Introduction
UK vs. USA: Best Country for Indian Students
Long-standing giants in the realm of global education, both these nations stand atop the list of preferred destinations, each promising excellence and opportunities. Indian students who are ambitious risk-takers and inspired by vast campuses often seem to be siding with the USA; however, those seeking timeless academic prestige, time- and cost-effective courses, and a well-structured post-study work pathway usually find the UK to be a far more attractive option, as it offers quality and clarity for the future. Nevertheless, both these nations open doors to world-class learning and multicultural experience, and the ultimate choice often depends on what a student values most: innovation or tradition, flexibility or structure, expansive freedom or elegant focus. Let us unravel the layers further, but first, below is an overview which can help you at a glance:
| Country | UK | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Language | English | English |
| Currency | Pounds | USD |
| Course Tuition fee each year | INR 17-25 Lakhs for one year | Up to INR 30 Lakhs for one year |
| Living cost | 10-14K Pounds | 12 -15K USD (per year) |
| IELTS | Waiver is Possible | Mandatory |
| PSW/PR | 18 months | 24 months for STEM |
| Admission requirements | Not mandatory except for certain universities | GMAT, GRE, SAT, |
| Intakes | September, January and May (very few in May) | January, May and September |
| Duration | 3-4 years at UG and 1 year at PG (except few degrees like Architecture, Nursing, Physiotherapy etc.) | 4 Years at UG and 2 years at PG |
UK vs. USA: Climatic Conditions
In the post-COVID era, students have better access to understanding every aspect of studying abroad. This has allowed them to see that going to a foreign land for higher education doesn’t only include the campus, dorms, weekend adventures and assignments, but acclimatising oneself with the weather is also an important part of it. While it is obvious to daydream about the magnificent lecture halls, cultural exchange, and global friendships that these opportunities offer as a by product, pausing to imagine the skies is also essential. The climate, subtle as it may seem, does hold the power to shape one’s daily experiences. Talking about the UK in this context, it offers gentle drizzle, grey mornings and moderate temperature, which, even if moody, gives consistency and a poetic backdrop to your academic life. If you’re planning to study in the UK, understanding the UK September intake is crucial, as it’s the primary enrolment period with the most course options and favourable weather to begin your transition. In contrast, the USA bestows you with everything from snow to winters in Boston to sun-drenched days in California. Consequently, for students from India who experience varied but predictable seasons, understanding these differences allows them to better prepare for a lifestyle abroad.
United Kingdom:
- Temperate Maritime Climate: Mild summers (average: 16 degrees to 26 degrees) and cool winters (average: 7 degrees to 0 degrees). The surrounding sea and ocean help regulate the temperature. Also, this brings comparatively higher humidity.
- Rainfall: Evenly distributed and consistent throughout the year.
- Regional Variations: While Scotland and Northern England are cooler and wetter; the Southern England area is relatively warm.
United States:
- Diverse Climate Zones: Since the country covers a vast land area, the weather varies greatly depending on where you are in it. For most parts of the year, the northern parts of Alaska experience extreme cold, snowy weather and the southern parts of Florida witness hot, humid and sunny weather.
- Northeast: Cold winters and warm summers.
- Midwest: Hot summers and cold winters.
- South: Hot and humid summers; mild winters.
- West Coast: Mild, wet winters and dry summers.
UK vs. USA: Popular Courses
| Field of Study | Popular in UK | Popular in USA |
|---|---|---|
| Business & Management | London Business School, King’s College London | Harvard, Wharton |
| Engineering | Imperial College London, University of Cambridge | MIT, Stanford |
| Computer Science | University of Edinburgh, University of Oxford | Carnegie Mellon, UC Berkeley |
| Medicine | University of Glasgow, King’s College London | Johns Hopkins, Mayo Clinic |
| Law | University of Oxford, London School of Economics | Yale, Harvard |
| Arts & Humanities | University of Cambridge, University College London | Columbia, University of Chicago |
| Social Sciences | London School of Economics, University of Manchester | Princeton, Stanford |
Eligibility for Courses in the UK
Getting into a UK university involves a successful application and one that meets all the eligibility criteria set by the authorities. Below is an overview of the things that you might want to consider when evaluating your chances of studying in the country.
- Undergraduate Programs:
- Completion of 12 years of schooling (or equivalent) with specific scores from a recognised board such as CBSE, ISC, or state boards.
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL). However, some universities may accept a higher score (typically 75% or above) in English in standard XII as proof of proficiency.
- Personal statement of purpose and references.
- Application via Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).
- Postgraduate Programs:
- Bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution. For programmes requiring a UK 2:1 equivalent, the minimum overall average is 60% to 65%, and for those requiring a 2:2 equivalent, the overall average should be 55% to 60%. However, to confirm the latest and updated requirements, it is always recommended that you visit the official website of the institution.
- Relevant work experience (for certain courses).
- English language proficiency proof (IELTS/TOEFL ibt/PTE, etc.)
- Research proposal (for research-based programmes).
- Statement of purpose and LORs from your academic mentors/professors/teachers.
- Applications are submitted directly to the chosen universities.
UK vs. USA: Costs for Undergraduate Courses
| Expense Category | UK(per year) | USA (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | £10,000 – £38,000 | $20,000 – $55,000 |
| Living Expenses | £9,000 – £12,000 | $10,000 – $18,000 |
| Duration | 3 years (without sandwich year) 4 years (including the sandwich year) | 4 years |
UK vs. USA: Costs for Postgraduate Courses
| Expense Category | UK (per year) | USA (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | £11,000 – £32,000 | $25,000 – $50,000 |
| Living Expenses | £9,000 – £12,000 | $10,000 – $18,000 |
| Duration | 1 year | 2 years |
UK Student Visa
Once you have set your sight on the UK for higher studies, navigating the visa process is the next crucial step you need to pay attention to. Fortunately, the UK’s student visa system is popular for being so clear, efficient and even student-friendly in its approach. So, whether you are opting for an undergraduate degree or a postgraduate programme, obtaining a UK student visa is a structured process which you can do with the right preparation. Or you can even opt to take the help of agents like Fateh Education, who have been excelling at it for over two decades now and who will make it even smoother and straightforward. Here’s what you need to know:
- Type: Student Route Visa (previously called the Tier 4).
- Requirements:
- Confirmation of Acceptance (unconditional offer) for Studies (CAS) from a licensed sponsor.
- Proof of sufficient funds (includes tuition fee and living expenses)
- English language proficiency from approved providers such as IELTS/TOEFL.
- Tuberculosis test results (for certain countries including India) from clinics approved by the UK Home Office.
- For the latest updates, you can also visit: UK Student Visa – GOV.UK
- Work Rights: Up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official vacation periods.
US Student Visa
- Type: F-1 Visa (for full-time academic studies at the U.S institutions.
- Requirements:
- Form I-20 of a SEVP-approved institution.
- Proof of financial support (demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your tuition fee and living expenses)
- SEVIS fee payment (pay before the visa interview)
- Visa interview and documentation.
- Work Rights: On-campus employment up to 20 hours per week during term time. Whereas off-campus employment allows students who have completed one academic year to work outside the campus through programmes such as Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Post-Study Work Visa Requirements in the UK
Many international students who study in the UK plan to stay in the country once their course has been completed and gain valuable professional experience or explore global career opportunities. In such scenarios, the Graduate Route Visa can help. Introduced in 2021, this visa allows you to remain in the country without the need for employer sponsorship, providing you ample flexibility to work, look for a job or even start your own business. Also, it is available to you whether you completed a bachelor’s, master’s or even a PhD degree in the UK.
- Graduate Route:
- Eligibility: You must be in the UK on a valid student visa (Tier 4) and should have completed a degree programme from the country.
- Duration: Allows graduates to stay in the UK for 2 years (3 years for PhD holders) post-study.
- No job offers required.
- Procedure: Apply online while in the UK, provide all mentioned and necessary documents, and pay the fees.
- It cannot be extended; however, you do get the opportunity to switch it to Skilled Worker visa later if you are eligible.
Post-Study Work Visa Requirements in the USA
- Optional Practical Training (OPT):
- Eligibility:
- You must have a valid F-1 student status at the time of application and should have completed at least one full academic year of full-time study at a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) -certified institution.
- Employment must be directly related to the student’s major field of study.
- Duration:
- 12 months of work authorization post-study.
- STEM graduates from the U.S institutions can apply for a 24-month extension.
- Application Process:
- You must obtain a recommendation from the designated school official (DSO) and receive an updated Form I-20.
- Submit Form I-765 i.e., The Application for Employment Authorisation to the U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) along with the fee and supporting documents.
- Apply for OPT 90 days before completing your degree and no later than 60 days after completion.
- Eligibility:
Immigration Policies in UK
- Points-Based System:
- Focusses on skills, salary, and English proficiency.
- Post-study work opportunities of 2 years (3 years for PhD holders) under the Graduate Route.
- Pathways to permanent residency available if you are eligible.
Immigration Policies in USA
- Post-Study Immigration Policies:
- Employment Based: Secure the H-1B visa for skilled workers, which is capped annually.
- Green Card: Possible but lengthy and complex process.
- Post-Study Work: Limited post-study work opportunities compared to the UK. Relies on OPT and STEM extensions a lot.
UK & USA Scholarships and Financial Aid
| Scholarship Name | Country | Eligibility Criteria | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chevening Scholarships | UK | Indian citizenship, undergraduate degree, leadership potential, at least 2 years of work experience | Tuition, living expenses, and travel |
| Commonwealth Scholarships | UK | Citizen of a Commonwealth country, academic merit, financial need, studying in eligible courses | Tuition, airfare, and living expenses |
| Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships | USA | Indian citizenship, academic/professional excellence, leadership potential, admission to a U.S. university | Tuition, living costs, and airfare |
| Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships | USA | Indian citizen, exceptional academic record, admission to top U.S. institutions, under 30 years of age | Tuition, living expenses, and travel |
Conclusion
FAQs on UK vs. USA For Indian Students
Both nations offer excellent opportunities for Indian students. However, their course durations, living expenses, fee structures, and post-graduation work visa conditions and procedures differ. These factors ultimately help you choose the one that aligns best with your personal preferences and goals.
The USA does hold a more diversified and larger economy however, the UK too offers immensely high living standards, excellent healthcare and academic excellence which makes it competitive and, in some cases, more desirable that those in America
The short answer to this question is Yes! Especially when talking about cities like New York and California. Moreover, the tuition fee is higher in the country, but the UK offers a more moderate fee structure and significantly lower living expenses in cities outside London.
Considering the global leader in terms of economy, military and political power, the USA holds a larger population, and a very strong global influence. The UK, on the other hand, has been historically a global superpower, still remains powerful through its alliances, economy, and position as a cultural hub.
Finally, while this article provides a comprehensive overview, you may still feel the need for in-person, dedicated expert guidance on the topic. We encourage you to click here and connect with us for a top-notch counselling experience — completely free of cost — aimed at making your study abroad journey effortless and more certain
