If you want to experience an enriching student life, the UK offers Indian students a transformative journey filled with opportunities for academic growth, cultural immersion, and personal development.
Indian students in the UK have a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and explore new horizons with its rich tapestry of culture, iconic landmarks, and esteemed educational institutions. The UK is more than just a destination for higher education; it becomes a second home.
The UK is home to many renowned universities and colleges that consistently attract students from across the globe. In 2023, over 125,000 Indian students chose the UK as their higher education destination. Learn more about why below, and if you would like to apply, contact SI-UK today for a free consultation.
What to expect in the UK as an Indian student
Life in the UK as an Indian student is a mix of learning, fun, and new adventures, where every day brings a new opportunity to discover and grow. As more and more Indian students come to study and live in the UK, the two countries will build stronger friendships.
The UK stands out for its affordability, diverse culture, and safe environment. Recent government initiatives, such as the Graduate Route and Young Professionals Scheme, have attracted more Indian students to study in the UK. The Graduate Route allows international students, including those from India, who have completed a degree at the undergraduate level or above in the UK to stay and work or look for work in the UK for up to two years (or three years for PhD graduates) after completing their studies. It provides Indian students a valuable opportunity to gain work experience and enhance their skills in the UK job market, making their educational journey more rewarding.
Similarly, the Young Professionals Scheme provides international students, including Indian students, opportunities to work in the UK after completing their studies. This scheme offers pathways for talented individuals to secure employment in industries with a demand for skilled workers, contributing to the UK's economy while enriching the professional experiences of Indian students.
Why choose the UK?
Travel, explore and make new friends
Studying in the UK provides Indian students with the opportunity to travel and explore the country's rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes. From historic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Stonehenge to scenic destinations like the Lake District and Scottish Highlands, there's no shortage of places to visit.
Additionally, Indian students can meet and connect with students from various backgrounds, fostering cross-cultural friendships and expanding their social networks.
A wealth of culture and entertainment
The UK offers a vibrant entertainment scene, with a wide range of options to suit every interest. Students can enjoy theatrical performances in London's West End, visit world-class museums and galleries, attend music festivals and concerts, or explore local markets and street food vendors. Whether it's catching a movie with friends, attending a comedy show, or trying out new activities, there's always something exciting to do in the UK.
Experience food from across the globe
Indian students in the UK have access to a diverse culinary scene, with restaurants, cafes, and eateries serving cuisine worldwide. While traditional Indian food is widely available, students can explore international flavours and try out new dishes. Many universities offer on-campus dining options, including cafeterias and food courts, providing students with convenient and affordable meals.
Stay fit and healthy with state-of-the-art sports and leisure facilities
Universities in the UK offer a range of sports and leisure facilities for students to stay active and engaged. From gymnasiums and fitness centres to sports clubs and intramural teams, there are plenty of opportunities for students to participate in physical activities. Students can enjoy outdoor leisure pursuits such as hiking, cycling, and exploring parks and green spaces, helping them maintain a healthy lifestyle and balance their academic studies.
Comfortable student housing
Universities in the UK typically offer student accommodation, known as student halls or dormitories. These halls provide students with convenient and supportive living environments, often located close to campus. Indian students can also benefit from furnished rooms, communal spaces, laundry facilities, and on-site support staff.
Living in student halls allows students to immerse themselves in the university community, making participating in campus activities and forming friendships with fellow students easier.
Benefits of studying in the UK
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Quality Education: The UK is known for its world-class education system, with universities consistently ranked among the best globally. Indian students can benefit from detailed academic standards and innovative teaching methods.
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Employment Opportunities: Studying in the UK opens many opportunities due to its thriving job market and favourable immigration policies for graduates. Initiatives like the Graduate Route and Young Professionals Scheme allow Indian students to gain valuable work experience and kick-start their careers in various industries.
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Diverse and Inclusive Culture: The UK offers Indian students a welcoming and multicultural environment with its varied population and inclusive society. Students can immerse themselves in different cultures, perspectives, and experiences, fostering personal growth and intercultural understanding.
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Shorter Duration of Courses: Compared to many other countries, courses in the UK are more intensive and shorter in duration. It means Indian students can graduate sooner without compromising on the quality of education. Undergraduate programs typically last three years, while postgraduate programs can be completed in just one year, saving time and money.
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Global Networking Opportunities: Studying in the UK provides Indian students with invaluable networking opportunities on a global scale. By interacting with peers and professionals worldwide, students can build international connections, expand their horizons, and enhance their prospects in an increasingly interconnected world.
UK Intakes
Intakes refer to specific times of the year when universities and colleges admit students into their programs. Intakes in the UK are aligned with the start of the academic year and the beginning of the calendar year, respectively.
Autumn or fall intake
It is also known as the September intake, which is the primary intake and aligns with the start of the academic year. Many undergraduate and postgraduate courses begin in September, offering various courses across various disciplines.
Winter or spring intake
Winter, spring, or January intake allows students to start their studies at the beginning of the calendar year. While fewer courses may be available in January compared to September, it still offers plenty of options for those pursuing higher education in the UK.
Top Universities in the UK
Some of the top universities in the UK preferred by Indian students for their academic excellence, diverse offerings, and international reputation include:
| Ranking | University Name | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Oxford | 17% |
| 2 | University of Cambridge | 21% |
| 3 | University College London | 30% |
| 4 | Imperial College London | 14.3% |
| 5 | King's College London | 11.5% |
| 6 | University of Edinburgh | 10% |
| 7 | University of Manchester | 27% |
| 8 | University of Glasgow | 74% |
| 9 | University of Birmingham | 13.4% |
| 10 | University of Bristol | 67% |
Scholarship for Indian Students in the UK
There are many scholarships available for Indian students in the UK. Here is a small selection.
| Scholarship Name | Provided By | Awarded Value |
|---|---|---|
| Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP) | UK Government | Total tuition fees, living expenses, airfare, and other allowances |
| Chevening Scholarships | UK Government | Total tuition fees, monthly stipend, travel costs to and from the UK, and other allowances |
| GREAT Scholarships | British Council and participating UK universities | Tuition fees |
| Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships | Charles Wallace India Trust | Covering living expenses, accommodation, and sometimes tuition fees |
| British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM | British Council | Tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs |
Study in the UK
If you are interested in learning more, arrange your free consultation today. Our full range of services offers something for everybody, while Premium guarantees Indian students an offer from a UK university.
I sincerely thank SI-UK for getting me accepted to UCL. The MSc in Urban Development and Planning is extremely competitive, but the right guidance provided by SI-UK made my dream of studying at University College London a reality. The services were exceptional from beginning to end. 
