Top Universities for Masters in UK for International Students

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:

 

ParametersDetails
Number of MS in the UK Colleges160+
Top Specialisations for MS in the UK
  • Data Analytics, 
  • Computer Science & Engineering
  • Biology (Sciences)
  • IT
  • Health Science
  • Electronics & Electrical Engineering
  • Mathematics
Course Duration1-2 year
English Language Proficiency Requirements
Standardised Tests
Best Intake for MBA in UKFall/September
Approximate Cost of Studying in UKINR 9L to 40L per year
Approximate Cost of Living in UKINR 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:
 

UniversitiesWorld Ranking 2024Avg MS Tuition Fees
University Of Cambridge#2INR 30L – INR 40L
University Of Oxford#3INR 9L – INR 61L
Imperial College London#6INR 34L – INR 65L
University College London#9INR 20L – INR 53.5L
University Of Edinburgh#22INR 4L – INR 41L
University Of Manchester#32INR 26.5L – INR 60L
Kings College London#40INR 25L – INR 47L 
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)#45INR 29L – INR 47.6L
University Of Bristol     #55INR 5L – INR 50L
The University Of Warwick#67INR 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 UKDuration
Full-time MBA1-2 years
Part-time MBA2-4 years
Distance Learning/OnlineVaries (1-3 years)
Executive1 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 IELTSTOEFL, 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:

 

CategoryCost per month in INR
AccommodationINR 50K - 70K
MealINR 10K - 20K
TravelINR 3K - 4K
Other ExpensesINR 10K - 20K
Total Estimated CostINR 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:

 

ScholarshipsUniversityBenefits
The Edinburgh Global Research ScholarshipsUniversity of EdinburghFull tuition fees
UCL Global Masters ScholarshipUniversity College London (UCL)GBP 15,000 or INR 15.5 L (for one year)
King's International FoundationKing's College LondonGBP 4,000 (INR 4 L)
The Manchester Global ScholarshipUniversity of ManchesterGBP 8,000 (INR 8L)
The Commonwealth Scholarships at King'sKing's College LondonLiving 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:

 

JobsAverage Annual Salary
Computer TechnicianINR 33L
Biomedical EngineerINR 37L
Biomedical EngineerINR 37L
Product DevelopmentINR 40.5L
Civil EngineerINR 41L
Electrical EngineerINR 42L
Data AnalystINR 43L
Project ManagerINR 55.6L
Software DeveloperINR 56L
Software EngineerINR 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:

 

SectorTypes of OrganisationCompanies
Finance & BankingInvestment banks, wealth management firms, and financial institutionsHSBC
Barclays
JP Morgan Chase & Co.
Goldman Sachs
Bank of America
TechnologyTech consultancies and software giantsAccenture
Deloitte
Google
Amazon
KPMG
Microsoft
Management ConsultingStrategy and consulting firmsMcKinsey & Company
Boston Consulting Group (BCG)
Bain & Company
EngineeringEngineering and manufacturing companiesRolls-Royce
BAE Systems
AstraZeneca
GSK
Data Science & AnalyticsCompanies requiring data-driven decision-makingMeta
Uber
Netflix
PayPal
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 results
University of Cambridge

Cambridge - Massachusetts

QS Rank

2

Tuition Fees

₹36.78L/yr

Admission Requirements

IELTS:

7

Know more Check Eligibility

QS Rank

2

Tuition Fees

₹27.58L/yr

Admission Requirements

IELTS:

7

Know more Check Eligibility

QS Rank

3

Tuition Fees

₹39.21L/yr

Admission Requirements

IELTS:

7

Know more Check Eligibility
University of Oxford

Oxford - Mississippi

QS Rank

4

Tuition Fees

₹40.64L/yr

Admission Requirements

IELTS:

7.5

Know more Check Eligibility

QS Rank

6

Tuition Fees

₹41.42L/yr

Admission Requirements

IELTS:

7

Know more Check Eligibility

QS Rank

6

Tuition Fees

-/-

Admission Requirements

IELTS:

6.0

Know more Check Eligibility

QS Rank

7

Tuition Fees

₹72.54L/yr

Admission Requirements

IELTS:

7.5

Know more Check Eligibility

QS Rank

8

Tuition Fees

₹32.82L/yr

Admission Requirements

IELTS:

6.5

Know more Check Eligibility

QS Rank

8

Tuition Fees

₹25.23L/yr

Admission Requirements

IELTS:

6.5

Know more Check Eligibility

QS Rank

10

Tuition Fees

₹40.68L/yr

Admission Requirements

IELTS:

7

Know more Check Eligibility

QS Rank

25

Tuition Fees

₹31.94L/yr

Admission Requirements

IELTS:

7

Know more Check Eligibility

QS Rank

27

Tuition Fees

-/-

Admission Requirements

IELTS:

7

Know more Check Eligibility

QS Rank

27

Tuition Fees

₹22.60L/yr

Admission Requirements

IELTS:

6.5

Know more Check Eligibility

QS Rank

34

Tuition Fees

₹27.62L/yr

Admission Requirements

IELTS:

6.5

Know more Check Eligibility
King's College London

London - Canada

QS Rank

40

Tuition Fees

₹32.67L/yr

Admission Requirements

IELTS:

7.5

Know more Check Eligibility

QS Rank

54

Tuition Fees

₹30.06L/yr

Admission Requirements

IELTS:

6.5

Know more Check Eligibility

QS Rank

56

Tuition Fees

₹35.88L/yr

Admission Requirements

IELTS:

7

Know more Check Eligibility

QS Rank

61

Tuition Fees

-/-

Admission Requirements

IELTS:

7

Know more Check Eligibility

QS Rank

61

Tuition Fees

₹18.71L/yr

Admission Requirements

IELTS:

6.5

Know more Check Eligibility

QS Rank

69

Tuition Fees

₹31.49L/yr

Admission Requirements

IELTS:

6.5

Know more Check Eligibility
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Top Universities for Masters in UK for International Students

Q. What are the admission requirements for a Master's program in the UK?

Ans. Admission requirements vary depending on the university and program you're applying to. Typically, you'll need a bachelor's degree from a recognised institution with a minimum grade requirement. Additionally, you'll likely need to demonstrate proficiency in English through standardised tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources and a well-crafted personal statement outlining your academic background, interests, and career goals are also usually required.

Q. How long does it take to complete a Master's degree in the UK?

Ans. Most Master's programs in the UK are designed to be completed in one year for full-time students. However, some programs, particularly those with research components or part-time options, may take two years to complete.

Q. Are there scholarships available for international students pursuing a Master's degree in the UK?

Ans. Yes, many universities in the UK offer scholarships and funding opportunities specifically for international students. These scholarships may be merit-based, need-based, or awarded for specific criteria such as academic excellence, leadership, or research potential. Additionally, there are external scholarships and government-funded schemes available for eligible students, which you can explore through research and by contacting relevant organisations.

Q. Can I work while studying for my Master's degree in the UK?

Ans. Yes, international students enrolled in full-time degree programs at recognised institutions in the UK are typically allowed to work part-time during term time and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as vacations. However, there are restrictions on the number of hours you can work per week, so it's essential to check the latest immigration regulations to ensure compliance.

Q. What are the popular fields of study for Master's degrees in the UK?

Ans. The UK is known for offering a diverse range of Master's programs across various fields. Popular areas of study include business and management, engineering, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, arts, law, and healthcare. It's crucial to research the strengths of different universities and their programs to find the best fit for your academic and career goals.

Q. Do I need a visa to study for a Master's degree in the UK?

Ans. Yes, most international students will need to obtain a Tier 4 (General) student visa to study in the UK for a Master's degree. The specific visa requirements and application process can vary depending on factors such as your nationality, the duration of your course, and whether you're studying at a recognised institution. It's important to start the visa application process well in advance of your intended start date to allow for processing time and any additional documentation required.

Q. Is it possible to stay in the UK after completing my Master's degree?

Ans. Yes, many international students may be eligible to extend their stay in the UK after completing their Master's degree through various immigration routes. For example, the Graduate Route (formerly known as the Post-Study Work Visa) allows eligible graduates to stay and work in the UK for up to two years to gain work experience or pursue further studies. Other options include applying for a skilled worker visa or exploring other immigration routes based on individual circumstances and eligibility criteria.

Q. What are the language proficiency requirements for international students?

Ans. Most universities in the UK require international students to demonstrate proficiency in English by providing scores from recognised English language tests such as IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). Minimum score requirements vary between institutions and programs, so it's essential to check the specific requirements of the university and program you're applying to.


 

Q. Are there opportunities for research and internships during a Master's program in the UK?

Ans. Yes, many Master's programs in the UK offer opportunities for research projects, internships, or work placements as part of the curriculum. These practical experiences allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, gain valuable skills, and build professional networks. Research-based Master's programs often involve conducting independent research under the guidance of a supervisor, culminating in a dissertation or thesis.

Q. How can I find accommodation while studying for my Master's degree in the UK?

Ans. Universities typically provide accommodation services to help students find suitable housing options, both on-campus and off-campus. On-campus accommodation may include halls of residence, apartments, or shared houses, while off-campus options range from private rentals to purpose-built student accommodations. Many universities have online platforms or housing offices where you can search for accommodation listings, and it's advisable to start your search early to secure the best options within your budget and preferences.

Q. What is the difference between a taught Master's program and a research-based Master's program?

Ans. Taught Master's programs typically involve structured coursework, including lectures, seminars, and assessments such as exams or assignments. These programs are designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject area and may also include a research project or dissertation component. In contrast, research-based Master's programs focus more on independent research under the supervision of a faculty member or advisor.