Annually, the UK attracts nearly 460,000 international students, making it a highly sought-after destination for education. The country’s renowned education system and diverse array of academic degrees contribute to its status as a vibrant and appealing choice for students seeking educational opportunities.
What is the Intake for Courses in the UK?
Here’s a table illustrating the top 10 UK Institutions recruiting International Students in 2019-2020
| QS World Rankings | University Name |
| 5 | University of Oxford |
| 6 | University of Cambridge |
| 8 | Imperial College London |
| 10 | UCL |
| 18 | The University of Edinburgh |
| 29 | The University of Manchester |
| 31 | King’s College London |
| 38 | London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) |
| 51 | University of Bristol |
| 54 | The University of Warwick |
Top Cities in the UK for Study
The United Kingdom is home to several cities that are popular among international students, each offering a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural richness, and quality of life. Some of the top cities for study in the UK include:
- London: Global hub with diverse universities and cultural experiences.
- Edinburgh: Historic Scottish capital is known for prestigious universities.
- Manchester: Dynamic city with top universities and vibrant nightlife.
- Glasgow: Academic excellence and cultural venues in Scotland.
- Birmingham: Second-largest city with a strong industrial and cultural presence.
- Oxford: Renowned for the prestigious University of Oxford and its rich history.
- Cambridge: Famous for the University of Cambridge and its traditional charm.
- Bristol: Creative city with cultural events and innovative industries.
- Leeds: Economic and cultural hub in West Yorkshire with thriving student life.
- Nottingham: Medieval history, vibrant student scene, and welcoming atmosphere.
Consider your preferences and academic goals when choosing the city that best suits your study experience in the UK.
What Documents are Required for a UK Student Visa?
To complete your visa application process, you must submit the following documents:
- Valid passport
- Latest bank statement demonstrating adequate funds to sustain your stay throughout the course
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
- Passport-size color photographs
- Tuberculosis test, if required
- Profile assessment document
- Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) Clearance Certificate, if applicable
- Additional documents for applicants under the age of 18 or those with accompanying dependents
Keep in mind that additional documents may be necessary to finalize your visa application. It is advisable to seek guidance from a visa consultant to thoroughly understand the procedure.
What are the entry requirements for studying in the UK for an Undergraduate Course?
To be eligible for admission, you should have completed a minimum of 13 years of education in your home country and achieved a score of 55% or above in higher secondary education.
For specific programs, the entry requirements are as follows:
Higher National Diploma (HND):
- Completion of one to two UK A-levels, two Scottish Higher Degrees, a BTEC National Diploma, Higher National Certificate, or an international foundation year with an IELTS range of 5.5 – 6.0.
Foundation Degree:
- Attainment of one to two UK A-levels, one or two Scottish Higher Degrees, a National Diploma, or completion of an international foundation year with an IELTS range of 5.5 – 6.0.
Diploma of Higher Education:
- Completion of one to two UK A-levels, two or three Scottish Higher Degrees, or an international foundation year with an IELTS range of 5.5 – 6.0.
Bachelor’s Degree:
- Achievement of two or three UK A-levels, three to four Scottish Higher Degrees, a National Certificate or Diploma, BTEC National Diploma, or successful completion of an international foundation year with an IELTS range of 6.0 – 6.5.
What are the entry requirements for a postgraduate or MBA course for a UK Student Visa?
To pursue a postgraduate or MBA course in the UK, the entry requirements are as follows:
Pre-master’s degree:
- Completion of undergraduate studies with an IELTS score ranging from 5.0 to 5.5.
PG Certificate/PG Diploma:
- Possession of an undergraduate degree or completion of a pre-master’s course with an IELTS score between 6.5 and 7.0.
Master’s Degree:
- Attainment of a First or Second-class undergraduate degree or successful completion of a pre-master’s course with an IELTS score of 7.0.
MBA:
- Requires 2-3 years of business experience, a First-Class undergraduate degree, and an IELTS score ranging from 6.5 to 7.0.
Ph.D.:
- Holds a Master’s Degree with an IELTS score in the range of 6.5 to 7.0.
What are the entry requirements for pre-university professional courses in the UK?
- For various educational qualifications, the entry requirements for international students seeking admission in the UK are as follows:BTEC National Diploma:
- Equivalent to high school education with four GCSEs grades A-C, accompanied by an IELTS range of 4.5-5.0.
AS/A-levels:
- Comparable to a general high school education with five GCSEs grades A-C, and an IELTS range from 4.5-5.0.
Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher:
- Equivalent to a general high school education with six Standard Grade qualifications grades 1-3, complemented by an IELTS range of 4.5-5.0.
International Foundation Year:
- Requires twelve years of school education or its equivalent in your home country, with an IELTS range of 4.5-5.0.
Higher National Diploma (HND):
- Completion of one or two UK A-levels, two or three Scottish Highers, a BTEC National Diploma, or an international foundation year with an IELTS range of 5.5-6.0.
Foundation Degree:
- Involves one or two UK A-levels, two or three Scottish Highers, a BTEC National Diploma, or an international foundation year, along with an IELTS range of 5.5-6.0.
Top 10 Subject Areas chosen by International Students:
| Subject | No. of Students Chosen the subject area |
| 1.Business & administrative studies | 126,955 |
| 2. Engineering and technology | 52,635 |
| 3. Social studies | 42,785 |
| 4. Creative arts and design | 32,455 |
| 5. Biological Sciences | 26,995 |
| 6. Law | 23,185 |
| 7. Computer Science | 22,100 |
| 8. Subjects allied to medicine | 21,720 |
| 9. Languages | 19,280 |
| 10. Physical Sciences | 16,170 |
How to Apply for a UK Student Visa in 5 Steps?
Securing a UK Student Visa involves a systematic step-by-step procedure. Typically, the processing time for UK student visas spans approximately three weeks from the submission of the application.
Step 1: Check your eligibility
You are issued a “Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies” (CAS) by us. Additionally, you are required to demonstrate your financial stability, providing evidence of funds to cover your course fees, tuition expenses, and living costs.
Step 2: Get your documents ready
It is imperative to submit all the necessary documents, so ensure thoroughness in collecting all required paperwork.
Step 3: Apply for the visa online
Begin the process by registering on the official UK Visa website and setting up an account. Proceed to fill out your application form online and print it for the necessary signatures. Utilize the online appointment calendar to schedule a visit to the visa center.
Step 4: Fee Payment
There are four available methods for making payments. You can choose to pay through Standard Chartered Bank, obtain a demand draft from either a nationalized or foreign bank, make a payment at the visa application center, or opt for online payment.
Step 5: Visiting the Visa Application Center
Ensure that you attend the visa application center on the scheduled appointment date. Submit your application promptly by providing the necessary documents, photographs, and fingerprints as required.
Related FAQs
Can you study in the UK without IELTS?
Certainly, it is possible to pursue studies in the UK without undergoing the IELTS. However, it’s crucial to note that English proficiency stands as a significant requirement for securing a Tier 4 (General) Student visa.
Certain UK universities may offer exemptions from the IELTS test under specific circumstances. Here are instances where you might be excused from taking the IELTS test:
- If the university considers your English scores from high school, particularly with a minimum of 60% in both 10th and 12th grades, your application may be accepted.
- If your prior education was conducted solely in the English language.
- Some UK universities permit candidates to bypass the IELTS test through an online interview conducted via platforms like Skype. This alternative can be explored by applicants.
Costs Involved for a UK Student Visa?
The fee for the Tier 4 General Visa stands at £348. In the event of adding dependents, an additional charge of £348 per person (each dependent) is applicable.
| Study Program | Average Tuition fee in GBP (£) |
| Undergraduate Bachelor Degree | £6,000 to £16,000 yearly |
| Postgraduate master’s degree | £10,000 to £20,000 yearly |
| Doctoral Degree | £13,000 to £29,000 yearly |
The payment for the Tier 4 visa can be completed through various methods:
- Online payment using a Visa Card or MasterCard.
- Utilizing a Demand Draft.
- Making a cash payment at the Visa Application Center.
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Other Important FAQs
What are the Top Ten non-EU sending countries?
The below table shows the yearly data on the number of non-EU students migrating to the UK:
| Country | 2013-14 | 2014-15 | 2015-16 | 2016-17 | 2018-19 |
| China | 87,895 | 89,540 | 91,215 | 95,090 | 120,385 |
| India | 19,750 | 18,320 | 16,745 | 16,550 | 26,685 |
| USA | 16,485 | 16,215 | 17,115 | 17,580 | 20,120 |
| Hong Kong | 14,725 | 16,215 | 16,745 | 16,680 | 16,135 |
| Malaysia | 16,635 | 17,060 | 17,405 | 16,370 | 13,835 |
| Nigeria | 18,020 | 17,930 | 16,100 | 12,665 | 10,540 |
| Saudi Arabia | 9,060 | 8,595 | 8,570 | 8,065 | 7,950 |
| Singapore | 6,790 | 7,295 | 7,540 | 7,300 | 7,020 |
| Thailand | 6,340 | 6,240 | 6,095 | 6,115 | 6,270 |
| Canada | 6,350 | 6,075 | 5,980 | 5,915 | 6,180 |
What are the types of UK Student Visas?
Initially, to secure a student visa, you must select the appropriate visa type based on your eligibility and requirements. The UK government is widely recognized for offering favorable opportunities for Indian students, facilitating both study and work prospects.
Can a UK Student Visa be extended?
Certainly, an extension for a UK Student Visa is feasible under specific conditions. To qualify for an extension, you must be in the UK, satisfy the prescribed eligibility criteria, and secure a sponsor for continued sponsorship.
The eligibility criteria for sponsors include being one of the following:
- A Higher Education Institute (HEI)
- An embedded college providing a range of courses
- An overseas Higher Education Institute (HEI)
- An independent school
Can you work in the UK with a student visa?
Certainly, you have the opportunity to engage in employment while holding a UK Student visa, specifically if you are entering the UK on either a Tier 4 (General) Student Visa or a Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa. Moreover, you are eligible to undertake work placements as part of your academic program.
Under the Tier 4 (General) Student Visa, you have the flexibility to take on various forms of employment in accordance with your course level and the location of your studies. However, there are certain restrictions on the type of job you can choose.
For individuals with a Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa, the minimum age requirement is 16 or older. During full-time and term-time periods, you are permitted to work for up to 10 hours per week.
Disclaimer
This publication is provided for general information only and is not intended to cover all aspects of the topics discussed. The information contained in this publication does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice of this website or its affiliates. Previous results do not guarantee a similar result. We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, express or implied that the contents of the publication are accurate, complete or current. Schoolingvisa.com is a service that facilitates a student’s process of acquiring a study visa by being a partner of other visa and immigration service companies. We offer consultancy services on student visas and any other visa, immigration options, but we do not directly provide any visas. We are not part of any government or immigration department. We do not provide any type of professional immigration, regardless of the destination.
Note: The information provided in this article is general, subject to frequent change and does not constitute any legal advice. For any specific study visa and legal advice you can rely on, please contact the consultants/advisors, lawyers and members of our expert team.


