While choosing an overseas study destination, many aspirants are caught in a dilemma when it comes to deciding between a prestigious high-ranking institution or one that offers the maximum opportunities to try out something new. Why struggle to reach a compromise when the United Kingdom (UK) offers all of this combined and much, much more?
UK has emerged as one among the top study destinations in the world. High class institutions at every corner, traditions of excellence dating back hundreds of years, UK offers more flexibility than any other country in the world. It has much to offer to international students which other English-speaking countries cannot.
But what really makes the United Kingdom stand out among others? Why should you come to the UK to further your international education?
Growing Destination
International students always have been an important part of the universities in UK and the figures have been increasing slowly and steadily over the years. Behind the US, the United Kingdom is the second most popular destination for international students. The UK has strived hard to bank upon the rising demand for English-language instruction and the post-9/11 visa hurdles in the US. There are International students from countries such as China, Malaysia, USA, India, Hong Kong, Germany, Nigeria, France, Italy and Ireland among others.
Live in a Beautiful Country
England stands as the seventh most beautiful country in the world, ranking ahead of Iceland, Finland and US according to recent surveys. From luscious forests to rolling hills, you are confronted with spectacular scenery wherever you go. The towns and cities are surrounded with picturesque countryside that beckons to be explored.
Visions of quaint villages, placid rivers and green fields throughout the countryside seem too good to be true. If you are a nature lover you should visit the Forest of Bowland, the South Downs and a host of other areas of outstanding natural beauty. No wonder England was voted one of the most beautiful countries in the world.
Worldwide Recognition
Degrees and qualifications obtained from world class UK Universities are renowned throughout the world. Famous universities such as Oxford and Cambridge have set this standard of excellence, but many are not aware that there is a plethora of such universities in the UK which carries on the tradition started by their predecessors. If you are fortunate enough to study in any one of these prestigious institutions it surely can be a great selling point in your favour.
Lower Education Costs
Completing a degree in the UK will generally take lesser time to complete than in other countries, and in the process, you could save your bucks as compared to a US school. Even though four-year programs are growing in popularity, most of the degree programs in the UK can be completed in three years. A master’s degree can be obtained normally within one to two years.
Work Opportunities
In the UK, an international student is typically permitted to work up to 20 hours a week through the school term, and full-time when school is out of term. Before taking up any work, it’s always good to check with your international advisor at your school – as rules change frequently and you do not want to be in violation of your visa. Always keep in mind that it is not always easy to find a job in the UK, so depending entirely on your income to fund your entire education is not a safe bet. It’s a good idea to plan all these things in advance before your arrival to the UK to facilitate the funding of the entire first year of your studies without any employment income.
Scholarships / Loans
Financing your entire international education can be tough. The best possible approach includes oodles of preparation, a careful analysis of your budget, and arduous task of researching and applying for scholarships. There are numerous scholarships and loans up for grabs for students who are interested in studying in the UK.
Gateway to Europe
Europe is easier to access than ever now with the addition of the Channel Tunnel and low-cost airlines. You can reach anywhere in Europe from the UK within a few hours by train or direct flight. If you are studying at London or Manchester and you wish to plan a weekend away in Italy, you can fly directly to Rome, Venice, Milan, Pisa or several other
cities in Italy.
Multicultural Nation
The UK is well-known for its multicultural society. Here is where people belonging to various religions and faiths peacefully coexist. With its ethnic and religious jumble, the UK is ever open to new traditions and cultures – a wonderful thing for students from other countries.
Access to Free Healthcare
If you are studying in the UK for 6 months or more, you are eligible for free healthcare through the National Health Service. Of course, you need to pay for medicine, but this is also capped under the NHS. Regardless of how expensive the medicine is you will only have to pay £8.60 per item. This truly brings relief to students who are worried about funding their study abroad experience.
Satisfaction Guaranteed!
Among the host of English-speaking countries, UK boasts of one of the highest student satisfaction rates. Out of a whopping 2.32 million students studying in the UK, 90% are happy with their experience. This is a remarkable number, mainly considering the unique and various programs, universities and locations offered across the UK! Hence, if you’re still ambivalent about picking your destination to study abroad, you surely are going to love your experience in the UK, no matter which city you end up in.