Study in UK
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom or the UK, is a sovereign state located off the northwestern coast of mainland Europe. It comprises four neighboring island countries: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Although England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are “nations”, they are not officially independent countries. Instead, they are part of the country of the United Kingdom (UK)—and bound by the UK constitution. Each of the four UK countries has local governments, which manage local affairs, such as healthcare and other social services. A democratically-elected UK government oversees all national and international affairs, including student visas and other education related regulations.
The capital city, and the largest city of the UK, is London. It is also the capital of England. The capital of Scotland, Wales and Northern Island are Edinburgh, Cardiff, and Belfast respectively. The population of the UK is 67.7 million people (2019 estimate). The UK is a highly multicultural country, made up of people from many different cultural and religious backgrounds. In fact, nearly 15% of the residents identify themselves as an ethnic minority.
Facts about the United Kingdom
- Buckingham Palace has its own police station.
- The UK houses over a 100 universities.
- Over 300 other languages are spoken in London.
- UK is known for its excellent education system. UK is home to world recognized universities,
excellent in innovation and research. - Winchester was the first capital of England.
- French was the official language of England for over 300 years.
- The World Wide Web (WWW) was invented in England.
- 90 UK universities are ranked in the 2024 QS World University Rankings.
- 4 of the Top 10 universities in the world are in the UK – QS World University Rankings 2024.
- 28 Out of Top 200 Business schools in the world are in UK — QS Global MBA Rankings 2024.
MAJOR CITIES OF UK
There are currently a total of 69 such cities in the United Kingdom: 51 in England, seven in Scotland, six in Wales, and five in Northern Ireland
WEATHER
The United Kingdom straddles the higher mid-latitudes between 49° and 61° N on the western seaboard of Europe. Since the UK is always in or close to the path of the polar front jet stream, frequent changes in pressure and unsettled weather are typical. Many types of weather can be experienced in a single day. In general the climate of the UK is cool and often cloudy and rainy, and high temperatures are infrequent.
The climate in the United Kingdom is defined as a temperate oceanic climate. Northern Ireland, Wales and western parts of England and Scotland, being closest to the Atlantic Ocean, are generally the mildest, wettest and windiest regions of the UK, and temperature ranges here are seldom extreme. Eastern areas are drier, cooler, and less windy, and also experience the greatest daily and seasonal temperature variations. Northern areas are generally cooler and wetter, and have slightly larger temperature ranges than southern areas.
The UK is mostly under the influence of the maritime polar air mass from the north-west. Northern Ireland and the west of Scotland are the most exposed to the maritime polar air mass which brings cool moist air; the east of Scotland and north-east England are more exposed to the continental polar air mass which brings cold dry air. The south and south-east of England are the least exposed to polar air masses from the north-west, and on occasion see continental tropical air masses from the south, which bring warm dry air in the summer. On average, the temperature ranges from 18 to 25 °C (64 to 77 °F).
If the air masses are strong enough in their respective areas during the summer, there can sometimes be a large difference in temperature between the far north of Scotland (including its islands) and the south-east of England – often a difference of 10-15 °C (18-27 °F) but sometimes as much as 20 °C (36 °F) or more. In the height of summer the Northern Isles can have temperatures around 15 °C (59 °F), while Cambridge in the East of England, on 25 July 2019, reached 38.7 °C
Largest Metropolitan Areas In By population(2023 CENSUS)
| City Name | 2023 Population | City Name | 2023 Population |
| London | 9,748,033 | Reading | 350,214 |
| Birmingham | 2,665,100 | Kingston | 324,801 |
| Liverpool | 917,032 | Upon Hull | 324,801 |
| Nottingham | 806,757 | Reading | 350,214 |
| London | 9,648,110 | Newport | 320,921 |
| Sheffield | 685,368 | Swansea | 316,264 |
| Bristol | 745,876 | Bradford | 377,221 |
| Glasgow | 1,698,088 | Southend | 295,310 |
| Leicester | 508,916 | Belfast | 318,553 |
| Edinburgh | 566,282 | Derby | 268,548 |
| Leeds | 535,972 | Plymouth | 260,203 |
| Cardiff | 488,153 | Luton | 258,018 |
| Manchester | 2,791,005 | Wolverhampton | 227,034 |
| Stoke | 391,927 | City Of Westminster | 247,614 |
| Coventry | 444,547 | Southampton | 246,201 |
| Sunderland | 345,312 | Blackpool | 143,842 |
| Milton | 325,264 | Keynes | 229,941 |
| Islington | 319,143 | Bexley | 228,000 |
Why study in the UK?
- Internationally recognized universities & qualifications: UK is a popular destination for higher studies for students from around the world. A degree that you gain from an UK university will be recognized internationally by universities, employers and government bodies.
- Quality education: The standard of teaching and research at UK universities and colleges is routinely assessed and graded by official organizations to ensure that set benchmarks are met.
- Opportunities offered by UK education system: Among the benefits of studying in UK is a wide choice in picking your field of study and institution. You can choose from 150,000 courses at universities and colleges across England. You may find the 3 years Bachelors & 1 year duration for all Master’s programs to be a big advantage. Shorter duration of courses in UK helps reduce tuition and accommodation costs. UK education system allows students who had good grades in ENGLISH, and in some of the universities IELTS waiver is also possible on the basis of MOI- Medium of Instruction.
- Work Rights: If students is going for bachelors or above level Courses, Students can work, up to 20 hours a week in term time & full time outside term time, which includes- in vacations and before the course starts, on Work placements and internships and after graduation – (PSW- Post Study Work Permit 2 years, Ph.D 3 years).
- Student can start a business in the UK on a graduate visa: The Graduate visa allows graduates to stay in the UK for 2 years after they complete their degree. While on a Graduate visa you may start a business or become self-employed. You must be in the UK when you apply.
- Simple and Easy Visa Process: UK student visa (Tier-4) is made very simple for international students not much time consuming as other countries.
- Dependent Visa: Your partner and children (‘dependants’) may be able to apply to come to the UK or stay longer in the UK.
If your postgraduate level course starts on or after 1 January 2024, it must be either:
a PhD or other doctorate (RQF level 8)
b research-based higher degree - Scholarship and financial support: There are many scholarships that you can apply to, especially at postgraduate and research level, to support your study and cost of living costs.
- Free-Health benefits: Indian students in the I-JK are eligible to receive free medical treatment by the National Health Service (NHS) if enrolled in a full-time course. Your spouse/partner and/or dependent children will also be exempt from payment if they reside with you during the course of your study program.
- Cross-cultural experience: There were 4,36,585 international students from 180+ countries studying in the UK last year, out of which Indian students were the 2nd largest group (1 8,320)! Studying in UK is an opportunity to experience a multicultural environment, meet new people and fellow international students from across the world and discover new places.
- Scope of Settlement: After Study completion or during PSW , student can switch Tier 2 (Work Visa) which is generally issued for 3 to 5 years (extension possible) and eventually the student can file for an ILR.
THE BENEFITS OF STUDYING IN THE UK COMPARED TO YOUR HOME COUNTRY
Your home country plays an important role while looking for a destination to pursue higher education as it defines your career and education choices for the future. But the excellent educational infrastructure, top-notch distinguished teaching methodology, rich heritage and diverse culture of the UK make it an amazing place to study.
The following are advantages the UK has over your home country in terms of studying a degree.
Internationally Recognized Universities
UK higher education and qualifications have a remarkable international reputation and the UK degree is recognized by global universities, top employers and government bodies creating huge number of chances to get placed with elite companies.
Quality Education
Many countries would like to follow the UK’s education system, as its quality is considered as the best in world. UK universities are inspected regularly by QAA to assess the standards of teaching, learning and research to ensure that set benchmarks are met.
Opportunities offered by the UK education system
UK higher education and qualifications have a remarkable international reputation and the UK degree is recognized by global universities, top employers and government bodies creating huge number of chances to get placed with elite companies.
Internationally Recognized Universities
- A wide choice in selecting your field of study and institution.
- Shorter duration of courses in the UK helps reduce tuition and accommodation costs.
- The English language support to help you develop excellent language skills as it has crucial importance in global digital arena and increases chances of employment
- Promoting close student-teacher interaction with a provision of combining different subjects into a single course.
Unique Culture
The unrivalled cultural diversity of life in UK gives you the chance to experience a multicultural environment, meet fellow international students and develop a range of skills that are necessary to be part of today’s global workforce.
Work while study and work permit after study
Along with your study, you can work a part-time job, internship or placement and develop valuable skills that are added to your CV. Your university may assist in providing placement after study
Scholarships and Financial Support
Most UK universities offer merit based scholarship programs and funding opportunities to international students to support your study and cost of living costs. To apply, you will need to gain acceptance to the course of study
Strong Research Infrastructure
30% of UK university research is classified as ‘world-leading’ and 46% as ‘internationally excellent’ by the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF).
Support System
Every year, the UK government warmly welcomes lacs of international students with open arms. International student societies besides organizing parties, conducting events, planning activities and outings help in your bad days, giving advice to personal problems and assist you.
U.K. Student visas
One needs to get UK Tier 4 General student visa to study higher education in UK University. It is quite easy to obtain and the process is simpler, more transparent and user-friendly for international students who have received an offer/CAS and are able to show the required funding available.
Education System of UK
The UK education system is divided into primary education (up to Year 6), secondary education (Year 7-11), pre-university or further education (Year 12-13), and higher education consisting of undergraduate and postgraduate studies. Since each of the UK countries have autonomy over educational issues, there are some minor differences in the education system in different parts of the UK.
Early, Primary and Secondary Education
In the UK, primary and secondary education encompasses Reception/Kindergarten to Year 11. Students begin their education at age 4, and typically graduate at age 16 with a General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE). GCSE is earned once students complete a set of standardized exams for their chosen subjects at the end of Year 11.
State schools and independent schools are two different types of schooling options available to students in the UK. Over 90% of British students study at state schools, which is governed and funded by the UK Department of Education, and are free to attend. Students can also study at fee levying independent schools. These schools are not administered by the government, but must still adhere to the schooling standards set by the government.
Prospective international students can apply to study at independent schools. State schools do not accept international students, except for the dependent children accompanying an adult international student.
Further Education
Full-time education is compulsory until age 18 in the UK. After completing secondary school at age 16, British students go on to attend a Further Education (FE) college for two years, referred to Year 12 and Year 13 of their education journey. Students can choose to attain academic qualifications which are required for admission into a university, or pursue vocational qualifications to go directly into the workforce. Admission is based on one’s GCSE scores.
Further Education is equivalent to the final years of secondary school in the US, Canada and many other parts of the world. It is not a substitute for postsecondary education. Instead, it is often referred to as senior- secondary or pre-university education. Further Education colleges may be large and comprehensive institutions with many study options, or specialized in certain areas of the study, such as Visual/Performing Arts colleges, and Agricultural/land-based colleges. There are also Sixth form colleges, which are dedicated to 16-19 year olds, and often connected to secondary schools to ease the transition between the two levels of studies.
Higher Education
Higher Education refers to degree education, and includes both undergraduate (Bachelor) and postgraduate (Master’s and Doctoral) studies.
- Bachelor’s degrees are typically awarded after three (3) years of full time study in the UK, except in Scotland. It will take four (4) years if the student is studying in Scotland, or if the student adds a year of work experience in between their study terms, referred to as a sandwich year. Professional degrees, such as medicine, veterinary and architecture degrees, require five (5) years of study.
- Students can earn a Master’s degree in one year, while a Doctorate is typically completed in three to five (3-5) years.
- Students can also pursue an Integrated Master’s degree, a four-year program that combines undergraduate and graduate studies. Students are admitted after A-levels (further education), and do not receive a Bachelor’s degree in the process.
Higher Education is typically offered by universities, though some Further Education colleges and institutes also award degrees and foundation degrees (a two-year degree) in partnership with a recognized body. A recognized body is a higher education institution that is recognized by British government through legislation, and authorized to award degrees in the UK.
List of Universities & Colleges in UK
| Rank | University Name | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of St Andrews | St Andrews, Scotland |
| 2 | University of Oxford | Oxford, England |
| 3 | University of Cambridge | Cambridge, England |
| 4 | London School Of Economics & PS | London, England |
| 5 | Imperial College London | London, England |
| 6 | University of Bath | Bath, England |
| 7 | Durham University | Durham, England |
| 8 | University College London | London, England |
| 9 | University of Warwick | Coventry, England |
| 10 | Loughborough University | Loughborough, England |
| 11 | Lancaster University | Lancaster, England |
| 12 | University of Aberdeen | Aberdeen, Scotland |
| 13 | University Of Glasgow | Glasgow, Scotland |
| 14 | University Of Edinburgh | Edinburgh, Scotland |
| 15 | University of the Arts London | London, England |
| 16 | University of Strathclyde | Glasgow, Scotland |
| 17 | University of Bristol | Bristol, England |
| 18 | University of Exeter | Exeter, England |
| 19 | University of York | Heslington, England |
| 20 | University of Southampton | Southampton, England |
| 21 | University Of Sheffield | Sheffield, England |
| 22 | University of Surrey | Guildford, England |
| 23 | Kings College London | London, England |
| 24 | University of Manchester | Manchester, England |
| 25 | Aston University | Birmingham, England |
| 26 | Swansea University | Skewon, Wales |
| 27 | University of Leeds | Leeds, England |
| 28 | Ulster University | Birmingham, England |
| 29 | Cardiff University | Cardiff, Wales |
| 30 | University Of Bolton | Bolton, England |
| 31 | University of Essex | Colchester, England |
| 32 | University Of West London | London, England |
| 33 | University of Portsmouth | Portsmouth, England |
| 34 | University of East Anglia | Norwich, England |
| 35 | Edge Hill University | Ormskirk, England |
| 36 | University of Liverpool | Liverpool, England |
| 37 | University of Birmingham | Birmingham, England |
| 38 | Northumbria University | London, England |
| 39 | University Of Chichester | Chichester, England |
| 40 | Glasgow Caledonian University | Glasgow, Scotland |
| 41 | University Of Lincoln | Lincoln, England |
| 42 | Nottingham Trent University | Nottingham, England |
| 43 | UWE Bristol | Bristol, England |
| 44 | University of Reading | Reading, England |
| 45 | Aberystwyth University | Aberystwyth, Wales |
| 46 | Coventry University | Coventry, England |
| 47 | Royal Holloway, University of London | Egham, England |
| 48 | University of Leicester | Leicester, England |
| 49 | University of Sunderland | Sunderland, London |
| 50 | Queen’s University Belfast | Belfast, Northern Ireland |
| 51 | Oxford Brookes University | Oxford, England |
| 52 | SOAS University of London | London, England |
| 53 | University of Chester | Chester, England |
| 54 | Bangor University | Bangor, Wales |
| 55 | University of Derby | Derby, England |
| 56 | University of Kent | Canterbury, England |
| 57 | Liverpool John Moores University | Liverpool, England |
| 58 | Kingston University | Kingston, England |
| 59 | University Of Nottingham | Nottingham, England |
| 60 | Manchester Metropolitan University | Manchester, England |
| 61 | Birmingham City University | Birmingham, England |
| 61 | University of Stirling | Stirling, Scotland |
| 63 | Staffordshire University | England |
| 63 | Queen Margaret University | Musselburgh, Scotland |
| 65 | University Of Sussex | Brighton and Hove, England |
| 66 | University Of Dundee | Dundee, Scotland |
| 67 | Newcastle University | Newcastle upon Tyne, England |
| 68 | Suffolk University | Ipswich, England |
| 69 | University of Plymouth | Plymouth, England |
| 70 | University of Brighton | Brighton, England |
| 71 | University for the Creative Arts | Farnham, England |
| 72 | University of South Wales | Cardiff, Wales |
| 73 | Queen Mary University of London | London, England |
| 74 | Keele University | Keele, England |
| 74 | St Mary’s University Twickenham | Twickenham, England |
| 76 | Falmouth University | Falmouth, England |
| 77 | Buckinghamshire New University | Wycombe, England |
| 78 | York St John University | York, England |
| 79 | University of Huddersfield | Huddersfield, England |
| 80 | Teesside University | Middlesbrough, England |
| 81 | London South Bank University | London, England |
| 82 | Liverpool Hope University | Liverpool, England |
| 83 | Sheffield Hallam University | Sheffield, England |
| 84 | Abertay University | Dundee, Scotland |
| 85 | London Metropolitan University | London, England |
| 85 | Heriot-Watt University | Edinburgh, Scotland |
| 87 | University of Hertfordshire | Hatfield, England |
| 88 | The University of Salford | Salford, England |
| 89 | University of Hull | Hull, England |
| 90 | Arts University Bournemouth | Poole, England |
| 90 | University of Bradford | Bradford, England |
| 92 | Edinburgh Napier University | Edinburgh, Scotland |
| 93 | Solent University | Southampton, England |
| 94 | Bath Spa University | Bath, England |
| 95 | Birmingham City University | Birmingham, England |
| 96 | University of East London | London, England |
| 97 | Leeds Trinity University | Leeds, England |
| 98 | Robert Gordon University | Aberdeen, Scotland |
| 99 | Bournemouth University | Poole, England |
| 100 | Cardiff Metropolitan University | Cardiff, Wales |
| 101 | University of Wolverhampton | Wolverhampton, England |
| 102 | Anglia Ruskin University | Cambridge, England |
| 103 | Leeds Beckett University | Leeds, England |
| 104 | University of Gloucestershire | Cheltenham, England |
| 105 | UWTSD (University of Wales Trinity Saint David) | Lampeter, Wales |
| 106 | University Of Central Lancashire | Preston, England |
| 107 | University of Northampton | Northampton, England |
| 107 | University Of Worcester | Worcester, England |
| 109 | University of Winchester | Winchester, England |
| 109 | Wrexham University | Wrexham, Wales |
| 111 | Goldsmiths, University of London | London, England |
| 111 | University of Roehampton | London, England |
| 113 | Birmingham Newman University | Birmingham, England |
| 114 | University of Cumbria | Carlisle, England |
| 115 | Middlesex University | London, England |
| 116 | University of Greenwich | London, England |
| 117 | De Montfort University | Leicester, England |
| 117 | University of Westminster | London, England |
| 119 | University Of the West Of Scotland | Paisley, Scotland |
| 120 | Canterbury Christ Church University | Kent, England |
| 121 | Brunel University London | Uxbridge, London |
| 122 | University of Bedfordshire | Luton, England |
Russell Group
The Russell Group is a self-selected association of twenty-four public research universities in the United Kingdom. The Russell Group’s 24 members are
world-class, research-intensive universities. They are unique institutions, each with their own history and ethos, but they share some distinguishing characteristics.
| Rank | University Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | University of Birmingham |
| 2 | University of Bristol |
| 3 | University of Cambridge |
| 4 | Cardiff University |
| 5 | Durham University |
| 6 | University of Edinburgh |
| 7 | University of Exeter |
| 8 | University of Glasgow |
| 9 | Imperial College London |
| 10 | King’s College London |
| 11 | University of Leeds |
| 12 | University of Liverpool |
| 13 | London School of Economics |
| 14 | University of Manchester |
| 15 | Newcastle University |
| 16 | University of Nottingham |
| 17 | University of Oxford |
| 18 | Queen Mary University of London |
| 19 | Queen’s University Belfast |
| 20 | University of Sheffield |
| 21 | University of Southampton |
| 22 | University College London |
| 23 | University of Warwick |
| 24 | University of York |
COURSE INFORMATION
COURSE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Undergraduate courses: Undergraduate courses are designed to help students get exposure to a whole new world after school whilst providing a thorough understanding of a subject of interest.
Here’s an overview of the types of undergraduate courses offered in the UK:
| Program | Duration |
|---|---|
| Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Diploma (HND) | 1 to 2 years |
| Certificates or Diplomas of Higher Education (Cert HE/Dip HE) | 1 to 2 years |
| Foundation degrees (Fd A/Fd Sc) | 6 months to 2 years |
| Degrees (such as BA, B.Sc, BEng) | 3 years in England, Wales and Northern Ireland 4 years in Scotland |
| Sandwich degrees | 4 years with a year in industry |
| Integrated courses (where masters is awarded as the first degree such as MEng) | 4 years |
Postgraduate studies: Postgraduate courses are more specific and involve in-depth study. Most master’s degrees have duration of
one year, which means you can be back in the workforce faster than your counterparts pursuing masters in other countries. There is a
plethora of courses to choose from including niche courses that are highly valued in the industry.
Here’s an overview of the types of postgraduate courses offered in the UK:
| Program | Duration |
|---|---|
| Postgraduate certificates and diplomas (PG Cert/PG Dip) | 9 to 12 months |
| Taught Masters (such as MA, M.Sc., LLM, MBA, MRes) | 1 year |
| Research Masters (such as MPhil, PhD, DPhil) | 2-3 years |
The course should be at one of the following:
- A publicly funded institution of further or higher education (a university) with maintaining records of enrollment and attendance which are readily available to us;
- A genuine private education institution; or
- An independent fee-paying school;
- And you need to be undertaking one of these:
- A recognized full-time degree course:
- A course run during the week that involves at least 15 hours of organized daytime study a week; or
- A full-time course of study at an independent fee paying school.
Compare with Indian Degree:
| British Degree | Indian Equivalent Degree |
| British Bachelor (Ordinary) Degree | A three-year Indian Graduation Degree like B.A. or B.Sc. and other such courses. |
| British Bachelor (Honours) Degree | A four-year Indian graduation course like B.E. or B.Tech. or other such courses. OR A post graduate degree, from Indian university, like M.A., M.Sc. or other such courses. |
| British Master’s Degree | A post graduate degree like M.Tech. or M.E. from I.I.T. or I.I.Sc. and other such colleges |
INTAKES
UK universities have 4 intakes:
Major intake is the August/September intake, but most of the universities are open for January/February and few of them for April/May intake too. However all subjects commence in August/September and only some in January/February and April/May intake.
- January/February
April/May. - August/September
- Nov/December
ADMISSION PROCEDURE
DOCUMENTS CHECKLIST – APPLICATION
- Original Passport
- 10th mark sheet
- 12th mark sheet
- Bachelor’s mark sheet
- Degree Certificate / Provisional Degree Certificate
- Recommendation Letter (2)
- Medium of Instruction
- Gap covering documents (Certificate course / Work Experience)
- SOP
- Resume (CV)
- Transcript (for some university)
COST OF STUDY
Scholarship in UK
What grades do you need to get a scholarship in UK?
- To get a scholarship in the UK, students require a higher GPA, which will help them to increase their
likelihood of receiving a good scholarship. - Students with GPAs between 3.5 and 4.0 stand out the most to institutions that offer academic scholarships.
Which universities in the UK give scholarships?
Most universities grant scholarships to international students. The top universities that offer such scholarships include:
- University of Edinburgh
- University of Bristol
- Imperial College London
- University of Nottingham
- University of Oxford
- University of East Anglia
What are the best scholarships for Indian students to study in UK?
Some of the best scholarships for Indian students to study in UK are:
• Chevening Scholarships
• GREAT Scholarships
• Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship
• Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships (CWIT)
Links for Scholarships:
- https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/lnformation–Advice/Fees-and-Money/Scholarships-and-funding-your-studies
- https://www.britishcouncil.in/study-uk/scholarships/scholarships-funded-other-organisations
- https://www.chevening.org/faqs/?chevening_topic=&chevening_type=&chevening_audience=applicant
- https://www.britishcouncil.in/study-uk/scholarships
- https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/scholarships/commonwealth-shared-scholarships-2022/
WORKING IN UK WHILE STUDYING
In UK, similar to most of the top international study destinations, foreign students are allowed to work part-time. In the UK as an international student, you’re allowed to work up to 20 hours at maximum per week during term-time and full-time during holiday breaks. But there are many restrictions and conditions you must stay in line with in order to be allowed to work.
Eligibility
Your eligibility to work in the UK while studying depends on two major restrictions: those set by your university and those by state-run official institutions. First, you must ensure that your university doesn’t have any constrain pulling you back from working before dealing with state officials. For example, depending on your study course your university may limit working hours to you, aside from governmental restrictions.
In the UK, particularly in big cities like London, international students can easily find a part-time job. Some universities may only allow you to work inside the campus, but there is no need to worry because there are still many options available to you. However, before getting out to hunt part-time jobs you must check if you’re eligible for such work. It all starts with your Tier 4 visa, the official student visa in the UK. The first criteria you must check is your age. If you’re under 16 and don’t have a Tier 4 (General 4) you’re not qualified to work in the UK.
Note that these working prohibitions are only weighted to students coming from a country rather than EU/EEA countries or Switzerland. Citizens of EU/EEA, including Switzerland, don’t need permission to work in the UK while they’re attending a university.
All conditions and limitations are printed out on your Tier 4 sticker (vignette) including the number of hours you can work per week during term-time. When receiving your residence permit paperwork there will be a letter that will offer you all information, whether you can work or not while you’re studying.
If one of the following is stated in that letter you can work in the UK:
- Work must be authorized
- Able to work as authorized by the Secretary of State
- Work as in Tier 4 Rules
- Restricted as in Tier 4 Rules
- Restricted work – Part-time during term-time, Full-time during vacations
- Restricted work time
- Work limited to 20 hours per week at maximum during term-time
- Work limited to 10 hours per week at maximum during term-time
Your passport’s sticker may say something a bit different to all of the above options, but if none of the following isn’t mentioned you’re eligible to work.
- No work
- Work prohibited
- If none of these is clearly stated in your paperwork or you have a problem understanding it, we advise you to contact them personally before deciding to get a job.
- Note that if you decide to move to a higher level of study or change the course you may be required to initiate a new immigration application. Until you receive a response to this new application you must adhere to the old immigration status.
How many hours you’re allowed to work per week?
A full-time course at a degree level or above in a recognized higher education institution
A short-term student registered in a program of a foreign higher institution settled in UK
In the following types of courses, students are allowed to work only 10 hours a week
- In a full-time course below level degree sponsored by a recognized body or a publicly-funded as a higher education institution
- Any course where the student is aged over 16 holds a Tier 4 (Child) visa
While students attending these courses are not allowed to work while studying in UK
- In a part-time postgraduate course or above that is supported by a recognized body in the UK or that receives public funds as a Higher Education Institution
- In a course at a further education college at whatever level
- In a course at any level offered by a private higher education provider
- At any course where the student aged under 16 has a Tier 4 (Child) visa
In the UK you’ll face some limits on working hours depended on few elements, including the type of your course and the type of Tier 4 sponsor you’re studying at. Full-time students can work for 20 hours per week at maximum, whether you get or not paid for your job. You can’t average a week in a long period of time since there’s a legal definition of the week. Based on this rule a week is the period of 7 days between a Monday and Sunday.
Types of jobs you’re not allowed to do
After you make sure you’re allowed to work in the UK, you’ll now have to deal with some constraints on the type of work you’re willing to do. There are certain jobs you’re not allowed to do while studying in the UK. Below are some types of them (paid or not paid) you can’t engage to when you’re holding a Tier 4 visa:
- Be a self-employed or working freelance
- Initiate a business activity
- Full-time permanent job
- Professional sportsperson including sport coach
- Work as an entertainer
- Work as a dentist or a doctor in training, except you’re enrolled in a foundation program.
What types of jobs can you find in UK for students?
In general, the primary purpose of student visas in the UK is to serve as a route for you to study without barriers. Despite being designed only to allow you to attend the university, your student visa can also allow you to work within certain time limits. However, note that the extent to which you’re allowed to work, it’s made rather for your professional gains or to complement your budget. Said otherwise, the government wants to be ensured you’re not losing the track of your studies while working.
If a work placement is mandatory for your study course, then there is a fixed time-limit you should work. Currently, if you’re attending such course you’re allowed to work for the period of time which is less than 33% of the whole duration of your course.
The following circumstances make an exemption to this rule:
- Your study course is offered in a recognized higher education institution and it’s at RQF 6 or SCQF 9. You’re allowed to work up to 50% of the total length of your studies.
- Your study course is part of a study abroad programme and it’s at RQF 6 or SCQF levels. You’re allowed to work up to 50% of the total length of your studies
- You’re a Tier 4 (Child) aged 16 or above. You’re allowed to work up to 50% of the total length of your studies.
- Work placement is an integral part of the study course and there’s a UK statutory requirement that allows you to exceed this limit.
Working and Staying After Graduation
International students place post-graduation benefits as an important factor when deciding where to study. The experience international graduates gain—and income derived—from employment after graduation is important to offset their family’s financial investment and help repay their study loans.
Students on a Tier 4 student visa can typically stay in the UK for up to four (4) months after completing their studies – or up to six months if they were enrolled in a Master’s degree program. This extension is available to give students time to find meaningful employment in the UK after their graduation. For students interested in living and working in the UK after graduation, there are a few work-related visas that they may be eligible for. These visas are outlined below for informational purposes.
For further details, students should refer to the UK Visa and Immigration website and/or consult with an authorized immigration professional to discuss their options. ApplyBoard is not a registered immigration advisor, and is not legally authorized to provide visa guidance.
Graduate Immigration Route – New for 2021
In September 2019, the British government announced a new Graduate Immigration Route, which will become available in Summer 2021. Under the Graduate Immgiration Route, eligible international students will be able to stay and work (or look for work) in the UK for up to two years after completing their studies. It is not mandatory for students to have secured employment to stay in the UK through this route.
The Graduate Immigration Route is only available to international students who complete their degree-level courses in or after the summer for 2021. Students will be required to submit an application, and pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge, to be considered for the route.
The Graduate Immigration Route is non-extendable and does not count towards settlement. However, graduates who find an appropriate job and meet the requirements will be able to switch into skilled work, which is a route to settlement. Limited details are publicly available at this time as the government is still formulating the framework to operate this new immigration route.
STEPS TO APPLY FOR UK STUDENT VISA
Applying for Your General Student Visa
Your visa application will be assessed under the new points based criteria. You should make your application under Tier 4 – General Student. To gain a General Student Visa, you need to acquire 70 points:
CAS Number
50 points granted for the CAS Number and the original academic documents issued to grant you admission at the Academy.
Bank statement
10 points gained by providing your personal bank statement showing that you have sufficient money to meet the maintenance costs set by the UK Border Agency.
English Proficiency
10 Points granted for English Proficiency
CHECK IF YOU QUALIFY
If you want to come to the UK to study, you should apply to come here on a student visa. We call this category of visa Tier 4.
The Tier 4 category is for students who want to come to the UK to study.
There are 2 types of visa:
- Child (aged 4 to 17); and
- General (aged 16 or over).
You must be able to show that you have
- a confirmed place at the school, university or college where you intend to study. We call this a ‘confirmation of acceptance for studies
- enough money (also known as ‘maintenance or funds’) to cover your course fees and living costs; and
- if you are a child, you will need to have suitable care arrangements in place for your stay in the UK.
GET YOUR DOCUMENTS READY
For every document you provide, you must include the original document and a photocopy.
This includes a copy of your passport bio-data page (the page containing your photograph). If you do not provide a photocopy of each document, we might not return your original documents to you.
- A signed copy of your completed visa application form.
- A current and valid travel document or passport (your passport must contain at least 1 page that is blank on both sides, so that we can insert your visa).
- 1 passport sized colour photograph which meets the requirements in UKBA home office photo guidance.
- Evidence of your permission to be in the country where you are applying, if you are not a national of that country.
- Any previous passports to show your previous travel history.
If you are applying for a Tier 4 General visa, you must also submit with a copy of your completed Tier 4 Appendix 8 form.
If you are applying for a Tier 4 Child visa, you must also submit with a copy of your completed Tier 4 Appendix 9 form.
Translations
If you send us a document that is not in English or Welsh, it must be accompanied by a full translation that can be independently verified by us.
Each translated document must contain:
- Confirmation from the translator that it is an accurate translation of the original document;
- the date of the translation;
- the translator’s full name and signature;
- the translator’s contact details.
APPLY ONLINE
You will need to complete and submit a visa application form online at Visa4UK.
When you get to Visa4UK you will need to register and create an account.
When you have completed your online application form, you will need to print and sign your completed form. If you do not have access to a printer when you apply, you can log in and print the form later.
You must use the online appointment calendar to book an appointment at the visa application centre. You can book, change or cancel your booking online.
When you have completed your online application, you will receive an email message containing your application number (also known as a ‘GWF reference’). Please make a note of this number. Your appointment must be no more than 90 days after the date you completed and submitted your online visa application form.
Before you sign your application form, you must ensure that the information on the form is correct and your supporting documents are genuine and unaltered. If you do not have a document you should explain why you do not have it. You must not provide a false document.
PAY YOUR APPLICATION FEE
There are 4 ways to pay your visa application fee. To find out how much your visa will cost go to UKBA Home office Website .
There are 4 ways to pay your visa application fee:
You can pay your fee at some branches of the Standard Chartered Bank. There is no charge for this payment service.
The bank will issue a demand draft in favour of the ‘The British High Commission’, payable in:
- New Delhi if you are submitting your application in Northern or Eastern India
- Mumbai if you are submitting your application in Western India
- Chennai if you are submitting your application in Southern India
The demand draft is valid for 3 months from the date of issue. You should submit your visa application during this 3-month period. You must attend the bank in person with your original passport. In the case of a family application, 1 applicant can visit a branch of the bank with the original passports of all the family members applying for the visa.
Please bring the demand draft with you to the visa application centre when you submit your visa application. Separate demand drafts are required for each visa application.
Demand draft from a nationalised or foreign bank
You can pay your fee by getting a demand draft issued by a nationalised or a foreign bank. Bank charges for this service will vary.
The demand draft must be in favour of the ‘The British High Commission’, payable in:
- New Delhi if you are submitting your application in Northern or Eastern India
- Mumbai if you are submitting your application in Western India
- Chennai if you are submitting your application in Southern India
Please bring the demand draft with you to the visa application centre when you submit your visa application. Separate demand drafts are required for each visa application.
Payment at the visa application centre
You can pay the visa application fee at the visa application centre when you submit your visa application. Standard Chartered Bank facilities are located in all visa application centres for this purpose. The Standard Chartered Bank will apply a service charge of Rs.260 (inclusive of taxes) for this facility.
Payment online
You can pay your visa application fee online using a Visa or MasterCard credit or debit card. We do not accept any other types of cards.
When your online payment has been taken, you will receive a confirmation email from our payment provider WorldPay. If you would like to withdraw your application and have your visa fee refunded, please use refund request form.
If biometric information has been submitted and/or your application has been processed, you are not entitled to a refund either from UK Visas and Immigration or your card issuer.
GO TO YOUR APPOINTMENT AT THE VISA APPLICATION CENTRE
You must book and attend an appointment at our visa application centre to submit your application and facial photograph and fingerprints.
Biometric information
They will not process your visa application without your biometric information, unless you are exempt.
Every time you apply for a visa you must come to one of our visa application centres so we can scan your fingerprints and photograph your face.
Applicants under 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult when enrolling their biometric information. This adult cannot be a member of staff.
There is no extra fee for enrolling your biometric information. We will keep your biometric information for 10 years from the date when we last scanned your fingerprints and photographed your face.
Booking biometric appointments
If you are applying for a visitor, Tier 1, Tier 2 or settlement entry visa you must not choose the option of ‘Tier 4 applicants’ in the visa category when booking an appointment. Booking an appointment under the incorrect category or block booking appointments can lead to delays for yourself and other customers.
Fingerprints
To scan your fingerprints, we use a machine and it does not use ink, liquids or chemicals.
You cannot enroll your fingerprints if your fingertips are cut or damaged, or if you have put any form of temporary decoration (such as henna) on them. You will not be able to enroll your biometric information until the injury has healed or the decoration has faded.
If any of your fingertips are missing, you must enroll your remaining fingerprints.
Facial photograph
We will photograph your full face. You must not be wearing sunglasses, tinted spectacles, hair across the eyes or anything that obscures your face, but you can wear a head covering for religious or medical reasons.
PRE DEPARTURE
After receiving study permit, ESPI arrange pre-departure orientations to prepare prior to your arrival on university campus.
Pre-departure arrangements
- Collect complete information about UK
- Book Air Tickets
- Check that your current passport will be valid for at least six months beyond your travel date.
- Buy Travel & Health Insurance
- Accommodation arrangement in UK
- Forex – consider buying travelers checks for large denominations, as well as carrying a small amount of cash
- Airport Pick-up in UK.
- Check baggage and customs limitations
- Get your documents in order and make photocopies to store in your baggage and keep at home, including:
- Passport;
- Airline tickets
IMPORTANT LINKS
Visit the websites
https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org
https://www.topuniversities.com/student-info/student-finance/how-much-does-it-cost-study-uk
https://www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk/international/studying-in-the-uk/
Visit the website of top Universities of UK
https://www.topuniversities.com/university-rankings-articles/world-university-rankings/top-universities-uk-2021
Visit the Official Website of UK Education
https://www.gov.uk/tier-4-general-visa
Passenger Locator Form
https://www.gov.uk/provide-journey-contact-details-before-travel-uk
https://www.gov.uk/provide-journey-contact-details-before-travel-uk
FAQ
• UKVI can randomly call the student for credibility interview hence it is recommended that student should be prepared for VISA interview before he goes to VFS.
• For Masters program gap is acceptable as long as it is justifiable
• On case to case basis university accepts the profile with Gap
• Some universities also provide IELTS waiver based on the student 12th English marks or university testing.
• For masters — In bachelors 50-55% is needed.
• Above mentioned is general requirement, there are some universities that provide admission with lower percentage requirement also.
• Student is accepted to have a B2 level or higher score.
• Students with 35-40 Backlogs have been accepted by many UK Universities if their overall percentage is good.
Most UK universities require a deposit of 50-65% of the first-year fee. The specific deposit amount is generally mentioned on the offer letter issued to the student.
The Student Route Visa is part of the UK visas and immigration’s points-based system for students. To make a successful application, you must meet the full requirements of the immigration rules and achieve 70 points.
To gain 70 points for your student visa application, you need to satisfy the following criteria:
– CAS: 50 points
– Proof of English Proficiency: 10 points
– Evidence of Sufficient Funds: 10 points
Yes, students need to carry all original documents to the VFS along with the visa application. The VFS staff will return the originals after scanning them.
The amount of money required depends on where you will be studying:
– £1,334 per month (for up to 9 months) for courses in London
– £1,023 per month (for up to 9 months) for courses outside London
As part of the student visa application process, you will be required to score 10 points for maintenance (funds). You must demonstrate that you have access to enough money to pay for your tuition fees for the first year of your studies plus an amount to cover your living costs. The amount to be maintained includes the remaining first-year tuition fee and the maintenance fund.
Studies can be self-sponsored or funded by parents. Acceptable funds can be in the form of savings, fixed deposits, or educational loans. Funds should be 28 days old at the time of CAS application and must be maintained in nationalized banks.
You must have the required funds for at least 28 consecutive days. The end date of this 28-day period must be within 31 days of the date you apply for your visa.
You do not need to prove the financial requirement if:
– You’ve had a UK visa for 12 months prior to the date of your Student visa application and are currently in the UK.
– You’re applying as a student union sabbatical officer.
– You’re applying as a postgraduate doctor or dentist on a recognized foundation programme.
If you apply under normal service, you will get the visa in approximately 15 working days. If you apply under priority service (if available), you may receive the visa in 4-6 working days. Processing times can vary depending on the embassy and the specific case.
Yes, if you can demonstrate a significant change in the circumstances that led to the previous visa refusal, you can reapply. If the refusal was due to financial reasons or insufficient documents, you can arrange for proper financial documentation and request the university to issue a new CAS to reapply. However, if the refusal was based on credibility issues or documentation problems, the university will not issue a new CAS, and you cannot reapply for a UK visa.
Students applying for a Tier 4 visa need to undergo a TB test and chest X-ray at UKVI-approved clinics and submit the original test report at VFS.
Applicants need to pay a healthcare surcharge (called the ‘immigration health surcharge’ or IHS) as part of their immigration application. From 27 October 2020, the IHS costs:
– £624 per year for the main visa applicant
– Dependants will usually pay the same amount as the main visa applicant
– The exact amount depends on how much leave you are granted
– Pay half of the yearly amount if the application includes part of a year that is less than 6 months
– Pay for a whole year if the application includes part of a year that is more than 6 months
As of 13 July 2023, the UK Government announced an increase in the IHS to £1,035 per person per year for most main applicants (effective from January 2024).
Your visa or immigration application won’t be granted if you don’t pay the IHS or if you don’t pay the correct amount.
You’ll get a full IHS refund if:
– You paid twice
– Your visa application is refused
– You withdraw your visa application
You will not get a refund if:
– Your visa application is successful but you do not come to the UK
– You leave the UK before your visa ends (e.g., to make a new application)
– You are told to leave the UK before your visa expires
– You are applying for indefinite leave to remain
To qualify for a Dependant Visa, you must be a dependent family member:
– Husband, wife, or civil partner
– Child aged less than 18 years at the time of application
Dependants are allowed with students if the student is applying for a postgraduate level 8 course or a 12 months or longer course.
The Dependant visa can take up to 4 weeks to be processed from the date of your visa appointment. For an additional fee, you can use the priority service, which normally expedites the decision to within 5 working days.
As a dependant, you will be able to work up to 40 hours per week in the UK, and children will be able to attend either state or private schools. Additionally, your family will remain together and be able to enjoy living in a new country.
The rules for Dependant visas vary depending on the route applied for. In all cases, partners must show that they are in a genuine, subsisting relationship and that they intend to live with their partner in the UK. Children must be under 18 years old unless they subsequently turn 18 after the application or grant of continuous leave as a dependant.
A Dependant visa is granted in line with the Student Visa, so its duration matches that of the student’s visa.
There is no requirement to be proficient in English to obtain a Dependant Visa.
WHAT PEOPLE SAY’SWHAT PEOPLE SAY’S(FAQ)
Pujal Pandya
An outstanding experience..i feel elated after getting my visa as i struggled a lot for this but with the help of ESPI and with God's grace I crack it Thank you ESPI team.
Harsh Vaysh
Kudos to the whole ESPI staff. They not only helped me to get into one of the best university in London but also helped in getting my Visa. They make everything so easy. Thank you!
Hetal Patel
ESPI is a bunch of fantastic people. They exactly know what they are doing. They're with you in every step. From choosing the right course to universities and getting a Visa. Their consulting has helped me clear every doubt that I had. ESPI undoubtedly has the best solution for every problem. Thank You ESPI.
Raju Patel
I want to thank ESPI for making my dream of studying abroad come true. The study materials and test preparation have helped me score a solid 8 bands in IELTS. I will recommend ESPI to friends and relative or anyone who wants to study in the UK
