Students from all corners of the globe have long been attracted to studying in the UK, and for good reason. The UK offers world-class education, a rich cultural diversity, and vibrant student cities, making it an excellent destination for international study.
In recent years, the UK has introduced various measures to make it even more appealing to international students, including visa reforms and more welcoming immigration policies. The country aims to attract 600,000 international students annually by 2030. In fact, during the 2019/2020 academic year, international students accounted for 22% of the total university population!
But why should you consider studying in the UK? In this article, we’ll highlight 7 key benefits of pursuing a degree at a UK university and how it can set you up for future success.
1) The UK: A Hub for Top Universities
The United Kingdom is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities. According to the QS World University Rankings 2021, eight UK institutions rank among the top 50 globally:
- University of Oxford
- University of Cambridge
- Imperial College London
- University College London (UCL)
- University of Edinburgh
- University of Manchester
- King’s College London
- London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
UK universities are widely recognized for their excellence in research and development (R&D), medicine, arts, and humanities. With over 100 universities to choose from, students can find institutions that align with their academic interests. Additionally, the QS World University Rankings by Subject provides insights into which UK universities excel in specific fields of study.
2) A Richly Diverse Environment
The UK is an incredibly diverse country, with 14% of its population—around 9.5 million people—born abroad. This diversity provides international students with the opportunity to experience various cultures and build friendships with people from all over the world.
This is especially evident in London, where 35% of the population comes from outside the UK. Additionally, students can stay connected to their own culture by attending community events or visiting restaurants offering familiar cuisine, helping ease homesickness and cultural adjustment.
3) Comprehensive Support for International Students
The UK offers extensive support for international students through universities, local government services, and online resources. Every university has a dedicated office to assist international students with tuition, housing, academic support, and more. You can even reach out to these offices before applying for guidance.
Additionally, the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) provides valuable resources on mental health, housing, employment, and immigration. Their website is a great source of information, and they also offer a hotline for direct assistance.
4 )Enhance Your English Skills While Studying in the UK
What better place to refine your English language skills than in its country of origin? Studying in the UK gives you exposure to a variety of British accents, including English, Irish, Scottish, and Welsh, which can vary significantly across regions.
Moreover, due to the UK’s diverse population, you’ll also hear global English accents, providing you with a real-world listening experience that goes beyond traditional learning environments.
5 )Exciting Job Opportunities After Graduation
In March, the UK government announced the launch of the Graduate Route, making it easier for international students to start their careers in the UK. From July onwards:
- Bachelor’s and master’s graduatescan stay for two years after graduation.
- Doctorate graduatescan stay for three years.
Additionally, the UK offers strong career prospects, particularly in fields listed on the Shortage Occupation List. Professions such as nursing, pharmacy, teaching, and engineering are in high demand, with the government actively recruiting skilled workers from abroad.
6 )The UK: A Fantastic Place to Live
Wondering what life in the UK is like? According to the OECD Better Life Index, it’s pretty great! People in the UK rate their overall life satisfaction at 6.8 out of 10, which is higher than the OECD average. The country also ranks above average in employment, education, skills, and social connections—all key factors for international students seeking a well-rounded experience.
7 ) An Unforgettable Student Experience
From London and Manchester to Glasgow and Nottingham, the UK boasts vibrant student cities filled with exciting opportunities.
- Experience pub cultureand student nightlife.
- Visit world-class museums and art galleries.
- Explore centuries-old castles, breathtaking landscapes, and charming towns.
- Make lifelong friends from all over the world and immerse yourself in new experiences.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Come and get assessed by Key Abroad for seemless and tranparent study in UK application process with success rate of more than 90 %.