learn with the support of practical training that prepares you for the job market as one of the top locations in the world to study Engineering.

Requirements for a Degree

MEng Civil Engineering, MEng Mechanical Engineering, and MEng Electrical Engineering are all Master’s degrees in engineering.

Information Technology and Computer Science

If you’re interested in a career in technology, jobs in the IT sector could be an excellent place to start. Because the UK is home to some of the world’s largest technology companies, you’ll have a good chance of finding work after your MS.

Requirements for a Degree

MSc Information Systems, MSc Advanced Computer Science, MSc Business Information Systems, MSc Software Engineering, and MSc Cyber Security are some of the Master’s degrees available.

Law

A graduate law degree helps take your knowledge and understanding of law principles to the next level. If you are interested in the legal profession, look for an internship at a law firm while in college, and it will help you gain an edge over other candidates when looking for a job.

Requirements for a Degree

 Master of Laws, LLM in International Business Law, LLM in Medical Law and Ethics, LLM in International Finance and Commercial Law

Medicine

The United Kingdom is well-known for its excellent healthcare system. Healthcare experts are in high demand across the United Kingdom, and you can expect to get paid well. The increased amount of responsibility associated with this career and the intensity of the programs in this subject necessitates a high level of commitment.

Requirements for a Degree

MBChB Medicine, BSc Medicine, MPH, MSc Nursing

Finance and Accounting

No matter how big or little, every organization requires specialists to manage its money. As a result, accounting and business are two of the most in-demand professions in the UK, with plenty of career prospects for overseas students.

Requirements for a Degree

MBA, MA Economics, MSc Finance, MSc Accounting, MSc Banking and Finance

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Major Recruiters in the United Kingdom

The most significant places to get jobs in the UK after a master’s, according to Glassdoor, one of the leading online job search portals, are:

  1. Accenture
  2. KPMG
  3. Deloitte
  4. Italia Bella
  5. SAP
  6. Salesforce
  7. Microsoft
  8. Google
  9. Apple
  10. Meta
  11. PwC

After MS, American Express, J.P. Morgan, AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson, Siemens, EY, The Body Shop, Goldman Sachs, Dell Technologies, Morgan Stanley, and others are the best firms to look for career chances in the UK.

If you earn a master’s degree from one of the best universities in the UK, you will almost certainly have a better chance of finding work following graduation.

Your university’s Career Center may be one of the first places you look for a job. The majority of the UK’s leading universities host career events, webinars, and job fairs to assist graduates in connecting with businesses and exploring job opportunities.

Recruitment Agencies can assist you in narrowing your search based on the type of work and organization you’re searching for, your wage expectations, and a suitable location, among other factors.

The UK Government also offers the “Find a Job” service, which allows Indian students to search for job opportunities in the UK.

Among other well-known social media networks, LinkedIn is for making professional connections, learning about industry standards, and keeping up with the newest advances. Facebook and Twitter are also becoming more popular for assisting consumers in their job hunt through adverts.

Average Annual Pay in the United Kingdom

  1. Legal – £49,700
  2. IT and Telecommunication Directors – £56,100
  3. Software developer – £47,900
  4. Aircraft Pilot and Flight Engineers – £60,800
  5. Health Services and Public Health Managers – £68,400
  6. Advertising and PR Directors – £45,400
  7. Marketing and Sales Director – £54,900
  8. Financial Managers – £43,600

Various aspects, such as your level of education, talents, area of inquiry, employment industry, and so on, impact your job prospects in the UK after completing your Master’s degree. With a fiercely competitive environment among job aspirants in a global economy like the UK, landing a satisfying career will be difficult.

BBA in UK with upGrad Abroad

upGrad Study Abroad program allows you to study in the UK at almost 1/5th of the total cost. Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), a 3 years program at the University of Plymouth, is facilitated by upGrad in collaboration with Indian Partner University. You can get further information at the link provided below.

Disclaimer!! All the salary figures/fees/expenditure are sourced from job portals/university websites and may vary.

Interested to Study In UK? Apply for Free Counselling

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the UK best for study?

The UK is one of the best study destinations in the world. Some of the reasons that make the UK a preferred choice of students include 2-year PSW, an existing colossal student base, good settlement options with tier 2 sponsors, quality of education, and globally recognized Degree.

 

 


 

 

 

What are the several benefits of studying in the UK?

Apart from getting the best possible education, you can also apply for a post-study work permit. The courses are generally shorter, and you may also get a scholarship.

 

 


 

 

 

How much is the bank balance required for a UK student visa?

Students would be required to show a 28-day bank statement covering nine months of living expenses and tuition fees. If a university is located in Greater London, the living expense will be around £1,265 per month. The maximum amount you may need as your living cost is £11,385.

 

 


 

 

 

What are the requirements to study in the UK?

To get admission to one of the UK colleges, students need to fulfill the criteria mentioned below:
1) Test scores as required by colleges/universities you opt to study in.
2) Clearing one of the English language proficiency tests like TOEFL, IELTS, and UCLES.

How long does it take for a UK student visa?

Usually, the entire process may take 30-45 working days, starting from admission until you get your final visa. For the student visa application, it takes 15 working days. However, it all may vary from one case to the other.

 

 


 

 

 

Is the study gap acceptable in the UK?

For a master’s program, the maximum gap can be 10-12 years from the time you graduate. For a bachelor’s program, the gap can be 2-3 years.

 

 


 

 

 

Why do international students choose to study in the UK?

International students tend to flock to the UK because the British education system offers numerous benefits. Their academic standards are highly regarded worldwide, and most UK universities rank high on international university rankings.

 

 


 

 

 

Why is the UK better than India?

One of the main reasons for studying in the UK rather than India is the manner of teaching and the learning experience. Educational systems in India focus more on theoretical learning, while countries like the UK encourage the approach to practical and creative learning.

 

 


 

 

 

Why is the UK better than other countries for study?

The UK is preferred over other countries for studying mainly because the duration of the degree is relatively shorter and more intensive than in other countries. They are allowing students to complete their degrees in a shorter span without compromising the quality of education.

 

 


 

 

 

Why choose the UK and no other country for study?

The primary reason behind choosing the UK over other countries like the USA, for instance, is that the UK offers countless degrees you can pursue and complete in a shorter duration without jeopardizing the quality of education. On the other hand, the USA education system offers rigorous courses, which are much longer.

 

 

 


 

 

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upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad abroad Editorial Team

We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education process for all. Our diverse experience as journalists, content writers, editors, content strategists, and marketers helps create the most relevant and authentic blogs for our readers.

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