You’ve finished high school, and you’re wondering what to do next, and clearly you’ve heard that the UK is a good choice for Indian students after 12th grade - why else read this blog? Well, it’ll net you a world-class education that increases your chances of landing a well-paid job all over the globe.
Sounds good, right?
With over 600,000 international students enrolled each year, the UK is regularly one of the top three destinations for higher education in the world. And nearly 140,000 of those students are from India, drawn in by the high-quality education and career opportunities the UK offers them.
According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, the UK is home to three of the top 10 universities globally, including the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge, and it has many more that rank in the top 100.
But there’s a lot more to studying in the UK than just academics and “prestigious institutions” - it can be a genuinely life-changing experience that’ll give you a more global perspective, some truly essential life skills, and networks that last you a lifetime.
Why choose to study in the UK?
The UK’s education system has consistently ranked among the best in the world. Universities here combine tradition with innovation, offering courses that encourage independent thinking and problem-solving.
For example, the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford have produced and shaped leaders (of countries, businesses… you name it!) for over 800 years, while newer institutions like the University of Warwick are known for cutting-edge research, high-tech facilities, and entrepreneurship initiatives.
With over 160 universities and colleges offering thousands of programmes, students are sure to find courses tailored to their aspirations. AHZ is proud to have partnered with over 140 of these institutions, and our expert counsellors can help you with every stage of your journey to becoming a student in the UK. Get in touch today for a free personalised consultation.
The UK is also well-known for being a melting pot of cultures. Indian students often find the country welcoming, with large Indian communities present in cities like London, Birmingham, and Manchester. In fact, Indians make up the largest minority group in the UK, so you’re sure to find people who’ll help you miss home that little bit less.
From celebrating Diwali in Trafalgar Square to enjoying Indian cuisine (both authentic and local versions) at restaurants across the country, you’ll be able to keep connected to your roots while embracing all the new experiences at your fingertips.
Another major advantage is UK universities’ strong focus on employability. Many undergraduate programmes include opportunities for internships, placements, or industry projects, ensuring students gain practical experience.
Most universities collaborate closely with employers to prepare students for real-world challenges. According to the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), 83% of graduates from the 2021/22 academic year were engaged in employment, unpaid work, or a combination of work and study 15 months after graduation. Specifically, 61% were in full-time employment.
So you’ll get a great education and a globally recognised degree, while still getting a taste of home. And at the end of your studies, you’ll have a better chance of landing a good, well-paid job. Why wait any longer? Book a free call with one of our lovely counsellors and find out what your options are for studying in the UK!
Which courses are popular choices for Indian students?
When choosing what to study in the UK, Indian students have access to a wide range of options. Some fields are particularly sought after due to the country’s strong reputation in those areas.
Business and Management, for instance, remains a top choice, with universities like London Business School and the University of Manchester consistently ranking among the Financial Times’ top 100 in the world for these programmes.
Engineering and Technology programmes are also highly regarded. Indian students studying in these fields get to benefit from cutting-edge research facilities and opportunities to work on projects aligned with industry trends. Imperial College London, for example, is famous for its Engineering courses, and many of its graduates secure positions in global tech firms like Google and Amazon shortly after completing their degrees.
Computer Science is another field gaining popularity, especially as the demand for more and more tech professionals seems to endlessly grow. With many universities now offering innovative courses in AI and data science, students can prepare for careers in some of the fastest-growing sectors. According to the UK Tech Talent Report 2023, the country’s tech industry contributes £150 billion annually to the economy, making it an excellent destination for aspiring tech professionals.
Medicine and healthcare are also favourites among Indian students. Studying in the UK allows students to train in some of the best hospitals in the world. Programmes at universities like King’s College London and the University of Edinburgh are particularly well-regarded for the high quality of their clinical placements and research opportunities.
What are the eligibility requirements for Indian students studying in the UK after 12th?
If you’re hoping to study in the UK after you finish 12th grade, you’ll need to meet a few important requirements.
1. Academic qualifications
To apply to a UK university, you must have completed your 12th-grade education (10+2) from a recognised board in India.
The required grades vary based on the course and university:
- Humanities and Arts: Typically require at least 65% in your 12th-grade exams.
- Science and Commerce: Most courses require 70%–80% or higher.
- Competitive programmes: Courses like medicine or engineering may have stricter requirements, often exceeding 85%.
If your grades don’t meet the entry requirements, you could still look at taking a foundation programme. These one-year courses make sure you have the skills you’ll need to join a full degree programme, and many guarantee entry into an undergraduate programme once you finish them.
2. English language proficiency
All courses in the UK are taught in English, so you’ll need to demonstrate your language skills.
Most universities accept these tests:
- IELTS: An overall band score of 6.0–7.0.
- TOEFL: Scores between 80 and 100.
- PTE Academic: Scores ranging from 58 to 68.
Alternatively, many universities accept high English scores from your 12th-grade exams. For instance, the University of Surrey accepts 70% in CBSE/ISC English or 80% in most state boards.
Some newer tests like the Duolingo English Test are gaining acceptance, providing a convenient and affordable option.
3. Course-specific requirements
Some programmes require additional steps beyond grades and language tests.
Here’s what you should know:
- Medical, Dentistry, and Veterinary Science: Entrance exams like UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) or BMAT (BioMedical Admissions Test) are often required. You’ll also need to attend interviews, such as multiple mini-interviews (MMIs).
- Art and Design Courses: You’ll often need to provide a portfolio of your best work.
- Law or other specialised programmes: Universities may ask for entrance exams or conduct more in-depth interviews.
4. Financial evidence
As part of the application and visa process, you’ll need to show proof of financial capability.
This includes:
- Bank statements proving funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses for at least 9 months.
- For studying in London, this is around £1,334 per month, while in other cities, it’s about £1,023 per month Source: UKVI.
This financial documentation is one of the most important parts of securing a UK Student Visa (formerly called a Tier 4 visa).
5. Additional documentation
Your application must also include:
- A personal statement: A well-written essay explaining your passion for the chosen field, career goals, and why you’re interested in studying at that university.
- Reference letters: Strong recommendations from teachers or mentors who can vouch for your academic skills and a positive character reference.
6. Visa and gap year policies
Once you receive an offer from a university, you’ll need to apply for a Student Visa. This process involves providing a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your chosen university.
For students who take a gap year after 12th grade, most universities accept applications, but some of the more competitive programmes like Medicine might ask you for more details on how you spent the gap year and why you chose to take the time away from your studies.
By meeting these requirements and preparing ahead, you’ll be well on your way to starting your UK education journey! And don’t sleep on getting in touch with us if you need some help or guidance, it’s what we’re here for.
What is the cost of studying and living in the UK?
Studying in the UK is a significant investment, although the quality of education and opportunities available make it worthwhile. The cost of study for international students varies depending on the course and university, with tuition fees ranging from £10,000 to over £50,000 per year. Arts and Humanities courses are generally on the lower end, while courses like Medicine and Engineering are more expensive. The degrees are one year shorter than most other countries though, which can save you quite a bit of money in real terms.
Living expenses depend largely on where you choose to study. London is the most expensive city, with average living costs of around £1,500 per month. Cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow are more affordable, with costs ranging from £800 to £1,200 per month. These figures include accommodation, food, travel, and other personal expenses, but remember to budget for it if you plan to have more fun!
To manage costs, many students work part-time during their studies. You’re allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays as an international student, which can help make keep your finances in the black, and is a great chance to meet new people and get some work experience.
If you’re worried about affordability, scholarships are an excellent way to reduce the financial burden. Many universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships specifically for international students. Additionally, government scholarships like Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships are worth exploring, especially if you’re thinking about coming to the UK with dependants.
All in all, the UK is one of the best places to begin your higher education journey in the world, and it has been for hundreds of years. It’s a great way to open doors, make networks that’ll help you for the rest of your life, and get valuable real-world experience and skills. Even better, we can help you to make it happen (and it’s all free!). Get in touch and let us help you to make your dreams of studying in the UK come true.