We don’t blame you for thinking the UK is all about people constantly drinking tea and eating nothing else but fish and chips (although, they’re amazing here and definitely worth trying). Although this definitely isn't the case. But how much do you actually know about studying in the UK? With our world-class universities, excellent teaching methods and unbeatable multiculturalism, it’s no surprise that the UK is a magnet for international students.
Here are 10 of the most surprising facts about studying in the UK that you may not have known before.
- Over 450,000 international students study in the UK every year...
- ...That means we’re only behind the US when it comes to attracting international students
- And most international students come from Asia
- The UK offers some of the most unusual degrees you can think of
- But here are some of the most popular degrees students choose in the UK
- There’s more than one type of university in the UK
- Degrees from UK universities are known to be of high-quality
- UK universities are known for being world leaders in research
- The UK is the most recommended destination by international students
- Statistics show that Newcastle University is the place to be...
1. Over 450,000 international students study in the UK each year…
According to UCAS, over 450,000 international students study in the UK each year. That means there are so many students from countries like yours that want a much-respected degree.
If you were to study at a UK university, you wouldn’t just be a part of that figure, you’d be the latest student gaining a high-quality qualification and setting yourself apart from others.
2. ...That means we’re only behind the US when it comes to attracting international students
When moving to a new country, it’s always nice to know that you’ll meet students from your homeland and even other countries entirely. The UK actually attracts more international students than any other country, except for the US.
It gives you a chance to study alongside students from Britain and those from a different country. So you all experience a unique culture.
3. And most international students come from Asia
Asia continues to send the greatest number of students to study at UK universities, beating Europe to the top spot. Students from Asia account for 44% of international students currently in the UK.
China has the highest number of students (more than 40,000!), followed by Hong Kong, India and Malaysia. So, there’s obviously a good reason why so many students continue to choose the UK for their studies.
4. The UK offers some of the most unusual degrees you can think of
Although UK universities are known for offering some of the best and most respected degrees around, there are actually some pretty unusual courses that are available to students. Trust us, you won’t have heard some of these before.
Ethical hacking, surf science and technology, puppetry design and performance or even floral design are just some of the unique choices that other countries just don’t offer.
5. But here are some of the most popular degrees students choose in the UK
In the UK, there are some courses that are a lot more popular than others.
Some of the most popular courses amongst international students in the UK include Business Management, Civil Engineering, Chemistry, Computer Science, Biomedical Sciences, Engineering, Media, Architecture and Law (just to name a few).
6. There’s more than one type of university in the UK
Did you know that there are three types of universities in the UK? Polytechnic or metropolitan (they mean the same thing), ancient and Russell Group are the three categories UK universities fall under.
For example, there are only 24 universities in the Russell Group. They’re committed to industry-leading research and an outstanding learning experience for all students, with prestigious universities like Cambridge, Oxford and Newcastle all being members.
With so many amazing options, the choice is entirely up to you. Each has its pros and cons. To help you learn more, read this blog to find about the different types of universities in the UK and what makes them so special.
7. Degrees from UK universities are known to be of high-quality
Degrees from UK universities are known around the world to be of high-quality and world class. There’s genuine worldwide recognition there and that’s shown with UK universities consistently ranking highly in league tables. It’s also something employers are looking for.
So, when you graduate with a degree from a UK university, this will be a great selling point in your favour when applying for jobs.
For example, the links Newcastle University has with employers puts us in the top 20 universities for graduate career prospects in the UK. Just see for yourself what Newcastle University graduates bring to businesses…
8. UK universities are known for being world leaders in research
It’s nice to know you can be part of an exclusive group that can make a real difference in the world through research and innovation. That’s where the UK stands out. Studies have shown that 54% of all research conducted by universities in the UK is classed as being either world-leading or internationally excellent.
In general, the UK is considered a world-leading research nation. That’s a great reputation to have and something you can be a part of and benefit from. There are plenty of cities in the UK that focus on creativity and innovation.
Newcastle, for example, is home to world-changing innovations, such as the electric lightbulb, the first turbine-driven ship and even the first locomotive - which eventually led to the industrial revolution.
You can even find research from Newcastle University in South African flower fields, Wall Street in New York City, the video game industry and so much more.
9. The UK is the most recommended destination by international students
Although we said that the UK is just behind the US when it comes to attracting international students, the UK is actually the most recommended destination by international students.
Some common answers given include the UK having leaders in research and discovery offering quality lectures. Also, the state-of-the-art laboratories was another popular answer.
It’s easy to see why. It’s an English-speaking country with a great mix of different cultures, beliefs and races, not to mention the amazing career prospects. It’s no surprise why so many international students choose the UK and then recommend the amazing experience to others.
10. Statistics show that Newcastle University is the place to be...
At Newcastle University, we foster a culture of independent learning, critical thinking and enterprise. So, it’s clear why the students here go on to succeed after graduating.
The award-winning careers service provides plenty of opportunities for personal and professional development. Plus, Newcastle University has strong employer links and industry relevant degrees. So, students are fully prepared for life after university with 96% of students becoming employed within six months of graduating.
The success is shown through a leading student survey carried out by i-graduate. The International Student Barometer (ISB) has revealed that students in Newcastle are extremely satisfied. The student experience results are as follows:
- learning - 91.5%
- living - 93.8%
- support - 93.2%
- arrival - 92.2%
This just shows that Newcastle University helps deliver outstanding support and education for every student.
Now that you know some of the most surprising facts about studying in the UK, it’s a good time to find out a lot more about what it can offer you and how you can benefit as a student.
Everything you need to know about studying in the UK
We know how exciting it can be when going on an adventure like moving to a new country to study. We also know how important it is to think about things that are usually overlooked or left to the last minute.
To help you stay prepared for life as a UK university student and enjoy the best experience possible, we created a dedicated International Students page full of useful information.
