Study in the UK
Scholarships, Top Universities and Courses for Pakistani Students
Are you searching for a top-notch education at a historically and culturally rich study abroad location?
Studying in the UK offers a path to a promising future, with world-ranked universities providing innovative teaching methods and an unforgettable student experience. Additionally, post-study work opportunities enhance the overall appeal, making the UK an ideal destination for higher education.
Why Study in the UK
The UK is globally renowned for its top-notch education in an evolving, lively and encouraging multicultural learning environment.
- UK universities are among the best in the world and the country's higher education has a long history of being of the highest caliber.
- The UK offers a diverse variety of programs, from bachelor's to doctorate level.
- The UK ranks among the top five countries globally for industry-university collaboration.
- A degree from a UK university includes practical work placements, giving you a head start in the real world.
- You will gain a competitive edge through work placements, volunteer opportunities, internships, and university societies.
- Most importantly, the new Graduate Route lets you stay in the UK for two years after you graduate, allowing you to advance your career in the UK.
Top Universities in the UK: Rankings and Fees
It's essential to consider the general cost structure for the course you want to study and the global university rankings when choosing your university. This enables you to assess and understand the rankings of universities and the position of your preferred school on the world map.
| Institution | QS Ranking 2025 (Globally) | Average Annual Fees (GBP) |
|---|---|---|
| University of Oxford | 3 | £28,000 - £39,000 |
| The University of Cambridge | 5 | £24,000 - £37,000 |
| Imperial College London | 2 | £32,000 - £45,000 |
| UCL (University College London) | 9 | £21,000 - £32,000 |
| The University of Edinburgh | 27 | £20,000 - £30,000 |
| The University of Manchester | 34 | £19,000 - £28,000 |
| King's College London | 40 | £20,000 - £32,000 |
| London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) | 50 | £22,000 - £36,000 |
| The University of Warwick | 69 | £18,000 - £27,000 |
| University of Bristol | 54 | £19,000 - £29,000 |
The Best Courses to Study in the UK
The UK is well known for providing high-quality education in various subjects. The following are some of the most popular courses offered in the UK:
Business & Management
- Business Analytics
- Finance
- Accounting
- Master's in Management
Technology & Engineering
- Computer Science
- Data Science
- Engineering
- Artificial Intelligence
Professional Degrees
- Law
- MBBS (Medicine)
- Dentistry
- Architecture
Highest Paying Degrees in the UK
In the UK, certain degrees have a higher earning potential, even though salaries can vary based on industry and experience. Among these are degrees in:
| Degree Field | Average Starting Salary | Mid-Career Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine & Dentistry | £30,000 - £45,000 | £60,000 - £100,000+ |
| Computer Science | £27,000 - £40,000 | £50,000 - £80,000 |
| Engineering | £26,000 - £35,000 | £45,000 - £70,000 |
| Economics | £25,000 - £35,000 | £45,000 - £75,000 |
| Law | £22,000 - £40,000 | £50,000 - £100,000+ |
Remember that factors such as individual skills, market demand and career advancement also affect employability and salary.
Intakes in the UK
Several intakes are available to international students all year long, giving them flexibility in their selection. There are three primary intakes:
January Intake
January to April
Application Deadline: September-November
April Intake
April to June
Application Deadline: January-February
September Intake
September to December
Application Deadline: June-July
Admission Requirements in the UK for Pakistani Students
When applying to a university in the UK, you'll need to send in some important documents:
- Your official academic certificates
- Personal statement or (statement of purpose)
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume/CV
- Passport Copy
- English proficiency test results (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Portfolio (for art/design courses)
- Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
Important: Check whether your qualifications are recognised in the UK and/or if you need an equivalency certificate.
Cost of Studying and Living in the UK
Cost of studying in the UK
The cost of studying in the UK depends on the type of degree and the institution or university attended. The UK is home to various prestigious educational institutions, each setting its tuition fees.
| Study Program | Average Annual Tuition Fees (GBP) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's degree | £10,000 - £20,000 | 3 years |
| Master's degree | £10,000 - £20,000 | 1 year |
| Doctoral degree | £15,000 - £24,000 | 3-4 years |
| MBA | £15,000 - £50,000 | 1 year |
| Medicine | £25,000 - £40,000 | 5-6 years |
Cost of living in the UK
You need to keep a little money aside for your grocery shopping, social activities and emergencies. You should also consider these common expenses when creating your budget:
| Expenses | Approximate Cost (monthly) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | £400 - £800 | Depends on location and type |
| Food and housekeeping | £160 - £200 | |
| Bills (electric, gas, water) | £40 - £50 | If not included in rent |
| Mobile phone | £15 - £50 | |
| Clothes and shoes | £25 | |
| Leisure & sports | £10 - £20 | Student sports centre membership |
| Books & stationery | £21 | |
| Socialising | £120 | |
| Travel & transport | £32 | Student bus pass |
| TV licence | £12.56 | £150.50 per year |
Please note that all figures are indicative. London costs are typically 20-30% higher.
Scholarships for International Students in the UK
Many scholarship programs in the UK are designed to equip international students with the skills to make a difference in their country. Many of these scholarships are also offered for international students who want to undertake postgraduate study.
| Scholarship Name | Description | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Chevening Scholarship | Offered by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office for master's degrees. Applicants must be citizens of qualifying countries and must agree to work in their home country for at least two years after graduation. | Full tuition + living expenses |
| Commonwealth Scholarships | Available to master's and PhD students from 62 Commonwealth countries. Covers all expenses including tuition fees, housing and transportation. | Full funding |
| GREAT Scholarships | Part of the British Council's international student funding program. Each country has a unique application process. | £10,000 minimum |
| University-specific Scholarships | Most UK universities offer their own scholarships for international students based on merit or need. | Varies (10-100% tuition) |
Student Visa Requirements in the UK
The required student visa for the UK will be determined by your age and the type of studies you intend to pursue.
| Visa Type | Purpose | When to Apply | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student Visa (Tier 4) | Students aged 16+ for courses at UK institutions with valid Tier 4 sponsorship | 3 months before course starts |
|
| Short-Term Study Visa | For short courses (6-11 months) like English language training | 3 months before travel |
|
| Graduate Route | Work after studies (2 years for bachelor/master, 3 years for PhD) | Before student visa expires |
|
Job Opportunities in the UK
The United Kingdom offers many job opportunities, helping you build required skills and start a successful career. Whether you are looking for part-time jobs, internships, or graduate programs, there are plenty of options for different interests and fields of study.
Moreover, numerous universities offer specialised career services aimed at helping students secure suitable job placements. Furthermore, the UK's multifaceted finance, technology and creative arts industries offer abundant prospects for acquiring valuable work experience and forging significant professional networks.
Part-time Work Options for Students
Campus Jobs
- Library assistant
- Student ambassador
- Tutor/mentor
- Research assistant
Local Businesses
- Retail assistant
- Hospitality staff
- Customer service
- Temporary office work
Professional Internships
- Summer internships
- Year in industry
- Virtual internships
- Research placements
UCAS Clearing
Clearing is a service offered by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS) to students who don't currently hold offer letters from any UK university and are looking for alternative undergraduate programs available for enrolment.
This way, international undergraduate students still have a chance to study at UK universities if they miss the opportunity to get accepted at their preferred university.
How Clearing Works
Check Available Courses
Browse the UCAS Clearing listings for courses with available places after results day in August.
Contact Universities
Call universities directly to discuss your application and potential offers.
Receive Verbal Offer
If the university is interested, they'll give you a verbal offer over the phone.
Add Clearing Choice
Add the course as your Clearing choice in your UCAS Track account.
Accept Offer
If the university confirms your place, you'll receive an official acceptance.
Student Essentials Services for Pakistani Students
Our expert counsellors are here to offer you free guidance on the below essential arrival services:
Accommodation
Find the perfect student housing, from university dorms to private rentals.
Student Health Cover
Guidance on NHS registration and health insurance requirements.
Student Banking
Help opening UK bank accounts and managing finances.
Money Transfer
Secure and cost-effective international money transfer solutions.
ISIC Student Card
Get your International Student Identity Card for discounts worldwide.
SIM Cards
UK mobile plans tailored for international students.
Frequently Asked Questions
Enrol in a UK university and complete your degree program
Obtain a student visa for the UK
Gain work experience while studying in the UK (part-time or internships)
After graduation, secure employment under the Graduate Route visa
Transition to a Skilled Worker visa after your Graduate Route expires
After 5 years on a Skilled Worker visa, apply for permanent residency (ILR)
The tuition fees in UK universities vary based on the level of study. Here's a breakdown:
- Undergraduate bachelor's degree: £10,000 to £20,000 per year
- Postgraduate master's degree: £10,000 to £20,000 per year
- Doctoral degree: £15,000 to £24,000 per year
- MBA programs: £15,000 to £50,000 for the entire program
- Medical degrees: £25,000 to £40,000 per year
Living costs are additional and typically range from £12,000 to £15,000 per year outside London, and £15,000 to £20,000 in London.
Most UK universities accept the following English proficiency tests:
- IELTS: Typically 6.0-6.5 for undergraduate, 6.5-7.0 for postgraduate
- TOEFL iBT: Usually 80-90 for undergraduate, 90-100 for postgraduate
- PTE Academic: Generally 55-60 for undergraduate, 60-65 for postgraduate
Some universities may accept:
- Medium of Instruction certificate for students who completed education in English
- Duolingo English Test (temporarily accepted by some universities)
Yes, international students in the UK on a Student visa can work with certain restrictions:
- During term time: Up to 20 hours per week
- During vacations: Full-time
- Work placements: Permitted if part of your course
Restrictions:
- Cannot be self-employed
- Cannot work as a professional sportsperson or entertainer
- Cannot fill a permanent full-time vacancy
After graduation, you can apply for the Graduate Route visa which allows you to work unrestricted for 2-3 years.
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