Although fees for international students at UK universities may be considerable, many attest to the value on offer – academically and culturally
Students who have decided to continue their learning outside their home country have several difficult decisions to make. What subject do they want to study? Where is the best place for them to pursue their ambitions – in terms of both country and institution? And what hurdles will they have to overcome to take the next step in their academic journey?
The UK is one of the most attractive destinations in the world for international students pursuing higher education. In any given year, hundreds of thousands of overseas students can be found studying at UK higher education institutions, with learners drawn from all over the world. China, India and Nigeria may represent the three most common countries that international students call home, but enrolment can be seen from students coming from across Europe and beyond.
International students seeking to build their careers in the UK are attracted for several reasons. The country’s diversity is frequently cited as a contributing factor for international students looking to continue their studies abroad, as is the high global standing of many UK institutions. International rankings, such as those issued by Times Higher Education, can prove crucial in shaping an international student’s decision of which university to join.
Overcoming financial hurdles is one of the challenges that prospective international students face. Although studying in the UK as an international student is cheaper than in both the US and Australia, students are still asked to pay considerable sums. For example, international undergraduate tuition fees can vary from £11,400 to £38,000, while postgraduate fees can cost as much as £30,000.
However, there is evidence that international students in the UK receive value for money. For instance, seven in 10 international students believe they’re progressing further, being promoted quicker and earning more because of their UK education. Clearly, many foreign students who have already studied in the UK are convinced that their time in the country was well spent.
Moreover, although the financial burden placed on international students in the UK can be prohibitive, there are various support mechanisms available. One organisation offering assistance is AHZ, an approved representative of higher education providers that exclusively deals with the UK market. AHZ provides a full end-to-end service that supports students through enrolment, during their studies and after graduation.
With the backing of support services like AHZ, international students are given some additional peace of mind that enables them to enjoy the many benefits of living in the UK, both academic and cultural. In addition to boasting some of the world’s most highly regarded universities, international students have spoken at length about the wonderful sights and experiences that the UK has to offer. It’s little surprise that so many choose to make the UK their home, whether for a single year, a longer period or even the rest of their lives.
