Introduction
The UK is a popular destination for postgraduate study due to its world-renowned universities, diverse student population, and excellent academic standards. Pursuing a postgraduate degree in the UK can open doors to new career opportunities, enhance your academic credentials, and provide you with a unique cultural experience.
The UK is also consistently increasing in popularity among international students - in 2022, 39.1% of all postgraduates were international students (HESA). At UEA we have a welcoming and diverse community of over 1,600 international postgraduate students from all over the world.
Choosing a Programme
Choosing the right postgraduate programme can be a daunting task. Consider factors such as the course content, the reputation of the university, and the career prospects available after graduation. Think about what you enjoyed about your undergraduate degree but also your goals after study.
Browse our Postgraduate courses
Application Process
To apply for a postgraduate programme in the UK, you will need to research the admission requirements for your chosen course and university. Deadlines for applications vary depending on the institution, but generally fall between November and July. Supporting documents such as transcripts, personal statements, and letters of recommendation are also required. Don’t forget to also look into the student fees for international students at your chosen university.
Funding Options
International students have several funding options available to them, including scholarships, loans, and other financial aid. Research the funding options available at your chosen university and explore external funding opportunities such as government scholarships and private grants. UEA actually offered over £23m in scholarships in 2022 to our students, you can take a look at our helpful scholarships finder.
Student Life
Being a postgraduate student in the UK offers a unique cultural experience. There are various accommodation options available, including university halls of residence, private rentals, and homestays. At UEA, our accommodation supports the great community we have created on campus and in Norwich. We aim to provide high quality, affordable rooms in beautiful surroundings and the campus was designed so that everything you need for living and studying is no more than a few minutes away. We’d encourage you to get involved in social activities and clubs to meet new people and experience the local culture.
Follow our UEA International Instagram account, to meet students from around the globe and find out what they love about living and studying in Norwich. Our students particularly enjoy exploring Norwich Market’s food stalls for a taste of home, with options including Asian, African-Caribbean, Chilean, Indian and more.
Career Prospects for International Students
Postgraduate students in the UK have access to a range of career opportunities, including networking events, internships, and job placements. Research the career prospects for your chosen course and university to ensure they align with your own career goals. At UEA we help our students prepare for the world of work and many of our students go on to exciting and rewarding careers.
International students have a wide range of career options available to them after graduation. The most welcoming industries for international graduates include finance, consulting, engineering, and technology. Many companies have a history of hiring international graduates, including Goldman Sachs, McKinsey & Company, Amazon, and Google.
When looking for employment, identify job opportunities that align with your career goals and make sure you create a strong CV that highlights your academic achievements, work experience, and skills. Additionally, international students should prepare for interviews by researching the company and practicing their interview skills. You can access outstanding career support at UEA throughout your studies.
International students who want to work in the UK after graduation will need to apply for a work permit. The work permit application process can be complex, and students should seek guidance from their university's career services team. Students will also need to provide supporting documents, such as proof of their qualifications and evidence of their job offer.
Find out about career opportunities
with your Master's degree
Your next step
Studying a postgraduate degree in the UK can be a life-changing experience. From the application process to funding options and student life, we hope this guide has provided you with some practical advice to help you make informed decisions about pursuing a postgraduate degree in the UK.
Sign up now to receive more
information about studying at UEA