Deciding where you want to study is a deeply personal choice, but there are a few general ideas you should consider. To make things simpler for you, we put together the following Choosing a university checklist:
1. Think about which of the following experiences you want to have during your studies and choose what fits best with you:
𝅇 A big-city life and cultural diversity in large university hubs like London, Birmingham, or Manchester
𝅇 A more relaxed lifestyle where you could experience the more traditional aspects of British culture specific to smaller cities like Bath, York, or Southampton
2. Decide how important a university’s reputation is to you:
𝅇 A high-ranking university, like the ones belonging to the Russell Group, will look more impressive on your CV because these are universities that have a reputation across the world for being very good and teaching the smartest and most talented people. Attenting one of them will give you more opportunities, but it will be harder to get in, more expensive, competitive, and more focused on academic results.
𝅇 A university that doesn’t rank as high will probably offer you a more inclusive and relaxed environment. These universities are often top quality as well, but less famous. You will face easier admission and enjoy a more flexible schedule
3. Read student reviews to learn how other students feel at that university. If you access a programme of study on our portal, you can read tens of student reviews for each study programme. And if you’re still in doubt, try chatting with students who are currently studying at universities you are interested in.
4. Research how well a university performs in your particular field of study by checking Meta-rankings in the UK, which combines the latest data from the most prestigious university ranking systems in the world.
Its centuries-old tradition, high standards of teaching and commitment to providing students with a world-class education, lead to the UK having over 100 world-ranking universities. Let’s have a look at the top 5 universities in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, as listed by Studyportals University Meta Ranking:
England has the most universities in the UK that rank in international ranking systems. This is not surprising, given its prestigious academic tradition. Universities in England are recognised for their academic rigour and ability to develop leaders and innovators across various industries. Studying here gives access to centuries-old academic traditions and cutting-edge facilities. England’s top five higher education institutions are worldwide VIPs (so you might have heard their names before – wink, wink):
𝅇 University of Oxford
𝅇 University of Cambridge
𝅇 Imperial
𝅇 UCL
𝅇 King’s College London
Scotland boasts some of the world’s leading universities, known for their high-quality teaching and research. With over 83,000 international students from more than 180 countries, Scotland offers a vibrant multicultural environment. Three Scottish universities are ranked in the Times Higher Education Top 200 universities globally, reflecting their international reputation. Here are the top five:
𝅇 The University of Edinburgh
𝅇 University of Glasgow
𝅇 University of St. Andrews
𝅇 University of Aberdeen
𝅇 University of Dundee
Wales is like a hidden gem for international students: think top-notch education, jaw-dropping scenery, and a culture packed with history and charm. Wales is known for its friendly and inclusive society. Over 25,000 international students from more than 130 countries choose to study in Wales each year, reflecting its multicultural appeal.
𝅇 Cardiff University
𝅇 Swansea University
𝅇 Bangor University
Northern Ireland combines high-quality education with affordable living, a vibrant cultural scene, and stunning natural landscapes, making it an ideal destination for international students. It boasts one of the lowest student cost of living among UK regions, allowing students to enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank.
𝅇 Queen’s University Belfast
𝅇 Ulster University
The biggest student hub in the UK is of course London. The city was declared Best Student city by QS, and it has no less than 18 ranked universities. It’s huge – the third biggest city in Europe with a population of over 9,3 million people, multicultural, and very diverse.
But big-city life is only for some, and the UK offers many other excellent student hubs. In the North of England, you have Manchester with five big universities, BBC and ITV studios and many thriving businesses. Even further to the North, another thriving city full of charm and history is Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, home to one of the best five universities in the UK.
If you want your experience of studying in the UK to be even more relaxed, so you can enjoy that orderly and calm British life, consider the famous cities of Oxford and Cambridge, as well as Bath or Liverpool with their highly ranked universities.
British students pay different tuition fees from international students (including EU students). Fees are also different depending on the university or study programme you choose.
Tuition fees for international undergraduate students range between £9,000 and £33,500 per year, while tuition fees for international students at postgraduate level cost between £7,000 – £36,400 per year, the average programme being £20,000. For UK nationals, tuition fees at undergraduate level range between £1,820 and £9,250, while postgraduate courses cost between £3,350 and £22,300.
If cost is a big factor for you when choosing a university, the cheapest tuition fees for international students according to QS TopUniversities are Coventry University, Royal Agricultural University, and University of Suffolk. Also, keep in mind that online programmes are usually cheaper than campus-based ones. We have over 700 online Bachelor’s programmes in the UK, the cheapest only £1,784 per year and over 2,500 online Master’s programmes, starting at £540 per year.
Sometimes, students can benefit from a tuition fee waiver, meaning a discount applied to your overall tuition fee. However, this is usually available only for UK and sometimes EU students. Check on your university’s page to be sure. Also, remember that there are plenty of scholarships available for both national and international students.
Use the ‘Tuition fee’ filter on the left menu of our Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD search pages to find the programme best suited for your budget. You can also sort the list of available programmes by Lowest tuition fee, by clicking the top right Sort button.
Unfortunately, there is no free education in the UK for international students or for home students, but there are ways to go around it and minimise or completely reduce your costs during the years of study.
Home students have the option to apply for a Student Loan which will cover their undergraduate tuition fees in full, and they only have to pay it back once they start earning enough money to classify for repayments. To apply for the loan for your undergraduate studies, you have to access Student Finance on Gov.UK once you have an offer from university. In addition, home students can also apply for a loan for their Master’s degree of up to £11,836, but this may not fully cover the cost of the programme.
As an international student, if you’re wondering how to study in the UK for free, the only option is to win a scholarship that fully covers your tuition fees and potentially living costs as well. While these are very competitive, there are plenty available, so go on and check Mastersportal for all scholarships available to study in the UK.
Finally, if you want to do a doctorate in the UK, whether you are a national or international student, the only way to do it tuition free is through a scholarship for PhD studies, but you can also get a job as an assistant within your university and earn some money while researching as well.
Many universities, private organisations, NGOs, and government institutions in the United Kingdom offer scholarships and grants to international students.
Each scholarship or grant has its own set of eligibility criteria. Some are awarded for academic excellence, others are given based on financial need, while many are specifically designed for students coming from developing or underdeveloped countries.
You can usually apply for financial aid after you receive your offer of admission from a UK university. In fact, many scholarships allow applications even after your programme has started. There’s nothing to lose by applying – and much to gain if you are successful.
For a complete overview, check out our full list of scholarships available in the UK.
There are several kinds of financial aid open to international students in the UK. The most common are scholarships, but you may also find bursaries, grants, and loans.
Scholarships can be based on merit (academic performance), financial need, or other special criteria. For example:
𝅇 Scholarships for excellent grades.
𝅇 Scholarships for students from low-income families.
𝅇 Scholarships reserved for students from certain regions.
There is no official limit to how many scholarships you can apply for. Apply to as many as possible, but make sure you meet the eligibility criteria before submitting applications. Prioritize those where you have the highest chance of success.
Our database lists hundreds of scholarship opportunities in the UK, making it an excellent starting point for your search.
Other credible sources include:
𝅇 Studyportals Scholarship – International Distinction Award (open to all international students).
𝅇 University official websites – many universities offer their own scholarships and bursaries.
𝅇 Government Scholarships (British Council / UK Government):
𝅇 The Chevening Scholarships (Master’s)
𝅇 The Commonwealth Scholarships (PhD and Master’s)
𝅇 GREAT Scholarships
University-offered Scholarships:
𝅇 Gates Cambridge Scholarship
𝅇 Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship
𝅇 University of Bristol Think Big
𝅇 Imperial College London Scholarships
𝅇 GEMS International Undergraduate Scholarship
𝅇 Undergraduate Global Excellence Scholarships
Research Scholarships:
𝅇 Euraxess UK Portal – designed for PhD students and postdoctoral researchers. It provides funding information, job vacancies, research networks, and more.
Applying for a UK scholarship can feel overwhelming, but following the right steps will make it manageable:
1. Check eligibility criteria – Confirm that you meet all requirements, such as academic results, nationality, age, or subject area.
2. Prepare required documents – Usually includes transcripts, a motivation letter, recommendation letters, and proof of English proficiency.
3. Complete the application form – Fill out carefully, ensuring no details are missed.
4. Submit your application – Double-check everything before clicking submit.
5. Wait for a response – If shortlisted, you may be invited for an interview or asked for additional documents.
6. Accept the scholarship – If awarded, review the terms and conditions before confirming.
While requirements vary depending on the funding provider, most scholarship applications will ask for:
𝅇 Personal information.
𝅇 Academic background: transcripts, degrees, and certificates.
𝅇 Letters of recommendation from teachers, professors, or employers.
𝅇 Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, etc.).
𝅇 Financial information: how you will cover remaining costs if the scholarship is partial.
𝅇 A motivation letter (or scholarship essay) explaining why you need financial aid and how it will support your academic and career goals.
𝅇 Additional materials, such as writing samples, a portfolio, or a list of awards and honours.
This motivation letter is often the most important part of your application. Take the time to make it strong and personal.
All UK applications are made through the UCAS website. You can submit only one application for each study cycle and within this application you can select up to 5 different study programmes. Unlike in many other countries where you must tailor your application to each individual university, here you need a general application.
The UK academic year typically starts in late September or early October and ends in June. The exact dates may vary depending on the institution and the course, but most universities follow a similar timeline.
During the academic year, there are three main terms:
𝅇 Autumn term (September to December),
𝅇 Spring term (January to April),
𝅇 Summer term (from May until late June).
These terms are broken up into several weeks of teaching and a few weeks of holidays or exams:
𝅇 Christmas Break: (mid-December to early January)
𝅇 Easter Break: (two weeks, during spring)
𝅇 Summer Break: (the longest break of the year, from June to late September)
𝅇 Half-Term Breaks: (roughly every six to eight weeks throughout the academic year)
𝅇 Bank Holidays (public holidays in the UK)
Some institutions may have slight variations on this structure, but the three-term system is the standard for most UK universities.
Most universities and courses in the UK have the application deadline in January for courses starting September the same year. But Cambridge and Oxford as well as programmes in Medicine will likely have an earlier deadline. Make sure to check UCAS for the exact dates each year.
You can still apply to university after the deadline through Clearing, from July until October, but you must keep in mind that this round of applications is only for the places left unfilled in the regular application process, so you should only use it if you didn’t manage to secure a place beforehand.
Each UCAS application contains this list of documents you need to apply for university:
𝅇 Personal details
𝅇 Education history
𝅇 Employment history
𝅇 Programmes selection
𝅇 Personal Statement (a very important part of you application)
𝅇 Reference (from a current teacher or employer, depending on your situation, written in English)
𝅇 Payment of the application fee
Next step is to await an answer. If you are accepted, you can receive a conditional offer or an unconditional offer.
A conditional offer means that your acceptance depends on meeting some conditions in the future, like obtaining certain results at exams or language tests. An unconditional offer means you already meet all requirements and are definitely accepted.
If you want to study in the UK, your programme will be taught in English, so you must have a certain level of proficiency in order to perform your academic work. That’s why you will definitely need to meet certain English language requirements for UK universities. To do that, you have to take one of the approved tests and obtain the minimum score required by your university.
Commonly accepted UK language tests:
▪️IELTS
You’ll get a score of 0 to 9 for each category (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking), as well as an overall band score. Generally, UK universities ask for a minimum score of 6.0 or 6.5, with some more reputed universities requiring 7.0 or 7.5.
▪️TOEFL
The four sections (Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing) have a score of 0 to 30 points each. You can get a maximum of 120 points. Many universities ask for a score of 70-80 to be admitted, while the more famous ones like Oxford and Cambridge ask for a score over 100 points.
▪️PTE Academic
You can obtain a score between 10 and 90 points in the three sections Speaking & Writing, Reading, and Listening. To study for a degree level course, UK universities usually ask for a minimum of 59 points.
▪️Cambridge English Advanced
The Cambridge exams range from pre A1 – Starters to C2 Proficiency which means scores starting at 80 points and going up to 230 points. For UK universities, you need to obtain the C1 Advanced certificate with a score range of 180-200 points.
▪️Duolingo English test
The test is gaining more and more popularity and is already accepted by thousands of institutions worldwide. You’ll get a score between 10 and 160 points, where 95-100 points is the equivalent of the 6.0 IELTS score.
If you are a Bangladeshi student planning to pursue a full degree in the UK, you will need a Student Visa (previously Tier 4). This visa allows you to study at a licensed UK institution and live in the country for the duration of your course.
You must apply online through GOV.UK, pay the visa fee, and, if required, the healthcare surcharge. Once you complete your application, you will be issued a GWF reference number. This number is important for tracking or making changes to your application. You will then be directed to the VFS Global website to book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre in Bangladesh, where your biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) will be taken.
▪️Visa Fee: £490
▪️Healthcare Surcharge: £776 per year
▪️Proof of Funds:
● £1,334 per month if studying in London
● £1,023 per month if studying outside London
▪️TB Test Results: Mandatory for Bangladeshi applicants
▪️English Language Proficiency: Proof of skills through IELTS or another accepted test
▪️Biometrics: Required
▪️Interview: Usually required as part of the process
▪️The visa is valid for the course duration plus one additional month.
▪️The earliest you can apply is six months before your course starts.
▪️Visa decisions are normally made within three weeks of your application.
▪️You are not required to show proof of accommodation or criminal record checks at the time of application.
▪️Medical check is not required, but TB testing is compulsory.
▪️If you are studying a postgraduate research course or receive a government-funded scholarship, you may be eligible to bring dependents with you.
▪️After completing your studies, you may be eligible to switch to a Graduate Visa or a Skilled Worker Visa, depending on your career path.
Student housing in the UK fills up quickly, especially in cities like London, Birmingham or Glasgow. It’s best to book your room as early as you can.
University Living helps you find a verified place fast, with bills included, so there’s one less thing to worry about.
When you’re looking for student housing in the UK, you have two options:
On-campus accommodation: these are halls of residence managed by your university; they are basically blocks of flats where hundreds of other students live. Additional costs such as water, heating and electricity fees are included most of the time, and as much as possible, first-year and international students have a guaranteed place if they apply on time.
This type of student accommodation in the UK generally offers small, clean rooms, with a bed, wardrobe, and desk. The kitchen and common room are shared, and sometimes the bathroom is as well. You can have a lot of fun living in a hall of residence and fully immerse yourself in student life, but will also need to learn how to share and live with people you’ve just met.
Off-campus student housing: this option can mean private student housing apartments or halls, where you will have more privacy, less sharing, and probably a more modern environment. Of course, this can come at a higher monthly cost. At the same time, another option to live off-campus is to share a house with a couple of other friends. The cost will be more affordable, and you won’t share the place with people you don’t know. However, you need to find the place yourself, sometimes pay rent in advance, and handle your own additional costs like heating, water, internet or electricity payments.
In order to know when to apply for university accommodation on campus, you should check the university’s website for specific deadlines. The rule of thumb is to start applying once you have an unconditional offer from the university and before you arrive in the UK.
On the other hand, if you prefer off-campus student housing, start applying as soon as you know you will start studying at that university to have a better chance of getting the accommodation you want.
Extra resources for finding student housing apartments
▪️Amber, a portal listing verified private student accommodation in over 250 cities worldwide.
▪️Student, options for private student housing in over 400 cities across the world, with 24-hour support from the booking team.
▪️Unite Students, private accommodation in the UK, with all utilities included, as well as the option to book a shared accommodation with one or more of your friends.
▪️Right Move, a portal where you can search for private student housing in the UK, on-campus halls of residence, and private halls close to your university.
The average cost of living in the UK with rent, food, transport, and entertainment included is around £12,000-£15,000 per year.
London, the country’s capital, has by far the highest cost of living in the UK. Here, you might end up paying almost double the amount you would pay in the rest of the country. The average monthly rent in London is over £1,000 for a small apartment where you pay the bills or a room in a private student hall with bills included, while in other cities, the average cost is around £700 per month.
For students in the UK, the cost of living varies according to each region. Belfast in Northern Ireland, Cardiff in Wales, and Glasgow in Scotland are more affordable locations with an average monthly cost of living around £1,000 – £1,300, while Manchester in England and Edinburgh in Scotland are more expensive, the average being £1,400 – £1,700 respectively. London remains the most expensive location in the UK with a monthly average cost of £2,500. This data is based on Numbeo and refers to the living expenses of a single person, however as a student you will be able to get different discounts and promotions, so your actual expenditure will probably be smaller if you budget your money well.
On average, a meal in a mid-range restaurant costs around £15-£20, while a week’s worth of groceries for one person can cost anywhere from £40 to £60. However, international students can save money by cooking at home, shopping at local supermarkets and taking advantage of student discounts. The average monthly cost of food for a student in the UK is around £250 ($338).
Are international students allowed to work in the UK?
Generally yes, but there are some restrictions. The maximum number of working hours for international students in the UK depends on your exact Visa conditions. Usually, the limit is 20 hours during term time and full-time during holidays, but sometimes, international students can be restricted to only 10 hours during term times. To be sure, you must check what conditions are set on your Visa. Furthermore, your university may also impose further restrictions.
If you are eligible, the first place to search for a job is your university’s career page where they post jobs, specifically for students. The following are some popular student job sites that offer part-time, full-time, temporary, and seasonal work opportunities, as well as internships and graduate schemes. Many of them share useful information on job hunting, CV writing, and interview preparation:
▪️Reed
The UK is generally considered a safe country: according to the latest data available from the Global Peace Index 2021, which ranks countries based on their level of safety and security, the UK is ranked as the 42nd safest country out of 163 countries worldwide.
Additionally, a survey conducted by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) in 2018 showed that 87% of international students in the UK felt safe living in the country. This was based on responses from over 2,000 international students.
Universities in the UK take the safety and security of their students very seriously, and many have dedicated support services and advice available to help students stay safe. However, like in any country, there are still some risks that students should be aware of, such as pickpocketing, petty theft, and online fraud. It’s good to remember some of these common-sense personal safety measures that you would use anywhere else in the world:
1. Make sure you know the emergency numbers: 999 or 112
2. Avoid dark corners or streets at night
3. Pay extra attention when you take money out from ATMs
4. Try not to walk around alone at night
5. Be mindful of pickpocketing
The healthcare system in the UK is called National Health Service (NHS), and to be able to access its services as an international student, you need to pay a £470 Healthcare surcharge along with your Visa application. This is enough to cover your healthcare needs.
Although more expensive, private providers are an alternative to the NHS and offer faster access to specialists and shorter waiting times. There are various private healthcare providers in the UK, including BUPA, AXA PPP, and VitalityHealth, among others.
You may also get healthcare through your university, which may have its own healthcare facilities or partnerships with private providers.
Your UK Student Visa will cover your basic healthcare needs through the NHS (National Health Service). However, many students prefer to take out private insurance for additional benefits such as emergency assistance, faster access to specialists, or financial support in case of long-term illness.
You can also request Aon Student Insurance online. It is designed for international students, researchers, Erasmus participants, and education staff, offering flexible packages suited to your situation.
Every UK university offers a wide range of student support services to help you throughout your studies. These services may include:
▪️Disability support
▪️Counselling and mental health services
▪️Academic and language support
▪️Orientation programmes for new students
▪️Sexual harassment and violence support
▪️Special needs services
Most universities also have a dedicated International Office where you can get advice on immigration, visas, funding, and employment regulations.
Alongside your university, several organisations in the UK are dedicated to supporting international students:
▪️Student Minds – a UK charity supporting students with mental health issues.
▪️The British Council – provides extensive resources on studying and living in the UK.
▪️UKCISA (UK Council for International Student Affairs) – offers guidance on visas, fees, money, and arrival.
▪️The Erasmus Student Network (ESN) – connects international students through social events, cultural trips, and language exchanges.
▪️International Students House (ISH) – provides accommodation, events, and support for international students in London.
▪️The Student Union (part of the NUS) – represents students’ rights and offers an active community for involvement and networking.
Studying in the UK is not only about academics – there are plenty of affordable or even free activities to enjoy.
Most museums in the UK are free to enter and feature interactive experiences, making them a great option for students. From the British Museum in London to smaller local galleries, you’ll find exciting collections to explore.
▪️London – Visit world-famous icons like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and enjoy free museums.
▪️Bath – Explore 2,000-year-old Roman baths and stunning Georgian architecture.
▪️Edinburgh – A medieval city with Edinburgh Castle, Botanic Gardens, and Camera Obscura.
▪️Canterbury – Home to the famous Canterbury Cathedral, Roman Museum, and Franciscan Gardens.
▪️Southampton – Discover the Titanic Exhibition and SeaCity Museum.
1. The Lake District – England’s largest national park, perfect for hiking, climbing, and lakeside adventures.
2. Scilly Islands – A summer paradise with beaches that feel almost tropical.
3. The Scottish Highlands – Castles, mountains, lakes, skiing in winter, and hiking in summer.
4. Stonehenge – The prehistoric monument in Salisbury, a mystery and engineering marvel.
5. Cotswolds – Beautiful countryside villages, declared an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.Travelling in the UK
The UK has excellent transport options, though costs vary.
▪️National Rail – Convenient but often more expensive.
▪️Coaches (National Express, Megabus) – Budget-friendly intercity travel.
▪️Local Buses and Trams – Affordable travel within cities.
To save money, international students can apply for special travel cards:
▪️16–25 Railcard – Discounts on train fares for ages 16–25.
▪️18+ Student Oyster Photocard (London) – 30% off Travelcards, Bus & Tram passes.
▪️Young Persons Coachcard – Discounts on National Express coaches (ages 16–26).
▪️ISIC (International Student Identity Card) – Discounts on travel, food, entertainment, and more in over 125 countries.
As an international student in the UK, you will have many opportunities to improve your English language skills. Some of the most effective methods include:
▪️Practicing with native speakers in daily conversations.
▪️Watching English television shows and movies.
▪️Reading English books, journals, and newspapers.
▪️Attending an English language course, either at your university or a private language school.
▪️Using language learning apps such as Duolingo or Babbel.
The UK is home to numerous language schools and colleges that offer specialized English courses for international students. These programmes are designed to strengthen your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, ensuring you are confident in academic and social settings.
After graduation, your student visa will expire, which means you will need to switch to a different type of visa if you plan to stay in the UK. Common options include a work visa or a residency permit.
To qualify for a work visa, you typically need a job offer from a UK-based employer. Once employed, your next step will be arranging suitable accommodation. As an expat, you can continue to access the National Health Service (NHS), but many choose to purchase private health insurance for faster services and additional benefits.
Expat Communities in the UK
The UK is home to a large and diverse expat population. Some of the most represented nationalities include:
▪️Poland
▪️Republic of Ireland
▪️India
▪️Romania
▪️Italy
▪️Portugal
▪️Spain
▪️Pakistan
▪️Nigeria
▪️USA
Living in the UK as an expat often means becoming part of a vibrant and supportive community. Online forums and expat networks provide valuable guidance on everything from housing to healthcare.
▪️Expatica – a comprehensive resource on living and working in the UK.
▪️InterNations – an international platform where expats can connect with others in their city or region.
▪️HSBC Expat Services – banking and financial advice tailored for expatriates.
▪️Expat.com – a global site with practical information for expats around the world.
There is no single “best” place for expatriates to live in the UK. Larger cities such as London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh offer a wide range of job opportunities, cultural activities, and vibrant social scenes. However, smaller towns and cities may appeal to those seeking a slower pace of life, lower living costs, and closer-knit communities.
Once you graduate, your student visa will expire, and you cannot continue to stay in the UK under the same status. To remain in the country, you must apply for a different type of visa or, if you already qualify, for permanent residency or citizenship.
Students from the EU, India, and Pakistan make up some of the largest international student communities in the UK, and many follow different immigration pathways after graduation.
Post-Study Visa Options
After completing your studies, the following visa routes are available depending on your circumstances:
▪️The most common route for international students.
▪️Allows graduates of UK higher education institutions to remain in the country for up to 2 years (or 3 years for PhD graduates).
▪️For those with a confirmed job offer from a UK employer approved by the Home Office.
▪️Employers must issue a certificate of sponsorship for a role that appears on the official list of eligible occupations.
▪️Valid for up to 5 years and can be renewed indefinitely.
▪️For highly skilled individuals who can demonstrate leadership or exceptional promise in:
● Arts and Culture
● Academia and Research
● Digital Technology
Valid for 5 years with the option to extend if eligibility continues.
● For graduates with an innovative business idea not already established in the UK.
● Valid for 2 years and cannot be extended. Successful applicants may later transition to other business or entrepreneur visas.
▪️Generally available after 5 continuous years of residence in the UK.
▪️In some cases, eligibility may be reached in as little as 2–3 years, depending on the visa type previously held.
▪️Once eligible, you should apply as soon as possible if your goal is permanent settlement.
▪️You may apply for citizenship 12 months after obtaining ILR or Settled Status.
▪️Requirements include:
● Proof of English language proficiency.
● Passing the Life in the UK Test (24 questions on UK traditions, history, and culture).
The UK Home Office generally aims to process most immigration applications within 3 weeks or less. However, timelines can vary depending on:
▪️The visa category applied for.
▪️The volume of applications being processed.
▪️The complexity of your case or need for additional documents.
Some applications may take longer, especially if further evidence or an interview is required.
It is also important to budget for visa application and processing fees, which vary depending on your country of origin and the type of visa you are applying for.
The United Kingdom offers a wide range of job opportunities for international students after graduation. Most opportunities are concentrated in large cities such as London, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Edinburgh, Leeds, Cardiff, and Belfast. Among these, London naturally has the largest job market, attracting graduates from across the world.
To improve your chances of finding full-time employment after graduation, it is highly recommended that you gain work experience during your studies. Many students take on part-time jobs, internships, or voluntary work while studying, as employers value practical experience alongside academic qualifications.
The following websites are excellent resources for finding jobs after graduation in the UK:
▪️Reed – one of the UK’s largest job portals.
▪️UK Government Jobs Platform – official vacancies across different sectors.
▪️Prospects – tailored for students and recent graduates.
▪️The Guardian Jobs Section – professional roles in various industries.
▪️Adecco – global recruitment platform with UK job listings.
In addition, most universities maintain their own career services and job boards, which are highly valuable for international graduates starting their careers.
If you wish to continue your education in the UK after completing your first degree, there are several pathways available:
▪️Master’s Degree – Apply if you already hold a Bachelor’s degree. Applications can be made through UCAS or directly via individual university websites. There are over 1,900 Master’s programmes available in the UK.
▪️Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) – For research-based degrees if you already have a Master’s qualification. The UK offers more than 2,000 PhD programmes across various disciplines.
▪️Postgraduate Diplomas and Certificates – Shorter, specialised qualifications that provide advanced knowledge in a particular field.
▪️Professional Qualifications – For careers in areas such as law, medicine, or teaching, where additional certifications beyond a degree are required. These are usually regulated by professional bodies or associations.
Do international students need a visa to study in the UK?
Yes. A valid student visa is required, depending on your level and length of study, as well as your nationality and individual circumstances.
Is studying in the UK worth it?
Yes. The UK is renowned for its high-quality education, diverse courses taught in English, work opportunities during study, generous scholarships, and multicultural learning environment.
What is the cost of studying in the UK?
▪️Undergraduate tuition fees: £11,400 – £38,000 per year.
▪️Postgraduate tuition fees: £9,000 – £30,000 per year.
How much money is required to study in the UK?
The average cost of living, including rent, food, transport, and entertainment, is around £12,000–£15,000 per year.
Can I study in the UK without IELTS?
Most UK universities require proof of English proficiency. IELTS is the most common test, but alternatives such as TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English Advanced are also widely accepted.
What are the requirements to study in the UK?
Applications generally include:
● Education history and transcripts
● Proof of English proficiency
● A personal statement
● Reference letters (academic or professional)
● Proof of financial support
● A valid Student Visa
What exams are required to study in the UK?
Entry requirements depend on the course. For many undergraduate programmes, students take A Levels (or their equivalent in your home country). Each university provides a list of accepted qualifications.
How can I get permanent residency while studying in the UK?
You can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after living and working in the UK for five years. To qualify, you must also pass the Life in the UK Test and an approved English language test.
