Are you an Indian student planning to study in the UK for higher education? The UK education system is one of the best offerings to the International students. In this article, we guide you through the complete process of applying for PG and UG admission in the UK, right from understanding the steps, requirements, and tips you need to make your dream of studying in the UK into a reality.
Why Choose the UK for Higher Education?
For decades, the UK has been a favoured destination for international students, and with good reason. The UK, with its deep-settled academic culture, world-leading universities and extensive number of courses, is the perfect destination for students to develop academically and personally. The world-famous universities such as University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, and London School of Economics.
This, along with multicultural environment in the UK helps students to feel global exposure and a new outlook. However, if you are looking to study science, business, engineering, arts or social sciences there will surely be a place for you in UK universities.
PG Admission in the UK for Indian Students
If you are an Indian student who has completed an undergraduate degree and is now looking to apply for a Postgraduate (PG) program in the UK, you have made a great choice. Most PG courses in the UK are of Master’s degree. Here’s how to work your way through it:
a) Research the Universities and Courses
The first step is to look for universities and the courses that they offer. There are various types of postgraduate programs available at UK universities in all the fields. Read university URLs, rankings and platforms with post-grad experiences and information that suits your qualification and career goals.
b) Check Admission Requirements
Different universities and programs may require their own admission process. The criteria for PG admissions generally include:
- Completed undergraduate (under-graduation) degree (typically 50%-60% aggregate marks).
- Scores of English proficiency test (IELTS, TOEFL or PTE).
- Work Experience (for some courses)
- References and a statement of purpose.
Be sure to look into each course’s specific requirements before applying.
c) Apply for the Course
After deciding the courses you want to study, prepare for online application through the application portal of the university. Fulfill All Required Documents: Make sure you’ve submitted everything from Transcripts, English Proficiency Test Scores, Supporting Documents, etc.
d) Secure Funding and Scholarships
While studying in the UK can be a costly undertaking, there are numerous funding alternatives for Indian students. A few universities provide scholarships, apart from which you can search for government or private scholarships in India. Moreover, a significant number of PG students work on a part-time basis while pursuing their education in order to financially sustain themselves. Looking for a UK Admission Consultants in Kochi?
UG Admission in the UK for Indian Students
If you are an Indian student after completing your higher secondary education (12th grade) going for an Undergraduate (UG) course in the UK, the following steps need to be followed. Here are some tips on handling UG admissions:
Choose Your Course and University
UK universities have a range of undergraduate programs, and similar to PG courses. Whether you are inclined towards engineering or business or social sciences or humanities, make sure to take a course that fits well with what you wish to do in the long run.
Review Entry Requirements
Most of the UK Universities expects Indian students to have a class 12 certificate with a minimum 60%-70% marks for UG programs. But, specific requirements may differ from university to university and course to course. Also, some universities may require certain subjects in your 12th grade.
Indian students also have to submit scores of an English proficiency test (usually IELTS or TOEFL). Some universities may also ask students to do an entrance exam or submit a personal statement.
Apply via UCAS
There is a central application system in the UK- UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). UCAS allows students to apply to several uni’s at once. The application called UCAS contains your academic transcript, personal statement, references and precise test scores.
Financial Planning and Scholarships
While pursuing an undergraduate degree in the UK can be expensive, there are several scholarships and financial aid programs available for Indian students. Look up available scholarships offered by UK institutions, public institutions, and few other private organizations to fund your studies. Are you looking for a UK Admission Consultants in Ernakulam?
Key Documents Required for Admission
Which are, the general documents required for a UK university application for PG & UG aspersions:
- Academic Transcripts: Official copies of your academic transcripts.
- English Proficiency Test Scores: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or (PTE).
- Statement of Purpose: This is an essay stating the motivation behind your decide to study in the UK and your professional goals.
- Recommendation Letters: Minimum 2 academic or professional references.
- Passport: Must be a valid passport identification.
Visa Process for Indian Students
After receiving an offer letter from a UK university, the next step is applying for a student visa (Tier 4 visa). Additionally, you must show that you have enough funds to pay for tuition fees and living expenses, as well as medical insurance. The visa takes a few weeks to process, so make sure you start early.
Start Your Journey Today!
The UK offers a great value to those who want to study abroad after their 12th which is also why it is a great choice for Indian students. Regardless if you are applying for a PG or UG course, a few basic steps will make the process much easier for you. So, what are you waiting for? So look for the universities and courses, gather your documents and apply now to unearth your dream of studying in UK!
Education consultants can help you with the application process, scholarships, and visa formalities, amongst others, so do consult these professionals at every step of the process.
F.A.Q
For PG courses, Indian students have to hold a UG degree with 50%-60% total score along with the English language proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL or PTE) test result. These may include other documents such as recommendation letters and a statement of purpose.
UK-UCAS — This is the centralized application system for UK colleges. With a single application, ranging from academic records to a personal statement and recommendation letters, Indian students could apply to several universities.
Yes, Indian students are eligible for several scholarships provided by UK universities and external organizations such as the ‘Chevening Scholarship’. You must, therefore, utilize the rules of the competition and apply early in order to maximize your best chance of receiving financial aid.
Indian students can apply for Tier 4 student visa only after receiving an offer. Sponsors also need to provide proof of funds for tuition and living expenses and English proficiency. At least three months before the course start date is recommended for applying.