The UK is one of the most popular destinations for Indian students, largely because of course length. A three year bachelors and a one year masters mean lower total cost and earlier entry into work than most four and two year alternatives.
How your qualifications are read
- CBSE, ISC and CISCE class 12: accepted for direct undergraduate entry at most universities, typically with 65 to 85 percent overall depending on selectivity, and higher percentages in relevant subjects.
- State boards: also accepted, though some universities set higher percentage requirements to reflect different marking patterns.
- Indian bachelors degrees: a three or four year degree is normally accepted for masters entry. A first class result is usually equivalent to a UK 2:1, and around 55 to 60 percent to a UK 2:2, though this varies by university.
- Foundation and international year one: useful where your percentage falls short or you are switching subject.
Undergraduate versus postgraduate routes
Undergraduate applications go through UCAS, with up to five choices and a January equal consideration deadline. Masters applications go directly to each university, usually with rolling admissions, so early applications hold a real advantage on popular courses.
What it costs
Budget international tuition of roughly 15,000 to 30,000 pounds a year depending on subject, plus living costs of about 900 to 1,100 pounds a month outside London and 1,400 pounds or more in London. Add the visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge for each year.
Funding
Indian students commonly combine three sources: university international scholarships awarded on grades, national schemes such as Chevening and Commonwealth for postgraduates, and an education loan from an Indian bank or NBFC. Loan sanction letters are accepted as visa financial evidence in specific formats, so confirm the wording with your university before you apply.
English requirements
IELTS, PTE Academic and TOEFL are all widely accepted. Many universities also accept CBSE or ISC English at a specified mark, or a medium of instruction letter, so check before booking a test.
After graduation
The Graduate Route lets you stay and work without a sponsor for a fixed period after your degree, which is the main reason many Indian students choose the UK over shorter stay destinations.
