The UK has witnessed a great rise in the number of international students pursuing higher education, including Indian students. According to data published by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), there was a 50% year-over-year increase in the number of Indian students studying in the UK during the 2021-22 academic year. Many prominent Indian leaders, scholars, scientists, and literary figures have received their education from prestigious UK universities. The list includes illustrious names such as Mahatma Gandhi, B. R. Ambedkar, Jawaharlal Nehru, K. R. Narayanan, Homi Bhabha, Vikram Sarabhai, Hargobind Khorana, Amartya Sen, and Khushwant Singh. Let’s explore why studying in the UK is appealing to Indian students, shedding light on the key factors that contribute to their education preference.

High-quality education facility

Many valid reasons make the UK a favourite destination for Indian students to get their higher education.

• Four out of the top 10 universities in the world (based on QS World Ranking 2023) belong to the UK, one of the primary reasons why Indian students choose to study there. UK universities have a great reputation for academic excellence as there are world-class institutions like the University of Cambridge, the University of Oxford, and Harvard University.
• The top UK universities provide numerous short-term courses for students, which help them to land a great career. Indian students understand that studying in the UK provides them access to that facility, cutting-edge research opportunities, and exceptional resources.
• The Quality Assurance Agency,  which is popularly known as QAA ensures all students get a quality education while they Study in the UK from India. There are UK higher education funding bodies that examine research and publish about the standard of education to make sure students get quality learning and teaching irrespective of their courses.

The presence of reputable UK higher education funding bodies further ensures that Indian students studying in the UK receive top-notch education across various disciplines.

Student-friendly visa policies for Indian students

The UK offers student-friendly visa policies that facilitate the smooth transition and stay of Indian students. The availability of visa policies makes it easy for Indian students to study in the UK.

• Tier 4 (General) student visa allows Indian students to study full-time at a recognised educational institute in the UK.
• The visa allows part-time work opportunities, post-study work options, and internships, enabling students to get practical experience and explore career prospects.
• A post-study work visa allows Indian students to work in the UK for up to two years after completing the degree, providing a valuable opportunity to start a career.

These policies mostly offer Indian students quality education in the UK and encourage them to have a better professional career and life. As a result, it gives the students important professional experience and opportunities to increase their network globally while studying in the UK.

Financial opportunities: scholarships and support

Finances often play a crucial role in the decision-making process for Indian students aspiring to study abroad. The UK offers various scholarships and grants along with financial aid options which are specifically designed for international students.

• The top universities' financial aid and scholarship options help reduce the financial burden associated while studying in the UK.
• Scholarships based on merit further encourage Indian students to choose the UK as their preferred destination for higher education.
• Along with academic merit Institutions and governing bodies provide scholarships based on sports achievements, research potential, and financial need.

Exploring these opportunities can significantly ease the financial burden and make studying in the UK more affordable for Indian students.

Cultural diversity

The UK embraces cultural diversity and provides a welcoming environment for Indian students to assimilate into British society.

• Indian students can immerse themselves in the local culture, customs, and traditions, enriching their educational experience.
• The multicultural environment promotes cross-cultural understanding, tolerance, and acceptance, fostering personal growth and global citizenship.
• Engaging with students from different backgrounds cultivates a sense of unity, friendship, and a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity.

Cultural assimilation in the UK allows Indian students to develop intercultural communication skills and a broader worldview.

Thriving career prospects

The UK's thriving job market and numerous multinational companies offer Indian students excellent opportunities to gain valuable work experience and launch their careers on a solid foundation.

• The UK's flourishing job market presents Indian students with many prospects to obtain valuable work experience and successfully initiate their careers.
• The country's home to many multinational corporations that provide Indian students with a solid network and professional associations.
• Studying in the UK allows Indian students to explore job opportunities and secure employment in their fields of interest.

Studying in the UK can grant Indian students access to a robust professional network and the opportunity to explore job prospects in their chosen field, which can aid them in securing employment and attaining their career objectives.

Earnings from working as a student 

Working part-time during studies in the UK can provide international students with the needed opportunities to gain work experience, improve their language skills and boost their income. However, it is important to be aware of the rules and restrictions about working on a student visa and to achieve academic success.

• International students, including Indian students, can work in the UK for twenty hours per week during their study period and full-time during vacations while they Study in the UK from India.
• If the course has ended, but your visa remains valid, you can work full-time at the Home office.
• There is also the availability of a post-study work visa, allowing international students, including Indian students, to stay in the UK and search for work for two years after completing their graduate studies.

The income from part-time jobs in the United Kingdom can differ depending on the type of work and location, as wages may differ between regions and industries. It is worth noting that National Insurance and income tax contributions will be automatically deducted from an individual's pay when working in the UK, including from part-time jobs.

Health benefits for students

Many universities in the UK offer on-campus housing, which is generally safe and clean. This can help maintain students' physical health and reduce the risk of housing-related health problems.

• Indian students studying in the UK can get free healthcare through the National Health Service, known as the NHS.
• Students must pay a small International Health surcharge to get the benefits.

The UK has a multicultural National Health Services, which can help Indian students feel more welcome and less homesick. This can improve mental well-being and reduce the risk of social isolation.

Studying in the UK can be a great opportunity for Indian students. By choosing the right course and university Indian students can learn important networks, skills, and knowledge that can help them achieve their academic goals and a greater career in the future.