UK
UK Student Visa: The Complete Guide
Take a lifetime tour of a world-class education in the UK, a world-renowned hub of education and research. The United Kingdom (UK) boasts of some of the oldest universities and colleges in the world, and this is attributed to the fact that the country has its roots dating as way back as the 12th and 13th centuries, and this serves as a model to other countries in the world.
Why Study in the UK?
Studying in the UK is a wise decision for students. Why? Why, UK universities are the best and four of them are ranked in the top 10 worldwide. They are centered on practical knowledge, giving emphasis on critical thinking and creativity. Besides, the courses are not as long, and this will save you time and money. Even when you are studying, you can work part-time, and you will be working. In addition, being near Europe exposes one to fascinating travel destinations. The UK has a good deal to offer with its diverse culture, excellent employment opportunities and affordable living expenses. It is not only an education but also an experience!
Student Visa for the UK
The type of study visas and the conditions of applying for them are important to the individuals who intend to study in the UK. The UK also possesses several visas, including Tier 4 (General) student visa and short-term study visa that are need-based.
Type of student visa
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 been 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 depending on your nominated travel dates.
Required Documents for Student Visa
To complete your student visa application, ensure you have
- An authentic travel document or a passport.
- A Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) at your university/college.
- Evidence of sufficient finances to attend your course and live.
- Reliable certificate of ATAS for particular courses and nationalities.
- Original mark sheets/ provisional certificates.
- Scorecard of tests such as TOEFL, GMAT, IELTS, etc.
- Letters from parents or legal guardians in case of underage (below 18).
Top Scholarships for International Students in the UK
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.
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.
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 UK higher education institutions are offering 13 postgraduate scholarships.
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.
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.
UK Academic Intakes:
Colleges and universities in UK usually have two large intakes, although there are those that offer summer intakes.
Trending Courses for Students in the UK:
With the advantage of international leading universities and qualified staff, the UK presents a wide range for foreign students. Popular courses include: –
Top Colleges and Universities in the UK:
Global ranking is important when selecting a university in the UK. The University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, and UCL (University College London) are some of the best universities of the UK and are ranked among the top universities according to QS World University Rankings 2023.
- University of Oxford
- University of Cambridge
- Imperial College London
- UCL (University College London)
- The University of Edinburgh 15
- The University of Manchester
- King’s College London
- London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) 56
- The University of Warwick
- University of Bristol
Most Profitable Degrees in the UK:
The UK job market places more emphasis on some degrees over others. Degrees like:-
- MBA
- Executive MBA
- Master’s in finance
- LLM, and
- Doctorates are among the highest paying in the UK