Why study in the UK? (2024)

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Studying in the UK

Watch our video to find out about the experiences of international students studying in the UK.

What type of undergraduate study is available in the UK?

In the UK after leaving school, most students going onto university or college study for an undergraduate degree. These are usually made up of modules (some compulsory and some optional) that add up to a full degree

Discover the types of undergraduate courses you can do

What subjects are available at undergraduate level in the UK?

UK degree courses tend to be very specialised, allowing you to focus on your chosen subject from day one. However, there are other courses that allow a little more flexibility in what you study. When you start searching for courses, make sure you read the course descriptions carefully, and click through to university websites for further information.

It’s important you choose a subject you enjoy and will help you reach your goals. Here are some things to help you choose the right subject for you:

• Think about what you enjoy day-to-day – maybe this could be part of a future job role?
• Explore different job sites and graduate career options to look for ideas on what you’d like to do once you've finished your studies. Check out UCAS career list for inspiration.
• Think about your career goals and the qualifications required as part of a person specification.
• Take a look at UCAS subject guides to get an idea of the types of subjects you could study, and the industries graduates go on to work in.
• Sign up to UCAS hub to get personalised recommendations based on the courses that interest you.

Generally, an international student can work up to 20 hours a week during term-time, and 10 hours out of term-time.

Take on a part-time job or an internship

You can learn new skills and earn money while you study.Your university may even help you secure an internship as part of your course, which will give you a competitive edge when you graduate.

Work in the UK after you graduate

There's a few options forpost-study visas in the UK. Your best option is the graduate visa which allows you to stay in the UK for an additional two years after successfully finishing your course in the UK.

International students can enjoy some financial benefits when choosing the UK.

A degree in the UK takes less time to complete than in other countries

In many countries it takes four years, plus two or three extra years to complete a postgraduate degree. In the UK it takes three years for an undergraduate degree and then one extra to complete a postgraduate qualification (unless you are a medical or research student).

International students can get financial help

This includesscholarships, grants and bursaries– andliving costs in the UK, especially when outside of cities like London, are reasonable.Research the area before applying to the university to better understand the prices, but generally, entertainment, food, and rent is cheaper than the US.

If you decide to study in the UK, there's always something to do, no matter what your interests are.

The UK has families with roots from around the world

This leaves the UK witha unique mix of different cultures, food, and interests. You will not just learn about British culture, but from people from other countries and cultures too.

Plusa mix of restaurants, nightlife, shops, and sporting activities

No matter what part of the UK you move to, you will find thingsto keep you interested – from art galleries and bars to concerts and open-air markets. You'll always find something to entertain yourself with outside of class hours.

Culture shocks

Be prepared! Find out what culture shocks international students found in the UK.

1. There are more than 395 universities and colleges, offering over 50,000 undergraduate-levelhigher education courses across the UK.
2. UK higher education applications aremade through UCAS.
3. There are different deadlines for applying for different courses, and to different universities – take a look at thekey dates and deadlinesrelevant to courses you’re interested in.
4. You will need to paytuition fees– these vary depending on the university or college, and the course you choose.You may be able to get financial help with your tuition fees, or a scholarship.However, EU students are not subject to tuition fees in Scotland.
5. The amount of money you will need to cover living costs will vary based on where you study. London and other large cities tend to be more expensive.
6. Many international students need to apply for a visato study in the UK, and there are work permit restrictions and some English language qualifications you may need.
7. Universities advise all applicants what standard of English is required for their courses. Most course providers will ask you to demonstrate proficiency in English, or to take an approved English language test if English is not your first language.
8. First-year students tend to live in university halls of residence (university accommodation) – but there are lots ofother accommodation options.

Find out how to apply

If you would like to speak to current UK undergraduate students about their experiences,try Unibuddy–there are students to talk to across subjects, universities, and even nationalities.

Chat to students like Kevin on Unibuddy!

Speak to me about moving to the UK from the EU, what it has been like acclimatising to a new country and way of life, and anything else related to uni that you can think of!

Click the "Buddies" drop-down option to filter by country of origin.

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