Top five reasons to study in the UK
- Study where one in four world leaders has studied, with UK universities ranked second in the world for science and research
- Stay in the UK and work for two years after graduating
- Gain access to job placements, internships and volunteering positions while you study, with real-world experience opportunities built into study programs
- Choose from different subject ‘modules’ and build a course programme tailored to your interests
- Enjoy a vibrant culture that includes some of the best theatre and art galleries in the world, and live music, comedy, and pub life. You will also be a short trip away from culture-packed Europe
People and culture
The UK is made up of four nations: England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Each nation is unique in terms of its traditions, languages, culture and landscapes. Characteristics in common include friendliness, tolerance and good humour.
World-ranked universities
The UK ranked 6th in the Universitas 2020 U21 Ranking of National Higher Education Systems, in front of Canada, Finland and Australia. In QS’s 2022 university rankings, 17 UK universities featured in the top 100 and 26 featured in the top 200.
Top universities in the UK include the University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, University of Edinburgh, University of Manchester, and King’s College London.
Top student cities
In QS Best Student Cities 2022 rankings, 25 UK cities appeared in the top 100. They include London, Edinburgh, Manchester, Birmingham, Nottingham, Aberdeen and Leicester.
Cost of living
Cost of living will depend on where you are located in the UK and which university you attend. Average costs per year include:
- Cost of living for students – £9600 to £15,600
- Vocational education and training – £4000 to £6000
- Undergraduate/postgraduate degree – £10,000 to £26,000
For more detailed information, head to the government’s Study UK site
Post study work options
Under the UK’s ‘Graduate Route’ it is possible to stay and work in the UK for two years after you graduate from an undergraduate or postgraduate degree. Students who complete their PhD can stay for three years. To access the Graduate Route you need:
- a valid student visa and to be studying at undergraduate level or above
- to apply for a new visa from within the UK
- to pay a visa fee of £700 and the Immigration Health Surcharge of £624 per year
Visit Study UK for more information
Skills shortages
The UK is currently experiencing a shortage of workers in the following areas:
- Healthcare
- Senior care
- Science
- Social science and humanities
- Engineering
- Design
- IT and software development
- Veterinary science
- Architecture
- The arts
