Debunking Myths About Studying Abroad in the UK

The cornerstone of personal, national, and societal growth, the pursuit of academia, research and further education has driven thousands of students and aspirants across the world. From the Ivy League schools across the continental United States to ancient educational institutes such as Oxford and Cambridge in England, there are opportunities abound. With so many choices available, it’s the students’ prerogative to make the right choice and experience scholastic excellence. However, these choices require or diligent decision-making to ensure the investment in foreign education is worth it. In your search for the right university, the right programme, and the best country or city, you might come across a lot of misinformation. Today, we’ll be focusing on UK universities and debunking some of the stereotypical myths about studying abroad in the UK.

Myths About Studying Abroad in the UK

Word of mouth and misconceptions stemming from a lack of knowledge and understanding about studying abroad is the source for most of the myths we’ve discussed here. The truth is quite different from what the following portray.

It’s important that you equip yourself with accurate information. If you require further assistance in determining the right path for you to study abroad, our team is here to help.

With that said, let’s begin disproving some of the myths about studying abroad in the UK:

Myth 1 – The weather is terrible all year long

This is first on the list as the weather and climate of the place you’ll likely be spending two to four years of your life are important. While the UK is now known for having sunny weather all year long, but that doesn’t mean it’s muggy and rainy all year long. In fact, you’ll be able to experience all four seasons, from chilly winters to breezy autumns.

Also, the weather and climate are different depending on where you are in the UK.

Myth 2 – Studying abroad in the UK costs a fortune

This is one of the common myths about studying and living in the UK. This misconception is common because of the value of the currency used around the UK.

The fact is that if you plan the right way, studying in the UK doesn’t have to cost a fortune. The overall academic expense you’ll need to cover depends on the city, university, course, and programme you choose.

Aspiring students need to do some research to find an affordable university and location. If you choose a Russell Group school, it will be more expensive than a polytechnic educational institute. There are plenty of UK universities that provide the same quality of education at a lower fee.

Furthermore, universities provide financial aid opportunities in the form of scholarships and bursaries. Depending on eligibility, international students can apply for need- and merit-based scholarships.

External scholarships such as Erasmus Mundus can also help cover some of the costs.

Myth 3 – Accommodation is too expensive for Studying Abroad in the UK

Going off of the last myth, many aspirants believe that living in the UK is out of their range. There are two facts to counter this myth. First, the UK university you’re applying to will likely have self-catered accommodation options that you can choose to cut down on costs or you can share a room.

Overall living and accommodation expenses vary depending on the university and its location. There are some cities around the UK that are student-friendly, which means that other amenities are more affordable and help keep expenses on the lower side.

Myth 4 – There is no job certainty

While it’s true that UK universities don’t guarantee a job post-graduation, but that is the case with every degree. There is no certainty of employment with a degree regardless of whether you study abroad in the UK or some other corner of the world.

However, UK universities do have careers and placement offices that help students find a job. The chances of you finding a job are high as employment rates are relatively better in the UK.

Also, the QS Global Survey notes that universities in the UK produce employable graduates. This means that it might easier for you to find a job right after graduating.

Myth 5 – High costs of living

Your living expenses depend on your lifestyle. If you like to eat out and socialise in high-end places and shop at expensive boutiques, your bills will run high. However, you can save up a lot if you budget your expenses and take advantage of the student discounts available across the UK. The TOTUM card or student card will allow you to save money on everything, from stationary to professional equipment and even luxury items. To save money on groceries, you can shop at discount food stores located around the UK.

Myth 6 – Getting around the UK is difficult

Both local and international students in London can get around through the London Underground. Other cities in the UK also have public transport systems that include buses and trams. There are student discounts available that further reduce your travelling expenses. For instance, the 16-25 Rail card can help you save more than half of what you spend on trains.

Also, most student cities in the UK are easy to get around on foot. Some UK universities also provide transport services that run from campus to nearby towns. There are also bike rental services in many UK cities such as Citi Bikes.

Myth 7 – Visas are hard to obtain

There are different factors that play into getting visa approvals including each applicant’s application. However, the process is bound to become easier for international students as the UK government is introducing a new student visa that will not only allow students to study in the UK but stay post-graduation to find work.

Myth 8 – The culture shock is significant

Thousands of international students across the world make their way to the UK to study every year. In addition, there are plenty of immigrants that come to the UK to work and live overseas.

Studying Abroad in the UK Universities also have dedicated clubs and resources that help students acclimate to the new environment. While it might take you some time to adjust to new surroundings, it gets easier the more time you spend there.

Myth 9 – Getting good food will be difficult

This is absolutely untrue.

The UK, especially England has a multicultural food scene. While Indian and Chinese cuisines are the most commonly found, there are plenty of restaurants serving foods from all over the world. With a little bit of research, you can find popular spots around your campus. There are also many supermarkets and grocery stores that sell international foods and ingredients from around the world where you may be able to find some goodies from back home.

In the end, deciding to Study Abroad in the UK, or any other country for that matter is a big undertaking. A little bit of preparation and expert guidance before you make your way to the UK will take some of that anxiety away. Whether you’re going to the UK to obtain a Master’s degree or continuing a post-grad programme, contact us we can make the transition easier for future international students.