The United Kingdom has consistently attracted students from across the globe due to its exceptional education system and the vibrant lifestyle it offers in Great Britain. From its picturesque countryside to its dynamic nightlife, the UK provides an incredible environment for learning, experiencing, and immersing oneself in one of the world's most culturally diverse nations.
Throughout the years, the UK has welcomed numerous Indonesian students pursuing their academic ambitions, with recent research indicating a remarkable 35% increase in the Indonesian student population over the past decade. This guide will delve into all aspects of studying in the UK.
A Look at the Top 50 Universities In the UK
Why Choose to Take Education in the UK from Indonesia?
Opting for higher education in the UK while residing in Indonesia presents numerous compelling benefits.
- Exceptional Educational Standards: The UK is globally renowned for its top-tier education system, with many universities consistently ranking among the best worldwide. This ensures that students receive a superior quality of education.
- Extensive Academic Choices: UK institutions provide diverse academic programs and courses, empowering students from Indonesia to select a field of study that aligns perfectly with their interests and career aspirations.
- Research Excellence: The UK is a vibrant center for pioneering research and innovation. Students can participate in groundbreaking research projects, gaining expertise in their chosen disciplines.
- Worldwide Credibility: A degree from a UK university carries immense global prestige and recognition. It can significantly enhance your career prospects and open doors to international job opportunities.
- Multicultural Exposure: UK study exposes students to a richly diverse and multicultural environment. This cultural immersion fosters a global perspective and equips students with invaluable cross-cultural competencies.
- Language Proficiency: English is the primary language of instruction in UK universities. For students hailing from Indonesia, where English is widely spoken, this offers a distinct advantage in terms of communication and adaptability.
Intakes in the UK
Universities in the United Kingdom offer admission in three different intake periods: autumn, winter, and summer. The autumn intake, commencing in either September or October, is the most widely favored option as it aligns with the standard UK academic calendar. Alternatively, the winter intake starts in January and is intended for students who may have missed the primary intake or require additional preparation time.
The summer intake in May or June is less common but provides flexibility for individuals who prefer to commence their studies outside the conventional academic year. It's important to note that the availability of intakes may vary depending on the university and the specific program of interest. Therefore, selecting the intake that best aligns with your personal needs and educational objectives is advisable.
|
University Intake |
Usual Deadline |
|
Autumn |
July |
|
Winter |
September |
|
Summer |
April |
Popular Courses in the UK for International Students
The United Kingdom offers many popular courses for international students. Some of the most sought-after courses include
- Business and Management. Business-related programs, including an MBA (Master of Business Administration), are trendy among international students. UK business schools are well-regarded globally.
- Engineering: Engineering programs, such as civil, mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering, attract many international students due to the UK's expertise in this field.
- Computer Science and IT: With a strong technology sector, the UK offers excellent computer science and IT programs, including software development, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence.
- Medicine and Healthcare: The UK has prestigious medical schools and offers programs in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and public health, attracting aspiring healthcare professionals worldwide.
- Law: Many international students pursue law degrees in the UK, as it's known for its legal education quality and standard law system.
- Finance and Economics: The UK's financial industry makes it an attractive destination for finance and economics students. Courses in finance, economics, and accounting are popular choices.
- Art and Design: The UK has a rich artistic tradition and renowned art and design schools. International students often enroll in programs related to fine arts, graphic design, fashion design, and more.
- Social Sciences: Psychology, sociology, international relations, and related fields are popular among international students interested in understanding human behavior and societies.
- Environmental Sciences: Given the global focus on environmental issues, courses related to environmental sciences, sustainability, and climate change have gained popularity.
- Hospitality and Tourism: The UK's thriving hospitality and tourism industry offers hotel management, tourism, and hospitality management programs.
Requirements for Studying in the UK
|
Eligibility Criteria |
Academic |
English Language |
|
Bachelor's |
Completion of the High School curriculum (SMA3) with an aggregate score of 80% or more, and if deemed necessary by the university's criteria, successful completion of a Foundation Programme. |
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) mandates that all international students, regardless of their origin outside the UK and the EU, must demonstrate a certain level of English language proficiency, specifically at the B2 Level, to be eligible for a student route visa for undergraduate or postgraduate studies. This proficiency can be confirmed by achieving a score of 5.5 or 6.0 in the IELTS exam or an equivalent qualification. |
|
Master's |
Applicants who have completed an S1 program within a four-year timeframe, with a GPA of 3.0 (on a scale of 4.0), will be evaluated for admission to a one-year master's degree program, with acceptance dependent on the accreditation status of their undergraduate degree. |
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) mandates that all non-UK and non-EU students provide proof of a minimum English language proficiency level, specifically at the B2 Level, as a prerequisite for obtaining a student route visa for pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies. This proficiency can be confirmed by achieving a score of 5.5 or 6.0 in the IELTS exam or an equivalent qualification. |
Required Documentation
The documentation phase is a crucial component of the application process. After confirming your eligibility, gathering all the necessary documents for online submission is essential. Please note that all documents must be in English. Here's the checklist of the required documents for studying in the UK:
- Valid passport copy
- Academic transcripts
- Certificate demonstrating English proficiency
- Statement of Purpose
- Letters of Recommendation
- Updated Resume
Cost of Studying in the UK
|
University |
Bachelor's (Annual) |
Master's (Annual) |
PhD (Annual) |
|
£25,740 - £37,510 |
£26,110 - £42,080 |
£25,740 - £37,510 |
|
|
University of Cambridge |
£22,227 - £38,907 |
£25,623 - £45,015 |
£22,227 - £38,907 |
|
£29,250 - £34,500 |
£32,400 - £38,000 |
£29,250 - £34,500 |
|
|
London School of Economics (LSE) |
£20,904 - £26,928 |
£25,728 - £31,680 |
£20,904 - £26,928 |
|
University of Edinburgh |
£17,600 - £30,600 |
£17,600 - £31,500 |
£17,600 - £30,600 |
|
£21,000 - £27,000 |
£24,000 - £33,000 |
£21,000 - £27,000 |
|
|
King's College London |
£18,800 - £31,900 |
£18,800 - £32,000 |
£18,800 - £31,900 |
|
University of Bristol |
£19,000 - £29,000 |
£19,000 - £31,000 |
£19,000 - £29,000 |
|
University of Warwick |
£19,000 - £25,000 |
£19,000 - £25,000 |
£19,000 - £25,000 |
|
University of Glasgow |
£17,000 - £24,000 |
£17,000 - £25,000 |
£17,000 - £24,000 |
Application Process for Students
The application procedure for pursuing education in the UK varies depending on whether you aim for undergraduate or postgraduate programs.
For Undergraduate Courses:
- If you have completed high school, start by applying for foundation courses related to your desired undergraduate degree through the UCAS portal.
- The integrated undergraduate program typically spans 4 years, comprising 1 year of foundation studies and 3 years of bachelor's studies.
- Submit your application for undergraduate degree programs to the respective universities within the deadline.
- Anticipate a notification of acceptance or rejection within approximately 4 to 6 weeks.
- If you hold an outstanding bachelor's degree with the highest distinction from a local university, you may directly apply for undergraduate studies in the UK.
For Postgraduate Courses:
- To apply for postgraduate programs, you should have an exceptional master's degree from a reputable institution.
- Apply directly to UK universities without utilizing a common application platform.
- Compile all the necessary documents and attach them to your online application, ensuring timely submission.
- Offer letters you receive may come with either conditional or unconditional requirements.
- After fulfilling the required deposit, your admission will be confirmed, allowing you to initiate preparations for accommodation, scholarships, and the UK Visa application process.
How to get a UK Student Visa in 5 steps?
Cost of Living in the UK for Students
To qualify for the visa, you must meet a specific financial requirement set by the UK's immigration department. As of July 2023, you need to have £1,334 per month for nine months to meet the financial criterion for a program in London.
The minimum requirement for courses in other parts of the UK is £1,023 per month. Remember that these figures can vary, and staying updated on the latest requirements is crucial when planning your studies in the UK.
|
Type of Expense |
Average Cost (£) |
|
Accommodation |
£350-550 per month |
|
Transport |
£40 per month |
|
Food |
£100-250 per month |
|
Miscellaneous |
£500 per month |
Post-Study Work in the UK
Upon completing your studies in the UK, you have a variety of visa options available to extend your stay in the country, one of which is the Graduate Route. The duration of your stay under this visa category is contingent upon your level of academic achievement.
If you have obtained a bachelor's or master's degree, you can remain in the UK for up to two years, while Ph.D. graduates can stay for up to three years. This period encompasses the time allocated for job searching.
The Graduate Route visa grants you the freedom to work within the UK in any capacity, whether it involves internships, freelance work, or full-time employment. While specific eligibility requirements exist, there is no rigid salary threshold to meet. Moreover, this visa option is open to unlimited international graduates.
Following two or three years of working in the UK under the Graduate Route visa, you can explore other visa pathways, such as the Skilled Worker visa, which can further extend your stay there.
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Talk to an ExpertFrequently Asked Questions:
Why Choose to Study in the UK?
Studying in the United Kingdom provides access to top-tier education, academic programs, and employment opportunities for international students. You can work part-time during your studies and explore post-graduation employment options through the Graduate Route visa.
Is It Possible to Pursue Studies in the UK Without IELTS Scores?
Certainly, you can undertake your studies without IELTS, as many universities accept alternative English proficiency tests.
What is the Minimum Age Requirement for Studying in the UK?
To pursue studies in the UK, you must meet the minimum age requirement of at least 18 years old.
What Are the Costs Associated with Studying in the UK?
Tuition fees vary across institutions, with an average range between £15,000 to £25,000, though certain programs such as medical degrees may incur higher costs.
Is It Permissible to Study in the UK on a Tourist Visa?
For extended courses, it's advisable to apply for a Student Visa, as a Standard Visitor Visa is suitable for short-term study purposes.
Can I Apply for Permanent Residency (PR) After Completing My Studies in the UK?
Eligibility for PR hinges on possessing a valid work visa and meeting residency and language proficiency criteria.
What is the Minimum GPA Required for Admission in the UK?
GPA requirements vary depending on the university and program of choice. For precise information, consult our experts.
Is the UK an Expensive Study Destination for International Students?
Despite its reputation, the UK offers cost-effective university options and various scholarships, making it an attractive and valuable study destination.
