Guide to Studying in the UK: Scholarships, Living Costs, and Opportunities for International Students

The United Kingdom has long been a top destination for international students seeking high-quality education, a rich cultural experience, and huge professional opportunities. 

Whether you’re interested in studying at prestigious universities like Oxford or Cambridge or exploring energetic cities like London, Edinburgh, or Manchester, the UK offers something for everyone. 

This article contains all the information you need to know about studying in the UK, scholarships, and living costs for international students, so read to the end.

Why Choose the UK for Your Studies?

There are various reasons why the UK is one of the world’s most prestigious academic destinations, attracting students from all corners of the globe. 

Here are a few reasons why studying in the UK is a great choice:

1. World-Class Education: The UK is home to many top universities, offering great research facilities and a wide range of courses in various disciplines that are appealing to students worldwide.
2. Cultural and Social Diversity: Secondly, studying in the UK allows students to interact with a diverse, multicultural community, fostering global perspectives and a broad network of peers.
3. Work Opportunities: In the UK, international students are also allowed to work part-time during their studies and have access to post-study work visas for up to two years.
4. Post-Graduation Opportunities: The Graduate Visa allows international students who complete a degree in the UK to stay and work for two years (three years for PhD graduates), opening doors for career opportunities in the UK.

Scholarships for International Students in the UK

Studying in the UK can be expensive, but there are numerous scholarships available for international students to help reduce costs. 

Here are some notable scholarships:

1. Chevening Scholarships

The Chevening Scholarship is the UK government’s global scholarship program, offering full funding for one-year master’s programs. It covers tuition fees, travel expenses, and a living stipend. To be eligible, you must have an undergraduate degree and at least two years of work experience.

2. Commonwealth Scholarships

These scholarships are designed for students from low- and middle-income countries in the Commonwealth. The Commonwealth scholarships cover full tuition fees, travel, and a living allowance. To be eligible for this scholarship, you must be from a Commonwealth country and meet specific academic requirements.

3. GREAT Scholarships

The UK government funds the GREAT Scholarships. These scholarships are available to students from specific countries, including China, India, and Mexico. The scholarship covers £10,000 for tuition fees for a full-time postgraduate program. To be eligible as an international student, you must be from an eligible country and meet the university’s academic requirements.

4. University-Specific Scholarships

Next, there are university-specific scholarships offered by many UK universities that offer their scholarships for international students. 

These scholarships vary in terms of eligibility and coverage and can provide significant financial aid. Some of them include:

• University of Oxford: Offers several scholarships, such as the Oxford Graduate Scholarship and Reach Oxford Scholarship (for students from low-income backgrounds).
• University of Cambridge: Offers the Cambridge International Scholarships for international students covering full tuition fees and living costs.
• University of Edinburgh: Offers the Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships for international students pursuing PhDs.
• Imperial College London: Offers various scholarships, including the Imperial College PhD Scholarship.

5. Turing Scheme

Lastly, we have the Turing scheme, the UK’s new international student exchange program. This program offers funding for UK students to study abroad and vice versa for international students wishing to come to the UK. The program tends to cover tuition fees and travel costs. To be eligible for this program, international students must be enrolled at a UK institution participating in the scheme.

How to Apply to Study in the UK

The process of applying to study in the UK can seem daunting at first, but breaking it down into key steps makes it manageable. 

Each stage is crucial, so it’s important to be thorough and start well before your intended start date. 

Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the process.

1. Choose a university and course.

The first step is to decide where and what you want to study. The UK is home to a diverse range of universities, offering thousands of courses in fields like engineering, business, medicine, the arts, and more. 

Consider the following when making your choice:

• University Reputation: Look into rankings and reviews to identify institutions renowned for your chosen field. For example, if you’re interested in business, the London School of Economics (LSE) or the University of Warwick might be ideal.
• Course Content: Review course modules to ensure they align with your career aspirations and interests. Many universities provide detailed syllabi on their websites.
• Location: Location affects your lifestyle, living costs, and even job opportunities.
  To streamline the search, use resources like the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) for undergraduate courses or visit university websites directly for postgraduate programs.

2. Check Entry Requirements

Each university and program has specific academic and language proficiency requirements. Carefully review these to ensure you’re eligible.

• Academic Qualifications: Check if your current qualifications meet the course standards. For example, a high GPA or a specific undergraduate degree might be required for postgraduate programs.
• English Language Proficiency: Non-native English speakers must usually provide proof of proficiency through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. Scores typically range between 6.0 and 7.5 for IELTS, depending on the course and university. Some universities also require additional tests, such as the GRE or GMAT, for certain programs, such as MBAs. Make sure to double-check the requirements for your chosen course.

3. Submit Your Application

The application process differs slightly depending on whether you’re applying for an undergraduate or postgraduate program.

• Undergraduate Applications: These are submitted through UCAS. You’ll need to create an account, fill out personal details, write a personal statement, and provide references. You can apply to up to five courses, and the application fee ranges from £22 to £27.
• Postgraduate Applications: For most postgraduate programs, you’ll apply directly through the university’s website. This process typically requires a completed application form, your CV, academic transcripts, a personal statement, and references. Some programs may also require an interview or a portfolio (for creative courses).

Tip: Application deadlines vary, especially for competitive courses like medicine or law, so be sure to check and apply well before the deadline.

4. Secure Funding

Studying in the UK can be expensive, so securing financial support is essential. Scholarships and financial aid are available to international students, but many require a separate application.

• Research Early: Look into scholarships like Chevening, Commonwealth, GREAT Scholarships, or university-specific options. Each scholarship has unique eligibility criteria and deadlines.
• Prepare Required Documents: Scholarship applications often require essays, academic references, proof of achievements, and financial need statements.
• Explore Part-Time Work: As an international student, you can work part-time during your studies, helping offset living costs. However, this shouldn’t replace securing primary funding.

5. Apply for a Student Visa

Once you’ve received an unconditional offer from a UK university, you’ll need to apply for a student visa to enter the country, such as the Tier 4 Student Visa, which is the most common visa for international students. 

In order to apply for the visa, you’ll need the following:

• A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your university.
• Proof of financial resources to cover tuition fees and living costs.
• A valid passport and proof of English language proficiency.
• Payment of the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).

Once you have gotten all these, you can apply at least three months before your course begins to allow time for processing and possible delays.

6. Arrange Accommodation

Lastly, deciding where to live is an important part of your preparation. Most universities offer on-campus housing for international students, especially in their first year. On-campus housing is ideal for first-year students as it’s convenient, social, and often includes utilities in the rent.

Apart from that, you can apply for private rentals. If you prefer more independence or need accommodation that suits your budget, private housing is a good option. Websites like Unilodgers and Rightmove can help you find rentals.

Additionally, starting early to apply for accommodation options fills up quickly, so secure your spot as soon as possible after receiving your admission offer.

Cost of Living in the UK for International Students

The cost of living in the UK can vary significantly depending on the city you choose to study in. Below is an estimate of the costs involved for international students:

1. Tuition Fees

The tuition fees for undergraduates range from £10,000 to £38,000 per year ($13,000–$49,000), depending on the university and program. The postgraduate programs range from £10,000 to £30,000 per year ($13,000–$39,000), depending on the subject and institution. Additionally, PhD programs range from £15,000 to £30,000 per year ($19,500–$39,000), depending on the field of study.

2. Living Expenses

The living expenses also depend on where you live. For instance, in London, living expenses range from £1,200 to £1,500 per month ($1,500–$1,900) if you are spending for rent, food, transportation, and personal expenses. 

Other cities, such as Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, etc., also range from £900 to £1,300 per month ($1,150–$1,700) for rent, food, and other costs. 

Additionally, in terms of accommodation, the rent can range from £400–£1,500 per month ($500–$1,900), depending on the city and accommodation type. London and other large cities tend to be more expensive.

3. Health Insurance

International students who study for six months or more in the UK are also eligible for the National Health Service (NHS). NHS coverage costs students about £470 per year ($600).

4. Other Costs

Additionally, other costs, such as books and supplies, cost around £300–£500 per year ($380–$640), while your social and personal expenses might range from £200–£300 per month ($250–$375).

Frequently Asked Questions

1: Can international students work while studying in the UK?

Yes, international students on a Tier 4 visa are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. This can help offset living costs and gain work experience.

2: How can I apply for a student visa for the UK?

To study in the UK, you will need a Tier 4 student visa. You can apply for this visa once you have received an offer from a recognized UK institution. You will also need to provide proof of your financial ability to cover tuition and living expenses.

3: How do I find accommodation as an international student in the UK?

Most universities offer on-campus housing for international students, though you can also look for private accommodation. Websites like Student.com and Unilodgers provide listings of student housing in major cities across the UK.

4: Can I stay in the UK after my studies?

Yes, international students can apply for a Graduate Visa after completing their degree. This visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to two years (three years for PhD graduates) to work or seek employment.

5: What’s the best city to study in the UK?

The best city depends on your personal preferences. London offers the most job opportunities and a global experience, while cities like Edinburgh, Manchester, and Birmingham provide a more affordable lifestyle and excellent academic programs.

Final Thought

In summary, studying in the UK offers a wealth of opportunities, from world-class education to vibrant cultural experiences. 

While tuition fees and living costs can be high, scholarships, work opportunities, and post-study visas can help make your UK study experience more affordable. 

By carefully planning your budget, researching scholarship options, and applying for the right courses, you can make the most of your time in the UK and set yourself up for a successful future.