Things all Indian students should know before applying to study abroad
Here’s a list of key things Indian students should know before applying to study abroad in the UK, Singapore, Australia, Germany, Russia, and UAE
For UK, Canada, Sweden, Australia, UAE, and US: Above 80% in English ensures easier college or job entry. All non-English countries, local language boosts job chances more than English.
Key Timeline Considerations:
- Summer/Early Fall of Senior Year: This is ideal for most UK, France , Russia, Germany, Australia, Singapore, US universities and many other institutions.
- Fall Intake (September/October): Applications are generally open from January/February to June/July.
- Spring Intake (January/February): Applications may open later in the year for this intake.
- Summer Intake (May/June): Applications may be open earlier in the year for this intake.
- Standardized Tests: Apply for and prepare for any required standardized tests (like the SAT or TOEFL) 3-6 months before the test date.
- Visa Application: Apply for the student visa once your application is accepted, ensuring timely processing.
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
- Top Programs: Business, Engineering, Law, Health, and Arts.
- Intake: September (main), January.
- Tests: IELTS/TOEFL; Some courses require UCAT, GMAT, or GRE.
- Costs: £10,000–£25,000/year (tuition); £9,000–£12,000/year (living).
- Work Rights: 20 hours/week (term); 2 years post-study work visa.
- Visa: Tier 4 (Student visa) – CAS letter, proof of funds, IELTS. To know more click here
🇸🇬 Singapore
- Top Programs: Business, Computing, Engineering.
- Intake: August (main), January (some).
- Tests: IELTS/TOEFL; SAT or ACT for undergrad (NUS/NTU); GRE/GMAT for PG.
- Costs: SGD 12,000–40,000/year (varies with subsidy); affordable public unis.
- Work Rights: Limited; part-time (16 hrs/week) in term.
- Visa: Student Pass; auto-linked with admission.
🇦🇺 Australia
- Top Programs: Engineering, Medicine, Business, IT.
- Intake: February, July.
- Tests: IELTS/TOEFL/PTE; GMAT/GRE for some PG courses.
- Costs: AUD 20,000–45,000/year (tuition); ~AUD 21,000/year (living).
- Work Rights: 24 hrs/week (term); 2–6 years post-study work visa.
- Visa: Subclass 500; need OSHC, GTE statement, proof of funds.
🇩🇪 Germany
- Top Programs: Engineering, Sciences, Management.
- Intake: October (main), April (some).
- Tests: IELTS/TOEFL; TestAS (for undergrad); GRE for some PG.
- Costs: Low/no tuition in public universities; €10,000–€12,000/year living.
- Work Rights: 120 full/240 half days per year; 18 months post-study stay.
- Visa: Student Visa; blocked account (€11,208), admission proof, health insurance.
🇷🇺 Russia
- Top Programs: Medicine, Engineering, Aerospace.
- Intake: September.
- Tests: English proficiency if English-taught; entrance exams or NEET for medicine.
- Costs: $2,000–$6,000/year tuition; low living costs.
- Work Rights: Limited; recent rules allow part-time with study visa.
- Visa: Student visa; admission letter, HIV test, proof of funds.
🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates
- Top Programs: Business, Engineering, IT, Hospitality.
- Intake: September, January.
- Tests: IELTS/TOEFL; SAT for undergrad at some unis.
- Costs: AED 35,000–70,000/year (tuition); AED 25,000–40,000/year (living).
- Work Rights: Limited; permission needed for part-time work.
- Visa: Student visa through university sponsorship.
Detailed counseling for all indian students to study in UK
The United Kingdom stands tall as a beacon of high-quality education, making it an attractive destination for international students, including those from India. With its great universities, diverse cultural environment, and promising career opportunities, the UK offers a holistic experience for those seeking to broaden their educational horizons.
Types of Student Visas
The UK offers three main types of student visas, each tailored to specific needs:
Student visa
- Designed for students aged 18 or above, this visa is ideal for those enrolled in courses longer than six months
- Benefits include part-time work during term time and full-time employment during holidays
- Cost: £490 (approximately INR 50,000)
Short-term study visa
- Perfect for courses under 12 months, such as English language programmes.
- Cost: £200 (approximately INR 20,000)
Eligibility Criteria for UK Student Visas
Get our 100% guaranteed selection & visa approval:
- Start Early: Apply well in advance to avoid delays. Select colleges & also apply before 8 months of college admission. Eg. If you are in school please apply for your colleges.
- Meet All Requirements: Review all visa and documentation requirements carefully
- Choose the Correct Visa Type: Select the visa that matches your course duration
- Ensure Financial Stability: Display proof of tuition and living costs
- Show Genuine Intent: Clearly communicate your study plans and intent in the UK
- Biometric Appointment: Attend the mandatory appointment for fingerprinting and a photograph
- Accommodation and Healthcare: Confirm accommodation arrangements and healthcare coverage as required
- Review and Stay Updated: Check documents for accuracy and stay informed on any process changes
To qualify for a UK student visa, Indian students must meet essential criteria:
- Letter of Acceptance – A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a recognised UK institution is required, proving that the applicant has secured a place
- Financial Capacity – Applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses. The minimum amounts required are based on location. Inside London: £1,334 per month (up to 9 months). Outside London: £1,023 per month (up to 9 months)
- Passport and Language Proficiency – A valid passport and evidence of English proficiency at CEFR level B2 or above are mandatory
- Age Requirements and Health Clearance – Age requirements differ based on the visa type, and a tuberculosis test is required for all applicants
Required Documents for UK Student Visa Applications
UK student visa applications use a points-based system (Student Route), with specific documentation required for eligibility:
- Valid passport and previous visas
- Passport-sized coloured photos
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
- Proof of funds: £1,023 per month if outside London or £1,334 if studying within London (up to 9 months)
- Health insurance and evidence of accommodation arrangements
- English language proficiency proof
- Visa fee payment confirmation
- Application form and travel tickets