WHY CONSIDER THE UK AS YOUR INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION DESTINATION
In this series, we will consider different international education destinations for study abroad aspirants. We have already covered New Zealand in the first part and explained the opportunities in courses and universities, tuition costs and living expenses, entry requirements, post-study work visa, and more. This section will cover the information on the UK as your potential study abroad destination if you are keen on exploring this part of the world.
The UK is one of the world leaders in the international education domains, with thousands of students enrolling every year. It is an incredible destination from the academic perspective, while the culture, weather, lifestyle, and opportunities go the extra mile to make it the world’s favourite. Any student looking for quality education and global exposure can pick the country without second thoughts. Let us explain all that is on offer here.
WORLD-CLASS UNIVERSITIES & RECOGNISED DEGREES
Studying in the UK gives you access to world-renowned institutions and universities. Apart from leading names such as Oxford and Cambridge, the country also has more universities in the Global University Rankings. There are options galore here, whether you want to experience the fast-paced London lifestyle or enjoy peaceful living in Edinburgh. The best thing about studying in the UK in 2021 is that the universities and the government are planning a phased return to campus for students, despite the pandemic restrictions.
The high quality of education in UK universities means that global employers will hold your degree in high regard, giving you a competitive edge over other applicants. The country is reputed for delivering courses and programmes relevant to the current global situation. Here are the most popular programs you can study here:
- Medicine and dentistry
- Veterinary science
- Subjects allied to medicine/health
- Social studies (social work)
- Education (initial teacher training)
- Business and management
Compared to other countries, courses are shorter and more intensive in the education system here. You can graduate sooner, but without compromising on the quality of education. It takes you three years to finish an undergraduate program and one year to complete a graduate program, which means you can save a lot of time and money.
TUITION FEE AND LIVING EXPENSES
The UK is relatively more affordable as a study abroad destination as compared to popular ones like the US and Australia. The tuition costs vary from university to university and programme to programme. The same applies to the cost of living for international students. You can expect to shell out more if you choose to live in London, while the cost will be lesser in other cities. The averages per annum costs are as follows.
- Undergraduate – £10,000 – £20,000
- Post Graduate – £12,000 – £20,000
Approximate cost of living: £12,000-15000 per annum
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
UK universities have certain entry requirements for different courses, which you can check on their websites. Most universities will require you to take language tests like IELTS and TOEFL in addition to academic requirements. Further, you may be eligible for scholarships which can cut down the cost of studying here to a significant extent. Students over 18 years of age and studying a short course require a short-term study visa. It has a validity of is months and can be extended up to 11 months. Those opting for a longer course have to apply for a Tier 4 (Child) student visa (4-17-year-old students planning to study at an independent school) or a Tier 4 (General) student visa (over 16 years of age).
EXCELLENT QUALITY OF EDUCATION
If you choose the UK as your study abroad destination, quality shouldn’t be a concern because the education standards of all universities are regularly assessed by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA). It is an independent body that checks university performances through subject reviews and audits. It also identifies best education practices and provides feedback for improvisation. Further, higher education funding bodies in the country examine the research standards of universities. Students can rest assured that they get top-notch quality in teaching, learning, and research.
STUDY AND WORK OPPORTUNITIES
You can work while you learn in the UK, which means that bearing your everyday living expenses can get a tad easier. Students can legitimately work part-time for a maximum of 20 hours a week during the term, while they can do it full-time during the semester break. Study and work opportunities help you gain hands-on industry experience while you study, and it can be a valuable addition to your CV eventually.
POST-STUDY WORK VISA
You can stay back and work in the UK after completing your studies here. The new Graduate Route, effective from 1 July 2021, will allow international students with an undergraduate or master’s degree to avail two years of work experience in the country upon graduation. Students completing their Ph.D. will be allowed to stay for three years.
Another benefit of pursuing higher education in the UK as an international student is that you get access to healthcare completely free of charge. The National Health Service is applicable to students in the country for 6 months or more, which gives you peace of mind about the expensive healthcare costs in the country. Being one of the countries with the highest student satisfaction rates, the UK definitely deserves to be on top of an international students’ wish list.
If you are considering studying abroad why don’t you discuss your prospects and opportunities with experts at Lurnable’s dedicated study abroad counselling division LurnPathways?
