Top 7 Reasons to Study in the UK as an International Student
Are you hoping to study abroad? Looking for a sense of adventure alongside a great education? As one of the world’s leading international student destinations, the UK is an amazing option that provides all of this and much more.
Here, amazing travel opportunities, a thriving employment market and renowned institutions await you. From London to Edinburgh and beyond, check out our seven top reasons to study abroad in the UK as an international student.
1. World-class education
The UK is fortunate enough to house some of the world’s top education providers. For example, the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge regularly rank in the top 10 universities globally. In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023, the universities claimed the #1 and #3 spots, respectively.
According to the British Council, UK universities are particularly respected because they use innovative teaching methods. When you study in the UK, you’ll have access to modern facilities and technologies, and opportunities to build relationships with industry professionals. Most instructors in the UK are leading experts in their fields, meaning you’ll learn from the best of the best.
2. A faster way to learn
Most undergraduate programmes in the UK are three years long, whilst postgraduate courses typically take one year to complete. So, if you’re looking to gain an education quickly, the UK is the place to do it. Accelerated undergraduate courses are also popular in the UK, and typically take one to two years to finish.
3. Boost your English language skills
Not only is English the most popular language in the world, but it is the primary language spoken in the UK. As a result, studying in the UK is an excellent opportunity to learn and/or improve your English proficiency. Learning English will put you in a great position for any career in the UK or elsewhere in the world.
Just remember: accents in the UK vary from country to country and city to city. This may take some getting used to but will get easier the more you improve your English.
4. A cultural hub
The UK is a cultural hub, home to a diverse population with an array of interests. No matter your passions, you’re sure to find activities, events and facilities to suit them.
If you’re a sports fan, you’ll be excited to hear that Formula 1, Wimbledon and some of the world’s most popular soccer/football clubs are based in the UK. Check out the events on offer here.
Fantastic art, history and food are also staples across the UK. No matter where you are, you’re sure to find vibrant museums, galleries, restaurants, bars and more. You can learn more about arts and culture, food and drink, and history and heritage in the UK via the national tourism agency, Visit Britain.
5. The freedom to travel
Travel is an enormous bonus when living and studying in the UK. A boat to Ireland, a train ride to Paris, a quick flight to Spain - the possibilities are endless! Thanks to its centrality, the UK offers many transport links around the continent and beyond. As a result, countless amazing destinations are right on your doorstep when you study in the UK.
6. Exceptional work opportunities
The UK has various work options for students looking for part-time work. On a student visa in the UK, you can work up to 20 hours per week if you’re studying full-time.
Internships and graduate schemes are popular employment options among international students in the UK. Working in the UK not only expands your social and professional network, but it’s a great way to immerse yourself in British culture.
Upon completing your studies, you’ll have a wide range of postgraduate jobs to explore in the UK. Many major companies across different industries - such as ASOS, BBC, Deloitte and Shell - are headquartered in the UK, creating many employment opportunities.
7. Options to extend your stay
Thanks to recent visa changes, it’s easier than ever to work in the UK after graduation.
The Graduate Route refers to a new rule for the UK post-study visa. This allows you to stay in the UK for two years after successfully completing a course in the UK, including an undergraduate degree, postgraduate degree or other eligible course for a minimum period of time with your Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa. It doesn’t require sponsorship, which means you don’t need a job offer or funding to obtain the visa.
Discover more about studying in the UK
Want to find even more reasons to study in the UK? Head to any of the resources below to learn more:
Author: George Sydney Soper
