‘Students In The UK Among World’s Most Employable’: British Council Spokesperson

As we all know, there is a significant number of Indian students who wish to study in the United Kingdom after graduating from high school. There is a lot of information needed to curate a reliable strategy, including that about prospective courses, institutions, studying and living costs, and much more.

Keeping this in view, Careers360 organised an interactive webinar with British Council, so that the attending students could get to understand the various aspects of studying and living in the UK. British Council’s representative speaker for the session was Aatreyee Guha Thakurta, Assistant Director of Education, India, British Council.

Why Choose The UK

England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland are the four countries that make up the UK, and each boasts of some top-tier universities. The UK provides pupils with a warm and accepting environment. Even in the years of the pandemic, when many nations closed their borders to students, the United Kingdom welcomed students, particularly those from India, to stay and study there. The University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge, two of the world's top three universities, are both in the United Kingdom. The Times Higher Education top 200 institutions for learning further include 26 universities and colleges in the UK.

According to the most recent statistics, approximately 82,000 Indian students travelled to study in the United Kingdom in 2020-2021, with the number increasing to 90,000 in 2021-2022. Furthermore, UK institutions are well-known for their close ties to companies established in the country, such as GlaxoSmithKline, Vodafone, Unilever, BP, and Shell. Universities provide industry-led education, host workshops, and ensure that their students are equipped with practical skills that will help them find work.

Also Read | Things To Know Before Choosing The UK As A Study Destination

Research And Employment In The UK

The UK is one of the most renowned and resourceful countries in the world when it comes to science, research, and innovation. It is ranked first for the impact of its scientific research, producing 15.2% of the world's most widely-cited research. The Russell Group, which refers to universities known for world-leading research, is based in the UK.

Students in the UK are among the most employable in the world. 90% of overseas students are pleased with their education in the UK, claiming that they have advanced faster in their careers and earned more than peers educated elsewhere. Various internship and placement programmes at colleges allow you to work for 20 hours per week during coursework and 40 hours per week during the holidays, allowing you to get experience while also earning money. By refining your skills, these internships and placements make you more employable.

The UK Graduate Route was created in 2021 by the UK government, allowing you to stay in the UK for up to two years after completing your undergraduate or master's degree while working in a skilled job. Students who finish their PhD can stay for three years.

Costs And Admission Process Of Studying In The UK

Although major cities like London are relatively expensive, the average cost of studying in the UK is lower than that in the United States and Australia. You should budget £800-£1300 per month for rent, £10 per month for a cellphone contract, and so on. The UK also has good connectivity, within and outside the country.

Budget Your Expenses Well In Advance

Also Read | It Is Good To Go For An Education Loan For Your Child. Here's Why

If you are serious about studying in the United Kingdom, you should do the following:

• Choose the UK
• Decide on a course
• Register and apply
• Accept the offer
• Organise funding
• Apply for visa
• Prepare for stay
• Study in the UK

Your selection of university should be based on the following:

• Location
• Size
• Subject expertise
• Links with industries
• International opportunities

Similarly, you must carefully choose the subject you wish to study. The following are some of the criteria that will assist you in making your decision:

• Academic background
• Personal interest
• Job opportunities
• Recognition of qualification

There are many universities in the United Kingdom, and choosing one that matches all of your requirements within a predetermined budget can be difficult. To aid you in the process, go to the "Study UK" website, click "Find a University," and enter details such as subject, level, or institution type to find a university. The website also provides assistance with selecting the appropriate course, the application procedure, scholarships and funding, housing, health and safety, money and fees, and other topics.

The majority of undergraduate applications in the United Kingdom are submitted through UCAS (University and Colleges Admission Services), and completing and submitting an application through UCAS includes:

• Personal Statement/Statement Of Purpose
• Written references
• Interview
• English Language Proficiency (IELTS or equivalent)
• Academic performance (A-level or equivalent)

Other Attractions For Students

International students can receive subsidised treatment through the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom. Students pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of their visa application, which grants them access to the NHS.

Life will always be entertaining no matter where you reside in the United Kingdom. The United Kingdom caters to a wide selection of international cuisines, including vegan, vegetarian, and non-vegetarian options. There are numerous Indian restaurants, bars, and pubs throughout the United Kingdom. Also, very importantly, during your stay in the UK, you are likely to form relationships, that will stay with you throughout life.

Watch Now | Webinar: Studying And Living In The UK