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International Student Population
International students from around the world and India choose the UK for their higher studies. Indians make up the third-largest foreign student population in the UK after China and the US.
According to the latest data from the UK’s Higher Education Statistics Agency, as many as 37,500 student visas were granted to Indian students in 2019.
Country and Cities Population
With a population of around 67,923,001, the UK accounts for 0.87% of the total world population. This is the biggest and most diverse population the nation has ever had.
Top British cities based on their population are:
1. London
2. Birmingham
3. Liverpool
4. Nottingham
5. Sheffield
Demographic
The United Kingdom is itself composed of four different nations – England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. General life expectancy in the UK is 82 years indicating its top-quality lifestyle.
Domestic Travel
There are a lot of places to visit in the UK for its foreign population. The UK also has a wide network of domestic flights, especially between England and Scotland and is well connected by train lines, cycle paths, underground subways and roads.
For more details about travel and transport for international students in the UK log in here
Air
There are at least 20 commercial airports in the UK and other local ones too. Air travel is one of the fastest ways to explore the UK. You can also join international students practice travel clubs for discounted travel across the UK.
Train
Most of the popular towns and cities in the UK have train stations. The government has further discounted train travel for students between the age of 16 and 25. As full-time students, you can buy a Young Persons Railcard and travel across the country.
Bus
Short journeys can best be covered in the UK via its extensive network of buses. It’s one of the cheapest modes of transport in the UK and suits the daily needs of students.
Underground
Those living in London will have to use the Underground transit system. There’s an Oyster Card for students that makes them eligible for discounted travel.
International travel
Suppose you are visiting the UK from abroad. In that case, you will get to visit some of the largest international airports in the world because the primary mode of international travel to the island country is by air.
Several air carriers like Air India, Thomas Cook, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, etc. operate flights between India and the UK. You can check all flights and compare prices, here.
Some of the popular international airports among Indian immigrants are:
Heathrow International Airport - London
Manchester International Airport - Manchester
Edinburgh International Airport - Edinburgh
Glasgow International Airport - Glasgow
London Gatwick Airport - London
Accommodation & meal
Since a large number of Indian students choose to study abroad in UK, you will not face problems in searching a suitable accommodation.
The following are some of the most popular forms of accommodation for Indian students in the UK.
Halls of Residence
Several universities in the UK have halls of residence - large buildings divided into a flat - where students are allotted single or sharing rooms. Staying here is a good way to interact with students and adjust to campus life.
Flats
If you are thinking of living independently, you could opt to rent out a flat with your friends away from the university campus. Generally, students move to flats in the 2nd and 3rd years of their course.
Rooms in private houses
Renting independent rooms in private houses is a popular accommodation option in the UK. You not only get to live with someone from the UK but also enjoy a home away from home.
When you get admission into a coveted UK university, you can plan your housing options in advance in consultation with your university.
Read more about the rules concerning your stay in the UK here.
Sightseeing
Comprising four different geographical parts, the UK is a multi-diverse country. Apart from the land border with the Irish republic, the entire UK is surrounded by water, giving excellent options of adventure sports and sightseeing.
The country of royals, it is known for its enchanting museums, castles and historical architecture, best explored by taking a sightseeing tour to the following places:
1. London
2. Edinburgh
3. Oxford
4. Stonehenge
5. Cambridge
5. Yorkshire
Weather
The presence of the Atlantic Ocean highly influences the climate of the UK. Known for its temperate climate, the UK rarely experiences extremes. Not all parts of the country have a similar climate, and it varies across the four geographical regions of the UK.
Currency
The official currency of the United Kingdom is the pound sterling, also known as the pound (£) Each pound is further divided into 100 pence (100p = £1).Exchange rates and commission vary from one city to another in the UK. It is therefore suggested that you compare these rates.
To check the current conversion rates, click here.
Religion
As a multi-faith society, students of all religions can expect to feel welcome in the UK, along with plenty of places to practise their faith. The UK’s official religion is Christianity, and churches of all denominations can be found throughout the country. Some of the other major religions followed in the UK are Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, Judaism and Buddhism.
The UK is a religiously tolerant country, and thus you are free to practice your religious beliefs. Even the universities and other public places like airports, libraries, hospitals, etc. have prayer rooms open to all.
Nightlife
Your university experience in the UK would be incomplete without enjoying its amazing nightlife.
The UK is a country that has something for everyone. So if you are one of those interested in partying and clubbing, nightlife in the UK won’t disappoint you. There are plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs in major cities like London, Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Edinburgh, etc.
A wide range of nightlife offered by the UK suits even the most unconventional of people.
Why live and work in UK
Standard of Living
The lifestyle of the UK is known for offering personal and social well being. From personal security to environmental quality, the country ranks above average, inviting thousands of Indian students every year.
Good education and attractive jobs are yet other reasons why Indian students choose the lifestyle of the UK. Then there’s the unique appeal of living in a well-connected hub, with the rest of Europe being a stone’s throw away.
Healthcare
The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) is one of the best healthcare systems in the world that offers safe and modern treatment to its beneficiaries. The government funds healthcare in the UK. International students who study in the UK are an integral part of this system and the lifestyle of the UK.
If you have a Tier 4 student visa and are studying for six months or longer in any UK university, you can gain access to the NHS. All you need to do is pay the insurance fee of £300 while filing your visa application and your medical costs will be taken care of.
If you are visiting the UK for a course duration of fewer than six months, you will need to contact private insurance companies for medical insurance.
Economic Background of the Country
The economy of the UK needs no introduction. It was at the forefront of the 19th century Industrial Revolution and thus led the world in the manufacturing industry ever since it has been an independent and developed economy.
With a GDP of $2.83 trillion in 2019, the United Kingdom is the sixth-largest economy in the world after the US, China, Japan, Germany, and India. The services sector comprises three-fourths of its GDP and employs a large number of people, including Indian immigrants.
Stay back after studies/work permit
The chance to study in the UK is also quite rewarding, with international experience glossing over their portfolios. While a reference from a reputed international company increases your employability manifold, people who study or work in the UK also get great exposure to their career fields.
The new Graduate Route makes it possible for international students to stay back in the UK and work after their studies. Those who have a valid Tier-4 visa can take up a job in the UK for a maximum of 2 years after completing their graduation or masters.
You can find out more information about working after your studies on the UKCISA website.
Student part-time jobs and wage rates
Living costs in the UK are not low, and therefore many international students take up part-time jobs to support themselves and learn the work culture of a new country.
Indian students are also eligible to work part-time in the UK under the Tier-4 student visa. You can work 20 hours per week during the term and 40 hours per week during holidays.
Some of the most profitable part-time jobs for students in the UK are:
1. Retail sales jobs
2. Social caretaker
3. Accountancy
4. Delivery and marketing executives
The good thing about working in the UK is that the government has defined a minimum wage for all workers, both for UK residents and international students.Minimum wages in the UK for students aged between 18 and 20, is £6.15 per hour and for those aged 21+, is £7.70 per hour.
How to find a part-time job
Finding a part-time job in the UK won’t be difficult as the country has a lot of employment opportunities. Here’s what you as international students can do:
Contact the Careers Team at your institution for information on jobs on-campus and in local businesses.
Check local newspapers for job listings.
Register on popular part-time job websites like – Student Jobs, Careers Group London and E4S.
Be a part of the social network – join job vacancy groups on Facebook, Google and Yahoo and keep yourself updated on the latest vacancies.
Job culture ethics
A majority of British companies and organisations still follow a distinct hierarchy in the workplace. British managers are known to be firm, effective and resolute. While communication between seniors and subordinates comes out to be informal at times, at the end of the day, it’s the authority of the boss that prevails.
British companies believe in teamwork and never underestimate individual potential.
Learn more about the work culture in Learn more about the British work culture and lifestyle of the UK here.
Popular Student Cities in the UK
Some of the top universities in the world are located in the UK. These universities offer extraordinary opportunities for graduates to strike up a work-life balance, leading to the development of popular student cities.
Some of the best student cities in UK are:
London
The presence of world-class universities in London makes it one of the best cities for students worldwide. These universities ensure employment to students after the completion of their courses. London is also known for its business and employment opportunities and an excellent diversity in life experience.
Manchester
Home to several prestigious universities, Manchester is one of the best student cities in the UK. Affectionately coined 'Mini-London', the city is also known for its functional interstate connectivity and affordability.
Birmingham
The UK's second-largest city, Birmingham, is located in the center of the country. The University of Birmingham is consistently featured in the top 100 of the world rankings. Known for its industrial heritage, Birmingham has great shopping centers, canals and restaurants.
Nottingham
Known for its vibrant culture, Nottingham is one of the best student cities in the UK. International students studying here have described Nottingham as one of the most affordable cities in the UK with a well-developed public transport system. The rent of a one-bedroom apartment in Nottingham is 66% cheaper as compared to London.
Liverpool
Liverpool is a fantastic place for Indian students. The small and compact city has everything a student needs. From an active and vibrant nightlife to the low cost of living, students have all the reasons to choose Liverpool to study in the UK.
Leeds
One of Australia's fastest-growing cities, universities in Perth, offers a wide range of choices to international students. Perth dominates the Western Australian economy, despite the major mining, petroleum and agricultural export industries located elsewhere in the state.Five universities, thriving nightlife, great job prospects and cheap accommodation make Leeds a great city for students. Although Leeds has a huge population, geographically it's a smaller city, and thus it is easy for students to move around the city while they study in the UK
Cardiff
The NatWest Student Living Index has named Cardiff as the most affordable city for students in the UK. Home to Cardiff University and Cardiff Metropolitan University, it can be a great choice for students with a tight budget.
Leicester
Leicester is a lively and vibrant city in the UK. People here are welcoming to international students. Home to three major higher education providers in the UK - Loughborough University, the University of Leicester, or De Montfort University - Leicester welcomes a huge student population from abroad.
British People & Culture
History of the UK
TChristianity spread in the UK during the sixth and seventh centuries. Later, much of Britain shifted from Roman Catholicism to Protestantism in the 16th century giving birth to the present culture of the United Kingdom..
Britain transformed itself from an agrarian to an industrial society from the 1760s to the endeavors world’s first industrial revolution. Through the years, the country has been one of the top contenders in science and literature, attracting thousands of international students to study in the UK.
Demographic information
The United Kingdom ranks 21st in the world according to its population with an average life expectancy of 82 years.
Language
Around 98% of the country’s population speaks English, but you can expect to see a wide variation in accents as you move from one region to another.
Due to its proximity to Europe and a long history of colonialism, there are a large number of other languages and dialects spoken in the UK including, French, Scots, Welsh, etc. These languages provide diversity to the culture of the United Kingdom.
Being a hub of immigration from its colonies like India and Pakistan, several Indian languages like Bengali, Punjabi, Urdu, etc. are also spoken here.
National Events
The UK has a rich history and cultural heritage. World-famous events and local celebrations happen in the UK all year round. While some of them are public holidays, others are not.
Here’s a list of some of the most popular events for you to indulge and enjoy the culture of the United Kingdom.
1. New Year’s Day parade
2. London Fashion Week
3. RBS six nations Rugby
4. St. Patrick’s Day
5. Gymnastics World Cup
6. The Oxford & Cambridge Boat Race
7. London Marathon
And of course, there’s a sport. Birthplace to Cricket, and Football – the UK has devoted a fair share of its attention to the development of athletics and sporting endeavours. For the latest updates on cricket events, you can visit the official website of England and Wales Cricket Board.
Main Festivals
The UK celebrates many festivals all around the year to give immigrant students a peek into its rich culture. Some of the major festivals celebrated in the UK include:
Slapstick Festival, England
Great British Beer Festival, Birmingham
Dark Skies Festival, Yorkshire
Glasgow Film Festival, Scotland
Glasgow International Comedy Festival, Scotland
Oxford Literary Festival, Oxford
London Coffee Festival, London
With a huge Indian immigrant population, the UK is indeed one of the best countries to live for Indian students. Moreover, it helps you amalgamate with its culture pretty well.
Indian festivals in UK
Indian students choose to study in the UK because of its vibrant and diverse culture. Just like India, different cultures come together in the UK to celebrate the variety of Indian festivals.
Some of the Indian festivals celebrated on a large scale in the UK are Holi, Diwali, Janmashtami and Navratri.
Leicester’s extravagant street party with traditional food, music, dancing and fireworks is one of the biggest Diwali celebrations outside of India.
When you are in the UK, you will as if the nation amalgamates everything into the culture of the United Kingdom.
Health and Safety in UK
- Australia's health system for international students
- Insurance & providers
- Student helping NGOs in Australia
UK's health system for international students
Everyone loves any country that puts the health and safety of its citizens first. The laws and policies of the country are such that it is safe to study in the UK for international students. From emergency services to safe public transportation and lowest crime rates in the world, health and safety in the UK are of premium standards.
If you want to gain access to their world-class NHS, you can apply for it along with your visa application.
The universities and colleges in the UK also ensure the complete welfare of their students, even extending to patrolling and security systems. You can find out more about the health insurance provided under the NHS on the official website.
Insurance & providers
The cost of living in the UK is high as compared to other study abroad destinations in the world. This requires international students to have proper medical insurance so that all their medical costs are covered and to ensure health and safety in the UK.
Apart from one of the best education systems in the world, the UK also has one of the best health systems – the National Health Service.
International students can access the NHS in the UK, only if their study program is six months or longer. Otherwise, they should opt for insurance from a private insurance company. The same goes for visitors who come to study in the UK.
Student helping NGOs in UK
As international students, you could face problems settling in a foreign country. There are several charities and NGOs in the UK that offer support services to students coming from abroad and ensure their good health and safety in the UK.
One of the most popular NGOs for international students in the UK is:
1. Educating Beyond Borders
An NGO runs entirely by volunteers; it aims to support and help international students studying in the UK. Their support extends across gender and nationalities, and you can contact them here.
While the UK government offers hundreds of scholarships and additional financial support to students from several countries, you can also seek financial assistance or scholarships from other private institutions.
Check the complete list here.
Student Support Centers
Studying and living in a foreign country can be tough on young students, especially when there’s no known person around. The UK has a wide Indian diaspora, and therefore you need not worry about anything. In emergencies, you can seek the help of government agencies.
IThe UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) works to support international students and the institutions, students’ unions and organisations who work closely with them. You can contact them for any information and help regarding your health and safety in the UK at:
Student Advice Line on +4420 7788 9214, which is open at the following times:
Monday to Friday (except for public holidays): 1.00 pm to 4.00 pm (UK time)
For urgent help, call: 020 7288 4330
Emergency Helplines
It is natural for international students to face troubles in a foreign country, and the UK is no exception. But being a country composed of millions of immigrants, you will find help when you need it.
From physical to mental health issues, you can contact these helpline numbers in emergencies.
Best Places to Visit in UK
When you are in the UK, consider making use of the excellent connectivity to travel to its museums, parks and other historical buildings.
Here we are listing some of the best places to visit in the UK:
The Tower of London and Tower Bridge
The Tower Bridge or as you popularly know it - the London Bridge in movies - stands on the River Thames. One of the finest bridges in the world, it is a must-visit place for students who study in the UK.
The British Museum
Visiting the British Museum is a dream of art and history lovers. With an exquisite collection spanning over two million years of human history and culture, the Museum boasts of some of the world-famous objects such as the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures, and Egyptian mummies.
Big Ben
The Houses of Parliament and Elizabeth Tower are together called Big Ben. They are among London's most iconic landmarks and must-see attractions.
Birmingham Science Museum
If you are a Science student, your study would be incomplete without visiting the Birmingham Science Museum. It has over 200 hands-on displays on science and technology.
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
Run by Birmingham Museums Trust, it is one of the largest museums in the UK showcasing the nation's rich culture and history. From fine arts to archaeology, the Museum has it all and attracts thousands of student visitors every year.
Merseyside Maritime Museum
Once a warehouse for high-value goods like tea, silk, sugar and spirits, the Museum now explores Liverpool's maritime history through its large and diverse collection that also includes a lifejacket from a Titanic survivor. If you take an interest in marine studies, this is surely one of the best places to visit in the UK for you.
Walker Art Gallery
If paintings, sculptures and decorative arts are your things, then you should not miss this amazing art gallery in Liverpool. From the ancient world to the 21st century, the gallery houses collectibles spanning over 600 years.
Old Market Square
One of the oldest public squares in the UK is strategically located in Nottingham. The square is key to the residents of Nottingham, and you can spend a lot of your leisure time here when you study in the UK.
Highfields Park
Spread in 21 hectares, this park houses some of the most exotic plants in the UK. Its proximity to the Nottingham University Campus makes its students' favourite. You can also go for a boat ride and adventure golf here.
Bristol Harbour
Sunday markets, restaurants, bars, adventure sports, the Bristol Harbour offers you everything. Always buzzing with people, this is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in the UK for students if they want to experience the British way of life.
King Richard III Visitor Centre
The UK is a land of museums, and King Richard III Visitor Centre is one of the latest additions to its list of museums. Located in Leicester, England, the Museum will give you a glimpse of the king's life.
Curve Theatre
Situated in the heart of Leicester's City Centre, the Curve Theatre is just a 10-minute walk from the train station. It is always bustling with students who love to spend their leisure time here.
Leeds Town Hall
Leeds Town Hall hosts some of the most popular festivals, concerts and events in the UK. It is one of the largest of its kind buildings in Europe and deserves a visit.
Abbey House Museum
If you are interested in learning about the history and culture of the city of Leeds, this Museum will captivate you with its exhibits. Exhibiting toys and collectibles from the past, universities also organise trips to the Museum.
Immigration & Citizenship in UK
Tier 4 student general class
If you want to study or work in the UK, you will have to follow the immigration and citizenship rules of the country that brief you on how to get UK citizenship.
Tier 4 (General) Student Visa is for students coming to the UK for education post 16. To be able to get the visa, you should fulfil all the UK Immigration Rules.
The UK has a point system to grant visas to students.
- You must have a valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies from a fully licensed Tier 4 sponsor which gives you full 30 points.
- You must have enough money to cover course fees and monthly living costs (also known as maintenance or funds) which gives you 10 points.
Overall, you should get 40 points to be able to gain a visa under the Tier 4 student general class.
For more details on the student, visas visit the government website.
Extend your visa
Students that need to extend their visas to continue their studies in the UK, need to request a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) and book a visa document checking session at least ten working days before their visa expires.
You will also be required to pay a fee. Learn more about it here.
UK's plans to invite immigrants
While the UK has been inviting millions of immigrants for the past years, the coronavirus pandemic has halted the immigration patterns and procedures. As of now, there’s no update on the plans to invite immigrants.
We will keep you updated about the latest changes in the UK Immigration Rules and procedure on how to get UK Citizenship.
- Yearly international student visa in the UK
- PSW - GIR
- Citizenship
- Spouse/ family members & dependents
- Language requirements
Yearly international student visa in the UK
According to the UK Government, the number of students who were granted a Tier 4 visa in 2019 was 276,889. India stands at the second position when it comes to the presence of non-EU students in the UK, with a total of 26,685 Indian students.
PSW - GIR
To support Indian students, the UK has a two-year post-study work visa for them. This visa helps expand opportunities for talented international students to build successful careers in the UK.
The New Graduate Route is open for all international students, including those from India, who have completed their course of study from a registered UK university.
Citizenship
Indian immigrants generally prefer working in the UK after completing their studies. Later, they even obtain UK citizenship, if eligible.
You can also apply for citizenship by naturalization depending on how long you have been staying in the UK.
Check all the detailed requirements on how to get UK Citizenship on the official website..
Spouse/ family members & dependents
The UK permits a Tier 4 student to bring dependant family members in certain circumstances. Your family members are eligible to apply for a dependant visa if:
- Your course is full-time, at postgraduate level and at least nine months long
OR
- You are a government-sponsored student on a full-time course that is six months or longer. This means you are financially sponsored for your studies by the UK government or an overseas government.
You can consult our experts for more details on how to get UK citizenship and visa requirements for students and their dependents, or visit the Home Office website.
Language requirements
The UK’s Home Office requires that every student from outside the UK and the European Union must show evidence of a minimum level of English language to be granted a Tier 4 visa to study at undergraduate or postgraduate level.
Additionally, individual universities may ask for the English language proficiency levels that are necessary for their academic programs.
We, at Chetanya, are committed to helping our clients through the entire visa process so that you can begin a hassle-free shift to life in a foreign country.