Study in the UK: Global Recognition and Dynamic Environment

The United Kingdom (UK) is a top-tier destination for international students, renowned for its world-class universities, diverse course selection, and strong career prospects. For Bangladeshi students, it presents a very appealing choice.

Why Choose the UK?

World-Class Universities: The UK is home to many of the world’s most prestigious universities, such as Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College London. These institutions are known for their high academic standards and cutting-edge research.

Shorter Courses: Many undergraduate degrees in the UK are 3 years long, and most Master’s degrees are typically 1 year, which saves both time and cost.

Diverse Courses: A wide range of subject choices are available, catering to the diverse interests and career aspirations of Bangladeshi students.

Multicultural Environment: The UK is a multicultural society with people from various backgrounds, fostering global connections and opportunities for cultural exchange.

Post-Study Work Visa: The Graduate Route visa (previously known as the Post-Study Work Visa) is available for graduates, providing an opportunity to work in the UK after completing their studies.

Top Universities in UK

The UK boasts many excellent universities. Some popular choices include:

1. Ulster University London Campus
2. Northumbria University London
3. University of Huddersfield London
4. Chester University
5. Cardiff University
6. University of Durham
7. Kingston University London
8. University of Leeds
9. Liverpool John Moores University
10. Royal Holloway University of London
11. Teesside University
12. University of Aberdeen
13. University of Bolton
14. BPP University
15. University of Portsmouth
16. University of Sheffield
17. University of Surrey

Popular Courses

International students frequently choose the following courses in the UK:

1. Business & Management: MBA, Business Analytics, Finance, Marketing.
2. Computer Science & IT: Software Development, Data Science, AI, Cybersecurity.
3. Engineering: Mechanical, Electrical, Civil.
4. Law
5. Medicine & Health Sciences: Nursing, Public Health.
6. Psychology & Social Sciences.
7. Art & Design.

Costs (for Bangladeshi Students)

The cost of studying in the UK varies depending on the university and course.

Tuition Fee (Annual Average):

• Undergraduate: £10,000 – £30,000 per year.
• Postgraduate: £12,000 – £35,000 per year.
• Medicine/MBA: Can be significantly higher (up to £40,000 – £70,000+).

Living Costs (Annual Average): These figures are set by UKVI and are required for visa purposes.

• For London: £1,483 per month (approximately £13,347 for 9 months).
• Outside London: £1,136 per month (approximately £10,224 for 9 months).
• This money covers accommodation, food, transport, and other personal expenses.
• Overall: A yearly budget of £25,000 to £50,000+ may be required.

Scholarships

Many scholarships are available for international students in the UK:

1. Chevening Scholarships: Fully-funded scholarships offered by the UK government (mostly for Master’s programs).
2. Commonwealth Scholarships: For students from Commonwealth countries.
3. GREAT Scholarships: Provided in partnership by the British Council and UK universities.
4. University-Specific Scholarships: Many universities offer their own merit-based scholarships.

Post-Study Opportunities

Graduate Route Visa (Post-Study Work Visa): After completing their course, international students can stay and work in the UK for 2 years (PhD graduates for 3 years). A job offer is not required for this visa.

Skilled Worker Visa: After the Graduate Route, if an employer sponsors you, you can switch to a Skilled Worker Visa, which can be a step towards Permanent Residency (Indefinite Leave to Remain – ILR).

UK Student Visa (Student Route) for Bangladeshi Students

Bangladeshi students need a Student Route Visa to study in the UK.

Key Requirements:

1. Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS): A unique reference number provided by the university.
2. Proof of Funds: Evidence (e.g., bank statements) that you have sufficient funds for tuition fees and living costs.
3. Valid Passport.
4. Tuberculosis (TB) Test Certificate: From a UKVI-approved clinic in Bangladesh.
5. English Language Proficiency: IELTS Academic scores (typically undergraduate minimum 6.0 overall, postgraduate minimum 6.0-6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5/6.0). Some universities may accept MOI (Medium of Instruction) certificates from previous education.
6. Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) Certificate: May be required for some specific science and engineering courses.
7. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £776 per year (£388 for a partial year).
8. Visa Application Fee: £524 (as of current information).

The application must be completed online, and biometrics (fingerprints and photo) must be provided at a VFS Global Visa Application Centre in Dhaka. The visa process normally takes 3 weeks. Priority services are also available for faster processing. Studying in the UK offers excellent opportunities for a global career.