From India to the UK: First Year as an International Student

An international student’s first year in the United Kingdom is a remarkable experience. Not only do Indian students get to observe how UK education is structured, but also how the country’s culture differs from India’s.

Studying in the UK is challenging as there are new rules for international students in the UK. These rules have been put in place to ensure that international students are able to fully participate in their education and make the most of their experience in the UK. Understanding these rules and how they affect international students is crucial for anyone considering studying in the UK.

Below are the experiences Indian students are encountering during their first year as international students in the UK.

Overcoming Language Barriers

One of the biggest challenges Indian students will face is the language barrier. Many found it difficult to understand and communicate with native speakers. However, as you immersed in the culture and made friends with people from different backgrounds, your language skills will improve significantly.

Cultural Differences

Another challenge is cultural differences. From the food to the customs, everything seemed unfamiliar and at times, overwhelming. With openness to adjustments, Indian students quickly learn to embrace the differences and even started to appreciate the unique experiences the UK is offering.

Learning Methods

The academic system in the UK is also quite different from that in India. The teaching and learning methods are more interactive and independent, with a greater emphasis on group work and critical thinking. This requires Indian students to adapt to a new way of learning and thinking, and it will help them to become more well-rounded students.

Overwhelming Processes

The first year as an international student in the UK can be overwhelming due to the variety of processes and challenges to navigate. One of the main challenges for Indian students is the process of how to study in the UK from India. Making new friends, finding a place to live, and managing finances can also be overwhelming. However, with the right support and resources, Indian students can successfully navigate the overwhelming processes during their first year as international students in the UK.

Benefits of Studying in the UK Compared to India​​

Studying in the UK offers a range of benefits compared to studying in India. The UK has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and can be a great destination for those who want to pursue higher education abroad. 

Post-study Work Visa 

Allows you to gain valuable work experience while studying by participating in part-time jobs, internships, or placements. Your university may also assist in finding opportunities for you after graduation. The new Graduate Immigration Route allows you to remain in the UK for two years following the completion of your degree.

Financial Support

Many UK universities provide financial support for international students through scholarships and funding opportunities. To be considered, you must first be accepted into the program of study.

Robust Research Infrastructure

The UK boasts a robust research infrastructure, with 30% of university research being considered “world-leading” and 46% as “internationally excellent” according to the Research Excellence Framework (REF).

Opportunities Offered by UK’s Education System

The UK education system offers a wealth of opportunities for students. One of the main benefits is the wide range of academic options available, including a variety of institutions and fields of study to choose from. The UK also provides excellent English language support, which can help students to develop their language skills, which is crucial in today’s global digital arena and can increase one’s chances of employment. 

Support Systems

International students are warmly welcomed in the UK each year, with support systems in place to help them adjust. International student societies assist with personal issues and help you get involved in events, activities, and outings.

New Rules for International Students in the UK

The Home Office has announced changes to the UK student visa immigration rules that will take effect from November 9, 2022. These changes include the addition of British Overseas Territories to the list of majority English-speaking countries, and applicants who have a GCSE qualification or higher in Welsh, Scots Gaelic, or Irish language will meet the English language requirement. There will be changes in the requirements for student dependents also.

Another important change is the Ukraine Extension Scheme that will become available to an extra group of people, those who had permission to be in the UK at any point from 18 March 2022 to 16 May 2023. No applications to the scheme will be possible after 16 November 2023. This change allows more flexibility for international students to stay in the UK after their program. 

Police registration will be removed from the immigration rules, and any police registration condition imposed before 9 November 2022 will cease to affect that date.

Key Takeaways

The first year as an international student in the UK for Indian students can be a challenging but rewarding experience. The valuable experience of studying in the UK will open many opportunities for them, whether that be in terms of career or personal growth.

The opportunity to meet people from all over the world and learn about different cultures, pursue studies in a world-renowned university and gain valuable knowledge and skills will benefit Indian students in the long run.