The UK remains one of the world's most sought-after study destinations, attracting over 600,000 international students annually with its prestigious degrees. For international students, particularly those from Nepal, choosing the right course is crucial, not just for academic fulfillment, but for securing excellent career prospects and maximizing return on educational investment.
This comprehensive guide explores the popular courses in the UK for international students that offer the best combination of academic excellence, strong job prospects, and alignment with global industry demands. With the UK 2-year Graduate Route visa allowing international graduates to work after studies, selecting high-demand courses significantly enhances your chances of building a successful international career.
Whether you’re seeking the answer “which course is best to study in the UK to get a job?” or exploring the top 10 courses in demand in the UK, this guide provides detailed insights into course options, career prospects, salary expectations, admission requirements, costs, and application strategies for 2026.
Table of Content
- Why Choose High Demand Courses in the UK?
- Top High Demand Courses in the UK for International Students
- Requirements to Study High Demand Courses in the UK
- Academic Qualifications
- English Language Proficiency
- Essential Documents Required
- Best Course to Study in UK
- Cost to Study High Demand Courses in the UK from Nepal
- Tuition Fees by Program (Annual)
- Living Expenses Breakdown
- Budgeting Tips for Nepali Students
- Scholarship & Financial Opportunities
- UK Government Scholarships
- University-Based Scholarships
- Subject-Specific Scholarships
- Application Tips for Scholarship Success
- How to Apply: Step-by-Step Admission Process
- Best Universities in the UK Offering High Demand Courses
- Post Study Work Visa & Job Prospects
- Graduate Route Visa Details
- Job Prospects by Sectors
- Salary Expectations After Graduation
- Top Employers Hiring International Graduates
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why Choose High Demand Courses in the UK?
Exceptional Career Prospects
High-demand courses directly align with the UK’s growing industries and labor market needs. The UKfaces skill shortages in technology, healthcare, engineering, and business sectors, creating abundant opportunities for qualified graduates. Choosing a high-demand field means:
- 95-98% employment rates within 6 months of graduation
- Higher starting salaries
- Multiple job offers upon graduation
- Sponsorship opportunities for long-term visas
- Global mobility with UK qualifications recognized worldwide
Global Degree Recognization
UK degrees are respected globally, with institutions like Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, and UCL consistently ranking among the world’s top 10 universities. A UK qualification opens doors across:
- Europe and EU countries
- North America (USA, Canada)
- Australia and New Zealand
- Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar)
- Asia-Pacific region
Employers worldwide recognize UK degrees as markers of academic rigor, critical thinking, and professional competence.
Post-Study Work Visa
The UK's Graduate Route visa allows international students to stay and work for 2 years after bachelor's/master's (3 years after PhD) without employer sponsorship. This generous policy provides:
- Time to gain UK work experience
- Opportunity to explore career options
- Pathway to Skilled Worker visa
- Enhanced CV with international experience
- Higher earning potential
Industries with high demand actively recruit international graduates, making visa transitions smoother for students in strategic fields.
IndustryTrends Driving Demand
- Technology Boom: UK tech sector growing 13% annually; 3 million tech workers needed by 2030
- Healthcare Crisis: NHS facing 100,000+ staff shortages; active international recruitment
- Green Energy Transition: £20 billion investment creating engineering and sustainability roles
- Digital Transformation: All industries require data scientists, AI specialists, cybersecurity experts
- Global Business Hub: London remains Europe's financial capital; demand for business professionals
Choosing courses aligned with these trends ensures strong employment prospects and career growth.
Current Graduate Employment Statistics:
- Total UK graduate job openings: 450,000+ annually
- International graduate employment rate: 87% within 6 months
- Graduate Route visa holders employed: 82% within first year
- Average time to first job offer: 6-10 weeks
- Multiple job offers: 45% of STEM graduates receive 2+ offers
- Visa sponsorship availability: 35,000+ licensed sponsor employers
Top High Demand Courses in the UK for International Students
1. Computer Science & Information Technology
Computer Science and IT programs cover software development, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing, machine learning, and systems architecture. UK universities offer cutting-edge curricula updated regularly to match industry needs.
Why High Demand:
- UK tech sector worth £184 billion
- Digital skills shortage: 500,000+ unfilled tech positions
- Average 47,000 new tech jobs created annually
- London is Europe's tech startup capital
- Remote work enables global opportunities
Job Opportunities:
- Software Developer/Engineer
- Data Scientist
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Cloud Solutions Architect
- AI/Machine Learning Engineer
- DevOps Engineer
- Full Stack Developer
- IT Project Manager
Salary Range:
- Entry-level: £25,000-35,000 (NPR 45-63 lakhs)
- Mid-level (3-5 years): £40,000-60,000 (NPR 72 lakhs-1.08 crore)
- Senior (5-10 years): £60,000-100,000+ (NPR 1.08-1.8 crore+
Top Universities:
- University of Oxford
- University of Cambridge
- Imperial College London
- University College London (UCL)
- University of Edinburgh
- University of Manchester
- King's College London
- University of Warwick
Program Duration: 3 years (BSc), 1 year (MSc)
2. Nursing & Healthcare
Nursing programs combine theoretical knowledge with extensive NHS clinical placements, preparing students for diverse healthcare roles. Specializations include adult nursing, mental health, pediatric, and learning disabilities nursing.
Why High Demand:
- NHS facing 40,000+ nurse shortage
- Nursing on UK Shortage Occupation List
- Direct pathway to permanent residence
- Guaranteed employment upon qualification
- Global healthcare worker demand
Job Opportunities:
- Registered Nurse (NHS Bands 5-8)
- Nurse Practitioner
- Mental Health Nurse
- Pediatric Nurse
- Theatre Nurse
- Community Health Nurse
- Nurse Educator
- Clinical Nurse Specialist
Salary Range:
- Newly qualified: £28,000-35,000 (NPR 50-63 lakhs)
- Experienced (5 years): £35,000-45,000 (NPR 63-81 lakhs)
- Senior/Specialist: £45,000-65,000+ (NPR 81 lakhs-1.17 crore)
Top Universities:
- King's College London
- University of Manchester
- University of Southampton
- University of Edinburgh
- University of Nottingham
- Glasgow Caledonian University
Program Duration: 3 years (BSc Nursing)
3. Business & Management
Business programs cover finance, marketing, operations, strategy, entrepreneurship, and international business. Focus on practical skills, case studies, and industry projects.
Why High Demand:
- London is global financial center
- Every industry needs business professionals
- Entrepreneurship opportunities abundant
- Strong alumni networks
- Versatile career pathways
Job Opportunities:
- Management Consultant
- Business Analyst
- Financial Analyst
- Marketing Manager
- Operations Manager
- Product Manager
- Investment Banking Analyst
- Entrepreneur/Startup Founder
Salary Range:
- Graduate trainee: £24,000-32,000 (NPR 43-58 lakhs)
- Mid-level: £35,000-50,000 (NPR 63-90 lakhs)
- Senior management: £50,000-100,000+ (NPR 90 lakhs-1.8 crore+)
Top Universities:
- London Business School
- University of Oxford (Saïd)
- University of Cambridge (Judge)
- Imperial College London
- Warwick Business School
- Manchester Business School
- Edinburgh Business School
Program Duration: 3 years (BSc), 1 year (MSc/MBA)
4. Engineering
Engineering programs span mechanical, electrical, civil, chemical, aerospace, and biomedical engineering. Strong emphasis on practical projects, labs, and industry placements.
Why High Demand:
- Infrastructure investment: £600 billion planned
- Green energy transition creating jobs
- Manufacturing sector growth
- Engineering on Shortage Occupation List
- High starting salaries
Job Opportunities:
- Mechanical Engineer
- Civil Engineer
- Electrical Engineer
- Software Engineer
- Aerospace Engineer
- Renewable Energy Engineer
- Project Engineer
- Engineering Manager
Salary Range:
- Graduate: £28,000-35,000 (NPR 50-63 lakhs)
- Chartered Engineer: £40,000-55,000 (NPR 72-99 lakhs)
- Senior Engineer: £55,000-80,000+ (NPR 99 lakhs-1.44 crore)
Top Universities:
- Imperial College London
- University of Cambridge
- University of Oxford
- University College London
- University of Manchester
- University of Edinburgh
- University of Southampton
Program Duration: 3-4 years (BEng/MEng), 1 year (MSc)
5. Data Science & Analytics
Data Science programs teach statistical analysis, machine learning, big data technologies, data visualization, and predictive modeling using Python, R, SQL, and specialized tools.
Why High Demand:
- Data is "new oil" for businesses
- 234,000 data science jobs projected by 2030
- All industries require data professionals
- High salaries for qualified analysts
- Remote work opportunities
Job Opportunities:
- Data Scientist
- Data Analyst
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Data Engineer
- Analytics Manager
- Quantitative Analyst
- AI Research Scientist
Salary Range:
- Junior Data Analyst: £28,000-38,000 (NPR 50-68 lakhs)
- Data Scientist: £40,000-60,000 (NPR 72 lakhs-1.08 crore)
- Senior/Lead: £60,000-90,000+ (NPR 1.08-1.62 crore)
Top Universities:
- University of Cambridge
- Imperial College London
- University College London
- University of Edinburgh
- University of Warwick
- King's College London
Program Duration: 3 years (BSc), 1 year (MSc)
6. Law
Law degrees (LLB undergraduate, LLM postgraduate) cover English law, international law, commercial law, and specialized areas like human rights, corporate law, or intellectual property.
Why High Demand:
- London is a global legal hub
- International arbitration center
- Corporate law is highly paid
- Global law firm opportunities
- Diverse specialization options
Job Opportunities:
- Solicitor
- Barrister
- Legal Advisor/Consultant
- Corporate Lawyer
- Compliance Officer
- Legal Analyst
- In-house Counsel
- International Law Specialist
Salary Range:
- Trainee Solicitor: £25,000-45,000 (NPR 45-81 lakhs)
- Qualified Solicitor: £50,000-80,000 (NPR 90 lakhs-1.44 crore)
- Senior/Partner: £80,000-200,000+ (NPR 1.44-3.6 crore)
Top Universities:
- University of Oxford
- University of Cambridge
- London School of Economics (LSE)
- University College London
- King's College London
- Durham University
- University of Edinburgh
Program Duration: 3 years (LLB), 1 year (LLM)
Requirements to Study High Demand Courses in the UK
Understanding requirements to study in the UK for international students ensures successful applications.
Academic Qualifications
|
Program Level |
Minimum Requirement |
Typical Grades |
|
Bachelor's Degree |
Completed +2/A-levels or equivalent |
60-75% overall |
|
Master's Degree |
Bachelor's degree in related field |
Minimum 2:2 (55%) or 2:1 (60%) |
|
Foundation Year |
Completed high school (Class 10+2) |
50-60% |
English Language Proficiency
|
Test |
Undergraduate Minimum |
Postgraduate Minimum |
Validity |
|
IELTS Academic |
6.0-6.5 (no band <5.5-6.0) |
6.5-7.0 (no band <6.0-6.5) |
2 years |
|
TOEFL iBT |
80-90 |
90-100 |
2 years |
|
PTE Academic |
55-60 |
60-65 |
2 years |
|
Duolingo |
105-115 |
115-125 |
2 years |
Course-Specific Requirements:
- Nursing: IELTS 7.0 (no band <6.5-7.0)
- Law: IELTS 7.0-7.5
- Medicine: IELTS 7.5 minimum
- Engineering/IT: IELTS 6.0-6.5 typically sufficient
Essential Documents Required
Academic Documents:
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- Degree certificates (translated to English if needed)
- Predicted grades (for current students)
- Academic references/recommendations
English Proficiency:
- Valid IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/Duolingo test results
- Exemption possible if previous education was in English medium
Personal Documents:
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Recent passport-size photographs
- Detailed CV/Resume
Application Documents:
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) - 500-1,000 words
- 2-3 Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
- Portfolio (for creative arts, architecture, design)
- Work experience certificates (for MBA, some master's)
Financial Documents:
- Bank statements showing required funds
- Scholarship award letters (if applicable)
- Sponsorship letters from parents/guardians
Best Course to Study in UK
Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Duration: Typically 3 years
Best Courses for Bachelor’s:
|
Course |
Why Choose for Bachelor's |
Career Entry Point |
|
Computer Science |
Foundational programming skills; immediate job market |
Software Developer (£25K-35K) |
|
Nursing |
Direct professional qualification; NMC registration |
Registered Nurse (£28K-35K) |
|
Engineering |
Chartered Engineer pathway; strong technical base |
Graduate Engineer (£28K-35K) |
|
Business Management |
Versatile skills; multiple career paths |
Management Trainee (£24K-30K) |
|
Architecture |
Professional accreditation pathway |
Architectural Assistant (£24K-30K) |
Advantages:
- No work experience required
- Broader curriculum exploring multiple areas
- More affordable than master's (one-time investment)
- Younger age allows career flexibility
- Foundation for further specialization
Ideal For:
- Students immediately after +2/A-levels
- Those exploring career interests
- Students seeking professional registration (nursing, engineering)
- Budget-conscious students (3 years cheaper than bachelor's + master's elsewhere)
Master’s Degree Programs
Duration: 1 year (taught master's), 1-2 years (research master's)
Best Courses for Master's:
|
Course |
Why Choose for Master’s |
Career Entry Point |
|
MBA |
Leadership roles; career switching |
Manager/Consultant (£40K-60K) |
|
Data Science |
Specialized high-demand skill |
Data Scientist (£40K-60K) |
|
MSc Finance |
London financial center access |
Financial Analyst (£35K-50K) |
|
International Business |
Global career opportunities |
International Business Manager (£35K-50K) |
|
AI/Machine Learning |
Cutting-edge specialization |
ML Engineer (£45K-65K) |
Advantages:
- Intensive specialization in 1 year
- Faster than 2-year master's programs elsewhere
- Career progression for working professionals
- Higher starting salaries than bachelor's graduates
- Research opportunities
Ideal For:
- Professionals seeking career advancement
- Students wanting specialized expertise
- Those targeting high-level positions
- International students maximizing ROI
- Career changers entering new fields
Cost to Study High Demand Courses in the UK form Nepal
Understanding the cost to study in the UK from Nepal helps students with their financial planning.
Tuition Fees by Program (Annual)
|
Course Category |
Bachelor's (Annual in GBP) |
Bachelor's (Annual in NPR) |
Master's (Annual in GBP) |
Master's (Annual in NPR) |
|
Humanities/Arts |
£14,000-22,000 |
NPR 2,611,000 - NPR 4,103,000 |
£16,000-26,000 |
NPR 2,984,000 - NPR 4,849,000 |
|
Business/Management |
£16,000-28,000 |
NPR 2,984,000 - NPR 5,222,000 |
£20,000-45,000 |
NPR 3,730,000 - NPR 8,392,500 |
|
Computer Science/IT |
£18,000-30,000 |
NPR 3,357,000 - NPR 5,595,000 |
£22,000-35,000 |
NPR 4,103,000 - NPR 6,527,500 |
|
Engineering |
£20,000-35,000 |
NPR 3,730,000 - NPR 6,528,000 |
£24,000-38,000 |
NPR 4,476,000 - NPR 7,087,000 |
|
Nursing/Healthcare |
£15,000-28,000 |
NPR 2,797,000 - NPR 5,222,000 |
£18,000-30,000 |
NPR 3,357,000 - NPR 5,595,000 |
|
Law |
£18,000-30,000 |
NPR 3,357,000 - NPR 5,595,000 |
£22,000-40,000 |
NPR 4,103,000 - NPR 7,460,000 |
|
Medicine |
£30,000-50,000+ |
NPR 5,595,000 - NPR 9,325,000+ |
£35,000-55,000+ |
NPR 6,527,500 - NPR 10,257,500+ |
Living Expenses Breakdown
|
Expense |
London (Monthly in GBP) |
London (Monthly in NPR) |
Outside London (Monthly in GBP) |
Outside London (Monthly in NPR) |
|
Accommodation |
£900-£1,400 |
NPR 167,850 - NPR 261,100 |
£500-£800 |
NPR 93,250 - NPR 149,200 |
|
Food |
£250-£400 |
NPR 46,625 - NPR 74,600 |
£200-£300 |
NPR 37,300 - NPR 55,950 |
|
Transportation |
£150-£200 |
NPR 27,975 - NPR 37,300 |
£60-£100 |
NPR 11,190 - NPR 18,650 |
|
Utilities |
£80-£120 |
NPR 14,920 - NPR 22,380 |
£50-£80 |
NPR 9,325 - NPR 14,920 |
|
Internet/Phone |
£30-£50 |
NPR 5,595 - NPR 9,325 |
£25-£40 |
NPR 4,663 - NPR 7,460 |
|
Personal/Entertainment |
£100-£200 |
NPR 18,650 - NPR 37,300 |
£80-£150 |
NPR 14,920 - NPR 27,975 |
|
Books/Supplies |
£50-£100 |
NPR 9,325 - NPR 18,650 |
£50-£100 |
NPR 9,325 - NPR 18,650 |
|
Total Monthly |
£1,560-£2,470 |
NPR 290,840 - NPR 460,655 |
£965-£1,570 |
NPR 174,600 - NPR 292,155 |
Budgeting Tips for Nepali Students
- Reduced Accommodation Costs:
- Choose university halls (£400-700/month vs. £800-1,200 private)
- Share flats with other students
- Consider cities outside London
- Students Discounts:
- NUS Extra card: 10-15% off food, transportation, entertainment
- Student Oyster/railcard: 30% off travel
- Student bank accounts with overdraft facilities
- Work Part-Time:
- Students can work 20 hours/week during, full-timing during breaks
- Earn £10-£12/hour (NPR 18,000-22,000 per hour)
- Potential monthly income: £800-1,000 (NPR 1.44-1.8 lakhs)
- Cook at Home:
- Save £200-300/month vs. eating out
- Shop at Aldi, Lidl, Tesco for affordable groceries
- Apply for Scholarships:
- Can reduce costs by £3,000-30,000+
Scholarship & Financial Opportunities
UK Government Scholarships
Chevening Scholarships
- Coverage: Full tuition + monthly stipend (£1,400) + return flights + visa costs
- Eligibility: Master's students; 2+ years work experience; leadership potential; Nepali citizenship
- Number: 50-70 Nepali students annually across all fields
- Deadline: Early November (for September intake next year)
- Website: www.chevening.org
Commonwealth Share Scholarships
- Coverage: Full tuition + living allowance + airfare
- Eligibility: Master's in development-related fields; cannot afford UK study; commitment to return
- Target: Students from low-income backgrounds
- Deadline: December (varies by university)
GREAT Scholarships
- Coverage: £10,000 towards tuition
- Eligibility: Students from selected countries including Nepal
- Availability: Multiple universities participate
- Deadline: Varies by university (January-March)
University-Based Scholarships
International Excellence Scholarships Most UK universities offer merit-based scholarships for international students:
|
University Type |
Typical Amount |
Number Available |
|
Russell Group |
£3,000-£10,000 |
50-200 per university |
|
Mid-tier |
£2,000-£8,000 |
30-100 per university |
|
Regional |
£1,500-£5,000 |
20-50 per university |
Subject-Specific Scholarships
Computer Science/Engineering:
- Women in STEM Scholarships: £2,000-£8,000
- Tech industry-sponsored: Various amounts
- Research Council funding: Full tuition + stipend (PhD)
Business/Management
- MBA Diversity Scholarships: £5,000-£25,000
- Regional business school awards: £3,000-£15,000
Nursing /Healthcare:
- NHS Learning Support Fund: Up to £5,000-£8,000/year (limited for international)
- Healthcare charity scholarships: Various amounts
Application Tips for Scholarship Success
- Start Early: Begin research 12-18 months before intended start date
- Strong Academic Record: Most scholarships require 65-75%+ grades
- Compelling Personal Statement: Clearly articulate goals, leadership, and commitment
- Demonstrate Need: For need-based awards, provide honest financial documentation
- Show Leadership: Volunteer work, community projects, professional achievements
- Apply Widely: Submit 10-15 scholarship applications to maximize chances
- Meet All Deadlines: Set reminders; late applications rarely accepted
- Get Strong References: Choose recommenders who know your work well
Click here to learn more about scholarships in the UK.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Admission Process
Step 1: Choose Course and University (12-18 Months Before)
Research Factors:
- Course content and specializations
- University rankings and reputation
- Location and living costs
- Entry requirements
- Graduate employment rates
- Scholarship availability
Create Shortlist: 5-8 universities across different tiers
Step 2: Prepare for English Tests (10-12 Months Before)
- Book IELTS/TOEFL/PTE exam
- Allow 2-3 months preparation
- Take test 6-8 months before application deadline
- Scores valid for 2 years
Step 3: Gather Academic Documents (8-10 Months Before)
- Request official transcripts
- Get documents translated if needed
- Obtain degree certificates
- Prepare mark sheets
Step 4: Prepare Personal Statement (6-8 Months Before)
Structure:
- Introduction: Your background and motivation
- Academic achievements and relevant experience
- Why this course and university
- Career goals and how this course helps
- What you'll contribute to the university
- Conclusion: Tie everything together
Length: 500-1,000 words (follow specific guidelines)
Step 5: Request Letters of Recommendation (6-8 Months Before)
- Choose 2-3 referees (teachers, employers, mentors)
- Give them 4-6 weeks notice
- Provide your CV and personal statement for context
- Follow up politely
Step 6: Submit Application
For Undergraduate (UCAS):
- Application opens: September
- Deadline: January 15 (for most courses)
- Fee: £27.50 (single) or £28.50 (multiple)
- Can apply to: Up to 5 universities
Process:
- Create UCAS account at www.ucas.com
- Complete online application form
- Enter course choices (up to 5)
- Upload personal statement
- Provide referee contact details
- Pay application fee
- Submit and track application
For Postgraduate (Direct Application):
- Apply directly to each university's website
- Deadlines vary (typically March-July for September start)
- Application fee: £50-£100 per university
- No limit on number of applications
Process:
- Create account on university portal
- Fill online application form
- Upload all required documents
- Submit personal statement
- Provide referee details
- Pay application fee
- Submit application
Step 7: Await Decision (2-8 Weeks)
Possible Outcomes:
- Unconditional Offer: You're accepted without conditions
- Conditional Offer: Must meet certain requirements (grades, English scores)
- Rejection: Not accepted to the program
- Waitlist: May be offered if spaces become available
Step 8: Accept Offer and Pay Deposit
- Accept offer through UCAS or university portal
- Pay deposit (typically £1,000-£3,000)
- Receive CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) letter
Step 9: Apply for UK Student Visa
Required Documents:
- CAS letter from university
- Valid passport
- Proof of funds (tuition + living for first year)
- English test results
- TB test certificate (for Nepali applicants)
- Academic documents
Application Process:
- Apply online at gov.uk/student-visa
- Pay visa fee: £490
- Pay Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £470/year
- Book biometric appointment at VFS Global Kathmandu
- Attend appointment and submit documents
Processing Time: 3 weeks (standard) or 5 days (priority service)
Step 10: Pre-Departure Preparation
- Book flights (2-3 weeks before course starts)
- Arrange accommodation
- Open international student bank account
- Purchase travel insurance
- Pack appropriate clothing for UK weather
- Attend pre-departure briefings
- Join university social media groups
Best Universities in the UK Offering High Demand Courses
|
University |
QS Ranking 2026 |
Strong in |
|
University of Oxford |
1 |
All disciplines; particularly Law, Business, Medicine |
|
University of Cambridge |
2 |
Engineering, Computer Science, Natural Sciences |
|
Imperial College London |
3 |
Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science |
|
University College London |
9 |
Architecture, Education, Law, Medicine |
|
University of Edinburgh |
27 |
Business, Computer Science, Medicine, Nursing |
|
University of Manchester |
33 |
Engineering, Business, Computer Science, Nursing |
|
King's College London |
40 |
Law, Nursing, Business, Healthcare |
|
London School of Economics |
50 |
Business, Economics, Law, Management |
Post Study Work Visa & Job Prospects
Graduate Route Visa Details
Duration:
- 2 years for bachelor’s and master’s graduates
- 3 years for PhD graduates
Eligibility:
- Completed an eligible UK degree
- Current valid student visa
- Apply before current visa expires
Benefits:
- Work in any jobs at any skill level
- Work for any employer
- Self-employed allowed
- Switch to Skilled Worker visa if you get sponsored job
- Bring dependents
Application:
- Apply online at gov.uk
- Fee: £822
- IHS: £470/year (£940 for 2 years)
- Decision within 8 weeks
Important: Must apply from within the UK before student visa expires
Job Prospects by Sectors
Technology & IT:
- Demand: Extremely high; 300,000+ unfilled positions
- Roles: Software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists
- Starting Salary: £25,000-40,000
- Visa Sponsorship: Widely available; many companies sponsor international talent
Healthcare & Nursing:
- Demand: Critical shortage; NHS actively recruiting
- Roles: Nurses, healthcare assistants, medical professionals
- Starting Salary: £28,000-35,000
- Visa Sponsorship: Guaranteed for qualified nurses; on Shortage Occupation List
Engineering:
- Demand: High across all engineering disciplines
- Roles: Civil, mechanical, electrical, software engineers
- Starting Salary: £28,000-38,000
- Visa Sponsorship: Common, especially for specialized roles
Business & Finance:
- Demand: Strong in London and major cities
- Roles: Analysts, consultants, managers, accountants
- Starting Salary: £26,000-45,000
- Visa Sponsorship: Available in large firms and financial institutions
Creative Industries:
- Demand: Moderate to high; project-based opportunities
- Roles: Designers, content creators, digital marketers
- Starting Salary: £22,000-32,000
- Visa Sponsorship: Less common; Graduate Route important for building portfolio
Salary Expectations After Graduation
|
Qualification Level |
Average Starting Salary |
3-Year Salary |
5-Year Salary |
|
Bachelor's Degree |
£24,000-32,000 (NPR 43-58 lakhs) |
£30,000-42,000 (NPR 54-76 lakhs) |
£38,000-55,000 (NPR 68-99 lakhs) |
|
Master's Degree |
£28,000-45,000 (NPR 50-81 lakhs) |
£38,000-60,000 (NPR 68 lakhs-1.08 crore) |
£48,000-75,000 (NPR 86 lakhs-1.35 crore) |
Factors Affecting Salary:
- Industry (Tech/Finance highest; Hospitality/Arts lower)
- Location (London 20-30% higher than other cities)
- Company size (Large corporations pay more)
- Specialization (Data science, AI higher than general roles)
- Negotiation skills
Top Employers Hiring International Graduates
Technology:
- Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Meta
- UK Tech Companies: Revolut, Monzo, Deliveroo
- Consulting: Accenture, Capgemini, Cognizant
Healthcare:
- NHS Trusts nationwide
- Private hospitals: Nuffield, BMI Healthcare
- Pharmaceutical: GSK, AstraZeneca
Finance:
- Big 4: Deloitte, PwC, KPMG, EY
- Banks: HSBC, Barclays, JPMorgan
- Fintech: Wise, Starling Bank
Engineering:
- Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems, Siemens
- Infrastructure: Arup, Atkins, Mott MacDonald
Retail/Hospitality:
- Tesco, Sainsbury's, John Lewis
- Hotel chains: Hilton, Marriott, IHG
Conclusion
Choosing from the popular courses in the UK for international students is a significant decision that shapes your career trajectory and future opportunities. The UK's top 10 courses in demand are Computer Science, Nursing, Business, Engineering, Data Science, Law, Education, Hospitality, Architecture, and Creative Arts which offer exceptional education quality, strong employment prospects, and pathways to successful international careers.
Understanding which course is best to study in the UK to get a job depends on balancing your interests, strengths, career aspirations, and practical considerations like visa prospects and salary potential. Whether you choose the best course to study in the UK for bachelors or pursue the specialized best course to study in the UK for masters, the UK provides world-class education with excellent post-study work opportunities through the 2-year Graduate Route visa.
Start your journey today: research courses aligning with your goals, prepare strong applications demonstrating your potential, explore scholarship opportunities, and connect with educational consultancies for expert guidance. With proper planning beginning 12-18 months before your intended start, you'll join thousands of international students building successful careers through UK education. Your future begins with the right course choice; make it count.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which course is best to study in the UK to get a job?
Computer Science, Nursing, Data Science, and Engineering offer the highest employment rates (95-98%) with starting salaries of £25,000-45,000; these fields have critical skill shortages and excellent visa sponsorship opportunities.
2. What are the top 10 high demand courses in the UK for international students?
Computer Science, Nursing, Business Management, Engineering, Data Science, Law, Education, Hospitality, Architecture, and Creative Arts are the most sought-after courses with strong job prospects and competitive salaries.
3. How much does it cost to study in the UK from Nepal?
Total costs range from NPR 1.07-2.5 crore for 3-year bachelor's programs and NPR 50-90 lakhs for 1-year master's, including tuition (£12,000-35,000 annually) and living expenses (£10,000-20,000 annually).
4. Can I work while studying in the UK?
Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays, earning £10-12/hour (NPR 18,000-22,000/hour) to offset living expenses.
5. What are the requirements to study in the UK for international students?
Bachelor's requires +2/A-levels with 60-75% grades; Master's requires bachelor's degree with 55-60%+ grades; both need IELTS 6.0-7.0 (depending on course), valid passport, and proof of funds for tuition plus living expenses.
6. Is a bachelor's degree better than a master's in the UK?
Bachelor's (3 years) provides broader foundation and professional registration pathways, ideal after +2; Master's (1 year) offers specialized expertise and higher starting salaries (£28K-45K vs £24K-32K), ideal for career advancement.
7. Which universities in the UK are affordable for international students?
University of Cumbria, De Montfort University, Anglia Ruskin, University of West London, and University of Bedfordshire offer quality education with tuition fees of £13,000-17,000 annually, significantly lower than top-tier universities.
8. Can I stay in the UK after graduation?
Yes, the Graduate Route visa allows 2 years (3 years for PhD) to work without sponsorship; afterward, you can switch to Skilled Worker visa for long-term residence and eventually apply for permanent residence after 5 years.
9. What is the average salary after studying in the UK?
Bachelor's graduates start at £24,000-32,000 (NPR 43-58 lakhs); Master's graduates at £28,000-45,000 (NPR 50-81 lakhs); MBA graduates at £40,000-70,000 (NPR 72 lakhs-1.26 crore), varying by field and location.
10. Are there scholarships for Nepali students in the UK?
Yes, there are Chevening Scholarships (full funding), Commonwealth Shared Scholarships, GREAT Scholarships (£10,000), and university-specific scholarships (£2,000-£15,000) available for qualified Nepali students with strong academic records.
Additional Resources:
- UCAS (Undergraduate Applications): www.ucas.com
- UK Government Study Information: study-uk.britishcouncil.org
- UK Student Visa: www.gov.uk/student-visa
- British Council Nepal: www.britishcouncil.org.np
- Graduate Route Visa: www.gov.uk/graduate-visa
Also Read:
Study BSc Nursing in the UK from Nepal : A Guide 2026
Master’s Degree Without IELTS/PTE in the UK from Nepal: A Guide 2026
Cost to Study Pilot training from Nepal: A Guide 2026
Pilot Training in Nepal - A Guide 2026