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Destinations · UK

Study in the UK

Globally respected degrees, one-year master’s programmes and a post-study work route — with a large, welcoming Indian community.

  • Intakes: Sep · Jan · May
  • 1-year master’s
  • Graduate Route work visa

Study in the UK to unlock new possibilities

The United Kingdom is one of the world’s most popular study destinations, home to centuries-old universities alongside modern, industry-focused institutions. UK degrees are recognised worldwide, and courses are shorter than in many countries — most bachelor’s degrees take three years (four in Scotland) and most taught master’s degrees take just one year.

That shorter timeline means lower overall tuition and living costs, and an earlier start to your career. Students from Kerala will also find established Indian communities in cities such as London, Birmingham, Manchester and Leicester.

Why study in the UK?

  • Shorter courses: one-year master’s degrees mean less tuition, lower living costs and an earlier start to your career.
  • Post-study work: eligible graduates can apply for the Graduate Route to stay and work after their degree.
  • Work while you study: students on degree-level courses can usually work up to 20 hours a week during term time.
  • Wide choice: 59 partner universities across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
  • Scholarships: many universities offer merit scholarships and early-payment discounts for Indian students.

Key facts

Key facts to study in the UK

Education

1 yearTypical taught master’s
3–4 yearsBachelor’s (4 in Scotland)
20 hrs/weekPart-time work in term
Graduate RoutePost-study work visa

Country stats

LondonCapital
~69 millionPopulation
Pound sterling (£)Currency
EnglishMain language

Weather

2°C – 24°CLondon
2°C – 20°CManchester
1°C – 19°CEdinburgh
2°C – 19°CBelfast

Weather shows typical average winter lows and summer highs.

Requirements

What you’ll need

Exact requirements depend on your course and university. Your counsellor will give you a personalised checklist and review every document with you.

  • Academic transcripts & certificates
  • Valid passport
  • English test score (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL or as accepted)
  • Statement of purpose (SOP)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Updated CV (postgraduate)
  • CAS from your university
  • Proof of funds (28-day bank statements)
  • TB test certificate

Intakes

When can you start?

Planning around the right intake gives you more course choice, better scholarship chances and time for your visa.

September

Main intake

The widest choice of courses and scholarships. Start preparing 9–12 months ahead.

January

Second intake

A good range of courses, especially at postgraduate level.

May

Limited intake

Offered by selected universities for specific programmes.

Costs

What will it cost?

Indicative figures to help you plan. We’ll build an exact budget for every university on your shortlist.

Tuition — undergraduate≈ £14,000 – £26,000 per year
Tuition — postgraduate≈ £13,000 – £30,000 per year
Living costs (visa requirement)£1,483 per month in London, £1,136 per month elsewhere, for up to 9 months (UKVI, 2025)
Visa & healthcareStudent visa fee plus the Immigration Health Surcharge (£776 per year for students)

Figures are approximate and change regularly. Always confirm current fees and visa requirements with your counsellor before you apply.

Work rights

Working during and after your studies

Work rights help you gain experience and support your living costs. Here’s how it works in the UK.

While you study

Students on degree-level courses can usually work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full-time during official vacations.

After you graduate

The Graduate Route lets eligible graduates stay to work or look for work — currently up to 2 years for bachelor’s and master’s graduates and 3 years for PhD graduates. The UK has announced plans to shorten it to 18 months for new applicants, so we’ll confirm the rules for your intake.

Partner universities

Our partner universities in the UK

We work directly with 59 universities in the UK. Your counsellor will help you find the best fit for your course and budget.

See all partner universities
  • Abertay University
  • Arden University
  • Bangor University
  • Bath Spa University
  • Birmingham City University
  • Buckinghamshire New University
  • Coventry University
  • De Montfort University
  • Edinburgh Napier University
  • Health Sciences University
  • Heriot-Watt University
  • Keele University
  • Leeds Trinity University
  • London Metropolitan University
  • Middlesex University
  • Northumbria University (London campus)
  • Nottingham Trent University
  • Queen Mary University of London
  • Queen's University Belfast
  • Richmond American International University in London
  • Royal Holloway, University of London
  • St Mary's University, London
  • Swansea University
  • The University of Law
  • University of Bradford (UHE London campus)
  • Ulster University (London, Birmingham & Manchester)
  • University of Aberdeen
  • University of Bedfordshire
  • University of Brighton
  • University of Chester
  • University of Dundee
  • University of East Anglia
  • University of East London
  • University of Greater Manchester
  • University of Greenwich
  • University of Hertfordshire
  • University of Huddersfield (incl. London campus)
  • University of Hull
  • University of Kent
  • University of Lancashire
  • University of Leicester
  • University of Liverpool
  • University of Northampton
  • University of Plymouth
  • University of Portsmouth
  • University of Roehampton
  • University of South Wales
  • University of Staffordshire
  • University of Strathclyde
  • University of Sunderland (London & Sunderland)
  • University of Surrey
  • University of Sussex
  • University of Wales Trinity Saint David
  • University of West London
  • University of the West of Scotland (London & Scotland)
  • University of Wolverhampton
  • University of Worcester
  • Wrexham University (formerly Glyndŵr)
  • York St John University

FAQs

Questions about studying in the UK

Can’t find your answer? Ask your counsellor — we’re happy to help.

Can I study in the UK without IELTS?

Many UK universities accept alternatives such as PTE Academic, TOEFL or Duolingo, and some accept a strong Class 12 English score or a Medium of Instruction letter. Requirements vary by university and course, so we’ll check your options before you book a test.

Is a one-year UK master’s degree recognised in India?

Yes. India and the UK signed an agreement in 2022 on the mutual recognition of academic qualifications, which covers one-year UK master’s degrees.

How much money do I need to show for the visa?

You’ll need to show any unpaid first-year tuition plus living costs for up to nine months, held for at least 28 consecutive days. Your counsellor will prepare a funds checklist with you.

When should I start my application?

For September intakes, start 9–12 months ahead to give yourself time for tests, applications, scholarships and the visa. January intakes need about 6–8 months.

Want to study in the UK?
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