Why is the UK a preferred destination for master’s for Indians?
The UK is often considered an excellent destination for pursuing a master's degree due to several compelling factors:
Academic Excellence:
The UK is home to some of the world's leading universities, such as the University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, and the London School of Economics.
These institutions are renowned for their rigorous academic standards, cutting-edge research, and world-class faculty.
Shorter Duration:
Most UK master's programs are one year long, compared to two years in many other countries. This allows students to enter the workforce sooner and can reduce the overall cost of education. The reason why the PG (as well as UG) in UK is shorter is because, unlike the US, the courses here are more focused. In US for example, in UG freshman year, students normally relearn what they have been exposed to during their high school, and they also take courses which are not directly related to their area of study.
Lower cost of education
Shorter duration translates into lower cost of education too. Most students can complete their master’s with a budget of INR 20 lakh (academic fees)
Acceptance of 15-years of education (3-year UG)
As UK UG itself is 3 year long, colleges in UK do not discriminate against Indian students who have done their 3-year UG. This is very unlike USA, where many colleges seek minimum of 4-year UG (or 16 years of education)
Acceptance of MOI (Medium of Instruction)
There are many colleges in UK, where an Indian can apply without any English Proficiency (EP) Test. This is if the student has done his UG in medium of English.
Conditional Acceptance
Unlike in US, where a student has to complete and submit his EP test score, in many UK colleges which do require EP score, a student can apply and get a conditional offer, which would later be converted to unconditional, once student submits the required EP score.
Global Recognition:
UK qualifications are recognized and respected worldwide. A master's degree from a UK university can enhance your career prospects globally.
Diverse Range of Courses:
The UK offers a wide variety of master's programs across numerous disciplines, from the sciences and engineering to the arts and humanities, allowing students to find a program that fits their interests and career goals.
Conversion Courses
In US, a student coming from non-CS background would find it hard to get admission into CS program in top schools. However in UK, top schools also offer CS (conversion) program, which are focused on students who wish to shift to CS program while coming from un related UG. Conversion courses are also available in other areas like Psychology.
Advanced Practice Programs
These are two year programs where in the second year, student would be doing paid internship. The student has not pay the college only nominal fee during the second year. This has an added advantage of making master’s program a 2-year program, allowing its acceptability in India.
Research Opportunities:
The UK is a hub for research and innovation. Many universities have strong research programs and facilities, offering students opportunities to engage in groundbreaking research projects.
Cultural Diversity:
The UK is a multicultural society with a rich cultural heritage. Studying in the UK allows students to experience diverse cultures, meet people from around the world, and develop a global perspective.
Strong Support Services:
UK universities provide comprehensive support services for international students, including assistance with visas, accommodation, and adaptation to the new educational environment.
English Language Proficiency:
Studying in an English-speaking country can improve your English language skills, which are valuable in the global job market.
Networking Opportunities:
The UK offers excellent networking opportunities through its vibrant academic and professional communities. Students can connect with industry leaders, attend conferences, and participate in internships.
Post-Study Work Opportunities:
The UK offers favorable post-study work options for international students. The Graduate Route allows graduates to stay and work in the UK for up to two years (three years for PhD graduates), gaining valuable work experience.
Part time Job Opportunities
Unlike in US, where a student is legally allowed to work within the campus only, in the UK, a student can work outside the campus as well. This offers broader experience.
Quality of Life:
The UK boasts a high quality of life with rich cultural experiences, historic landmarks, and vibrant cities, making it an attractive place to live and study.
Permanent Residency (PR) Route
Unlike the US, where Green Card is a long wait, in the UK, it is more structured. Once a student gets the Skilled Worker Visa, and is in UK for 5 years in this visa, he is eligible to apply for PR
Overall, the combination of academic excellence, global recognition, diverse course offerings, and supportive environment makes the UK a popular and advantageous choice for pursuing a master's degree.