UK higher education - the promise of a satisfying experience

The education and total experience of UK’s higher education system has a rate of high satisfaction amongst international students at all levels. This rate of satisfaction converts to a form of powerful advertising called ‘word of mouth’ which leads to international students, based on their satisfaction recommending the pursuance of higher education in the UK to family and friends, above any other English- speaking country.

A contributing factor to making UK higher education a satisfying experience for international students is the fact that the UK is known for the high quality of its student support given by well-trained individuals who are experienced and well versed in this area. Recent studies have revealed that the rate of satisfaction among international undergraduate students for the support services at their UK universities is around 90% (UK HE International Unit, December 2015).

According to the survey report on ‘international student experience’ released by the UK Higher Education International Unit (international.ac.uk) in March 2016, 90% of international postgraduate research students have been highly satisfied with their UK study experiences during the period 2014-15. For postgraduate research students, this was also 85% higher than alternative countries. This was higher than any other English- speaking country, including the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, as well as countries where programmes are taught in English, such as Germany.

Many schools, colleges and universities have international student societies to help you adjust and acclimatise to the experi- ences and ways of life that await you as an international student. This ensures that you have a satisfying experience during the course of your higher education in UK while feeling welcome and supported throughout your time studying. Furthermore, these societies often arrange events such as parties, pub quizzes, film nights and excursions to local tourist attractions, so that you’ll quickly make friends with other international students and start fitting in to your new lifestyle as an overseas student.

UK universities and colleges are regularly reviewed to ensure high standards of academic education, teaching, accommodation, welfare support and facilities. The rate of student satisfaction among international undergraduates is at 91% – higher than any other major English- speaking education destination.

UK qualifications satisfy international students by being a great boost to their salary, as well as to their CV. Pursuing your higher education in the UK ensures that your English language skills improve rapidly through your study, friends and everyday life, contributing to the whole satisfactory experience of UK higher education.

UK living costs compare favourably with costs in other top education destinations. International undergraduates in the UK are also more satisfied with the cost of living in comparison to other major education destinations. The cost of living varies depending on what part of the country you live in.

For more information on how you or anyone else can take the first steps towards beginning a satisfying higher education in the UK, please call the British Council on + 94 (0) 11 4 521 521 or visit britishcouncil. lk/study-uk.