Study In UK
Why Study in the UK?
One of the key reasons why UK is an attractive destination for international students is its commitment to maintaining high academic standards. The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) plays a vital role in ensuring the quality and standards of UK universities and colleges. Through regular reviews and assessments, QAA ensures that institutions adhere to rigorous criteria, providing students with a high-quality learning experience.
Studying in the UK offers numerous advantages, and one of the key reasons is the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF). TEF evaluates and recognizes universities for their high-quality teaching, learning environment, and student outcomes. This means that students can expect the exceptional teaching methods, innovative approaches, and comprehensive support systems during their studies.
Foundation Top-Up Degree/Premasters
Foundation
A program designed to bridge the gap between secondary education and undergraduate study. It helps students develop the necessary academic and English language skills for entry into a degree program.
Top-Up Degree
A one-year program that allows Individuals with relevant prior qualifications, such as an HND or Foundation Degree, to “top up” their qualification to a full bachelor’s degree.
Premasters
A program specifically designed for students who do not meet the entry requirements for a master’s degree.
Undergraduate Degree
Honours Degree
A traditional undergraduate degree that typically lasts for 3-4 years. It includes in-depth study of a specific subject and can include a research or dissertation component.
Sandwich Course
A program that includes a work placement or internship, usually lasting for a year, between academic terms. It provides students with valuable industry experience and enhances their employability.
Integrated Course
Combines an undergraduate degree with a Master’s degree, allowing students to complete both qualifications in a shorter time frame. It offers a seamless progression from UG to PG studies.
Undergraduate Degree
England, Northern Ireland and Wales: Most undergraduate degrees have a standard duration of three years. However, some courses, such as those in medicine, architecture, and engineering, may have longer durations, often four to five years.
Scotland
Undergraduate degrees in Scotland typically have a duration of four years. The Scottish degree system is based on a four-year undergraduate program, which includes an additional year of study compared to other parts of the UK.
Post-Graduate Degree
Taught Masters: Taught Master’s programs in the UK usually have a duration of 1 year for full-time study.
Research Masters (MRes): Research Master’s (MRes) programs typically have a duration of 1-2 years, depending on the nature and scope of the research project.
PhD/Doctoral Degrees
Doctoral programs in the UK generally require 3-4 years of full-time study.
Part Time and Post Study Work Permit
Part Time Work
1. International students studying at a recognized UK institution are generally allowed to work part-time during their studies up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours per week during holidays.
2. Part-time work can be a valuable opportunity to gain work experience, to supplement income, and to develop transferable skills.
3. As of April 1, 2023, the minimum wage is £6.83 to £11.95 per hour depending upon the location of the employer and age of the student. The minimum wage is reviewed annually and can be increased.
Post-Study Work Permit (Graduate Immigration Route)
1. Starting from the academic year 2020/2021, graduates who complete a degree at the undergraduate level or above are eligible to apply for a 2-year post-study work visa.
2. The Graduate Route allows international graduates to work in the UK at any skill level and switch to other work visas or settlement routes if they meet the requirements.
3. Eligibility for the Graduate Route requires completion of a degree from a recognized UK institution and compliance with immigration rules during the study period.
Study Visa Requirement Set by UKVI
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
You must have an unconditional offer from a recognized UK institution that holds a Tier 4 sponsor license. University will issue you a CAS, which is a unique reference number required for your visa application.
Financial Requirements
You need to demonstrate that you have enough funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses in the UK. The specific amount will depend on your chosen institution (1year Tuition Fees) and location (£12,006 Inside London and £9207 Outside London) either through personal savings or scholarships.
English Language Proficiency
You must prove your English language proficiency by meeting minimum score requirements in an approved English language test, such as IELTS or TOEFL. The required scores vary depending on the level of study and the institution.
Academic Qualifications and Gap Justification
Academic qualifications and gap justification are essential for obtaining a UK student visa. Provide your educational documents and explain any gaps in your education to demonstrate your eligibility and help the visa authorities assess your application.
Tuberculosis (TB) Test
If you are staying in the UK for more than six months, you will need to undergo a tuberculosis (TB) test at an approved clinic in India.
Visa Application
Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you can apply for a UK student visa online through the UKVI website. The UKVI student visa application fee is £348. Additional fees include the biometrics appointment fee of £19.20 and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is £470 per year for stays longer than 6 months. The total cost of a UKVI student visa application is typically £837.20.
General Parameters
Cost of Study in the UK
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees for international students in the UK are typically higher than for UK students. Undergraduate and postgraduate both the tuition fees range from £11,000 to £39,000 per year.
Living Costs
Living costs in the UK vary depending on where you live and your lifestyle. However, you can expect to pay around £1,000 GBP to £1,500 GBP per month for accommodation, food, transport, and other expenses. By securing a part-time job, you can effectively cover your all-living expenses while studying in the UK.
