Moulding careers in today’s globalised world is far more demanding than a few decades ago. There is no doubt that a good education and strong foundations are imperative to build a great career, but it takes
more than just that to succeed in this global world, whether in India or anywhere in the world. A holistic
education that addresses not just subject matter but also develops social skills and provides wide-
ranging exposure, is known to contribute significantly to professional success. If students are looking for an international education, UK universities provide the well-rounded exposure along with a strong focus on academics – in order to ready students into the real work of work.
World-leading Academic Institutions and faculty in the UK
As per multiple global surveys, UK universities offer world’s best, and highly qualified faculty, who don’t just aim at shaping students’ careers, but also their life. Currently, 28 of the world’s top 200 universities are in the UK, including the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge that occupy the top two spots. Moreover, London has been voted the best student city globally by QS rankings, for two consecutive years.
Indeed, a UK education moulds successful careers. A 2019 report by the Universities UK International
(UUKi) titled Indian Graduate Outcomes 2019 (iGO 2019 report) reveals that 51 percent of all Indians
graduating from the UK earn above or well above the average in India with 90 percent of women in this
group saying they earn average or above. Moreover, majority of these students were placed in larger
organisations and were given bigger responsibilities.
With the recent amendment in visa norms, the UK government has opened doors to plentiful
opportunities for international students. Effective academic year 2020-21, the UK government will offer
an extended two-year post-study work visa to international students studying in the UK. This will set
their careers in a fast-forward mode and help them gain meaningful work experience in their line of
study.
UK education could help one get that dream job
It’s common to see people standing at the cross-roads of their careers and express disenchantment with
their jobs. By contrast, the iGO 2019 report reveals that 80 percent of Indians who are alumni of UK
universities stated that their UK degree helped them get the kind of job they desired. 82 percent also
stated that they are satisfied or very satisfied with their careers. In fact, globally 81 percent of UK
graduates feel they would not have been able to get their job without their UK degree.
There are several scholarships available to support a UK education
The British Council, the Government of UK as well as the UK universities provide various scholarships. In 2018-19, the British Council and the UK government collectively offered as many as 480 scholarships to Indian students across different levels of study. The British Council offers various scholarships in India, including British Council India Scholarships for women pursuing STEM education, GREAT, Hornby, Commonwealth, Charles Wallace India Trust
Scholarships, among others. Students interested in knowing more about the different scholarships,
eligibility and the application process can visit https://www.britishcouncil.in/study-uk/scholarships.
Towards a better life
The UK’s global outlook and multicultural society is a welcoming one. Students in the UK can enjoy a
great lifestyle, a beautiful countryside, and an active city life along with an invigorating cultural
landscape that continues to lead the world with its blend of sports, fashion, history, music and arts.
Besides, UK universities are focused on holistic development of students, beyond just academics.
Students are encouraged to develop creativity and critical thinking and courses are designed to expose
them to new technologies, emerging theories, and the diverse opinions which help them become well-
rounded individuals. This multicultural social and academic fabric of the UK and its universities provides a heterogenous environment that builds a robust world view for students in the UK. In fact, the iGO 2019 report shows that 89 percent of respondents reported being very satisfied with all aspects of their life. The report also shows that 70 percent felt they were better equipped to address issues of equitable access to sustainable development while 76% felt that their degree made them more likely to volunteer at home or in another country.
The new visa rule has therefore not only opened doors for new opportunities for Indian students, but
has also paved a stronger path through which they can attain successful careers and eventually more
meaningful lives.
Janaka Pushpanathan, Director South,
British Council India
