Did you know that over 600,000 international students choose to study in the UK each year?
UK universities consistently rank at the top globally. They offer programs taught by experts who are pushing the boundaries in their fields. Earning a Master’s in the UK means you'll graduate with a degree that's recognised and respected worldwide!
But wait, there's more! Your Masters in UK has the potential to take you towards an extraordinary career trajectory. With numerous post-study work visas available, you're not just earning a degree; you're gaining invaluable experience and a head start in realising your career aspirations.
Feeling Inspired? Let's explore what studying an MS in the UK involves:
Parameters | Details |
Number of MS in the UK Colleges | 160+ |
Top Specialisations for MS in the UK |
|
Course Duration | 1-2 year |
English Language Proficiency Requirements | |
Standardised Tests | |
Best Intake for MBA in UK | Fall/September |
Approximate Cost of Studying in UK | INR 9L to 40L per year |
Approximate Cost of Living in UK | INR 70K- 1 L per month |
Top Universities for MS in the UK |
Why Study Masters in UK?
Thinking about a Master's in the UK? Here's why the UK should be at the top of your list!
- Globally Recognised Excellence: The UK has a phenomenal 17 out of the top 164 universities in the world. These institutions are renowned for their academic rigour, and a MS in the UK university is a passport to international recognition.
- World-Class Education: The UK is home to a staggering 90 universities ranked among the best globally, with an impressive 4 universities sitting proudly within the top 10 worldwide. This reputation speaks volumes about the quality of education you'll receive – making a Master’s in the UK the perfect choice for ambitious students.
- Tailored Learning: UK universities offer fantastic course flexibility. Many programs allow you to explore different areas, combine subjects, and even customise your coursework to fit your specific goals and interests. This ensures you gain the exact knowledge and skills you need to excel in your chosen field.
- Fast-Track Your Future: An MS in the UK is typically just one year long (with part-time options available). This accelerated format allows you to gain advanced knowledge and skills quickly, putting you on the fast track to your dream career. Plus, with lower tuition fees compared to destinations like the US or Canada (when considering the program length), it's an investment that pays off.
- Launch Your Career in the UK: A UK Master's degree gives exciting post-study work opportunities. The post-study work visa allows you to stay back for up to two years after graduation and gain valuable work experience in your field. For PhD students, the visa extends to three years, giving you ample time to find a job and secure a work permit.
Top Universities for Masters in UK
Opting for an MS program in the UK presents a great opportunity for Indian students.
As the UK's second-largest group of international students, Indians find themselves in a welcoming and diverse academic environment.
Here is a list of universities in the UK for MS:
Universities | World Ranking 2024 | Avg MS Tuition Fees |
University Of Cambridge | #2 | INR 30L – INR 40L |
University Of Oxford | #3 | INR 9L – INR 61L |
Imperial College London | #6 | INR 34L – INR 65L |
University College London | #9 | INR 20L – INR 53.5L |
University Of Edinburgh | #22 | INR 4L – INR 41L |
University Of Manchester | #32 | INR 26.5L – INR 60L |
Kings College London | #40 | INR 25L – INR 47L |
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) | #45 | INR 29L – INR 47.6L |
University Of Bristol | #55 | INR 5L – INR 50L |
The University Of Warwick | #67 | INR 12L – INR 57L |
Note: Fees mentioned in the table are approximate figures. It may vary by course and currency exchange rate.
Top Masters in UK Specialisations
The UK is a hub for world-class universities offering many Master of Science (MS) programs. Choosing the right specialisation can significantly grow your career prospects and open doors to exciting opportunities.
Here's a breakdown of some of the most sought-after MS specialisations in the UK:
High-Demand Fields:
- Engineering: A favourite, Engineering specialisations like Mechanical, Chemical, Civil, Electrical and Aerospace offer excellent employability rates and competitive salaries.
- Computer Science: The digital age has fuelled the demand for computer science professionals. Specialisations in Software Engineering, Web Development, Cybersecurity, and Data Analysis are particularly lucrative.
- Business & Management: Specialisations in Finance, Marketing, and International Business equip you with the skills to navigate the dynamic world of business and command impressive salaries.
Other Top Choices:
- Architecture: The UK has a rich architectural heritage. An MS in Architecture can lead to fulfilling design, planning, and construction careers.
- Biological Sciences: Specialisations in Biotechnology, Genetics, and Neuroscience get into the fascinating world of life sciences and pave the way for research or industry careers.
Additional Tips:
- Explore the Graduate Route visa, which allows international MS graduates to stay and work in the UK for two years after graduation.
- Network with professionals in your field to gain insights into the job market.
Here is a breakdown of types of Masters in UK by duration:
Types of MBA in UK | Duration |
Full-time MBA | 1-2 years |
Part-time MBA | 2-4 years |
Distance Learning/Online | Varies (1-3 years) |
Executive | 1 to 2 years, often part-time |
What are the Masters in UK Admission Requirements?
While specific requirements can vary by university and program, here's a roadmap to guide MS in the UK admissions:
Academic Qualifications:
- Bachelor's Degree: A completed bachelor's degree in a relevant field is your launchpad. Top universities often seek a minimum CGPA of 6.5 or 7 for international students.
English Language Proficiency:
- Test Scores: Demonstrate your English language fluency through IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores. Universities typically expect IELTS scores of 6.5-7 or TOEFL scores of 90-110.
Standardised Tests (Optional):
- GMAT/GRE: Some universities, particularly for STEM programs, may require GMAT or GRE scores. Aim for a GMAT score of 650 or a GRE score of 160 to strengthen your application.
Work Experience (Bonus Points):
- Real-World Experience: While not mandatory for all programs, work experience can be a valuable asset, especially for specialised courses like an MBA. A strong work background showcases your skills and preparedness for advanced studies.
Visa Requirements:
- Valid Passport & Student Visa: Secure a valid passport and obtain a student visa at least 3 months before your travel date. This visa allows you to study in the UK.
Application Documents:
- Academic Transcripts: Submit transcripts showcasing your academic journey.
- CV/Resume: Highlight your skills and accomplishments through a well-crafted CV or resume.
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Seek strong LORs from professors who can vouch for your academic potential.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): Craft a compelling SOP that conveys your academic goals, research interests, and suitability for the program.
- Test Scores: Include your IELTS/TOEFL and GMAT/GRE scorecards (if applicable).
- Work Experience Certificate (if applicable): Demonstrate your work experience with a certificate from your employer.
- Proof of Funds: Show sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses in the UK.
Cost of Studying Masters in UK
Tuition fees are a major expense for Indian students who are considering a UK education. For Masters in the UK the average tuition fee ranges from INR 12 L to 35.5 L per year.
Here's a breakdown to help you estimate costs:
Cost Variances:
- Program Choice: The cost can vary depending on the program you choose. Undergraduate and postgraduate programs typically have different fee structures.
- University Prestige: Tuition fees can be higher at renowned universities compared to newer institutions.
- Location, Location, Location: Studying in a big city like London will likely cost more than studying in a smaller town.
Cost of Living in UK
Your living expenses in the UK will depend on your lifestyle choices and the city you choose to live in.
Here's a general guideline:
Category | Cost per month in INR |
Accommodation | INR 50K - 70K |
Meal | INR 10K - 20K |
Travel | INR 3K - 4K |
Other Expenses | INR 10K - 20K |
Total Estimated Cost | INR 70K - 1L |
Note: The amounts mentioned in the table are approximate figures. It may vary depending on the currency exchange rate.
Scholarships for MS in UK
Earning a Master's degree in the UK is a prestigious and rewarding endeavour.
However, tuition fees can be a significant hurdle. The good news is numerous scholarships are available to ease the financial burden for international MS students.
Here's a breakdown of some widely recognised university scholarships:
Scholarships | University | Benefits |
The Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships | University of Edinburgh | Full tuition fees |
UCL Global Masters Scholarship | University College London (UCL) | GBP 15,000 or INR 15.5 L (for one year) |
King's International Foundation | King's College London | GBP 4,000 (INR 4 L) |
The Manchester Global Scholarship | University of Manchester | GBP 8,000 (INR 8L) |
The Commonwealth Scholarships at King's | King's College London | Living costs, travel and tuition fee |
Note: The amounts mentioned in the table are approximate figures. It may vary depending on the currency exchange rate.
Jobs after MS in UK
On average, MS graduates in the UK can command annual salaries ranging from INR 37 L to INR 53 L. This is a substantial increase compared to typical MS graduate salaries in India.
Top Job Growth Fields: The UK job market is booming in several sectors, particularly for MS graduates.
Here are some of the most desirable fields:
- Finance: With London being a global financial hub, opportunities abound for skilled professionals in finance, banking, and investment.
- Technology: The UK tech scene is thriving, creating a high demand for MS graduates in areas like software development, cybersecurity, and data science.
- Healthcare: The UK healthcare sector constantly seeks qualified professionals. An MS in healthcare, biotechnology, or related fields can lead to fulfilling careers.
- Data Science: Data analysis skills are in high demand across various industries. An MS in data science equips you to be at the forefront of this rapidly growing field.
Here is the table of the top 10 jobs after MS in the UK with average annual salary:
Jobs | Average Annual Salary |
Computer Technician | INR 33L |
Biomedical Engineer | INR 37L |
Biomedical Engineer | INR 37L |
Product Development | INR 40.5L |
Civil Engineer | INR 41L |
Electrical Engineer | INR 42L |
Data Analyst | INR 43L |
Project Manager | INR 55.6L |
Software Developer | INR 56L |
Software Engineer | INR 69L |
Note: The amounts mentioned in the table are approximate figures. It may vary depending on the currency exchange rate.
Top Recruiters
Several prominent companies consistently hire international talent with postgraduate degrees.
Here are some sectors and companies to consider:
Sector | Types of Organisation | Companies |
Finance & Banking | Investment banks, wealth management firms, and financial institutions | HSBC |
Barclays | ||
JP Morgan Chase & Co. | ||
Goldman Sachs | ||
Bank of America | ||
Technology | Tech consultancies and software giants | Accenture |
Deloitte | ||
Amazon | ||
KPMG | ||
Microsoft | ||
Management Consulting | Strategy and consulting firms | McKinsey & Company |
Boston Consulting Group (BCG) | ||
Bain & Company | ||
Engineering | Engineering and manufacturing companies | Rolls-Royce |
BAE Systems | ||
AstraZeneca | ||
GSK | ||
Data Science & Analytics | Companies requiring data-driven decision-making | Meta |
Uber | ||
Netflix | ||
PayPal |