Are you considering studying abroad but unsure where to start? Do you want to study in London? As one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities, London is a top destination for international students seeking quality education, diverse culture, and endless opportunities.
London boasts over 40 universities, including renowned institutions such as Imperial College London, University College London, and the London School of Economics. These universities offer a vast array of degree programs across a range of disciplines, from business and engineering to the arts and humanities.
Studying in London provides you with a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich and diverse cultural experience. The city is home to over 300 languages and boasts a vibrant music, arts, and theatre scene. From Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre to the Tate Modern, there’s always something new to explore and discover in this vibrant city.
London is also a hub for international business, with many global companies headquartered in the city. As a result, studying in London offers students unparalleled access to internships and career opportunities, as well as the chance to build a professional network that spans the globe.
But studying in London isn’t just about academics and career prospects. The city is also a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, with a thriving startup scene and a wealth of resources for budding entrepreneurs.
So, why not consider studying in London and unlocking a world of opportunities? With its rich culture, top-notch universities, and global business community, London is the perfect destination for ambitious students looking to make their mark on the world.
But before moving further, let’s first understand…
Topics covered
Why study in London?
There are several compelling reasons why studying in London can be a fantastic choice for students. Here are some of the most significant benefits of studying abroad in London:
- High-quality education: London is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, which offer a wide range of degree programs across a variety of disciplines. These universities are known for their academic excellence, and many of them rank highly in global university rankings.
- Cultural diversity: London is a cosmopolitan city with a rich cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for students who want to experience a diverse and vibrant community. With over 300 languages spoken in the city, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from people of different backgrounds and cultures.
- Career opportunities: London is a global hub for business and finance, making it an excellent place to build a professional network and gain work experience. Many international companies have their headquarters in London, providing students with access to internships and job opportunities.
- Social and cultural activities: London is renowned for its cultural offerings, including world-class museums, art galleries, music venues, and theatres. With so many exciting things to do and see in the city, you’ll never be bored!
- Travel opportunities: London is a gateway to Europe, making it easy to travel to other countries and explore different cultures. With excellent transport links, you can hop on a train or plane and be in Paris, Amsterdam, or Barcelona within a few hours.
How to study in London after the 12th?
If you’re interested in studying in London after completing your 12th grade, here are the steps you can take to make it happen:
- Research universities and courses: Start by researching universities and degree programs in London that match your interests and career goals. Look at the entry requirements, fees, and application deadlines for each university and program.
- Meet the entry requirements: Ensure that you meet the entry requirements for the universities and courses you’re interested in. This may involve achieving specific grades in your 12th-grade exams, taking additional standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT, and providing proof of English language proficiency.
- Apply for a student visa: International students need a student visa to study in the UK. You can apply for a Tier 4 (General) student visa after receiving an offer from a UK university. Make sure to check the visa requirements and allow plenty of time for the visa application process.
- Secure funding: Studying in London can be expensive, so it’s important to secure funding to cover your tuition fees and living expenses. You can apply for scholarships, bursaries, and other financial aid from universities and external organizations.
- Prepare for your move: Once you’ve been accepted into a London university, it’s time to prepare for your move. This may involve finding accommodation, arranging transportation, and getting to know the city. Your university may also offer orientation programs and support services to help you settle in.
Eligibility required to study in London for Indian students
The eligibility requirements to study in London for Indian students may vary depending on the level of study and the university or program you are applying. However, here are some general requirements that Indian students must typically meet:
- Academic qualifications: Indian students must typically have completed their 12th grade with a minimum percentage of marks in relevant subjects to meet the entry requirements of UK universities. For undergraduate studies, some universities may require a minimum of 75% in the Class XII exam. For postgraduate studies, a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 60% or equivalent is required.
- English language proficiency: International students whose first language is not English must provide proof of their English language proficiency. Typically, universities in London require students to provide evidence of their proficiency in English through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
- Standardized test scores: Depending on the course, universities may require Indian students to take standardized tests such as the SAT, ACT, or GRE. The score requirements may vary from program to program.
- Financial requirements: Indian students must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to cover the cost of tuition fees and living expenses while studying in London. This can be done by providing bank statements or other financial documents.
- Student visa: Indian students require a Tier 4 student visa to study in the UK. To obtain a visa, students must have an offer from a UK university, meet the English language requirements, and show that they have enough money to support themselves while studying in the UK.
It’s important to check the specific entry requirements for the university and course you’re interested in to ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria.
List of best colleges in London
Here’s a table with some of the best colleges in London along with their average fees so that you can get an answer to the question i.e., “How much does it cost to study abroad in London”:
| College/University | Average Fees (GBP per year) | QS World Ranking 2023 |
| University College London (UCL) | £25,880 – £34,290 | 8 |
| Imperial College London | £33,000 – £39,000 | 9 |
| King’s College London | £21,000 – £28,000 | 23 |
| London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) | £23,184 – £28,704 | 27 |
| Queen Mary University of London | £16,700 – £25,900 | 114 |
| University of the Arts London | £16,950 – £19,350 | 239 |
| City, University of London | £17,500 – £21,000 | 351-400 |
| Royal Holloway, University of London | £15,000 – £19,500 | 308 |
Note: The fees mentioned are only indicative and can vary based on the program of study, level of study, and other factors. It’s always recommended to check the official website of the college/university for the latest and most accurate information on fees and rankings.
To read about top universities, refer to our Top Universities in London and Best Colleges in London blog post!
List of scholarships to study in London
There are several scholarships available for international students to study in London. Here are some of the scholarships that Indian students can consider:
- Queen Mary, London – Unite Foundation Scholarship
- Brunel University – Local Boroughs Scholarship
- LSE – Betty MacQuitty Scholarship
- Imperial College – Imperial Bursary
- Pearson College London – Student Co-Creator Scholarship
- University College – The Rose Bursary
- BPP University – Vice Chancellor’s Scholarship
- Goldsmiths College – Lewisham Tuition Fee Waivers
Come let’s read more about them one by one:
Queen Mary, London – Unite Foundation Scholarship:
The Unite Foundation Scholarship at Queen Mary University offers free accommodation throughout your course and an annual allowance of £4,000 for living expenses. It is specifically open to students from care backgrounds or low household incomes who do not currently reside within the M25.
Brunel University – Local Boroughs Scholarship:
The Local Boroughs Scholarship at Brunel University provides a £6,000 annual award for students who attended a maintained school or college in one of six London Boroughs. To be eligible, applicants must achieve 360 UCAS points and meet one of the “under-represented criteria.”
LSE – Betty MacQuitty Scholarship:
LSE offers the Betty MacQuitty Scholarship, worth £15,000 per year, for female undergraduate students who are over the age of 21 and starting their studies at LSE.
Imperial College – Imperial Bursary:
The Imperial Bursary is available to UK undergraduate students with a household income of less than £60,000. This bursary can provide up to £6,000 per year to support their studies at Imperial College.
Pearson College London – Student Co-Creator Scholarship:
Pearson College London offers the Student Co-Creator Scholarship, which covers full tuition fees. Recipients of this scholarship are expected to act as ambassadors and consultants during their studies.
University College – The Rose Bursary:
The Rose Bursary at University College London (UCL) provides financial support of up to £30,000 over the duration of a degree. It is open to students from state-funded secondary schools who demonstrate financial need, as assessed by UCL.
BPP University – Vice Chancellor’s Scholarship:
The Vice Chancellor’s Scholarship at BPP University covers full tuition fees and is available to all applicants who are the first in their family to attend university, meet the admissions criteria for their chosen program, and have a strong academic record.
Goldsmiths College – Lewisham Tuition Fee Waivers:
Goldsmiths College offers tuition fee waivers for residents of the London Borough of Lewisham. Applicants must have been residents for a minimum of three years prior to application and demonstrate academic potential to be eligible for the full tuition fee waiver.
These are just some of the scholarships available to Indian students who want to study in London. It’s always recommended to check with the university or program you’re interested in for more information on scholarships and financial aid.
Epilogue
Studying in London can be a life-changing experience for students from around the world, including India. With a range of top-ranked universities, world-class facilities, and a diverse and multicultural environment, London offers a unique and rewarding educational experience. While the application process may seem daunting, there are many resources available to help Indian students navigate the process and secure scholarships or financial aid. With the right preparation and determination, students can make the most of their time in London and gain the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in their careers.
Nevertheless, how about some handholding to get you through this? Talk to our study abroad experts to know yourself in and out! We have helped several brilliant but confused minds intending to select their most-suited career choices. We have helped many students like Anjana Prasanna who was not very confident about her capabilities. Later with the help of career guidance and moral support from our study abroad experts, she got an offer from King’s College London! We have helped several young confused minds like Aayush, and Tapan intending to select their most-suited career choices.
Also, read;
- MBA in London
- Universities in UK for Masters
- MBA in UK
- How to Become a Doctor in India?
- Top Universities in the UK
- Best MBA Colleges in London
- UK Education System
- UK PR Process & Requirements
- Top Universities in the UK
- London College of Fashion
- UK Grading System
FAQs
Some of the top universities in London include University College London (UCL), Imperial College London, King’s College London, and London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE).
The cost of studying in London varies depending on the university, program, and level of study. On average, international students can expect to pay between £15,000 and £40,000 per year in tuition fees, in addition to living expenses.
Indian students must apply for a Tier 4 (General) Student visa to study in the UK. The visa application process involves submitting documents such as proof of acceptance at a UK university, financial documents, and a valid passport.
Yes, London is generally a safe city for international students. However, it’s important to take the necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling alone or at night.
Anushree Rastogi is a Senior Content Writer at iDreamCareer, bringing over 5 years of expertise to the field of career counseling. She has done a PGDM in Marketing and Finance and possesses a unique blend of skills that allows her to craft engaging and informative content. She is passionate about helping individuals navigate their career paths and has dedicated her career to providing valuable insights through her content. Her commitment to excellence and keen understanding of the career landscape make her a trusted guide for those seeking professional direction. With a flair for clear and engaging writing, Anushree is on a mission to empower others to make informed and fulfilling career choices.
