The UK continues to be one of the most popular study destinations for students from India, with Indian nationals forming one of the largest international student communities across UK universities. Indian students choose the UK for its globally recognised qualifications, strong career outcomes, flexible study pathways, and a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research options.
However, studying in the UK from India involves understanding how Indian qualifications are assessed by UK universities, how English language requirements apply, and what is required for a successful UK Student visa application. Entry routes, documentation, and financial evidence requirements can vary depending on your academic background, course level, and university.
This guide is written specifically for Indian students who are planning to study in the UK. It brings together key information to help you understand the study options available, what universities expect from Indian applicants, and how to prepare confidently for each stage of the application and visa process.
In this guide, you’ll find:
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Academic entry requirements for Indian students
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English language requirements and accepted Indian qualifications
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Required documents, financial, and medical requirements
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Typical tuition fees and living costs in the UK
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The UK Student visa process for Indian nationals
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Frequently asked questions from Indian students
Whether you are exploring course options, assessing eligibility, or preparing your visa application, this guide is designed to provide clear, practical information to support informed decision-making when studying in the UK from India.
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Entry Requirements for Indian Students
Academic Entry Requirements
Academic entry requirements for Indian students vary by university, course, and level of study. UK universities assess applications based on the Indian qualification type, overall percentage or GPA, subject relevance, and the reputation of the awarding institution. Requirements differ between national boards, state boards, and diploma pathways, and between highly competitive universities and more flexible institutions.
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Study
Direct Entry to Year 1
Indian students may be considered for direct entry to the first year of a UK Bachelor’s degree if they have completed one of the following qualifications with appropriate grades:
A levels or International Baccalaureate (IB)
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A levels: typically ranging from AAA to BBC, depending on the course and university
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IB: usually 24–38 points, with specific Higher Level subject requirements
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Competitive courses and universities may set higher thresholds
Indian Standard XII (CBSE & ISC – National Boards)
Students completing CBSE or ISC Standard XII may be considered for direct entry if they achieve strong overall results. Typical expectations across UK universities include:
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70–85% overall for many undergraduate programmes
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85%+ for competitive courses or highly ranked universities
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Relevant subjects must be studied at Standard XII
Indian State Boards
Some UK universities consider direct entry from selected State Boards, provided appropriate grades are achieved. Commonly accepted boards include:
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Maharashtra
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Karnataka
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Tamil Nadu
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West Bengal
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Gujarat
Typical direct entry requirements usually range from 70–85% overall, depending on the university and course.
Please note: Medicine is generally not available to applicants from State Boards.
Applicants who do not meet direct entry thresholds are commonly offered a foundation or pathway programme.
Foundation and Pathway Programmes
Foundation programmes are a very common route for Indian students and are widely accepted across UK universities.
Students may be considered for foundation programmes if they have:
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Completed Indian Standard XII with overall scores typically around 55–70%, depending on the board and provider
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Studied subjects broadly related to the intended degree
Foundation pathways are available in areas such as:
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Science and Engineering
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Biosciences
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Business, Management, and Law
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Humanities and Social Sciences
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Computing, Pharmacy, and Psychology
These programmes are delivered by universities or through recognised international pathway providers and allow progression to a UK Bachelor’s degree upon successful completion.
Advanced or Transfer Entry
Some universities may consider Indian students for advanced entry if they have completed:
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A three-year diploma after Standard X
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A Higher National Diploma (HND)
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A State Board of Technical Education diploma
Advanced entry decisions are made case by case, based on:
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Subject alignment
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Academic performance
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Detailed transcripts
Students may be considered for Year 2 or Year 3 entry, particularly in engineering, computing, and technology-related subjects.
Postgraduate (Master’s) Study
To apply for a taught Master’s degree, Indian students are generally required to have:
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A Bachelor’s degree of at least three years’ duration from a recognised Indian university
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A minimum overall score typically in the range of 55–70%, depending on:
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The course
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The UK university
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The grading standards of the Indian institution
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Highly competitive universities may require higher scores, while many universities assess applicants holistically, including academic background and relevant experience.
If standard entry requirements are not met, a pre-Master’s programme may be offered.
Doctoral (PhD) and Research Degrees
For PhD or research-based programmes, universities typically require:
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A strong Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree from a recognised institution
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A research proposal aligned with the university’s expertise
Applicants are usually encouraged to contact a potential supervisor before applying.
Important to Note
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Entry requirements vary by course, university, board, and intake
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Higher-ranked universities may set higher thresholds
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Meeting minimum academic requirements does not guarantee admission
English Language Requirements
UK universities require international students, including those from India, to meet course-specific English language requirements as part of the application process. English ability is assessed by the university before a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is issued.
Minimum English Level for a UK Student Visa
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) sets a minimum English language level (commonly referred to as B2) for Student visa purposes. In practice, most universities set higher English requirements, depending on the course, subject area, and level of study.
The English requirement you need to meet is determined by:
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The university
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The specific course
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The level of study
It is not based on nationality alone.
Accepted English Language Qualifications
UK universities commonly accept a range of English language qualifications from Indian students, including:
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IELTS (Academic or UKVI, depending on the course)
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TOEFL iBT
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PTE Academic / PTE Academic UKVI
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IGCSE or O-level English (at specified grades)
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Indian Standard XII / Higher Secondary English (subject to board, grade, and university policy)
The exact score or grade required varies by university and course.
Indian Standard XII English (Board-Specific Acceptance)
Some UK universities may accept English from Indian Standard XII as evidence of English language proficiency, subject to conditions such as:
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The exam board (for example, CBSE, ISC, or selected State Boards)
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The overall English score achieved (often around 70–75% or above, depending on the university)
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The course level and subject area
Acceptance of Standard XII English varies significantly between universities. Highly competitive institutions and courses may still require an approved English language test even if Standard XII English has been completed.
English Waivers and Medium of Instruction
English language waivers for Indian students are considered on an individual basis, depending on the university and course. While some universities require formal English test results, others may review previous academic study in English as part of their assessment, particularly at the postgraduate level.
Waiver decisions vary by institution and programme, so students are encouraged to review the course-specific English requirements early to understand the options available and plan accordingly.
Course-Specific English Requirements
English language requirements often vary by subject. For example:
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Medicine, Health, Law, Education, and Research-focused courses typically require higher English scores
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Some postgraduate programmes may show flexibility when supported by strong academic performance
Universities assess English ability at the course level, not just at the country level.
Conditional Offers and English Preparation
Many UK universities issue conditional offers, allowing Indian students to meet the English language requirement before the course start date.
If your current English level is below the required standard, you may be offered:
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A pre-sessional English course, or
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An integrated English and academic pathway programme
These routes allow students to improve their English while preparing for academic study in the UK.
Important to Note
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Accepted English tests and minimum scores vary by university and course
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Meeting minimum English requirements does not guarantee admission
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Students should always check course-specific English criteria early in the application process
Required Documents, Financial Evidence & Medical Requirements
Key Documents Needed for University Applications
In addition to academic and English language requirements, Indian students must prepare a set of documents that will be used by both the university and, eventually, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) as part of the visa application.
Most UK universities ask for:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Proof of English language proficiency
- A current passport or national ID
- A personal statement
- References or letters of recommendation (where required)
These documents help universities assess your application and issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) once you meet their requirements.
For a complete and up-to-date list of required documents, refer to our UK Student Visa Documents Checklist
Financial Evidence for Visa Purposes
To apply for a UK student visa, you must demonstrate that you have enough funds to cover:
- Tuition fees
- Living costs for your first year of study
The exact amount required depends on your university location (e.g., London vs outside London) and term dates. You may need to provide:
- Bank statements
- Sponsorship letters (if applicable)
- Scholarship confirmation (if applicable)
Medical Requirements
Some UK visa applicants are required to take a tuberculosis (TB) test before submitting their visa application if they have lived in certain countries for six months or more. The UK Government publishes an official list of these countries through UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
India is currently on the UK Government’s list of countries where a TB test is required for UK visa applications. Indian students are therefore usually required to provide a valid TB test certificate from a UKVI-approved clinic before submitting their UK Student visa application.
UKVI publishes and regularly updates the list of approved TB testing centres in India. Students should only attend clinics listed on the official UK Government website, as TB certificates from non-approved clinics are not accepted.
If you have lived in another country for six months or more within the 12 months before applying, additional TB requirements may apply depending on that country’s status on the UKVI TB list. Students should always check the latest UK Government guidance before booking their test or submitting their visa application.
Not sure if you meet the UK entry or visa requirements?
We review your qualifications, English level, and funding before you apply.
Typical tuition fees and living costs (2026)
The cost of studying in the UK for Indian students depends on the level of study, the course, and the university location. Fees and living costs vary significantly between institutions and cities, so it is important to plan your budget early.
Tuition Fees
Typical annual tuition fees for international students are:
- Undergraduate degrees: usually range from £11,000 to £25,000 per year
- Postgraduate taught degrees: typically range from £12,000 to £30,000 per year
Specialist courses such as Medicine, Dentistry, or laboratory-based programmes often have higher tuition fees.
If you are considering more affordable options, see our guide: Cheapest UK Universities for International Students (2026)
Living Costs
Living costs depend largely on where you choose to study.
- London: living costs are higher, typically around £1,300–£1,500 per month, mainly due to accommodation and transport
- Outside London: generally more affordable, with average living costs of around £1,000–£1,200 per month
Living costs usually include accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses. Universities provide estimated budgets to help students plan realistically.
Other Costs to Consider
In addition to tuition and living expenses, Indian students should also budget for:
- Visa application fees
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
- Course materials and equipment
- Travel and initial settlement costs
Planning for these costs in advance helps avoid financial pressure after arrival.
The UK student visa process for Indian students
Below is an overview of the key stages involved in studying in the UK and how Atava supports Indian students throughout the university application and visa process.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should Indian students start applying to UK universities?
There is no fixed deadline, but Indian students are generally advised to start preparing 6–9 months before their intended intake. This allows enough time for course research, applications, meeting offer conditions, CAS issuance, and visa preparation.
Which intakes are available for Indian students?
Most UK universities offer September and January intakes, with a smaller number of courses available in May, depending on the subject and institution. September remains the most widely available intake.
Can Indian students apply directly after Class 12?
Yes, in some cases. Indian students may be considered for direct entry to Year 1 if they have strong results in CBSE, ISC, or selected State Boards, or if they have completed A levels or the International Baccalaureate (IB).
Students who do not meet direct entry requirements typically follow a foundation or pathway programme before progressing to an undergraduate degree.
Is IELTS compulsory for Indian students?
Not always. While IELTS is widely accepted, some UK universities may also accept:
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Indian Standard XII English (subject to board and grade)
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IGCSE or O-level English
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Other approved English language qualifications
Acceptance depends on the university and course, so students should always check course-specific requirements.
Can Indian students get an English language waiver?
In some cases, yes. Certain universities may consider an English language waiver for postgraduate Indian students, particularly where prior academic study meets institutional criteria. Waivers are assessed on a case-by-case basis and are not guaranteed.
Do Indian students need to show bank statements for a UK Student visa?
Yes. Indian students are usually required to provide financial evidence showing they can cover:
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Tuition fees, and
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Living costs for the first year of study
This typically includes bank statements, sponsorship letters, or scholarship confirmations, depending on the funding source.
Do Indian students need a TB test for a UK Student visa?
Yes. India is on the UK Government’s list of countries where a tuberculosis (TB) test is required for UK visa applications. Indian students must obtain a valid TB test certificate from a UKVI-approved clinic before submitting their Student visa application.
Can Indian students work while studying in the UK?
Most students on a UK Student visa are allowed to work:
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Up to 20 hours per week during term time, and
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Full-time during official university holidays,
subject to the conditions stated on their visa.
Can Indian students bring dependants to the UK?
Eligibility to bring dependants depends on the course level and duration, as well as current UK visa rules. Dependants must meet separate visa and financial requirements, and eligibility is not automatic.
How long does the UK Student visa process take?
Once a complete visa application is submitted:
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Applications made outside the UK are usually decided within around 3 weeks
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Applications made inside the UK can take up to 8 weeks
Processing times may be longer during peak periods.
Planning to study in the UK from India?
We support you from course selection to visa approval and post-arrival in the UK.
