If you’re thinking about studying in the United Kingdom, you’re making a great decision. There are many reasons to study in the UK. The country offers historically renowned universities like Oxford University, Cambridge University, King’s College, and so on, a wide range of course offerings, and ample opportunities for research. Apart from that, the UK boasts an engaging, tolerant, and diversified culture as well as a thriving economy.
With world-renowned universities and a wealth of cultural experiences available, the UK is a popular destination for students from all over the world for pursuing a high-quality education. The article covers some of the top reasons to study in the UK. Keep reading to find out more.
Why Study in the UK?
As an international student, there are many questions you may have about studying in the United Kingdom. In this post, we will outline some of the top reasons why students choose to study in the UK. Read on to explore the reasons below.
Academic Excellence and High-quality Education
The United Kingdom has a long and proud tradition of providing high-quality education. In fact, some of the world’s most prestigious universities are located in the UK. This high-quality education is also recognized by employers all over the globe. Moreover, the UK’s education system is flexible and allows students to tailor their studies to their own interests and needs, offering some of the best universities in the world.
This high quality of education comes at a price though – tuition fees in the UK are among the highest in Europe, especially at Cambridge University, Oxford University, UCL (University College London), King’s College, and Imperial College London. However, many students feel that the investment is worth it, as they know they will be getting a top-quality education that will open up doors for them in their future careers.
On the other hand, the UK has several renowned universities where you can pursue your higher studies at an affordable cost. To be more specific, as a study abroad destination, the UK is significantly cheaper than other English-speaking countries like America, Australia, and Canada.
There is no doubt that high-quality, and globally recognized education is important. After all, it can help open doors to amazing opportunities and experiences. So if you’re looking for an excellent education that will be highly valued by employers, the UK is definitely worth considering.
Opportunity to Become a Graduate Sooner
The UK universities and colleges offer shorter duration of courses; 3 years for Bachelor programs, 1 – 2 years for Masters Programmes, and 3 years for Ph.D. In some cases, the Ph.D. courses may take up to 4-5 years or more but it usually takes 3 years.
So becoming a graduate from the United Kingdom takes a shorter period of time compared to most countries, including America, Canada, Australia, and so on.
Work While Studying
As an international student, you can work for up to 20 hours per week. And you are eligible to work full time during the semester break. So you can make money during the study period in the UK. To be honest, if you are smart enough and love to take challenges, then you can easily make enough money to cover all of your expenses, including tuition fees, living costs, and so on.
Opportunity to Settle in the UK
After completing your studies in the United Kingdom, you can get a graduate visa, which will allow you to stay there for at least 2 years. If you complete a Ph.D. from a UK university, then you will get a 3 years graduate visa.
Although you can’t extend the graduate visa, you can either switch to a skilled worker visa or other types of visa. With a skilled worker visa, you are allowed to stay there for up to 5 years.
If you live and work in the United Kingdom for 5 years, then you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Once you have had indefinite leave to remain in the UK, then you can apply for Citizenship after 1 year.
To get UK citizenship, you must be over 18, proof of living in the UK for exactly 5 years before the day you submit the application to the Home Office. You should have proof of your English proficiency. However, if your degree was researched or thought in English, you will get an exemption on it.
Free Healthcare Service for International Students
International students get free healthcare through the National Health Service (NHS). In fact, the NHS covers almost everything except dental care and eye care. You just need to register for health insurance. Specifically, you have to pay £470 per year for health insurance, which is called an IHS (Immigration Health Surcharge). But if you stay there for less than 6 months, then you can pay just £235. You will give access to NHS benefits through the IHS.
Strong Bangladeshi Community in the UK
There are strong Bangladeshi communities out there in the United Kingdom. Since the early 1950s Bangladeshi communities have been present in the United Kingdom. They initially settled in London but subsequently moved to other parts of the country, especially the Midlands and northern England.
Today, the Bangladeshi community is one of the most populous ethnic minority groups in the United Kingdom, with a population of over 500,000. Bangladeshi Britons are relatively young and well-educated, with a higher than average rate of university attendance.
The Bangladeshi community has made significant contributions to British society and culture. There are 5 Bangladeshi members of parliament in the United Kingdom; Apsana Begum MP – Labour Party Member of Parliament, Rupa Huq MP – Labour Party Member of Parliament, Rushanara Ali MP – Labour Party Member of Parliament, Tulip Siddiq MP – Labour Party Member of Parliament, and Foysol Choudhury MBE MSP – Labour Party Member of Scottish Parliament.
Religious Freedom in the UK
Religious freedom in the United Kingdom is an important issue for many Bangladeshi students. The United Kingdom has a long history of religious tolerance. So you will get enough freedom to practice their religion freely in Britain.
Excellent Transportation System
There is no doubt that the United Kingdom boasts an excellent transportation system. It is one of the most comprehensive and well-connected systems in the world. And it is efficient, and reliable too.
The UK’s transport infrastructure is among the best in Europe and is constantly being improved. The country’s railways are particularly impressive, with a dense network of high-speed, intercity, and commuter lines criss-crossing the country.
The Tube, London’s world-famous underground railway, is another standout feature of the UK’s transport system. Although it can be cramped and busy during peak times, it is an efficient way to get around the capital.
Buses and taxis are also widely available in most towns and cities, and there is an extensive network of cycle paths and lanes for those who prefer to travel by bike.
Driving in the UK is relatively easy and, thanks to a series of motorways and highways, it is possible to travel long distances relatively quickly. However, congestion is a major problem in many parts of the country, particularly in London.
The UK’s transport system is certainly among the best in the world.
Conclusion
The United Kingdom is a popular destination for students seeking a world-class education. British universities are consistently ranked among the best in the world. Apart from that, the UK offers a wealth of unique cultural experiences. Students who study in the United Kingdom can expect to receive an excellent academic education as well as outstanding careers.
