How To Choose The Best University In UK

Career Mar 9, 2021

In the United Kingdom, there are over 150 institutions to choose from. Understand which ones influence the result in terms of courses, teaching styles, location, type, and extracurricular activities. From the course itself to the university location and fundings, we round up everything you need to think about right here. After reading this guide, you’ll be better equipped to make the right university choice for yourself.

Research the course content

UCAS has a vast majority of UK courses listed, which you can filter by location and course. Look them up on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Snapchat. They may run web chats with academics or students where you can ask questions. Examine how you’ll be taught and evaluated, such as whether a course requires a lot of exams, essays, or group work, as well as the course content. It’s critical that you get a good overview of the modules you’ll be studying.

Many universities appear to offer the same course at first glance. However, upon closer examination, the courses offered by various universities appear to be more diverse.

Research funding opportunities

When it comes to choosing a university, the most important factor to consider is the cost. Many universities offer international students scholarships, but the requirements may vary. If money is an issue, it’s a good idea to start looking into scholarships and application deadlines as soon as possible. The British Council’s website has a resource and search tool to assist you in locating scholarships based on your intended study course and home region.

Choose a location

When choosing a university, it’s critical to consider the location of the campus and housing options. Do you prefer to live in the city or in the suburbs? Are you interested in studying in London, Cambridge, Glasgow, Dublin, Edinburgh or other parts of the United Kingdom? If living in a big, busy city is too distracting then maybe a quaint and calm suburb is your vibe.

Key considerations include:

  • Living costs 
  • Culture
  • Weather 
  • Travel time back home
  • Travel time to a weekend job
  • Social scene and nightlife

When it comes to finding a location that meets your needs and preferences, there is no right or wrong answer. Some students choose Scotland because of the lower tuition fees, while others choose Northern Ireland because of their interest in history and culture.

Contact and visit universities

When you’ve narrowed down your top ten choices, it’s time to contact the universities to learn more. More information about courses, fees, funding, and student life can be obtained from the university. Attending a university open day is the best thing to do at this point and the best way to evaluate all options. Seeing a university in person and meeting current students and staff will give you a better sense of whether you want to live and study thereafter all your extensive research and sorting of universities based on your priorities. Count the pros and cons and you will find your answers. 

Learn about student life

If you’re not able to wrap your head around and two universities are equal on all counts, the societies and recreational activities that the university has may be the final deciding factor. Durham might help you start a comedy career, London will help you with performance arts, Manchester might give you your first chance to be a musician, and Cambridge (or Oxford) might see you competing in The Boat Race in a few years. So, count your inclination and make a choice.

All the best!

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