Pursuing higher education in the UK is a life-changing decision for many international students. It's one of the world's oldest education systems, and several prestigious universities make it a highly regarded study-abroad destination for thousands of overseas students every year. Students from Nepal are one demographic of international learners on the rise.
Every year, thousands of students from Nepal apply to study in the UK, and after graduating from their chosen university and course, start a career in the country itself. This is possible because the Post Study Work Visa allows students to stay for up to two years and look for their dream job. Many scholarships are also available for Nepali students, which help alleviate the financial burden.
Keep reading ahead to learn more about application requirements and the process of studying in the UK as a student from Nepal, and book a free consultation with SI-UK today to start your academic journey.
Studying in the UK From Nepal | What to Know
Nepal Student Visa for the UK
The UK visa requirements for Nepali students vary depending on the duration and level of study. But, most who wish to study in the UK will need to apply for a student visa and go through the following steps:
- You can choose the university and course of your choice, fill in the application form, and wait for your offer letter.
- After receiving the offer letter, pay your initial tuition deposit to the university.
- Receive your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), an electronic document with a 14-digit unique reference number. This number is required when applying for a student visa.
- Complete your medical and police reports.
- Apply for your UK study visa; SI-UK offers expert visa application support services, ensuring the application succeeds on the first try.
- Submit the visa application form and pay the visa application fees along with all the required documents, such as the passport, CAS, proof of English language proficiency, and bank statement.
- Next, you will undergo an interview in which the officers ask you questions about the university, your course choice, and your plans for the future.
- Lastly, you need to pay for the biometrics and health charges.
- Is it difficult to get a UK visa as a Nepal student?
Obtaining a UK visa as a Nepali student can be challenging, but it is possible with careful planning and preparation.
The process of applying for a visa will depend on the type of visa you seek, your circumstances and the requirements set by the UK government. To increase your chances of obtaining a UK student visa, it is recommended that you work with a reputable immigration advisor, such as SI-UK, who can assist you with the application process and provide guidance on the required documentation and procedures.
- Post-study work visa for Nepali graduates
Students from Nepal who complete their studies in the UK become eligible to apply for a post-study work visa, which allows them to stay in the UK for two years. Some of the UK's most popular undergraduate and graduate degree options include healthcare, finance, business management, engineering, education, hospitality, and tourism.
These fields also have various job opportunities in different sectors, which graduates can take up. Students who start their careers in the UK after studies gain work experience in one of the world's most developed countries, which opens doors for further golden opportunities for them on the professional front.
Scholarships in the UK for Nepali Students
There are many scholarships available for Nepali students to study in the UK. Popular international scholarships for which Nepal students are encouraged to apply include Chevening Scholarships, Commonwealth Scholarships, British Council Scholarships and GREAT Scholarships.
Each UK university will also have subject specific scholarships for Nepali students, and SI-UK consultants can advise is available at the time of application.
Popular UK Universities
Several universities in the UK are uniquely popular among Nepali students. They include the Oxbridge pair of the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge, two of the most world-renowned universities with a long history of academic excellence.
Imperial College London and the University of Manchester are also popular, owing to their world-class engineering and medical courses.
Popular UK University Degrees for Nepal Students
Some of the most popular subjects for Nepali students studying in the UK include business and management, engineering, computer science, biological sciences, art and design, medicine and mathematics.
Which UK Universities have the most Nepali Students?
According to the latest data on the number of Nepal students in the UK from the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), UK universities with the largest community of students from Nepal include:
- University of West London
- University of Hertfordshire
- University of Northampton
- London Metropolitan University
- University of Central Lancashire
- Coventry University
- University of Wolverhampton
- Middlesex University
- De Montfort University
- University of Bedfordshire
UK Cities with Large Nepal Communities
There are an estimated 80,000 - 100,000 Nepali people in the UK, many of which belong to ex-Gurkha Servicemen and their families. UK cities and towns with large communities include London, one of the largest Nepali communities in the UK, with many restaurants, grocery stores, and cultural organisations.
Reading (University of Reading), Ashford (University of Kent), Manchester (University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University) and Farnborough (University of Surrey) also have significant Nepali communities.
Nepal Student Societies at UK Universities
All UK universities have Nepal student societies, which allow students to connect, socialise, and engage in cultural and educational activities with fellow Nepalis. These societies often organise events, such as cultural festivals, charity fundraisers, and sports competitions, to celebrate Nepali culture and raise awareness about issues affecting Nepal.
Nepali student societies also provide a support network for students, especially those new to the UK and may face challenges adjusting to a new environment. They often offer advice on accommodation, part-time jobs, and visa issues and provide a sense of community and belonging for students who may feel isolated in a foreign country.
Nepal National Celebrations in the UK
All Nepal national celebrations are celebrated in the UK, particularly by the Nepali community living in the country. Some of these celebrations include the Nepali New Year, Dashain, the biggest and most important festival in Nepal, celebrated in September or October, and Tihar, also known as Diwali, a festival of lights celebrated in Nepal and India.
Entry Requirements for Nepal Students
UK universities generally require Nepali students to have completed a high school education and obtained a qualification equivalent to UK A-levels. Nepal's most commonly accepted qualifications are the Higher Secondary Education Board (HSEB) Examination and the Proficiency Certificate Level (PCL).
- For undergraduate courses, UK universities usually require Nepalese students to have completed the HSEB with at least a 2nd division or a PCL with a minimum of 60% overall. Some universities may require specific grades in certain subjects, so checking the entry requirements for each course is important.
- For postgraduate courses, UK universities typically require Nepalese students to have completed a bachelor's degree with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.5 or above or equivalent.
- English requirements
Nepalese students whose first language is not English will also need to provide evidence of proficiency. This includes scores from a recognised English language Test, such as the IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic. Some universities may also have their own English language tests.
Foundation Courses for Nepali Students
Some students may be unable to meet the entry requirements for direct entry to undergraduate studies. In that case, UK universities consider students who have completed their SSCE (Senior School Certificate of Education) for a foundation entry. This entry enables Nepal students to take a foundation course, after which they can proceed with the degree.
Study in the UK
If you want to join the many Nepali students studying at universities in the UK, don’t wait and arrange a free consultation with SI-UK today.
My consultant was very helpful and motivating. She helped me every step of the way, even when the deadline was so close. I feel I could not have done it without her. I'd highly recommend this service to any and all of my many friends interested. 
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