Master's programs in the United Kingdom for international students
- Advantages of studying Master's programs in the United Kingdom
- Formats and levels of Master's programs in the United Kingdom
- Top universities for Master's programs in the United Kingdom
- How to apply for Master's programs in the United Kingdom
- Preparation for applying to Master's programs in the United Kingdom
- Tuition fee for Master's programs in the United Kingdom
- Scholarships and grants for Master's programs in the United Kingdom
- Career prospects after Master's in the United Kingdom
- Frequently asked questions

Master of Arts - Animation
UCA - University for the Creative ArtsAt UCA Farnham, we have a long and renowned history of animation education that all began with Bob Godfrey, the creator of Henry's Cat. With our MA in Animation degree, you may follow in the footsteps of the best.
You will adopt an interdisciplinary approach to the animation form while you…

Master of Arts - Architecture
UCA - University for the Creative ArtsOn our MA Architecture study at UCA Canterbury, deepen your understanding of built and occupied space and create a unique approach to spatial design.
For us, architecture includes thinking about how people perceive and comprehend space in addition to buildings and construction-related aspects.…

Master of Arts - Art Writing
UCA - University for the Creative ArtsYou can become an expert in the conceptual and analytical understanding of contemporary art with the new MA in Art Writing from UCA.
Whether it's a quick review, an essay, a rough draft document, or a lengthy analytical study, you will utilize writing as your tool to convey ideas, analytic…

Master of Architecture (ARB/RIBA Part 2)
UCA - University for the Creative ArtsYour ability to envision the spaces and structures of the future while taking into account their effects on society and the environment will be tested during the two-year Master of Architecture (MArch) programme at UCA.
This course will test your ability to synthesise your architectural…

Master of Arts - Ceramics
UCA - University for the Creative ArtsIn the World Craft Town of Farnham, UCA's MA Ceramics programme will inspire you to make exceptional ceramic sculptures.
You will get the chance to produce a variety of things, experiment with various materials and methods, explore your areas of interest in research, and cultivate your unique…

Master of Arts - Creative Direction for Fashion
UCA - University for the Creative ArtsInnovative creative directors are essential for international fashion and beauty firms to properly communicate their visual statements. You will acquire all the skills and information required to establish yourself in the industry with the help of our MA in Creative Direction for Fashion course.
This…

Master of Arts - Design Innovation & Brand Management
UCA - University for the Creative ArtsOur MA Design, Innovation & Brand Management course offers you the chance to study a combined curriculum that will significantly enhance your skill set, preparing you to become a leading brand, design, and innovation manager. It's an exciting opportunity to develop your professional skills and managerial…

Master of Arts - Digital Fashion
UCA - University for the Creative ArtsUCA Epsom's groundbreaking Master of Arts in Digital Fashion program immerses students in a fascinating field of study to clothe the Metaverse and beyond.
This revolutionary course, the first of its kind at UCA, links fashion and gaming and is taught by an award-winning team of researchers,…

Master of Science - Accounting and Finance
Arden UniversityThis Accounting and Finance Master's will help you advance in the fintech business by developing your digital analytical and data management skills. In the course, you'll source, review, and analyze actual data sets from real-world business scenarios and apply contemporary accounting and finance principles…

Master of Science - Business Psychology
Arden UniversityMSc Business Psychology helps graduates and industry professionals specialize in occupational psychology. Public and commercial organizations are rapidly recognizing the value of business psychology experts. This course will help you address those all-important industry skills gaps.
This…
Advantages of studying Master's programs in the United Kingdom
Education in the United Kingdom is traditionally considered one of the most prestigious in the world. Master's programs are an excellent opportunity to gain professional qualifications, deepen academic knowledge, and enhance competitiveness in the international job market.
Key advantages:
- Short duration of study. Most Master's programs last only 1 year, allowing students to save time and expenses.
- Global recognition of diplomas. UK universities rank among the top in global QS and THE rankings.
- Employment opportunities. After completing their Master's, graduates can stay under the Graduate Route visa and work for up to 2 years.
- Wide range of specializations. From humanities and social sciences to engineering, technology, and medicine.
- Academic flexibility. The option to choose interdisciplinary programs and research tracks.
Formats and levels of Master's programs in the United Kingdom
The British system offers several types of Master's programs:
- Taught Master's – includes lectures, seminars, coursework:
- MSc (Master of Science)
- MA (Master of Arts)
- LLM (Master of Laws)
- MBA (Master of Business Administration)
- Research Master's – more focused on scientific activities:
- MRes (Master of Research)
- MPhil (Master of Philosophy)
- Specialized Master's programs:
- PGDip (Postgraduate Diploma)
- PGCert (Postgraduate Certificate)
The choice of format depends on the student's career and academic goals.
Top universities for Master's programs in the United Kingdom
University | Master's program | Tuition fee for international students | QS Ranking (2025) |
---|---|---|---|
University of Oxford | MSc in Computer Science | £28,560 | 3 |
University of Cambridge | MPhil in Finance | £34,500 | 2 |
London School of Economics | MSc in International Relations | £26,040 | 45 |
Imperial College London | MSc in Engineering Management | £34,350 | 6 |
University of Edinburgh | MSc in Data Science | £29,700 | 22 |
How to apply for Master's programs in the United Kingdom
The application process requires thorough preparation. Key steps:
- Choosing a program and university.
- Submitting an online application through the university's website (or via the UCAS Postgraduate platform).
- Gathering and uploading documents.
- Attending an interview (if required).
- Receiving an offer and applying for a student visa.
Admission requirements:
- A bachelor's degree with good grades, recognized in the UK.
- English language proficiency certificate: IELTS 6.5–7.5 (or TOEFL, Duolingo).
- Academic transcript.
- Motivation letter or essay.
- Letters of recommendation – academic and/or professional (usually 2).
- Academic CV.
- Examples of publications in English (for some programs).
- Portfolio (for creative fields).
Preparation for applying to Master's programs in the United Kingdom
If the level of academic preparation or English language proficiency is insufficient, the following preparatory programs are available:
- Pre-Master's – academic and language adaptation (6–12 months).
- Graduate Diploma – an alternative pathway for admission.
Who needs them:
- Students with diplomas not equivalent to a UK bachelor's degree.
- Candidates with low English proficiency (IELTS below 6.5).
- Candidates with low grades or mismatched profiles.
Tuition fee:
- On average, from £10,000 to £18,000 for a 6–12 month course.
Tuition fee for Master's programs in the United Kingdom
Tuition fee varies depending on the university and field of study:
- Humanities and social sciences: £15,000–£22,000.
- Technical and IT fields: £22,000–£35,000.
- Business, economics, and finance: £30,000–£45,000.
Additional expenses:
- Accommodation: £9,000–£13,000 per year.
- Food and transportation: £4,000–£6,000.
- Health insurance (IHS): around £470.
- Study materials: £500–£1,000.
Minimum funds required for a student visa (for 9 months or more):
- £1,334 per month × 9 months = £12,006 for studying in London.
- £1,023 per month × 9 months = £9,207 for other regions.
Scholarships and grants for Master's programs in the United Kingdom
1. Academic scholarships
Awarded for excellent academic performance during undergraduate studies.
Examples:
- University of Manchester Global Futures Scholarship – up to £6,000.
- Bristol University Think Big Postgraduate Scholarship – up to £20,000.
2. Financial aid
Designed for students with limited financial means. Decisions are based on family income analysis.
Example:
- University of Glasgow Postgraduate Scholarship (up to £10,000).
3. Motivation and personal merit scholarships
Support students with strong leadership potential or social achievements.
Example:
- UCL Access Opportunity Scholarship.
4. University grants
Many universities automatically consider applicants for internal grants when they submit their application.
Examples:
- University of Glasgow Excellence Scholarship – £10,000.
- Nottingham Developing Solutions Masters Scholarship – covers 50–100% of tuition fees.
5. Teaching and research assistantships
Some programs offer paid positions as teaching or research assistants, especially in engineering and scientific fields.
Scholarship and grant application deadlines:
- Typically from January to May, depending on the university and program.
Important: International students from CIS countries and India can access scholarships without citizenship restrictions, provided they meet academic and language criteria.
Career prospects after Master's in the United Kingdom
In-demand specializations:
- Information technology (especially Data Science, AI).
- Finance, banking, accounting.
- Bioengineering and medicine.
- Environmental sciences and sustainable development.
- Business and management.
Employment opportunities:
- Top employers: Amazon, Barclays, Unilever, Deloitte, PwC, Rolls-Royce.
- Average starting salary for graduates – £30,000 – £45,000 per year (entry-level).
- The Graduate Route visa allows graduates to stay and work for up to 2 years after completing their Master's (up to 3 years for PhD).
Most universities have dedicated career centers to assist students with internships, interviews, and resume building.
Frequently asked questions
1. How long does a Master's in the United Kingdom last?
Typically 1 year. Some research programs last up to 2 years.
2. Can I apply for a Master's in the UK without work experience?
Yes, most programs do not require work experience. The exception is the MBA.
3. What exams are required for Master's admission in the UK?
Language exam: IELTS / TOEFL / Duolingo. GMAT or GRE – only for some programs.
4. What are the chances of getting a scholarship for a Master's in the UK?
High, with excellent academic performance, strong motivation, and early application.
5. Can I work while studying for a Master's in the UK?
Yes, up to 20 hours per week during term time and up to 40 during holidays.
6. What is a Pre-Master's in the UK?
A preparatory program for Master's admission, lasting from 6 months to a year.
7. What is the minimum budget needed for one year of Master's study in the UK?
Approximately £25,000–£40,000, including accommodation and additional expenses.