7 benefits of studying in the UK
The UK is one of the most popular places in the world to study abroad, attracting hundreds of thousands of international students every year. There are many reasons why international students choose the UK, such as cultural diversity, high-quality education and excellent graduate job prospects.
Why study in the UK as an international student? We have the answers for you.
Benefits of studying in the UK
Top universities
The UK is home to some of the world’s top universities and is known for its high standard of education. Universities in the UK consistently perform well in the world university rankings - four of the world’s top ten universities are in the UK. A stellar reputation for high-quality teaching and world-innovating research means that by studying in the UK, you will be immersing yourself in a long history of high-quality academia.
Russell Group universities are some of the highest ranked in the world. They focus their values on research and working to create stronger communities and ideas for the future. By choosing a Russell Group university you will be taught by highly skilled academics who work on high-profile research projects, have access tolatest equipment in your chosen field and complete a prestigious degree that is held in high regard by employers.
The UK is vibrant and diverse
The UK is a culturally diverse country that has a long history of welcoming international students to study at its universities. Made up of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland; each has its own cultural identity and traditions.
While studying in the UK, you will be surrounded by fellow international students, giving you the chance to build a global network of friends and future professional contacts.
Cardiff, which is in Wales, has a large multicultural population and it is estimated that over 94 languages are spoken. Some residents speak both Welsh and English, however, English is the most widely spoken language.
Expert support for international students
Universities in the UK offer excellent support for international students. Cardiff University International Study Centre has specialist staff who dedicate their time to helping international students adapt to living and studying in the UK. They offer excellent guidance from day one, supporting students with the application process, visa information, organising accommodation and answering any questions you may have.
Improve your English skills
One of the biggest benefits of studying in the UK is improving your English language skills. During your degree, you will have dedicated modules to improving your English skills, but you will also naturally develop them through simple everyday life tasks such as conversing with fellow students, ordering food at restaurants and attending live shows and events.
Having excellent English language skills will help your graduate career prospects, as many organisations across the world use the language.
Thousands of subject options
UK universities offer a great variety of subject options to choose from. No matter what your area of interest is, it is likely you will find a degree focused on it in the UK. This is one of the best reasons to study in the UK. You can combine your interests with your education, making for a more exciting and enjoyable learning experience.
Degrees in the UK come in a variety of forms to better suit different study needs. Depending on the subject you choose, you may have a course that is heavily focused on either practical or theoretical work, or in some cases a balance of the two. There are also some courses that have more contact hours or shorter study lengths, and you can even take part in a work placement. A typical undergraduate degree in Wales takes three years to complete – four with a work placement. If you want to study a postgraduate degree, it will take one year to complete.
Excellent graduate job prospects: work while you study
Once you have graduated from Cardiff University, you will be able to stay and work in the UK with a 2-year post study work visa.
UK university graduates have exciting career opportunities available to them, due to having a degree that is world-renowned for its high quality. While studying in the UK, you will be developing highly valued transferrable and critical thinking skills, both of which are extremely sought after by employers.
As well as great graduate job prospects, you are also able to work while you study to help cover expenses or gain valuable work experience. To be able to work in the UK as an international student, you must be enroled on a full-time course and have a Student visa. You cannot work more than 20 hours a week during term time, even if you wish to work extra, unpaid hours. Outside of term time, international students can work up to 40 hours per week.
During your study at Cardiff University, you will be given the opportunity to gain work experience either by doing internships or a work placement. The opportunity to work while you study will be invaluable when it comes to applying for graduate jobs. Having previous work experience is the best way to make yourself a standout candidate when applying for graduate jobs.
The UK is an interesting place to live
If you choose to study abroad in the UK, there is always something to see or do, no matter what your interests are. In every part of the UK, you will find a mix of restaurants, shops, sporting activities, live shows and festivals to keep you entertained. These work hand in hand with the country’s deep multicultural roots, allowing you to delve into not just British culture, but also cultures from all over the globe.
Cardiff is the capital of Wales and home to Cardiff University. It is a thriving modern city with a brilliant arts and music scene, as well as plenty of international restaurants and all the major high street shops. You can also hike in the beautiful Welsh countryside, relax at one of Wales stunning sandy beaches or explore its historic towns and cities.
If you are looking to venture outside of Cardiff, London is just two hours away by train, allowing students to enjoy the sights and attractions the UK’s capital has to offer.
Study in Wales at Cardiff University
Study in Wales at Cardiff University, a prestigious yet inclusive UK university which is a founding member of the Russell Group. The Russell Group universities are known for their high-quality teaching, research and focus on employability. Cardiff is the only Russell Group university in Wales.
Studying at the International Study Centre is an excellent introduction to living and studying in Wales. Our supportive staff understand that studying abroad is a big step and will offer you guidance from day one to create solutions for any questions or concerns you may have.
To begin your studies in Wales as an international student, you can choose from a variety of pathway programmes at Cardiff University International Study Centre. These programmes are expertly designed to make your transition into the UK education system as smooth as possible. A combination of English language practise and academic teaching will allow you to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence you need to progress to a degree at Cardiff University.
The International Study Centre offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, find out more about how to apply.
FAQs
Why is the UK best for international students?
The UK is the best study destination for international students because of its globally recognised education system. Degrees from UK universities are held in high regard by employers and their shorter course duration makes your study experience less expensive compared to other countries.
Is a UK master’s degree valuable?
Completing a master’s degree is an excellent way to boost your career prospects. By completing a challenging degree, you are showing employers that you are knowledgeable, hardworking and committed.
Is the UK friendly to international students?
The UK sees hundreds of thousands of international students every year and is a welcoming place to live and study. One of the friendliest places to study is Cardiff, home to Cardiff University. In Cardiff, you will be surrounded by many other international students and friendly locals.