Academic Qualifications: You need an offer from a UK university, typically with 60–65%+ in the relevant degree (or 80%+ for top institutions). Requirements vary by subject and level.
Language Proficiency:
IELTS 6.0–7.0 overall (min. 6.0 in each element) is commonly accepted; some universities accept TOEFL iBT or Duolingo English Test scores.
Study Gap Acceptance: Generally accepted, but many universities prefer recent study (within 3–5 years). A gap longer than 2 years may require an explanation or evidence of maintained skills.
Other- You must demonstrate financial proof—for nine months, £12,006 if studying in London, or £9,207 elsewhere.
You also need a valid CAS from your university and a Student Route visa (formerly Tier 4).
1. University of St Andrews - Arts
2. London School of Economics (LSE) - Economics, Social sciences
5. Imperial College London - Engineering & STEM
7. Loughborough University (top for sports/STEM)
9. University of Warwick - Engineering & STEM
PROS:
Financial Relief- Helps cover tuition (£10–24k/year) and living costs (₹1.2–1.6 L/month)
Enhances CV/reputation.
May include mentorship, networking, career support.
CONS:
Highly competitive - limited spots.
Often conditional: must maintain grades or return home after study.
Applications require time (essays, references, interviews).
Common Scholarships
Chevening– UK government-funded, full tuition + stipend; highly competitive.
Commonwealth – for students from Commonwealth countries.
GREAT Scholarships – partnered with UK universities for shorter awards
University-specific – merit & need-based (foundations, alumni-funded, subject-specific).
Accommodation (RENT SHARED, Non-london): INR 52k–81k
Accommodation (RENT): INR 1.05L–1.28L
Utilities & Internet- INR 8k - 10k
Groceries - INR 16k - 18k
Transport - INR 6.4k - 11k
Miscellaneous - INR 15k - 40k
Total: Approximately INR 12 lakh - 17 lakh for a 9-12 month academic year
Premium education: Globally ranked universities, rigorous curricula.
Short programs: 3-year bachelor’s & 1-year master’s—time-efficient.
Research & innovation: Strong focus on practical and global research.
Post-study visa: Graduate route allows up to 2 years (3 for PhD) employment .
Cultural exposure: Diverse student body and global networking.
English proficiency: Enhances career in multinational roles.
Allowed: Up to 20 hrs/week during term for degree-level courses; up to 10 hrs for lower-level courses
During vacations: Full-time work permitted.
Types of jobs: Hospitality, retail, admin, internships; but no self-employment or entertainment/sport professional roles.
Wages: National Minimum Wage – £8.60/hr (18–20 yrs), £11.44/hr (21+)
Compliance: Keeping track of hours is crucial; breaching limits risks visa
Post-study: Graduate visa allows work without hour limit post-degree