What are the Best Universities for Occupational Therapy in the UK for International Students and Canadians (2025–2026)

Global Recognition of UK OT Degrees

A UK qualification carries genuine weight around the world. Most programs meet World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT) standards, which means they’re recognized in Canada, Australia, Europe, and other Commonwealth regions. You won’t need to start over or repeat coursework abroad: an education in the UK travels well if you’re building an international career.

UK graduates often go on to register and work in other countries, because their degrees meet standards set by UK regulators and international bodies that many overseas regulators recognize. Employers pay close attention to this mix of classroom learning, supervised practice, and research. When you finish your degree, you are not only holding a certificate, but you also take with you years of structured experience inside one of the world’s most studied healthcare systems.

Diverse Learning and Clinical Exposure

In the UK, learning also takes place outside of the lecture halls. At Ulster University, for example, rotations take you through Northern Ireland’s health and social care trusts; you might spend one term in a busy hospital ward, another in a community clinic, and maybe a quieter stretch in a paediatric setting where progress looks like the smallest flicker of confidence. 
 
Southampton sends students into a broad mix of clinical environments: community health teams, inpatient wards, mental health services, even placements arranged through charities or local authorities. Each rotation is different by design. You may spend one term on a fast-moving hospital ward and the next in a quieter community service. That mix helps you understand how recovery looks in different corners of the healthcare system.

These moments change you. One week, you might be standing beside an older adult as they relearn how to move safely around a kitchen; the next, you’re helping a child figure out how their body fits into the rhythm of a classroom. Each setting shifts your perspective a little, offering a brief window into the many ways recovery can take shape.

Opportunities for Postgraduate Employment

Occupational therapy careers are expanding quickly across the UK. Most graduates begin in the NHS, starting at Band 5 on the national pay scale, then move upward as they gain experience and specialization.

After graduation, international students can stay in the UK under the Graduate Route visa, which allows up to two years of full-time work. Many remain with the NHS, while others move into community health, rehabilitation, or research. UK employers often note how adaptable international graduates are, and how well they communicate with patients from different backgrounds.

If you’re planning to specialize, universities such as King’s College London and Nottingham Trent offer advanced programs in neurological rehabilitation, mental health, and assistive technology. These courses help you build deeper expertise and prepare for leadership or academic roles, both in the UK and abroad.

Whether you’re drawn to a major research university or a smaller, practice-oriented campus, the UK has plenty of strong options. Most courses combine evidence-based study with practical placements, so by the time you graduate, you’ll already have a clear sense of how to apply your skills in real settings.

Top Ranked Universities

The universities listed below consistently rank among the global leaders in medicine and allied health. Their close NHS links, respected research output, and high graduate employment rates make them top choices for Canadian students or international students interested in studying occupational therapy in 2025–2026.

Data Sources: Top Universities and EduRank.

Note: Fees and rankings are indicative and based on 2025–2026 data. Always confirm details directly with the university before applying.

Honorable Mentions

Some of the UK’s best teaching environments aren’t always the biggest names. Universities like Ulster, Brunel, and Derby stand out for smaller class sizes, supportive faculty, and community-focused placements. For many international students, that combination of attention and experience creates the ideal foundation for a lasting career.

Data Source: Top Universities and EduRank

Note: Fees and rankings are indicative and based on 2025–2026 data. Always confirm details directly with the university before applying.

There’s a lot that goes into being accepted into an occupational therapy program, starting with a strong academic background and a genuine interest in helping people live fuller, more independent lives. Every university sets its own criteria for acceptance. As a rule of thumb for the UK, there are common guidelines to look out for such as the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT). These ensure that every graduate is ready for clinical practice in the UK and eligible for international registration.

Academic Qualifications and Prerequisites

Most undergraduate programs ask for the equivalent of three A-levels in relevant subjects such as biology, psychology, or health sciences. Canadian students can meet this with a high school diploma that includes advanced-level science or social science courses. For a postgraduate degree like the MSc (Pre-registration) in Occupational Therapy or pre-registration master’s program, most universities require:

• A bachelor’s degree in a related field such as health science, psychology, or kinesiology.

• A minimum GPA equivalent to a UK upper second-class honours (roughly 3.3 on a 4.0 scale).

• Relevant experience in healthcare or social services, often demonstrated through personal statements or interviews.

Many occupational therapy programs encourage applicants to gain some hands-on experience, whether through volunteering, shadowing an occupational therapist, or working in a healthcare or community setting. While not always required, this can strengthen your personal statement and demonstrate genuine interest in the profession.

English Language Proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)

If English isn’t your first language, you’ll need to prove proficiency through one of the standard tests. Here are the common accepted tests:

• IELTS Academic: Overall score of 7.0, with no band below 6.5.

• TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 100, with at least 23 in writing.

• PTE Academic: Overall 67, with a minimum of 61 in each component.

A note for Canadian students: 

If your secondary or post-secondary education was completed in English, many universities will waive language testing. Canada is classified as a majority English-speaking country for admissions at most UK institutions.

That said, health-regulated programs sometimes apply stricter rules, so a small number of universities may still require an IELTS or equivalent even from Canadian applicants. Always double-check the specific course page.

For other international students:

Applicants from countries where English isn’t the primary language of instruction will almost always need to submit an approved English-language test. A handful of universities accept alternatives, such as certain national school-leaving exams or English-medium credentials. But occupational therapy programs typically insist on a standardized test to meet HCPC expectations for clinical communication.

Since policies differ by institution, it’s important to check the admissions page for your specific program before applying.

Documents and Additional Requirements

When you apply to an occupational therapy program in the UK, universities will ask for several documents to verify your identity, academic background, and readiness for clinical training. Here’s what you can expect, based on requirements from universities such as Brunel University of London, University of East Anglia (UEA), and Leeds Beckett University:

Proof of identity 

Government-issued photo ID such as a passport, driver’s licence, or national identity card.

Proof of academic qualifications 

Certified copies of high-school transcripts (for BSc applicants) or degree certificates/transcripts (for MSc applicants).

Proof of English language proficiency 

IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores, unless exempt because you studied in a majority English-speaking country (including Canada) or completed an English-medium program.

Personal statement 

A written statement explaining why you want to become an occupational therapist, what you’ve learned from relevant experiences, and why the university fits your goals. Many universities, such as Leeds Beckett, review the personal statement as part of the overall UCAS application to understand your motivation and suitability for the profession.

Academic or professional references 

One or two references confirming your academic ability, professionalism, or suitability for a healthcare program.

Health clearance

Evidence of vaccinations and a satisfactory occupational health assessment to ensure you’re fit for clinical placement. For instance, UEA requires a satisfactory occupational health check including immunizations, while Brunel requires a health declaration.

Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) or Police Check

An Enhanced DBS check (or overseas police certificate for international students) to confirm eligibility to work with vulnerable populations.

Passport and immigration documents (international students)

Copy of your passport plus visa documentation, proof of funds, and (later) a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).

Optional but helpful: evidence of experience 

While not always mandatory, volunteering, shadowing, or any experience in health or social care settings strengthens your application and personal statement. For instance, UEA and Brunel value applicants who can demonstrate an understanding of the profession.

Choosing where and how to study occupational therapy goes beyond the course title, it’s about the kind of learner you are and the life you want after graduation.

Once you’ve met the entry requirements, it’s time to find a program that fits. Some students prefer structured, hands-on training; others want flexibility to work while studying. The UK has room for both.

Across the country, universities offer occupational therapy degrees that combine real-world experience with academic depth. Whether you’re just starting out or switching careers, the goal is the same: helping people rebuild independence and confidence in everyday life.

Undergraduate Occupational Therapy Courses

Most people begin with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Occupational Therapy, a three-year, full-time degree that blends classroom theory with around 1,000 hours of clinical placement. These placements take you into hospitals, rehabilitation centres, and community clinics where you’ll shadow professionals, meet patients, and start applying what you’ve learned.

At Southampton, Liverpool, and Leeds Beckett, students begin clinical exposure early in the course. These placements are built into the curriculum and take place across NHS trusts, community health teams, and school-based services. One week you might observe therapists helping someone regain movement after hand surgery, and the next you could see adaptive technology being used to support a child in a classroom.

Each experience builds confidence in a different way. Some lessons stick with you long after the course ends: the first time a patient trusts you to assist them, or when you watch a small skill turn into progress.

There are a few options:

BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy

BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy

Occupational Therapy (extended)

If you’re not sure which city or campus fits best,IDP counsellors can help you compare programs, budgets, and options before you apply.

Postgraduate and master's Programs

Do you already have a degree in psychology, kinesiology, or another health-related field? The Master of Science (MSc) in Occupational Therapy (Pre-registration) could be your next step. 
These programs typically run for two years and mix advanced coursework with supervised clinical experience: ideal for students who want a faster route to professional registration.

You’ll find strong postgraduate options at Brunel University London, Oxford Brookes University, and Nottingham Trent University, all approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT). 
Each university has its own teaching style: Brunel leans toward research and leadership, while Oxford Brookes focuses on clinical innovation. Nottingham Trent attracts career changers who want to pair hands-on work with research on rehabilitation and mental health.

There are a few options:

MSc Advanced Professional Practice in Occupational Therapy

MSc in Occupational Therapy (Pre-registration)

MSc Occupational Therapy (pre-registration)

Occupational Therapy (pre-registration) - MSc

If you’re thinking about scholarships, deadlines, or visa options, one of the expert education counsellors at IDP can walk you through everything step by step.

Part-Time and Online Study Options

Not everyone can study full-time, and UK universities understand that. Many now offer part-time or blended formats that combine online coursework with in-person placements. While you can’t qualify as an occupational therapist entirely online, these programs make it easier to keep your current job while progressing toward your degree.

Oxford Brookes University runs hybrid modules in rehabilitation and assistive technology. The University of Derby offers flexible part-time study options for working professionals who want to deepen their expertise without stepping away from practice.

Before you apply, try IDP’s Cost of Living Calculator to get a realistic idea of living expenses. You can compare average student costs across cities, from London’s fast pace to smaller and more affordable hubs like Derby or Worcester.

Once you’ve sorted out the entry requirements, the next question is which kind of program fits you best. UK universities offer several routes into occupational therapy. Some people begin straight from high school, others return later with a psychology degree, a kinesiology background, or a career they’re ready to evolve.

No matter which path you choose, most universities look for strong grades in science or social science subjects. UEA asks for A-levels at BBB, Brunel wants BBB–BBC with a required science, and Leeds Beckett reviews Canadian qualifications alongside the personal statement and references. Put another way: a solid academic record (roughly equivalent to a B average) is typical across the board.

With that foundation in place, the options look like this:

BSc in Occupational Therapy (Undergraduate Level)

Most students begin with the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Occupational Therapy. It’s a three-year course that mixes theory with clinical learning: anatomy, psychology, rehabilitation, and hundreds of hours spent shadowing real therapists.

At Ulster, Southampton, and Leeds Beckett, you won’t just sit in lectures. Students spend time on NHS wards, in community centres, and care settings, seeing how recovery unfolds day to day.

By graduation, you’ll be ready to register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), the licence that lets you practise in the UK and across much of the Commonwealth.

MSc in Occupational Therapy (Postgraduate Level)

If you already have a background in health, psychology, or life sciences, the MSc in Occupational Therapy (Pre-registration) is the next logical step. It’s a two-year course that combines hands-on placements with leadership and research training. Each university approaches it a bit differently.

For instance, at King’s College London, you’ll focus on clinical practice and patient outcomes. Nottingham leans toward rehabilitation science and innovation, while Liverpool explores how therapy connects with digital health and community care.

When you finish your program, you will be eligible for HCPC registration and recognized by the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT).

Accelerated and Fast-Track OT Pathways

If you’ve already studied something like biology or kinesiology and don’t want to start from scratch, an accelerated program might be worth a look. These courses pack the full degree into about two years, including roughly 1,000 hours of clinical placement. At Nottingham Trent, for instance, the MSc (Pre-registration) helps career changers qualify quickly without sacrificing quality. Brunel University London offers a similar two-year course built around clinical reasoning and evidence-based care. It’s intense, but it suits people who learn best by doing and are ready to dive straight into the profession.

PhD and Research Opportunities

If you like to dig deeper and ask why and how rehabilitation practices work, a PhD might be for you. Doctoral study in occupational therapy often focuses on things like assistive technology, community participation, or healthcare policy. At University College London and Southampton, PhD candidates often work alongside NHS research teams or community partners. Most programs take three to four years full-time and lead to roles in academia, research, or clinical leadership.

Postgraduate Diplomas and Short Courses

Already working as a therapist? Many UK universities offer short courses and postgraduate diplomas in specialist areas such as neurological rehabilitation, occupational health, or mental health practice. A few examples:

• Liverpool and Southampton offer modular courses that can later count toward an MSc.

• Brunel University runs online CPD programs in assistive technology and workplace health.

• Coventry University offers flexible diplomas in community rehabilitation and care coordination.

Shorter programs like these are also a good way to meet continuing professional development (CPD) requirements while staying active in clinical work.

Clinical and School-Based Occupational Therapy

Placements are really where things come to life. Every UK occupational therapy degree includes them. At Southampton, students join NHS teams to support adults recovering from surgery or illness. Leeds Beckett builds community projects that help people regain independence at home, and Ulster gives students exposure to both hospital and paediatric settings. Liverpool and Nottingham Trent also run child-focused modules that prepare graduates for school and early intervention work.

Core Modules (Anatomy, Neurology, Mental Health, Paediatrics, etc.)

Every university has its own rhythm, but the goal stays the same: helping students understand how the body, mind, and environment connect in daily life. You’ll likely come across modules like:

• Anatomy and Human Movement – how muscles, joints, and nerves work together to support function 
• Applied Physiology and Neuroscience – the science behind movement, recovery, and rehabilitation 
• Occupational Science and Participation – exploring what makes everyday activities meaningful 
• Mental Health and Wellbeing – supporting clients with anxiety, depression, or trauma 
• Rehabilitation and Assistive Technology – adapting tools and environments to improve independence 
• Research and Evidence-Based Practice – using data and reflection to guide clinical decisions

Universities add their own flavour:

• At Ulster, you’ll move from fundamentals to modules like Therapeutic Approaches and Community Practice.

• Southampton ties academic learning directly to NHS rotations: more than 1,000 clinical hours in total.

• Meanwhile, Liverpool, Leeds Beckett, and Nottingham Trent explore leadership, paediatrics, and cognitive rehab.

By the end, you’ll have the knowledge, adaptability, and experience to work with confidence, wherever your career takes you next.

Choosing to study occupational therapy in the UK is a big step, and like any professional degree, it comes with financial planning. The cost depends on your university, course type, and where you choose to live, but overall, it’s comparable to other health and rehabilitation degrees.

Tuition Fees

Most international students spend somewhere between £18,000 and £25,000 a year for an undergraduate degree, depending on the university and the city. Master’s programs, like the pre-registration MSc at King’s College London, Liverpool, or Nottingham Trent, usually fall a bit higher, often £19,000 to £32,000 per year. That covers the lectures, supervised placements, and access to university facilities.

A few schools, including Southampton and Ulster, break down every cost on their websites. They list things like lab access and placement insurance so you can see what’s included before you apply. It’s worth a quick check; no one likes surprise expenses halfway through a course. 

Many institutions also offer scholarships or bursaries for international and postgraduate students, especially those entering healthcare fields. Awards such as Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships can cover tuition, travel, and even part of your living expenses.

Living Costs and Accommodation

Living expenses vary widely depending on where you study. In London, plan for around £1,500–£1,800 per month, while students in Leeds, Liverpool, or Nottingham can expect closer to £900–£1,200 per month. These figures include housing, food, local transport, and personal spending.

Most universities have on-campus housing or partnerships with private halls, which make budgeting easier and reduce commuting time, a real advantage during busy placement periods.

If you’re unsure how your chosen course fits your budget, you can useIDP’s Cost of Living Calculator to estimate monthly expenses in different UK cities.

Additional Study Expenses

Because occupational therapy courses include clinical placements, students should budget for extra costs such as travel to hospitals or community sites, professional uniforms, and health checks. These typically add about £500–£1,000 per year.

Textbooks and digital resources are widely available through university libraries, though some students prefer to buy key titles in anatomy, neuroscience, or rehabilitation for long-term reference.

Applying to study occupational therapy in the UK might feel like a big task at first, especially if you’re applying from abroad, but it’s a process thousands of students successfully complete every year. Once you understand the steps, it becomes clear and manageable. Most universities follow a similar process, and you’ll find plenty of guidance from the first UCAS form to your final student visa.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Here’s what the journey typically looks like for international and Canadian students applying to occupational therapy programs in the UK:

1. Narrow down your universities and programs. 
   Make a shortlist of universities, like the BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy at Ulster University or University of Southampton. Consider ones that fit your goals, location preferences, and budget. Most undergraduate students apply through UCAS, the UK’s centralized admissions system. This lets you apply to up to five programs. 
   

2. Check entry requirements. 
   Each university has its own academic and English language criteria. You’ll usually need the equivalent of UK A-levels in a science or health-related subject plus a valid English test score such asIELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic. 
   

3. Write your personal statement. 
   This is your chance to show who you are beyond your grades. Explain why you want to study occupational therapy, how your experiences have shaped that interest, and what you’ve learned from any volunteer or shadowing opportunities. 
   

4. Prepare references and transcripts. 
   You’ll need certified academic transcripts and at least one academic or professional reference. Postgraduate students typically upload these directly through the university’s application portal. 
   

5. Attend an interview (if required). 
   Some programs, such as those at Leeds Beckett or Liverpool, invite shortlisted applicants for an interview. It’s an opportunity to show your communication skills and your understanding of occupational therapy as a profession. 
   

6. Receive your offer and apply for a visa. 
   Once you receive your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), you can begin the UK student visa process and start preparing for your move.

Required Documents for UCAS or Direct Application

Before you hit “submit,” make sure you’ve gathered everything the university needs. Most applications require:

• Certified academic transcripts and degree certificates

• English language test results (IELTS 7.0 overall, no band below 6.5 is common)

• A personal statement and updated CV

• One or more academic or professional references

• Passport copy and proof of financial support

• Health clearance and vaccination records (for clinical placements)

Undergraduate applicants upload documents through UCAS, while postgraduate applicants usually apply directly through the university’s online portal.

Funding can make a huge difference when planning to study abroad. Many universities in the UK offer scholarships for international students in occupational therapy and health sciences, helping with tuition, living costs, or both. Most awards are merit-based or support students with a clear commitment to healthcare or community service.

Here are a few notable options to explore:

Oxford Brookes Sanctuary Scholarship

Covers full tuition and a living stipend for asylum seekers or students with refugee status, prioritising applicants in healthcare programs like occupational therapy.

Oxford Brookes Alumni Discount Scheme

Offers a 10% tuition discount for graduates returning for postgraduate study, including the MSc Occupational Therapy (Pre-registration).

Brunel University Dean’s International PhD Scholarship

Supports international doctoral candidates researching rehabilitation, assistive technology, or health sciences. Includes tuition and a living allowance for up to three years.

University of Lincoln MSc Health and Social Care Scholarship

Provides a £2,000 tuition reduction for self-funded international students in MSc Health and Social Care programs, including OT.

University of Plymouth International Tuition Fee Discount

Offers £2,000–£3,000 off tuition annually for high-achieving international students enrolled in health-related master’s degrees.

Graduating with an occupational therapy degree from a UK university can open doors worldwide. The UK’s focus on hands-on training and clinical placements means that by the time you graduate, you’ll already have real experience supporting patients in hospitals, schools, or community settings. It’s a profession that blends empathy with problem-solving—and one that’s in growing demand both in the UK and abroad.

Career Options After Graduation

Most graduates start their careers with the National Health Service (NHS) or local councils. Entry-level positions are usually Band 5 roles under the NHS pay system, where salaries range from £31,049 to £37,796 per year depending on experience and location (based on the 2025–26 NHS pay scales). With a few years of experience, many move into Band 6 or Band 7 specialist or senior roles, earning between £38,000 and £50,000 annually.

Beyond hospital wards, occupational therapy jobs in the UK extend across multiple sectors:

• Community rehabilitation: Helping people regain independence after illness or injury.

• Mental health services: Supporting clients in building daily routines and coping strategies.

• Paediatrics and education: Working in schools or child development centres to help young learners thrive.

• Workplace ergonomics: Advising businesses on safe, healthy work practices and injury prevention.

• Private practice and social enterprises: Offering tailored rehabilitation programs or consultancy work.

For those who pursue advanced degrees, such as an MSc or Doctorate in Occupational Therapy (OTD), career paths widen even further. Graduates can specialize in areas like neurological rehabilitation, digital therapy, or public health policy. Universities such as King’s College London offer postgraduate pathways that help students build confidence beyond clinical work. Their programs weave together advanced clinical reasoning, research skills, and opportunities to reflect on practice, which can set graduates up for roles in teaching, service development, or supervisory positions.

The UK government continues to list occupational therapy as a shortage profession, meaning international graduates often have an edge when applying for work visas under the Graduate Route or Skilled Worker visa.

Many Canadian students choose to study occupational therapy in the UK because of the strong clinical training and global recognition of UK degrees. The good news is that if your program is accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT), your qualification is typically recognized in Canada; you’ll just need to complete a few formal steps before registering to practise.

Recognition of UK OT Degrees in Canada

Before you can work as an occupational therapist in Canada, you’ll need to register with the professional body in your province or territory. 
For example:

• College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario (COTO)

• College of Occupational Therapists of British Columbia (COTBC)

All international graduates follow the same pathway, overseen by the Association of Canadian Occupational Therapy Regulatory Organizations (ACOTRO). Their Substantial Equivalency Assessment System (SEAS) evaluates whether your degree and clinical training meet Canadian standards. If you’ve completed an HCPC- and RCOT-accredited occupational therapy program in the UK, you’re already in a strong position. Both countries share similar expectations for:

• Clinical hours and supervised placements

• Professional ethics and client-centred care

• Academic depth and evidence-based practice

Because of this alignment, most UK-trained graduates meet the Canadian requirements without major hurdles, making the transition smoother once you return home. Steps for Licensing in Canada The licensing process has several stages, but it’s straightforward once you know what to expect:

1. Apply to ACOTRO’s SEAS program. 
   Submit your academic transcripts, degree certificates, and proof of supervised clinical placements. This step confirms that your education matches Canadian professional standards.

2. Complete a competency assessment. 
   You’ll complete written and practical evaluations that test your understanding of ethics, communication, and client-centred care.

3. Meet English language requirements (if applicable). 
   Even if you studied in English, some provinces may ask for official confirmation of your language proficiency.

4. Register with your provincial regulatory college. 
   After your SEAS report is approved, you can apply for registration in your province. Some regions include a short ethics or jurisprudence exam.

5. Begin practice or complete a national exam (if required). 
   In most provinces, completing SEAS is enough to begin working. Others, like Alberta or Quebec, may have additional certification exams. 
   

Most UK graduates complete the process within six to nine months, depending on how long document verification takes.

Applying to occupational therapy programs in the UK involves deadlines, clinical requirements, and a lot of documents. IDP helps make the process easier for Canadian and international students by offering personalized support from your very first question to the moment you prepare to leave for the UK.

Our counsellors work one-on-one with you to match your goals with universities that offer strong clinical placements, high graduate employment, and professional accreditation. As part of our free consultation services, we support you at every stage:

Because of IDP’s global partnerships with UK universities, you’ll gain access to well-established occupational therapy programs known for strong clinical exposure, supportive teaching environments, and clear pathways to professional registration.

Book a free consultation today to explore your occupational therapy study options in the UK and take the next step toward your career.

Is occupational therapy hard to get into in the UK?

Admission to occupational therapy programs can be competitive, especially at universities with strong allied health reputations such as Southampton, Liverpool, and Leeds Beckett. According toEduRank’s 2025 data on UK occupational therapy schools, acceptance rates generally range from 20% to 45%, depending on the institution. Most programs look for science or health-related A-levels (or international equivalents), strong English proficiency, and a personal statement that demonstrates an understanding of patient care and professional ethics.

What is the salary of an occupational therapist in the UK per month?

According to the NHS Agenda for Change pay scales for 2025–2026, newly qualified occupational therapists typically begin at Band 5, earning £31,049 per year. Pay then increases with experience to £33,488 after two years and £37,796 after four years or more. This equates to roughly £2,580–£3,150 per month before tax. Therapists working in London and surrounding areas also receive a High Cost Area Supplement (HCAS), which can add between 5% and 20% to their base salary. Graduate outcome data from Discover Uni (2025) shows that earnings soon after graduation closely reflect these NHS pay levels:

• Brunel University London: £30,000

• University of Worcester: £29,000

• Leeds Beckett University: £28,500

• University of Liverpool: £28,500

• University of Derby: £28,500

• University of Southampton: £28,000 
  

These figures highlight the profession’s stability and clear salary progression. As occupational therapists gain experience, move into Band 6–7 roles, or specialize in fields like mental-health rehabilitation or paediatrics, salaries can rise to £46,000–£55,000 per year.

Can international students work as occupational therapists in the UK?

Yes. Once you’ve completed a UK-accredited occupational therapy degree and obtained registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), you can work in the UK through the NHS or private sector. Occupational therapy remains on the UK Shortage Occupation List, which gives graduates access to simplified visa routes and longer post-study work opportunities.

If you trained outside the UK, you could apply through the HCPC International Registration route. Applications are assessed individually based on your education, training, and experience.

As of January 2025, international applicants must provide verified proof of English language proficiency as part of their registration. Processing times vary due to high demand, but the HCPC continues to prioritize applications for health professions facing national shortages.

How long does it take to complete an occupational therapy degree in the UK?

Most undergraduate occupational therapy degrees in the UK take three years of full-time study. This duration is consistent across leading universities such as University of Southampton and University of Liverpool, which both follow a standard three-year BSc (Hons) format.

For students who already hold a bachelor’s degree, universities like Oxford Brookes University and Leeds Beckett University offer the MSc (Pre-registration) pathway, typically two years full-time.

Part-time or blended formats (three to four years) are available at selected institutions to accommodate working professionals or international students balancing study with placements.

Which UK university has the best employment rate for OT graduates?

If you’re planning to study occupational therapy in the UK, you’ll find a mix of long-established research universities and practice-focused programs. The list below highlights institutions known for their teaching quality, clinical partnerships, and strong employment results.

Do I need clinical experience before applying for OT programs in the UK?

Clinical experience isn’t usually a formal entry requirement for UK occupational therapy degrees, but most universities want to see that you understand what the profession involves. That awareness can come from shadowing, volunteering, or even spending time in settings where occupational therapists work. UK universities tend to phrase this expectation in different ways. For example:

• Brunel University London reviews applicants “on individual merit” and notes that mature applicants are assessed partly on their relevant work experience.

• University of East Anglia (UEA) emphasizes interviews, reflection, and non-academic suitability checks, which naturally favour applicants who can speak confidently about real-world exposure to healthcare environments.

• Leeds Beckett University explains that they consider personal statements and references as part of the admissions review, which is where applicants often demonstrate hands-on or observational experience.

None of these schools require experience, but all three make it clear that understanding the day-to-day nature of occupational therapy will strengthen your application. Even a few hours shadowing a therapist, helping in a care home, or volunteering in a school support role can help you talk more confidently during interviews and build a more compelling personal statement.

Are there any online or blended OT programs for international students?

Not fully. Fully online occupational therapy degrees aren't possible in the UK because the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) requires accredited programs to include supervised, in-person practice-based learning. Some universities use online elements for theory-based learning, but all pre-registration courses require the following:

• on-campus practical skills teaching

• face-to-face assessments

• clinical placements totalling around 1,000 hours

Here are some examples of placement programs:

• Ulster University — clinical placements across Northern Ireland’s health and social care trusts

• University of Southampton — placements in NHS hospitals as part of Professional Practice modules

• Leeds Beckett University — community and rehabilitation placements that must be completed in person

If you’re looking for a flexible program or want to continue your studies while gaining experience, an IDP counsellor can help you find HCPC-approved options that fit your schedule and professional goals.