Why Is UK Popular Among Students Planning To Study Abroad

We have all encountered that one person who works tirelessly from the start to secure a degree from their desired foreign education destination. The excitement of attending a foreign university among individuals from many nationalities is unrivaled. They are motivated by the desire to broaden one's perspective and horizons, absorb new philosophies and civilisations and achieve professional success in an international market.

For many years, the United Kingdom's universities have been at the top of higher education. Even throughout the pandemic, students expressed a strong desire to study in this country. Also, it is worth noting that they allow roughly 96 per cent of all study visa applications each year, which is higher than the global average.

However, it was only in 2021 when universities in the United Kingdom witnessed record-breaking student enrollments. According to the UK Home Office, the number of study visas awarded to Indian students till September has increased by 102 per cent in 2021.

The UK made some revisions to the regulations governing students' post-study work rights last year. From six months, it is now two years and only one year of study in the UK is required. It is one of the key factors behind the dramatic spike in Indian students' interest in the UK as a destination for higher education.

Work opportunities

The UK announced the Migration and Mobility Partnership with India in May 2021, boosting cooperation on immigration and creating opportunities for youth mobility. These are the professional, graduate and healthcare provider visas. The revised points-based immigration process has resulted in a 43 per cent rise in the number of skilled-worker visas.

The typical cost of education for an Indian student is around Rs 30-35 lakh for a postgraduate degree in computer science from a well-ranked university. Living expenses might range from Rs 1-1.5 lakh per month. To study in the UK, the total outlay would be around Rs 40 lakh.

After completing the course, the student can anticipate earning an average income of Rs 25 to 45 lakh when holding a degree from a prominent university in the UK. Even if the aspirant is enrolled in a university ranked between 250 and 500, the rewards appear positive, as more than 143,000 jobs in the STEM industry will be generated by 2023.

With these new reforms, the UK has become one of the very few countries that offers an additional two to three years of employment after completing a degree or higher-level study under the Graduate Immigration Route (GIR). All that is required is that the student visa fee (GBP 715) and the immigration medical surcharge (GBP 624) be paid annually while searching for employment.

UK graduates rank among the most employable graduates in the world. In addition to providing excellent academic credentials, their degrees can provide students with substantial work placements. Placements, paid internships and volunteer activities can help students hone their abilities, network and obtain real-world professional experience.

Students can change their immigration status from student to skilled worker if they find suitable employment. If the candidate meets the requirements for working in the UK, the student’s tier 2 work visa may be extended for another five years.

Affordability

There are numerous advantages, but one of the most significant is affordability.

Recently, several courses have been made available for aspirants, making them far less expensive than in other affluent countries. They're also substantially shorter in duration. Students can thus complete an undergraduate degree in three years and a master's degree in just one year without sacrificing quality.

Additionally, since they are permitted to work 20 hours per week, part-time or full-time during breaks, students can make money while studying in the UK. Students at the postgraduate level and above may also bring their dependents to live and work for the duration of their education. As a result, the policies are particularly supportive and welcoming to students.

Recently, hybrid models have permitted students to complete the first semester of their degree online and the rest of the degree on campus. After completing the online course, students are guaranteed progression to a university abroad.

Scholarships

Several government-sponsored and private scholarships are available for international students at UK universities.

To commemorate the 75th anniversary of India's independence, UK institutions recently announced a collaboration with Indian businesses to provide 75 fully financed scholarships for aspirants to study.

Some of the best government scholarships for postgraduate studies are the Chevening Scholarship, Wallace India Trust Scholarships (CWIT), GREAT Scholarships, Charles and others.

Edtech facilitating foreign education for Indian students

Edtech is booming in all sectors of education, including schools, higher education and continuing education. While Covid-19 has given the sector a boost, it is unlikely to render traditional classroom learning obsolete. But at the same time, it has caused students, parents and educators to reconsider how virtual and real modes might be combined for greater learning.

Educational technology is guaranteeing that those who desire to study abroad receive the necessary information, resources, and guidance. These platforms remove the key barriers to studying abroad: financing, country selection, accommodation, transit and IELTS preparation. They also aid in visa applications while their admissions are being handled.

Platforms like The WorldGrad have created hybrid programs in partnership with renowned global universities to assist prospective students with seamless admission processes. They allow aspirants to complete the first semester of their degree online and the remainder of the degree on campus. Any student going through this platform is guaranteed progression to the overseas university upon successful completion of the online term.

Additionally, if upon completion of an online term, students are unable to secure a study visa to continue their education, they will take full responsibility and promise a complete refund.