Study in the United Kingdom | IDP Vietnam

Studying in the UK is always in the top destinations thanks to the quality of education, short study time and job opportunities after graduation. With a clear training system, international students have a wide range of flexible options according to each age and learning goals.

Advantages and disadvantages of studying in the UK

Pros

• World-leading quality education

• Short learning time, cost-effective

• Many high-value scholarships to study in the UK

• Opportunity to stay and work with a UK student visa (Graduate Route)

Cons

• Cultural differences and learning methods

• Unfavorable weather

1. Short study time – save money on studying in the UK

One of the biggest advantages of studying in the UK is the shortened but still quality learning path:

• Bachelor's: 3 years

• Master's: 1 year

Compared to countries such as the US or Australia, short study periods help you:

• Significantly reduce the cost of studying in the UK for 1 year

• Early graduation and employment

• Optimize long-term financial planning

2. Globally valued qualifications from the British education system

The UK has a long-standing and standard education system, including:

• Secondary Education

• Further Education (pre-college)

• Higher Education (undergraduate – postgraduate)

Schools such as the University of Oxford or the University of Cambridge are always among the top in the world.

Differences:

• Intensive learning from year 1

• Focus on practical skills

• Globally recognised qualifications

This helps students increase their competitive advantage when working internationally.

3. Many scholarships to study in the UK and job opportunities after graduation

Studying in the UK is not only for people with strong finances. Currently, there are many scholarships to study in the UK:

• Government Scholarships (Chevening, GREAT...)

• Scholarships from universities

• Financial aid by discipline

If you have a good profile strategy, you can completely reduce costs significantly.

4. Graduate Route visa

A big advantage of studying in the UK is staying and working after graduation:

• 2 years with bachelor's/master's degree

• 3 years with PhD

This helps you:

• Gain international experience

• Increase opportunities for global settlement or career development

This is a big plus when considering the conditions for studying in the UK.

5. International, multicultural learning environment

The UK has one of the largest international student communities in the world.

You will:

• Learning in a multinational environment

• Develop English skills quickly

• Global Network Expansion

This is an important foundation for a long career.

To study in the UK, students need to meet 3 main groups of requirements: academic (GPA), English language proficiency (IELTS) and financial ability according to UKVI regulations.

Preparing a complete and standard application not only helps increase the pass rate of a UK student visa but also shortens the approval time. This is an important step when finding out what you need to study in the UK and how much IELTS is needed to study in the UK.

Experience from IDP: It is recommended that you prepare your application at least 3–6 months in advance, which will help you have more school options and increase your chances of receiving a scholarship.

3.1. Academic and IELTS requirements when studying in the UK

How much IELTS do you need to study in the UK? What is GPA?

Depending on the level of study, the entry requirements will vary:

3.2. Financial conditions

How much financial proof is required to study in the UK. This is a mandatory requirement when applying for a UK student visa (Student Visa) according to UKVI regulations.

Living expenses to be proven

Apply for visa applications:

• £1,529/month if you study in London (up to 9 months → £13,761 total)

• £1,171/month if you study outside London (up to 9 months → £10,539 total)

This amount does not include tuition fees, you need to prove more:

• First-year tuition fees (CAS – Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies)

Important regulations on financial proof

To be eligible for a UK student visa:

• The amount must be in the account for at least 28 consecutive days

• The end date of 28 days must be within 31 days before submitting the visa

• The account can be in the student's or parent's name

The education system when studying in the UK is highly regarded globally for its academics, clear pathway and short training period. This is also one of the reasons why studying in the UK is always in the top choice of international students.

A quick summary of the education system in the UK:

• Early Childhood: 3–4 years old

• Elementary: 5–11 years old

• Secondary: 11–16 years old (GCSE)

• Pre-School/High School: 16–18 years old (A-Level/Foundation)

• Undergraduate: 3 years (UK), 4 years (Scotland)

• Master's: 1 year

• PhD: 3–4 years

4.1. Secondary Education

Secondary school in the UK is for students aged 11–16, divided into 2 stages:

• Key Stage 3 (11–14 years old): Study general subjects such as Maths, Science, English, History, Geography

• Key Stage 4 (14–16 years old): Further intensive study and finish with a GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education) exam

GCSE is an important milestone, determining the next course of study:

• A-Level

• Foundation

• Or apprenticeship

This is the right route if you want your child to study in the UK early, build a British standard academic foundation before entering university.

4.2. Further Education

This stage is for students aged 16–18, with 3 main options:

• A-Level (2 years): 3–4 intensive subjects, the most popular route to top universities in the UK

• International Baccalaureate – IB (2 years): A comprehensive program, suitable for internationally oriented students

• Foundation (1 year): Exclusively for international students, shorten the pathway and enhance academic English

Compared to A-Level, the Foundation has a clear advantage for Vietnamese students:

• Shorter time

• More flexible input requirements

• Specialized Academic English Support

Foundation is the ideal bridge if your child is not eligible to go directly to university, helping to save time while still ensuring admission to prestigious schools.

4.3. Undergraduate

When studying in the UK at undergraduate, a bachelor's degree usually lasts:

• 3 years in the UK

• 4 years in Scotland

High Light:

Major from the first year

In-depth and practical learning content

Optional Sandwich Course (integrated internship year)

This helps students graduate earlier than in the US/Australia, saving significantly the cost of studying in the UK while still having a globally recognised degree.

4.4. Master's Degree

Master's programs in the UK are a popular choice for international students due to their study duration of only 1 year – significantly shorter than in the US (2 years) or Australia (1.5–2 years).

Common types of Master's degrees:

• MSc (Master of Science) — Science, Technology, Engineering

• MA (Master of Arts) — Humanities, Communication, Education

• MBA (Master of Business Administration) — Business Administration

• MEng (Master of Engineering) — Integrated Engineering

The program structure includes theoretical learning and project/thesis work, helping students quickly enter the international labor market.

4.5. PhD/Doctorate

PhD degrees in the UK last 3–4 years, suitable for students who are research-oriented or academic teaching.

One of the reasons why studying in the UK is attractive to international students is the flexible, diverse training program system and has a clear pathway from high school to postgraduate.

A quick summary of the programs when studying in the UK:

• Secondary: GCSE → A-Level/IB/Foundation

• Undergraduate: 3 years (UK), 4 years (Scotland)

• Master's: 1 year

• Post-graduation: 2–3 years (Graduate Route)

Choosing the right program not only helps you meet the conditions to study in the UK, but also optimizes costs and career opportunities.

5.1 Secondary School

The UK high school study abroad pathway is well-designed, helping international students prepare the foundation before entering university.

Stage 1: GCSE (14–16 years old)

• Study for 2 years

• Main subjects: Maths, Science, English

• GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education) exam

This is a step to familiarize yourself with the education system in the UK and the standard British learning method.

Stage 2: Pre-University (16–18 years old)

After GCSEs, students have 3 main options:

1. A-Level (2 years)

• Study 3–4 intensive subjects

• The most popular routes to top universities

2. International Baccalaureate – IB (2 years)

• Comprehensive program, multi-subject study

• Suitable for internationally oriented students

3. Foundation (1 year)

• For International Students

• Shortening the pathway to university

• Academic English Enhancement

Choosing the right route helps:

• Meet the conditions to study in the UK

• Easily prepare your UK student visa application

• Increase your chances of getting into top schools

5.2. Undergraduate Programs in the UK

When studying in the UK at the undergraduate level, the average training time is 3 years, in Scotland alone it usually lasts 4 years. Some programs can be up to 4 years if a sandwich course or international exchange is integrated.

Common types of degrees include:

• BA (Bachelor of Arts): Society, Humanities, Communication

• BSc (Bachelor of Science): Science, Technology

• BEng (Bachelor of Engineering): Engineering

• MBBS: Medicine (lasts about 5–6 years)

The great advantage of the British university system is that students can study intensively from the first year, helping to shorten the study time but still ensure the quality of international standard training

Reference cost: 11,500 - 45,000 GBP/year

5.3. Master's Program

Studying for a Master's degree in the UK is a popular choice thanks to:

• The duration of study is only 1 year

• In-depth and practical training content

Common types of Master's degrees:

• MSc (Master of Science)

• MA (Master of Arts)

• MBA (Master of Business Administration)

• MEng (Master of Engineering – integrated)

Benefits of studying a Master's in the UK:

• Save money on studying in the UK

• Quickly enter the labor market

• Enhancing international qualifications

Cost of studying in the UK is always one of the top concerns of parents and students. However, many students often underestimate the actual total cost, leading to financial pressure during the learning process.

In fact, the total cost will include:

• Tuition fees by level and field of study

• Living expenses (housing, meals, transportation)

• Expenses such as insurance, books, visas

6.1 Tuition fees for courses in the UK

6.2 Average cost of living

• Outside London: Around £10,224 – £13,347 per year

• In London: Usually ranges from £13,000 – £15,000+ per year, depending on region and personal spending

Note: Costs may vary based on individual lifestyle.

Compare the cost of living by city (most important when budgeting)

A common mistake is to look only at the "UK-wide average cost". In fact, the disparity between cities is huge, especially in rent and travel costs. Specifically, you can refer to the cost at each location:

If you study in Leeds or Sheffield, you can stay close to the school and walk, saving an extra £50 – £100 a month on travel compared to London.

6.3 How to save money on studying in the UK

The cost of studying in the UK can be quite high, but you can completely optimize your budget if you have the right strategy from the beginning. Here are common ways to help Vietnamese students save significant costs:

• Hunt for scholarships to study in the UK: Many universities offer scholarships ranging from 20% to 100% of tuition fees for international students.

• Choose a city with a reasonable cost: Instead of London, you can consider cities like Manchester, Birmingham, Sheffield with a lower standard of living.

• Optimize the cost of living: Living in a dormitory or renting a shared house (share house) helps to significantly reduce rent.

• Legal part-time: International students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during their studies, which helps cover part of their living expenses.

Planning your finances early will help you reduce cost pressure and focus better on your studies.

6.4. How to transfer money to study in the UK safely and economically

In addition to tuition fees and living expenses, how to transfer money to the UK is also a big concern for many parents and international students.

To ensure safety and optimize costs, you should:

• Choose a reputable remittance unit to ensure transparent and secure transactions

• Prioritize fast money transfer methods, clear exchange rates and service fees

• Track actual costs to avoid unnecessary incurries

An IDP assists you throughout the process:

• Guidance on paying international tuition fees in accordance with the process

• Advice on safe and economical money transfer methods

• Support using the cost of living estimator when studying in the UK

If you are wondering how to send tuition fees and living expenses to international students, IDP will help you do so quickly, safely and conveniently.

Contact IDP now for a free consultation and support on the entire process of transferring money to study in the UK.

To study in the UK, you are required to apply for a UK student visa (UK Student Visa) according to the regulations of the UK Home Office. Preparing a complete and required application will help you increase your UK student visa pass rate and shorten the processing time.

A quick summary of the UK student visa application process

1. Receive CAS from the school

2. Document preparation

3. Apply online

4. Get biometrics

5. Pending Review (~3 weeks)

6. Getting a visa

Step 1: Receive an Offer of Admission (CAS)

CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) is an electronic confirmation code issued by the school, proving that you are eligible for admission.

Note:

• CAS is valid for 6 months

• The information on the CAS must match the visa application

This is a mandatory condition when applying for a UK student visa 2026.

Step 2: Prepare your UK student visa application

The application for a UK Student Visa includes:

• Valid passport

• Anonymous

• Proof of finances (cost of studying in the UK: tuition fees + living expenses)

• Qualifications, transcripts (notarized translation)

• English language certificate (IELTS, UKVI or equivalent)

• UK passport photo

• TB Test Certificate

• Payment receipt:

  • Visa Fees

  • Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

• Biometric retrieval (fingerprint + photo)

📌 2026 Update:

• Financial records need to show sufficient expenses for 28 consecutive days

• Some cases may be exempt from financial proof (depending on the dossier)

Step 3: Apply online & make an appointment

You need to complete the UK student visa application at the official website:

Apply for UK Student Visa

Then:

• Make an appointment at VFS Global's application center (VAC)

• Choose the nearest location: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City. Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang

Step 4: Apply & take biometrics

Come to VAC by appointment to:

• Submit your application

• Fingerprinting

• Photography

This is a mandatory step in the UK student visa application process

Step 5: Interview (if any)

Some records may be required:

• Phỏng vấn Credibility Interview

• Format: online or by phone

The content usually revolves around the following:

• Study Plan

• Reasons for choosing majors & schools

• Post-Graduation Plan

Step 6: Receive visa results

• Processing time: ~3 weeks (15 business days)

• Fast Service:

  • Priority (5–7 days)

  • Super Priority (24 hours)

After passing your visa, you can prepare for admission and complete your plan to study in the UK.

For more: Latest UK student visas

If you are wondering what major should you study in the UK? Discover hot industries based on market trends and job opportunities as below:

Business & Finance: Studying Business & Finance in the UK opens up opportunities to work at international corporations, banks, multinational companies and easily apply for scholarships to study in the UK to improve management skills.

Information Technology & Computer Science (IT/Computer Science): Vietnamese students studying IT in the UK have the opportunity to participate in technology projects, software development, artificial intelligence, and access the potential international job market.

Engineering: Studying in the UK in Engineering offers the opportunity to intern at leading companies, engage in cutting-edge engineering research and increase your competitive advantage in the global labour market.

Nursing/Medicine: Vietnamese students studying Health & Nursing in the UK are prepared for careers in international hospitals, medical research, and professional healthcare positions around the world.

Logistics & Supply Chain Management: Logistics in the UK helps Vietnamese students access opportunities to work in supply chain management, global logistics operations and management positions at multinational companies.

Education & TESOL: Studying in the UK in Education & TESOL opens up the opportunity to become an international teacher, teach English to Vietnamese and international students, or participate in higher education programs in the education industry.

Choosing what to study is one of the most important steps for British students

If you are still wondering what to study in the UK, please contact IDP or call the IDP hotline 19006955 for advice on all important information in studying in the UK.

For more: What major should I study in the UK?

The UK has always been among the countries with diverse and high-value scholarship policies for international students. In the 2026 academic year, the scholarship system to study in the UK will continue to be expanded at both Foundation, Master's and PhD levels, with many funding programs from the UK Government, international organisations and universities.

In particular, prestigious scholarship programs such as: Chevening Scholarship – Full scholarship of the British Government for Master's degree

In addition to full scholarships, many Russell Group universities also offer partial scholarships ranging from 10–50% of tuition fees to international students with outstanding academic achievements.

Below is a summary of the latest and most prominent scholarships to study in the UK for foundation and postgraduate studies (Masters, PhD) in the 2026 academic year:

Scholarship information may vary depending on the year. To find out more about the detailed scholarships to study in the UK for each level of study, you can contact IDP for advice on studying in the UK or visit here: Latest Scholarships to Study in the UK 2026

The UK is home to many prestigious global universities, outstanding in terms of training quality, research capacity and academic influence. These institutions regularly hold high positions on prestigious rankings such as QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education.

A special feature of the British education system is the presence of the Russell Group – a group of 24 leading research universities. Many schools in the Russell Group are always among the top in the world and are highly regarded by international employers.

Here is a list of the top universities in the UK based on the latest rankings for 2027:

Global Top Group (QS 2027)

• Imperial College London – #2 in the world (tie)

• University of Oxford – #4 in the world

• University of Cambridge – #6 in the world

• University College London – #9 in the world

Russel Group Schools

• University of Oxford

• University of Cambridge

• Imperial College London

• University College London

• King's College London

• London School of Economics and Political Science

• The University of Edinburgh

Popular groups with Vietnamese students (QS 2027)

• University of Glasgow

• University of Sheffield

• Durham University

• University of Nottingham

Besides the rankings, you also need to understand that the "best school" is not just a school with a ranking, but also a place that meets the right field of study you are passionate about, matches your interests and finances, and helps you achieve your future career goals.

See also: Top universities in the UK

When it comes to studying in the UK, London is a popular destination for many international students, but it comes with a hefty price tag. The city stands out for its wide range of career opportunities, multicultural environment, and strong connections, especially in fields like finance, law, and technology. However, tuition and living costs in London are generally significantly higher than the average.

Meanwhile, cities like Manchester, Edinburgh, and Birmingham are other outstanding options with high-quality universities, affordable living costs, vibrant student communities, and impressive graduate employment rates. If your budget is limited, cities outside of London are suitable choices, offering a more affordable yet high-quality education.

12. Practical experience of enrolling in a university in the UK

Unlike the fantasy that "it's okay to just set foot in the UK", the first 2-4 weeks in the UK is when many international students are most susceptible to "culture shock" and overwhelmed by the burden of procedures.

In order not to be surprised and catch up with the new life as quickly as possible, let's save 4 practical experiences when enrolling in the UK below:

• Early morning 1–2 weeks: Don't fly close to the start date. Arrive early to tackle the essential formalities: check in for a dormitory/rented house, apply for a BRP/eVisa, register with a general practitioner (GP), and familiarize yourself with the roads.

• Make the most of Orientation Week: These are not just dry school introductions. This is a "golden opportunity" for you to hunt for scholarships, to socialize, to connect with friends, to sign up for clubs (societies), and to understand how to study/assess in the UK.

• Financial Solutions & Early Contact: Opening a traditional bank account (such as Barclays or HSBC) can take several weeks. Have some cash ready; install a digital banking app (like Monzo, Revolut) to spend it right away; and buy a travel SIM/UK carrier SIM to stay connected.

• Be proactive from day one: Don't just go to school and then go to your room. Actively participating in extracurricular activities and job fairs (career fairs) from the first week will help you integrate quickly into the culture, and at the same time, expand your network—the key to job opportunities (part-time and graduate routes) in the future.

Studying in the UK is a great opportunity for you to study, hone your knowledge and experience diverse cultures. Besides studying, international students can also look for part-time jobs to cover living expenses and improve soft skills. However, there are specific regulations on the number of hours and types of work that you need to strictly follow to ensure compliance with the law and do not affect your student visa.

13.1. Regulations on part-time work when studying in the UK

• Students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during the holidays.

• Be enrolled in a full-time Bachelor's or Postgraduate program at a UK Government-accredited institution.

• It is necessary to comply with the UK's minimum wage and working conditions regulations.

13.2. Popular jobs for UK students:

• Work on campus: Most universities offer a variety of on-campus work opportunities for international students such as teaching assistants, library staff, coffee shop attendants, research collaborators..

• Off-campus work: You can look for part-time jobs in fields such as retail, restaurants, hospitality, healthcare..

• You can choose jobs related to your field of study. This not only helps you gain experience, get acquainted with the real working environment, but also expand your relationships at work.

See more: Top popular part-time jobs in the UK for international students

14. Post-Graduation Job Opportunities in the UK

Studying in the UK not only brings a prestigious degree that is recognized globally but also opens up many job opportunities in the UK in an international environment. This is also the reason why many students and parents are interested in whether it is easy to apply for a job in the UK when choosing a destination.

After graduation, international students can stay and work through the Graduate Route visa (2–3 years), facilitating experience gain and long-term career development. Besides, with a thriving economy and diversified industries, the UK offers job opportunities in many fields such as Health & Healthcare, Marketing, Communication, Finance – Accounting, Engineering & STEM, Education and Social Work.

Whether you're studying in a big city or a smaller region, international students can access internships, part-time jobs and jobs after graduation through corporate networks, career support programs from the university and recruitment platforms. Choosing the right study environment will help you balance the cost of living, study experience and career direction when studying in the UK.

See more: Graduate Route Visa: Opportunity to work in the UK after graduation

Contact IDP for free advice on studying in the UK!

Studying in the UK is not only an academic decision, but also a long-term investment strategy for your career and global future. The journey to study in the UK can be challenging, but in return comes a high-class academic environment, comprehensive development opportunities and a sustainable international competitive advantage.

If you are planning to study in the UK, the team of experts at IDP Education is always ready to accompany you every step of the way:

• Consulting on choosing a school, choosing a major that suits your capacity and career goals

• Guidance on preparing documents, optimizing admission opportunities

• Latest Study Abroad Conditions Update in the UK in 2026

• Scholarship consulting and effective scholarship hunting strategies

• Assistance with visa application and preparation before departure

Besides, you can participate in IDP Study Abroad Fairs to meet school representatives in person, interview for scholarships and update the latest admissions information. IDP also provides essential support services such as finding accommodation, booking preferential flight tickets, SIM UK support and attending a Pre-departure Session.

Contact IDP today to start your journey to study in the UK.

Free study abroad consultation hotline: 19006955

• Latest Cost of Studying in the UK

• Admission period in the UK

• Conditions for studying in the UK

• Studying for a Master's degree in the UK: Conditions, costs, and opportunities

• Should I study in the UK?

• How much IELTS do you need to study in the UK?

Source:https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/money

Frequently Asked Questions When Studying in the UK (FQA)

1. What major should I study in the UK?

When studying in the UK, you should choose high-demand majors such as Business & Finance, Information Technology, Engineering, Health – Nursing, Logistics or Education & TESOL. The most important thing is to choose a major that suits your capacity and career orientation so that it is easy to apply for a job after graduation.

2. How much IELTS do you need to study in the UK?

Generally, studying in the UK requires IELTS between 6.0–6.5 for undergraduate and 6.5–7.0 for master's level. Some disciplines such as Medicine, Law, or Pedagogy may be more demanding.

3. How much money do I need to study in the UK? Is it hard to hunt for scholarships?

The average cost of studying in the UK is around £20,000–£35,000/year (including tuition fees and living expenses). Hunting for scholarships to study in the UK is not too difficult if you have good academic performance, high IELTS and prepare your application early, but high-value scholarships are often highly competitive.

4. Is it difficult to get a UK student visa?

If you prepare your application early and meet the right conditions to study in the UK, the visa pass rate is not too difficult. You can contact IDP for free and detailed advice!