Studying in the United Kingdom
The UK hosts over 750,000 international students across some of the world's oldest and most-cited universities. This is the complete guide — the Student route, the Graduate Route, cities, courses, and the institutions worth applying to.
Explore the United Kingdom
Visas
The Student route, the Graduate Route, dependants rules, and what's changing in 2027.
Cities
London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Birmingham, and Leeds for international students.
Courses
Foundation, undergraduate, and postgraduate study, and how UCAS works.
Institutes
Russell Group and other universities licensed to sponsor international students.
Working
Term-time work hours, vacation work, and the Graduate Route.
Cost of living
Rent, the maintenance requirement, and London vs the rest of the UK.
Accommodation
Halls of residence, private student housing, and house shares.
Healthcare
The Immigration Health Surcharge and NHS access.
Culture
What life as an international student in the UK is really like.
Thinking about studying in the UK?
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Frequently asked questions
How much money do I need for a UK student visa?
For the Student route you must show maintenance funds of about £1,529 per month if studying in London and £1,171 per month outside London, held for 28 consecutive days. These are 2025–26 figures used as a baseline in our UK cost of living guide. Always confirm the current amount on gov.uk before you apply.
What do I need to apply for a UK student visa?
You need a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed sponsor, proof of maintenance funds, and the required English language level. Since January 2024, only postgraduate research students (PhD) can bring dependants on the Student route. See our full UK student visa guide for details.
Can international students work in the UK?
Yes — Student route holders can work up to 20 hours per week during term time at degree level (10 hours below degree level), and full-time during vacations. Self-employment is not permitted on this visa. Read our working in the UK guide for the details.
How long can I stay in the UK after graduating?
The Graduate Route lets bachelor's and master's graduates stay and work for 2 years (reducing to 18 months for applications from 1 January 2027), while PhD graduates get 3 years. No job offer or sponsorship is required. See our visas guide and working in the UK guide for what comes next.
Do international students get free healthcare in the UK?
Students pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of £776 per year as part of their visa application, which then grants NHS access on broadly the same basis as a UK resident. Register with a local GP as soon as you arrive. Full details are in our UK healthcare guide.
What universities can international students apply to in the UK?
International students can apply to any UK university licensed to sponsor the Student visa, including Russell Group institutions, through UCAS for undergraduate courses or directly to universities for postgraduate study. See our UK institutes guide for which universities can sponsor you.
Which UK city is best for international students?
It depends on budget and course — London has the widest range of universities but the highest costs, while cities like Manchester, Glasgow, Birmingham, and Leeds offer materially lower rent with strong universities and job markets. Compare them in our UK student cities guide, and see accommodation for housing options.
Last reviewed . Rules and figures change — always confirm with the official source before applying.