Student Visa - UK

Study in UK

On top of the list for popular study destinations, the UK has a long and proud tradition of education, housing universities with roots back in the 12th and 13th centuries. Famous for its language, history, culture and innovation, the UK has one of the highest student retention rates thanks to the comprehensive support systems in place for international students opting for education in the UK. One of the safest countries in the world, the UK provides a multicultural ambiance with a society that holds a reputation for tolerance and welcoming diversity.

United Kingdom offers a wide variety of courses and a great choice of Universities, colleges, polytechnic etc. Students have the right to work part-time while studying and after finishing the studies have the choice to get a job in the related work and convert their student visa to work permit. The UK has a vast variety of higher education opportunities to offer students with over 100 universities offering various degree programs for students from the UK and around the world. In the UK about one-third of all students go on to some form of higher education and this number is well over 50% for students from Scotland. This makes competition for places very fierce and so it is advised to apply early for courses.

Why choose UK for educational destination?

• UK is known for internationally recognized qualifications of highest standard of education. The standard of brilliance is set by some of the older universities with recognizable names, like Oxford and Cambridge
• Opportunity to perfect your knowledge of the English language, language of business, is a key benefit of studying in the UK 
• UK is one of the most popular destinations for international students
• Great Britain offers more support to international students than any other country, whether it is help with your study skills or assistance with your visa application
• UK is the only country where your Masters Programme can be completed in one year. Most degree programs in the UK require a three-year course
• Due to shorter time of studying the cost of education for an international student in the UK can be lower compared to other countries.
• GB is gateway to Europe. With the Channel Tunnel and low cost airlines Europe is easier to access from the UK than ever. You can reach most areas of Europe from the UK within a few hours by train or direct flight
• The UK is known for being a multicultural country with a racial, ethnic and religious jumble. The UK is very open to new traditions and cultures which is fantastic for international students

Courses in UK

UK is the dream destination to study for students across the globe. IDP endeavors to provide best counseling and assistance so that students can choose wisely for the best course or study program and college among the wide choices available. The advantages of education from UK includes: short and precise one year master programs, content and structure of such courses is designed in such a manner to provide guaranteed excellent study experience that can convert a jockey to Shaquille O'Neal. The other benefits of studying in UK including the quality of education, choice of subjects and institutes available, flexible courses provided, career potential and opportunities present to avail, numerous scholarships and bursaries offered by UK institutes, free healthcare service to students & diverse social environment colleges provide modern outlook and creative edge to course leading to encouraging creative skills of alumni after all educational and professional sector demands innovation.

All of the UK's constituent states i.e England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are known for their alluring beauty and vibrant history mixed with traditions. The major financial buildings and companies are located alongside Thames river. Besides the titillating Multinational companies and corporate giants centralized at London, the big city has much more to offer apart from degree.

Choice of Courses

UK offers many options for students looking to pursue education in wide range of subjects like management, medicine, law, engineering, science, finance, banking, biotechnology, genetics, architecture, hospitality, tourism, history and more.

Visa Requirement

If you make a visa application to stay or move to the UK, you need to be aware of changes made by United Kingdom Visas & Immigration (UKVI).

In addition to the IELTS General Training and IELTS Academic tests, which you may already know of, a new test called IELTS Life Skills will be introduced.

Changes in the UK government policy will be effective from 6 April 2015. If you have taken a test on or before 5 April 2015, the result can be submitted to UKVI with your application until 5 November 2015. 

Student visas

The most common visa for international students entering the UK is the Tier 4 Student Visa. This is a points-based system.
As a Tier 4 (General) student, you must have 40 points to qualify. 

You can score:

• 30 points for having a valid confirmation of acceptance for studies, which you get for studying a course at an acceptable level with an approved education provider (also known as a 'Tier 4 sponsor'), and for having acceptable English language skills; and
• 10 points for having enough money (also known as maintenance or funds) to cover your course fees and living costs. Source: UKVI

Important note for Tier 4 Student Visa (without a pre-sessional)

UKVI has confirmed these changes do not affect you if you are entering directly at degree level or higher at an institution in the UK listed as Tier 4 Sponsors (previously known as Highly Trusted Sponsors). UK universities currently choose their own method of testing students� English language ability and this will not change.

All British universities and colleges accept IELTS results. This means that you do not need to take the IELTS test under UKVI specified condition, unless required by your institution.  You can register for a IELTS test here.

Employment prospects in the UK

By studying in the UK, you will have opportunities to develop important workplace skills and your ability to think independently, which will significantly increase your chances of employment. 

English is the international language of business, science and technology. By studying and living in the UK, the home of English, you will be immersed in the language and have the opportunity to improve your communication skills (of course, this takes practice and hard work!)

Many professional bodies and employers may require evidence of your English language skills. 

During your studies

You can work part-time, volunteer or complete a work placement or sandwich course during your time in the UK, all of which are valuable work-based experiences that can provide an edge and build your r�sum�.

Most universities and educational institutions in the UK have a dedicated careers centre that can advise students on all aspects of gaining employment during and after their studies.

For information on employment prospects and career tips and advice visit www.educationuk.org