The universities in UK are internationally acknowledged for their academic prowess, resulting in a huge influx of international students each year. There are several best universities in UK. Among the top universities in UK are Imperial College London, Oxford University, Cambridge University, and University College London, renowned for their top-notch instruction, vast array of courses, multiculturalism, state-of-the-art research possibilities, and safe atmosphere for international students.
List of the 5 Best Universities in the UK
University of Edinburgh
- The University of Edinburgh in world league tables is ranked 20th according to QS and 30th according to THE-Time Higher Education.
- The university is divided into three colleges that in total host 21 schools. These colleges are namely College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine and College of Science and Engineering.
- Founded in 1583, it offers intakes in January and September. Located in Edinburgh, the University has top rankings in the UK for adding value to students.
University of Manchester
- Part of the prestigious Russell Group of Universities, not only is University of Manchester's teaching recognized across the globe, but its research is also revered. Moreover, they are known for the international student support they offered.
- The university's current world rankings place it 36th in the world according to the Academic Ranking of World Universities (2020) and 27th in the world by QS (2021).
- In the UK it is ranked 5th, 6th and 4th by the Academic Ranking of World Universities (2020), QS (2021) and Reuters Top 100: Europe's most innovative universities (2019) respectively.
Kings College London
- Kings College London has 9 faculties, which are namely Arts & Humanities, Business, Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, Law, Life Sciences & Medicine, Natural & Mathematical Sciences, Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience and Social Science & Public Policy.
- Apart from offering a range of scholarships, it offers over 200 undergraduate programs, 230 postgraduate taught programs and a range of research opportunities.
- It is now the largest center for the education of doctors, dentists and other healthcare professionals in Europe and home to six Medical Research Council centers.
University of Bristol
- One of the most successful and popular universities in UK, University of Bristol it is ranked in the world's top 60 in the QS World University Rankings 2021.
- Its academic schools and research faculties include Arts, Engineering, Health Science, Life Sciences, Science and Social Sciences and Law.
- It is amongst the top 10 UK University (QS World University Rankings 2021) and the fourth most targeted university by top UK employers by High Fliers Research.
University of Warwick
- University of Warwick is ranked 8th in the UK according to the Guardian 2021 league table. Moreover, the QS World University Rankings 2021 ranks Warwick 62nd in the world and 10th in the UK.
- The University has three major faculties these include Science, Engineering and Medicine, Arts, and Social Sciences. Apart from that, it also equipped with research centers.
- The university is located in England a few miles away from the center of Coventry on the border with Warwickshire. Warwick is home to over 9,500 students from 147 countries.
How to choose the Right University in the UK
There are several UK universities for international students to study at. Choosing the right university in the UK requires one to follow the steps mentioned below:
- Course Selections: Make sure the university offers your preferred program with top-notch instructors and facilities.
- Location: Take into account the way of living in the city, living expenses, and closeness to home or landmarks.
- Rankings and Standing: For quality benchmarks, inspect university and subject-specific rankings.
- Accreditation: Check the university's credentials and collaborations with pertinent organizations.
- Cost and Scholarships: Assess the tuition costs and availability of scholarships or monetary assistance.
- Multiculturalism and Belonging: Evaluate the inclusion, student organizations, and networking possibilities.
- Campus Amenities: Examine laboratories, libraries, accommodation, and recreational areas.
- Student Guidance: Check for services such as mental health assistance, career counseling, and instructional resources.
- Graduate Success: Look into job rates and alumni achievement in your preferred field.
- Feedback and Testimonials: Read about both past and present students’ experiences.
Entry Requirements for Universities in the UK
UK colleges for international students requires them to fulfill the eligibility criteria mentioned below:
- The student must fulfill certain A-Level or comparable credentials (e.g., International Baccalaureate, BTEC).
- Adhere to certain grade standards in pertinent subjects, in accordance with course prerequisites.
- Non-native English speakers need to prove their fluency in English through appearing for English language proficiency tests like the IELTS, TOEFL, etc.
- Pertinent experience for professional courses like teaching, medicine.
- A written essay outlining motivation and compatibility for the selected course.
- Recommendation letters from instructors ora employers.
- Supplementary tests like UCAT, BMAT, or LNAT for medicine, law, or other competitive courses may be demanded by certain courses.
- An interview is required for certain courses like medicine or Oxbridge programs.
- Creative courses such as design or architecture require a portfolio.
- Evidence of adequate finances to pay for tuition fees and living expenses.
- Overseas students require a valid student visa.
Cost of Studying at UK Universities
Based on the institution, program, and whether the student is an international or domestic student, the cost of studying at universities in UK differs. Undergraduate tuition fees for overseas students generally cost between £10,000-£38,000 annually. Postgraduate programs cost between £12,000 and £25,000 per year.
Besides tuition, students should also set aside money for living expenses, which based on the city and way of living, can cost between £1,000-£1,500 per month. These costs entail food, housing, transport, and individual costs. Monetary assistance, scholarships, and employment opportunities may help alleviate some of these expenses.
How to Apply to Universities in the UK
There exist numerous best universities in UK for international students. Listed below are the steps on how to apply to universities in UK:
Undergraduate Application (UCAS System)
- Investigate Universities: Select universities and courses that align with your interests and eligibility criteria.
- Create a UCAS Account: To begin your application, enroll on the UCAS website.
- Fill Out Application Form: Enter personal details, academic history, and course selections.
- Draft a Personal Statement: Write a statement outlining your motivation and credentials.
- Provide Recommendation Letters: Submit letters of recommendation from instructors or mentors.
- Submit Application: Pay the application fee and send in your application before the due date.
- Wait for Offers: After receiving offers from universities, decide whether to accept or reject them.
Graduate Application (Direct to Universities)
- Investigate Programs: Search for pertinent graduate programs and examine the criteria.
- Compile Documents: Compile academic transcripts, personal statement, reference letters, and CV.
- Fill in Online Application: Complete the application form on the university's website.
- Pay Application Fee: Pay the application fee.
- Provide Documents: Upload all the required documents in accordance with the program’s guidelines.
- Attend Interviews (if required): Interviews or additional tests may be required by certain programs.
- Receive Offer: Accept the offer and follow instructions to secure your spot.
Scholarships to Study in UK Universities
There are several scholarships offered by universities in UK for international students studying there. These include:
- Rhodes Scholarships
- Chevening Scholarships
- The Fulbright Program
- British Council Scholarships
- GREAT Scholarships
- Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships
- Commonwealth Scholarships
- University-Specific Scholarships
- Denys Holland Scholarship
- Marshall Scholarships
Visa and Immigration at universities in UK
For Visa and Immigration at universities in UK, students should follow the steps mentioned below:
- Tier 4 Student Visa: Full-time students from outside the UK must have a visa that enables them to study and work part-time.
- Student Visa (Graduate Route): Enables overseas students to stay back for 2 years post completing their degree to work or seek employment.
- Visitor Visa: Not for full-time study but rather short-term visits, generally for research or conferences.
- Short-Term Study Visa: For courses spanning up to 6 months (or 11 months for English language courses).
- Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): Issued to students on a long-term visa to certify their immigration status.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): Necessary for visa applicants, granting access to the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK.
- Post-Study Work Visa: Post completing their degree, certain graduates can work in the UK.
- Visa Sponsorship: Universities in UK are permitted to sponsor student visas, proving that you fulfill the necessary conditions.
- Proof of Funds: Evidence of adequate finances to pay for tuition fees and living expenses needed for visa approval.
FAQs
Which universities in UK offer Master’s programs?
Master’s programs are offered by several best universities in UK. Mentioned below are the UK universities for masters programs:
- London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
- University of Birmingham
- King's College London
- University of Oxford
- University of Edinburgh
- Imperial College London
- University of Southampton
- University College London (UCL)
- University of Glasgow
- University of Cambridge
- University of St Andrews
- University of Warwick
- University of Leeds
- University of Manchester
- University of Bristol
Which are the affordable universities in UK?
There are several low cost universities in UK for international students. Listed below are the affordable universities in UK:
- University of Bedfordshire
- University of Lincoln
- University of East London
- University of Sunderland
- University of Glasgow
- University of Hertfordshire
- Leeds Beckett University
- University of York
- University of Chester
- University of Bolton
To start your application process at these top universities in UK and other universities, get in touch with Edwise today.
For further assistance or queries students can contact us, Edwise International and avail our wide range of services for students on destinations like study in UK, study in USA, study in Canada, study in Australia, study in New-Zealand, study in Singapore, study in Ireland, study in France, study in Germany and many other countries.
