Ultimate Guide to Study in the UK for Indian Students:

The United Kingdom is one of the most popular study destinations in the world thanks to its famous academic reputation, innovative research, and excellent standard of living! In this article, we have explored different requirements of Indian Students desirous of pursuing higher studies in the UK and how they can be met. Let’s Jump in!

Benefits of studying in the UK for Indian Students:

World-class education: Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College London are just a few of the world’s top universities that can be found in the UK. The intellectual quality and high standards of UK universities are well-known.

Students from all over the world attend schools in the UK, a country with a relatively diversified population. This gives pupils the chance to engage with and learn from individuals from other cultural backgrounds.

Rich culture and history: Students can personally experience the UK’s rich culture and history. A wide range of cultural events and festivals take place all year long, in addition to several historical monuments, museums, and other attractions.

Strong career prospects: Employers throughout the world are in strong demand for UK graduates. Since UK institutions are renowned for their rigorous academic standards and emphasis on employability skills, this is the case.

English language proficiency: Studying in the UK is an excellent approach to advance your English language abilities because it is an English-speaking nation. This could be a very useful asset for you in the future.

Key Highlights

Feature	Details
Number of Universities	179
Average Cost of Studying (Undergraduate)	₹28Lakhs P.A
Average Cost of Studying (Postgraduate)	₹32Lakhs P.A
Average Cost of Living	₹12Lakhs P.A
Average Graduate Salary	₹32Lakhs P.A
Average Postgraduate Salary	₹40Lakhs P.A

Indian students’ admission requirements for universities in the UK:

Indian students are required to meet the following criteria for admission in order to study in the UK:

Required number of years in school:

• Twelve years of schooling in undergraduate programs (10+2 system)
• 16 years of education, including a bachelor’s degree, for postgraduate studies

One of the most frequently asked questions is whether a 3-year bachelor’s degree from India is accepted in the UK? and the answer is yes, most UK universities accept a 3-year bachelor’s degree from India for entrance to most of the postgraduate courses. This includes bachelor’s degrees like BA or BSC.

Marks necessary:

• Undergraduate programs: The majority of colleges demand an average grade point average of 70–80% in the 12th grade, with certain prestigious universities requiring higher marks.
• Postgraduate programs: Most colleges require a bachelor’s degree with a first- or second-class upper division.

English language proficiency:

• proficiency in English is a requirement for all overseas students who wish to pursue academic studies in the UK. IELTS and TOEFL are the two English proficiency exams that UK institutions most frequently accept.
• Depending on the university and the degree of study, different minimum English language requirements apply. However, for undergraduate studies, most universities demand a score of 6.0 on the IELTS, and for postgraduate courses, a score of 6.5 or higher.
• There are many Universities in the UK which does not require an IELTS score instead they accept your class 12 and 10th grade grades as evidence of your English language skills. To apply for a degree in the UK without taking the IELTS, CBSE students need to have a minimum of 70% in English in their 12th grade. For further information, see this article.https://eduler.in/study-in-the-uk-without-ielts/

The table below gives a snapshot of the minimum marks required in different English language tests for admission to Universities in the UK.

English language test	The minimum score required for admission in universities of the UK
IELTS Academic	6.0 overall, with no band below 5.5
TOEFL iBT	90 overall, with no section score below 20
PTE Academic	62 overall, with no section score below 54
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)	169 overall, with no score below 162
Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)	185 overall, with no score below 169

Other documents required:

For admission to a UK university, Indian students may also need to provide the following records in addition to their academic marksheets and results from their English language proficiency exams:

• A Copy of their passport
• A personal statement
• Recommendation letters
• Proof of financial support

Top 10 Popular Courses among Indian Students in the UK and their details:

Top 10 courses for Indian students in the UK	Duration	Tuition fees per year (in INR)	Top Universities	QS World University Ranking 2023
MBBS	5 years	70,00,000 – 1,20,00,000	Imperial College London, University College London, King’s College London, University of Manchester, University of Edinburgh, University of Glasgow	8, 8, 35, 27, 20, 156
Computer Science	3 years	18,00,000 – 35,00,000	Imperial College London, University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, University College London, University of Edinburgh, King’s College London	8, 7, 4, 8, 20, 35
Engineering	3 years	18,00,000 – 35,00,000	Imperial College London, University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, University College London, University of Edinburgh, University of Manchester	8, 7, 4, 8, 20, 27
Business Analytics	1 year	18,00,000 – 35,00,000	Imperial College London, University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, London School of Economics and Political Science, University of Manchester, King’s College London	8, 7, 4, 22, 27, 35
Data Science	1 year	18,00,000 – 35,00,000	Imperial College London, University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, University College London, University of Manchester, King’s College London	8, 7, 4, 8, 27, 35
MBA	1 year	40,00,000 – 75,00,000	London Business School, University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, University of Manchester, King’s College London	2, 7, 4, 8, 27, 35
MIM (Masters in Management)	1 year	30,00,000 – 60,00,000	London Business School, University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, University of Manchester, King’s College London	2, 7, 4, 8, 27, 35
Law	1 year	25,00,000 – 45,00,000	University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, London School of Economics and Political Science, University College London, King’s College London, Queen Mary University of London	7, 4, 22, 8, 35, 119
Accounting and Finance	1 year	20,00,000 – 35,00,000	London School of Economics and Political Science, University College London, King’s College London, University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, University of Manchester	22, 8, 35, 7, 4, 27
Economics	1 year	20,00,000 – 35,00,000	University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, London School of Economics and Political Science, University College London, King’s College London, University of Manchester	4, 7, 22, 8, 35, 27

Please note these are tuition fees for top institutes in the UK, there are other affordable universities also.

What Exams Are Required to Study in the UK for Indian Students?

Subject-specific exams:

For several programs in the UK, Indian students may need to pass subject-specific exams in addition to English language competency tests.

• The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is used for business-related courses
• GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is used for postgraduate study in the majority of fields.
• BMAT (BioMedical Admissions Test) for programs in medicine and dentistry;
• LNAT (Law National Aptitude Test) for courses in law;
• UKCAT (UK Clinical Aptitude Test) for courses in medicine, dentistry, and veterinary science.

Documents required to study in the UK for Indian students:

• Copy of passport
• Academic marksheets from all previous schools and universities attended
• English language proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic)
• Personal statement
• Letters of recommendation
• Proof of financial support 

Additional documents required for PhD students:

• Research proposal
• Sample of written work (e.g., thesis, dissertation, or published paper)
• CV/resume 

Visa Requirements to Study in UK for Indian Students

Students from India who want to study in the UK must submit an application for a student visa. International students are able to stay in the UK for the duration of their education with the help of a student visa.

Eligibility criteria for a UK student visa:

• You must have been given a full-time course spot at a UK educational facility that is authorized by the UK government.
• While studying in the UK, you must be able to support yourself financially.
• The English language requirements for the course for which you are applying must be met.
• You must be tuberculosis-free.

Documents required for a UK student visa:

• A valid passport
• A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your UK educational institution
• Proof of financial support
• English language proficiency test scores
• A tuberculosis test certificate
• A visa application form
• A biometric visa fee

How to apply for a UK student visa:

A UK student visa can be obtained online or at a visa application center. You must register and complete the visa application form if you are applying online. All necessary documents must be uploaded as well. To apply for a visa through a visa application center, make an appointment and bring all necessary paperwork with you.

The processing period for visas:

For a UK student visa, the application period typically lasts six weeks. It is crucial to remember that the processing time can change depending on your unique situation.

Tips for Submitting a Good Application

Applying to UK universities can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of success:

1. Commence planning early. Early planning is crucial because the admission procedure for UK universities can be time-consuming. You will have plenty of time to compile the necessary paperwork, compose your personal statement, and get ready for any interviews.
2. Pick the appropriate universities for you. In the UK, there are more than 160 institutions, so it’s critical to compare them all and select the ones that are best for you. Think about things like the university’s location, size, and reputation in addition to the particular courses and programs it offers.
3. Develop effective application materials. The supporting documents you submit with your application, such as your personal statement and letters of recommendation, are crucial. Take the time to put up compelling resources that will highlight your academic accomplishments and prospects.
4. Stick to the due dates. You should submit your application by the due date. Late applications might not be taken into account.
5. Carefully proofread your application. When you’re completed, make sure to proofread it thoroughly to catch any grammar or spelling mistakes.

A Bridge to Your Future: Permanent Residency in the UK after Graduation

Graduating or completing your postgraduate studies in the UK opens up exciting possibilities, including the chance to build a permanent life in this vibrant country. The UK’s Graduate visa allows you to stay and work in the UK for up to two years after completing your studies, giving you valuable time to establish yourself in your chosen career and explore your options.

After successfully working in a skilled role for at least five years, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), also known as permanent residency. This grants you the right to live and work in the UK without restrictions, paving the way for a fulfilling life in this welcoming nation.

Here are some key benefits of obtaining permanent residency in the UK:

• Freedom to live and work: You are no longer subject to visa restrictions and have the same rights as UK citizens to live and work in the country.
• Access to social benefits: You become eligible for public healthcare and other social security benefits available to UK residents.
• Family reunification: You can sponsor your family members to join you in the UK.
• Travel flexibility: You can travel freely to and from the UK without requiring additional visas.
• Pathway to citizenship: After meeting specific requirements, you can apply for British citizenship and become a full citizen of the UK.

Cost of studying in the UK for Indian students

With its famous colleges and diversified student population, the UK is a favorite study-abroad destination for Indian students. However, especially for overseas students, the expense of attending school in the UK can be costly.

Tuition fees

International students’ tuition costs in the UK vary according to the university, the program of study, and the student’s country of origin. Tuition expenses for Indian students often range from £10,000 to £38,000 annually. The most expensive programs are those in business, engineering, and medicine.

Living expenses

Indian students will also need to set aside money for living expenditures such as housing, food, travel, and other bills. Depending on the location or municipality where the student is attending school, different living costs apply. Living costs in London, the most pricey city in the UK, are typically around £1,265 per month. Living costs outside of London are usually close to £1,015 per month.

Financial Aid Options

Indian students who are enrolled in UK universities have a variety of financial aid alternatives at their disposal. These consist of loans, bursaries, and scholarships. Indian students should carefully weigh their alternatives and submit financial aid applications as soon as possible.