So what’s it like to be an International Student at a UK university?

Written by Caroline Hopkinson-Woolley

Such a simple question… with over half a million potential answers.  I haven’t - yet! - been able to put it to any current world leader, although one in four of them (as well as nearly 40% of all Nobel Laureates) has studied in the UK, but I can guarantee that you’ll be in great company if you enrol for a degree course or postgraduate qualification at one of our many and varied higher education institutions.

 Across Great Britain and Northern Ireland, there are currently over 150 government-recognised and, crucially, government-regulated universities and colleges at which more than 500,000 international students (over 25% of whom are from the EU) are now studying for a first or master’s degree.  Of these institutions, a truly impressive number - 4 of the top 10, 7 of the top 50 and 26 of the top 200 - are recognised as among the best in the world.  There really is a place for everyone, whether you prefer to study amid the buzz and bright lights of our biggest cities or in closer proximity to some of the truly stunning natural landscapes of Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland.  Our oldest universities date back almost 1,000 years but, ancient or modern -  and with or without the pandemic to prove it - there’s no question that the UK is at the cutting edge of world-leading research and development in almost all spheres of study. 

 Not only does the UK boast a uniquely long tradition of higher education but it also offers a unique style.  Undergraduate degree courses are significantly shorter than those abroad being typically three years duration in England and Wales and four in Scotland.  Certain subjects, such as medicine or engineering, take longer but the university year is almost always divided into three terms arranged over nine months from September to June, with holidays at Christmas, Easter and over the summer months.  In addition, many students will enjoy one or more designated ‘reading weeks’ during which they have no academic commitments and do not, therefore, need to be ‘in residence’ at their university.

 Subject knowledge is, of course, fundamental, but tertiary teaching in the UK has always been less about rôte learning and geared more towards boosting intellectual independence.  Depending where you study, this is developed by means of a stimulating - and sociable! - mix of lectures or classes, interactive seminars and practical work.  Some  of these will be compulsory, others optional but all will be characterised by a distinct focus on critical thinking, problem solving and creativity.  These individual and group skills all foster invaluable self-reliance and leadership.  Assessment is usually via a rigorous, and externally-audited, combination of coursework, assignments (essays and projects) and exams.  With many courses also including work experience, industrial placements or internships, it’s no wonder that UK graduates are internationally recognised as among the world’s most employable, tending to progress faster in their careers and to earn more than their peers educated elsewhere.  And, of course, proficiency in the English language is itself a highly marketable asset.

 Outcomes are all very well but what’s it really like, then?  International students in the UK consistently report a high level of satisfaction with their overall university experience.  With a population of more than 66 million, of whom 14% were born overseas, the UK enjoys a vibrant and forward-thinking multiculturalism that is nowhere better reflected than in its student communities.  With strong respect for law and order and, by international standards, low crime rates, the UK offers a safe, tolerant and welcoming environment.  Whether you choose one of the campus universities, where most of the buildings and facilities (including catered or self-catering accommodation) are conveniently grouped together on a purpose-built, and often attractively landscaped, single site - such as at Warwick or Exeter - or whether you prefer an urban environment - take your pick from across all four nations! - you’ll find plenty of opportunities to meet other students from other courses and countries and to embrace a whole host of extra-curricular activities and enthusiasms. 

 While course fees vary (anything between £10,000 to £26,000 per annum - although a wide range of scholarships and other funds is available), average living costs in the UK are lower than either the US or Australia.  London and the south east of England are generally more expensive but as a guide, accommodation, food, travel, clothing and  entertainment - including that extra little something now and then that makes the difference between frugal and fun! - could cost between £800 to £1,300 per month.  Almost all universities will offer affordable accommodation to new students for at least the first year of their course and even if you don’t always agree about how often the washing-up needs doing or what volume your neighbour’s music should be, it can be a great way to meet people and make new friends.  Plus it’s reassuring to know that the Immigration Health Surcharge (included in your student visa application and currently £470 per annum although fully refundable for holders of an EHIC card) gives you access to affordable healthcare from the UK’s National Health Service.

 Last but not least, as of 1 July this year, international students who have successfully completed an undergraduate or master’s degree will be able to benefit from two years’ work experience in the UK upon graduation, through the government’s new ‘Graduate Route’.  So if studying in the UK suits you, we hope you’ll stay!