UK Study Visa for Indian Students: A Complete Guide
Explore a world-class education in the UK, a globally recognized center for excellence in education and research. With roots dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries, the United Kingdom (UK) is home to some of the world’s oldest universities and colleges, setting a benchmark for other nations.
Why United Kingdom?
Choosing to study in the UK is a smart move for Indian students. Why? Well, UK universities are top-notch, with four in the global top 10. They focus on practical knowledge, nurturing critical thinking and creativity. Plus, the courses are shorter in duration, saving you time and money. You can even work part-time during your studies, gaining practical experience. Moreover, being close to Europe opens up exciting travel opportunities. With a diverse culture, great job prospects, and reasonable living costs, the UK has a lot to offer. It’s not just education; it’s an enriching experience!
Student Visa for the UK
For those aspiring to study in the UK, understanding the types of study visas and their application requirements is important. The UK offers various visas, including the Tier 4 (General) student visa and short-term study visa, each tailored to specific needs.
| Type of student visa | Who it’s for | When to apply | Arrival in the UK |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tier 4 (General) student visa | Students aged 16 or over who have been offered a place in a course at a UK educational institution with a valid Tier 4 sponsor | Three months before the start of your course | Up to one week before if your course lasts six months or fewer. Up to one month before if your course lasts more than six months |
| Short-term study visa | Students who have offered a place in a short-term course in the UK, such as an English language course or training course | Three months before your date of travel to the UK | Depends on your nominated travel dates |
Documents required for Study Visa
To apply for a student visa, you need:
- A valid passport or travel document.
- A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your university/college
- Proof of enough funds for your course and living expenses.
- A valid ATAS certificate for specific courses and nationalities.
- Original mark sheets/provisional certificates
- Scoresheet of exams like TOEFL, GMAT, IELTS, etc.
- Parents or legal guardian letters if you are under 18
Cost of Applying for Student Visa
Tier 4 UK student visa fee is 490 EUR for candidates applying from outside UK. For Indian students, UK student visa fee is 51,550 INR. In addition to this visa fee, there is an Immigration healthcare surcharge that varies depending on the duration of your intended stay in the UK. To cover these expenses, you can make payments online using a MasterCard or Visa card. Alternatively, you have the option to use a demand draft at the visa application center or select branches of Standard Chartered Bank. It’s essential to consider these costs and payment methods when planning your study in the UK.
To extend your UK study visa, complete an online application before your current visa expires, preferably at least three months before your course begins as per the CAS. There are additional charges for the extension, such as 490 GBP (51,550 INR) for the extension and an annual immigration health surcharge of 470 GBP (49,450 INR). The good news is that there’s currently no fee for biometric verification.
How to apply for Student Visa UK?
- Start by registering your biometrics at a visa application center to get a Biometric Residence Permit.
- Fill out the UK Student Visa application form online.
- Provide a Tuberculosis Certificate with a “negative” result.
- Pay the visa processing fee of 51,550 INR.
- Attend an interview.
- Typically, you’ll hear about your UK student visa status within three weeks of applying.
Cost to Study in the UK:
The tuition fees for studying in the UK vary based on the type of qualification and the chosen university or school. The UK boasts numerous high-ranking institutions, each with its fee structure. Here is a basic overview of the costs:
- Undergraduate Bachelor’s Degree: GBP 10,000 to GBP 20,000 per year
- Postgraduate Master’s Degree: GBP 10,000 to GBP 20,000 per year
- Doctoral Degree: GBP 15,000 to GBP 24,000 per year
Note: Figures are indicative, and fully funded options may be available for PhD programs.
To reduce your educational costs, consider applying for different scholarships designed for Indian students.
Scholarships to Study in the UK:
When pursuing education in the UK, the funding available and the nature of scholarships differ among institutions. Specific research initiatives might cover up to the entire tuition fee and contribute to your living expenses.Â
Explore various government scholarship programs for Indian students studying in the UK, including:
| SL. No | Name of the UK scholarship | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chevening Scholarship | This scholarship helps talented professionals who have shown prior leadership skills and exceptional performance in their respective fields. With Chevening, you can apply for a scholarship or fellowship, the selection of which is done by the high commission and British embassies. |
| 2 | Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship | This scholarship aims to give international students from commonwealth countries a chance to pursue postgraduate degrees in the UK. Basically, the scholarship scheme caters to students from commonwealth nations to study in the UK. |
| 3 | GREAT Scholarship | This scholarship is jointly funded by the UK Government’s GREAT Britain Campaign and the British Council under the Study UK campaign. This program includes 99 postgraduate scholarships from 36 UK universities in a variety of subjects. However, for Indian students, 12 of the UK higher education institutions are offering 13 postgraduate scholarships. |
| 4 | Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships (CWIT) | It is the scholarship fund of Charles Wallace India Trust that provides grants to Indian students currently living in India in the early or middle stages of their career and either working or studying in the heritage conservation, arts, or humanities. |
| 5 | Scotland Saltire Scholarships | It is the scholarship program of the Scottish Government in collaboration with Scottish universities offered in the areas of creative industries, technology, science, medical sciences, healthcare, and renewable and clean energy. |
For details and options suited to your profile, speak with your Migratex counsellor.
Intakes in the Uk:
UK colleges and universities typically offer two major intakes, with some institutions also providing summer intakes.
- Autumn/Fall Intake: September to December
- Spring Intake: January to April
- Summer Intake: April to June
Top courses to Study in the UK:
Benefiting from world-class universities and experienced faculties, the UK offers diverse opportunities for international students. Popular courses include: –
- Business Management
- Engineering and Technology
- Medicine
- Law
- Social SciencesÂ
- Media and Communication.
Top Universities to Study in the UK:
When choosing a university in the UK, it’s essential to consider global rankings. According to QS World University Rankings 2023, some of the top UK universities include the University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, and UCL (University College London).
| SL. No | Institution | QS Ranking 2023 (Globally) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Oxford | 4 |
| 2 | University of Cambridge | 2 |
| 3 | Imperial College London | 6 |
| 4 | UCL (University College London) | 8 |
| 5 | The University of Edinburgh | 15 |
| 6 | The University of Manchester | 28 |
| 7 | King's College London | 37 |
| 8 | London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) | 56 |
| 9 | The University of Warwick | 64 |
| 10 | University of Bristol | 61 |
Highest paying degrees in the UK:
The UK job market values certain degrees more than others. Degrees like:-
- MBA
- Executive MBAÂ
- Master’s in finance
- LLM, andÂ
- Doctorates are among the highest paying in the UK.
Popular sectors with job opportunities in the UK:
The UK provides career opportunities across various sectors, including:
| Technology and telecom | Insurance | Financial services |
| Law | Apps, web, and e-commerce | Energy, Mining, Chemicals, Environmental |
| Pharmaceuticals & Biotech | Consumer goods | Transportation and logistics |
| Consulting and professional services | Retail and trade | Media and communication |
| Public sector and education | Service, tourism, restaurants | Health care |
| Charity and not profit | Sports, culture, and recreation | Construction and real estate |
Cost of living in the UK:
Understanding the minimum monthly expenses for living in the UK is essential. Consider factors like bills, food, housekeeping, TV license, mobile phone, clothes, leisure, sports, books, stationery, socializing, travel and transport, and childcare.
| Expenses | Monthly cost |
|---|---|
| Off-Campus Accommodation | £408 |
| On-Campus Accommodation | £472 |
| Bills (electric/ gas/ water) | £40 - £50 |
| Food and housekeeping | £160 - £200 |
| TV license (mandatory with TV or watching BBC online) | £12.56 (or £150.50 per year) |
| Mobile phone | £15 - £50 |
| Clothes and shoes | £25 |
| Leisure and sports (calculated on membership for the students’ sports centre) | £10 - £20 |
| Books and stationery | £21 |
| Socialising | £120 |
| Travel and transport (based on the monthly cost of a student bus pass) | £32 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Studying in the UK
Is a CAS letter necessary for the UK?
What are the various law degrees in the UK?
Type 1: Barrister
Type 2: Solicitor
Why opt for a Pre-Master’s program?
a. Intend to change fields after their undergraduate program, where the old and new fields may not align well.
b. Face difficulties meeting the English proficiency test requirements.
c. Lack a strong foundation in their chosen field.
For those falling into these categories, a pre-master’s course is tailored. This program provides the necessary theoretical concepts and practical tools to prepare students for the master's program. It is advisable to refine academic writing skills, enhance language proficiency, and familiarize oneself with academic terminologies before starting the postgraduate journey.
How can I study in the UK after 12th with the Pathway program?
WHY CHOOSE MIGRATEX?
We understand the unique challenges students face during the visa application process. At Migratex, we are here to support you through the study visa application process, serving as your reliable consultant for study in the United Kingdom in Bangalore. We offer a complete service, guiding you through every step of the study visa application process. From filling out forms to providing end-to-end assistance, our team is dedicated to ensuring a smooth experience for you. We simplify the complexities, making the entire journey straightforward and accessible. Trust us to handle the details, so you can focus on your study abroad aspirations with confidence.
Your academic journey begins with Migratex—where expertise meets your ambitions.