Are you planning to pursue an international education but need help determining where and what to study? As an eager learner, you will find yourself with tons of courses and universities to choose from to kickstart a global career. However, most students face a dilemma in the following areas – “Where do I study?”, “What course should I choose?” and “Which university is the best option for my preferred course?”.
It is vital to weigh several factors, such as personal interests, career prospects and university rankings, before narrowing down the best-suited option for you. This guide provides a detailed overview of the various options available in the UK and Ireland regarding cities, courses and universities. Students can gain a clear picture of the endless opportunities available to them and make informed decisions.
The first and foremost step towards a successful study abroad experience is picking the right destination to fulfil your academic aspirations. A common mistake most students make is selecting a country based solely on its popularity with inadequate research. Choosing a destination that aligns with the course you wish to study, the scope for professional development and the overall global rankings is essential.
It is necessary to consider the following factors before you pick the ideal country to study:
The university you wish to study in might offer a good quality of education and enjoy good global rankings. However, it is crucial to ensure that it also exclusively specialises in the course you want to undertake, along with excellent course-specific rankings.
Another make-or-break detail that is key in selecting a university is the costs involved. From tuition fees to living expenses and scope for part-time work opportunities, a complete analysis of the overall costs you will incur during your study period is highly recommended.
The visa policies and post-study work opportunities often vary from country to country. Therefore, learning about the particular country’s job market and the associated work visa policies will help you pick the best country to establish a successful and rewarding career.
Language barriers can be quite the dealbreaker when it comes to pursuing education abroad. Students can experience a trouble-free, seamless transition in major English-speaking countries such as the UK and Ireland. An excellent student experience also comprises the country’s welcoming nature towards international students.
As a student pursuing education in a foreign country, you can streamline your entire study abroad journey just by selecting the perfect destination for your preferred course. The above-mentioned factors will enable you to make the best decision in this regard.
The United Kingdom is among the top choices for students to pursue their education owing to an exceptional fusion of rich academic traditions and modern opportunities for innovation. The universities are renowned worldwide for their meticulously crafted curriculum and the enriching cultural experience they provide.
Additionally, the UK enjoys eminence for its advanced research opportunities and access to top-tier, futuristic resources. As a result, international students can gain hands-on experience and equip themselves with the necessary skills to build valuable professional networks and emerge successful in the UK’s work environment.
The highly favourable work visa policies for international students make the UK an ideal study-abroad destination. Graduates can stay in the country and work for up to 24 months after they complete their education there. All these aspects make the UK a forerunner for a globally recognised education among students.
Ireland has emerged as one of the most sought-after destinations for international education for various reasons. As an English-speaking country, it offers students the convenience of studying in a familiar environment and removes language barriers. Therefore, students can experience enhanced academic and social integration.
A strong emphasis on critical thinking and innovation is prevalent amongst all the leading universities of Ireland. Students can experience academic excellence in their fields, including technology, business and arts. The internship opportunities are also promising since Ireland is a rapidly developing hub for technology and business.
Like the UK, Ireland also provides students with a two-year work visa post graduation. This policy enables students to secure their future with lucrative career development opportunities and scope for permanent employment. With its warm and welcoming environment, Ireland is a highly preferred destination for studying abroad.
Course Category | Subjects | Career Prospects |
---|---|---|
Engineering and Technology | Aerospace, Civil, Computer Science, Mechanical | Engineers, Project Managers, Software Developers |
Business and Management | Finance, HR, International Business, Marketing | Business Analysts, Consultants, Marketing Managers |
Health Sciences and Medicine | Biomedical Sciences, Nursing, Pharmacy | Biomedical Researchers, Nurses, Pharmacists |
Arts, Design and Humanities | Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Humanities, Literature | Artists, Historians, Writers |
As an international student considering admission to the UK and Ireland, it is mandatory to stay informed about the general academic and English language requirements that you must fulfil. The details have been mentioned below:
The entry requirements for both the UK and Ireland universities are similar. The student is expected to have good secondary education scores in the subjects relevant to the university course they wish to study. Indian students are usually expected to have between 65-75% grades minimum in the core subjects.
A student should have an undergraduate degree with minimum grade requirements to gain admission to a postgraduate programme. This usually ranges around 60% for most courses and higher for specific courses. Certain postgraduate courses require an undergraduate degree in a relevant field of study.
The universities of the UK and Ireland require international students to submit proof of English language proficiency. It ensures that non-native English-speaking students are well-equipped to succeed academically and communicate effectively. Some of the standardised tests that you can take include:
To enrol in universities in the UK and Ireland, students must score between 6.0 – 6.5 minimum, with no individual band below 5.5 – 6.0.
For undergraduate programmes, a score between 80 – 90 is generally accepted in universities in the UK and Ireland. A score of 90 – 100+ is required for admission to postgraduate programmes.
A smooth application process begins with properly collecting all the documents required for admission. It comprises your previous academic transcripts, Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letters of Recommendation (LOR). With these documents ready, your study abroad journey commences smoothly.
A compelling SOP and persuasive LORs can add immense value to your application. Here are some tips that you can incorporate while drafting your SOPs and LORs:
The various intakes and the associated deadlines for the same have been mentioned in the table below:
Name of Intake | Features | Application Deadlines |
---|---|---|
Fall Intake (September /October) | It is the most popular intake with the broadest access to courses across all streams. | Undergraduate Programmes: By the end of January Postgraduate Programmes: Between December and June |
Spring Intake (January /February) | It has comparatively limited courses. However, students who missed deadlines during the fall intake and require extra time for application can benefit from this intake. | Undergraduate Programmes and Postgraduate Programmes: Between September and November |
Applying well in advance to the course of your choice is highly recommended. It ensures that you gain an edge in the application process. Obtaining scholarships is also simplified when your application process is on track with the university’s deadlines.
Pursuing a degree abroad is no longer a distant dream! With in-depth insights regarding the perfect course and the best-suited universities, you can commence your study abroad journey with ease.
The importance of picking the right course and researching the destination country and the university is highly significant. Along with a detailed analysis of the most popular courses, universities and subject-specific rankings, you are all set to bring your aspirations to life!
Experience an international education with incredible career prospects and kickstart the next phase of your life with the limitless opportunities provided by the UK and Ireland.
Fateh has helped over 40,000 students conquer their dreams with our 120+ top UK university partnerships. Are you planning to study an MBA in the UK? Contact us today.
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