There has been a steady annual increase in the number of Indian students going abroad to study. In 2019, a year before the pandemic, 5.86 lakh Indian students went to study abroad, while in 2022, the number stood at 7.5 lakh. When it comes to studying abroad, it’s important to choose the right destination. For several reasons, Northern Ireland in the UK is one of the most attractive overseas destinations for Indian students.
Michelle Cassidy, Communications Officer, Queen’s University Belfast shared why Indian students should choose Northern Ireland for higher education in 2024.
WHAT MAKES NORTHERN IRELAND A GOOD PLACE TO STUDY
Indian students who study in Northern Ireland are assured a world-class education.
Northern Ireland is home to renowned universities, where students have a huge variety of subjects on offer to study. Those who wish to pursue a doctorate can conduct research in a field they’re passionate about.
Universities in Northern Ireland impart education with the belief that after graduation, students will have an impact on society. Because of the innovative teaching and learning techniques used by academics in Northern Ireland, students receive the kind of education that lets them work for the benefit of society.
Those who graduate from universities in Northern Ireland gain real-world skills which help them address real-world challenges. While learning, students have fun as they’re part of a culture that fosters creativity, inclusiveness, and collaboration. After graduation, many Indian students who studied in Northern Ireland have gone on to pursue fulfilling careers.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Saurabh Baruaole earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Jaipur. After getting some valuable work experience, he enroled for a master’s in finance at a leading university in Northern Ireland. Today, he works as a Debt Finance Specialist in London.
Hardik Shah completed his undergraduate and graduate degrees in India before enroling in an MSc programme in Industrial Pharmaceuticals, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration in Northern Ireland. Today, he works in a leading laboratory in Northern Ireland.
Countless other Indian students like Saurabh and Hardik have studied in Northern Ireland and pursued meaningful careers in their chosen fields.
Northern Ireland has numerous important industries, such as aerospace, cybersecurity, precision medicine and more. Moreover, the region’s economy is robust, with an unemployment rate of just 2.1 percent.
Northern Ireland offers Indian students the option to study a subject they love and then work in the country in their chosen field.
However, there’s more to studying in Northern Ireland than work and study.
VISA APPLICATION PROCESS
To apply for a student visa, students must be at least 16 years old. They need to apply to a university, receive an unconditional offer, and obtain a Certificate of Acceptance (CAS) for GBP 25. The visa process includes a GBP 490 application fee and requires a valid passport.
AGRE REQUIREMENTS AND HEALTHCARE
For students aged 16 or 17, proof of parental consent is necessary. A healthcare surcharge, GBP 470 per year, is mandatory, granting access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) as part of the visa application.
COMMUTING OPTIONS
Commuting in Northern Ireland and the UK is convenient through public transport. Low-cost airlines are popular, with some fares as low as GBP .01 for a one-way trip (excluding taxes and charges). Buses are widely used, but car travel is costly, with an estimated monthly transport cost of approximately GBP 88.
Northern Ireland is a great place to study for Indian students. The region not only has many globally renowned universities but also has a very robust economy and cutting-edge industries. Furthermore, the country is alive and vibrant with music and exciting nightlife and has a rich cultural history. Also, the region is safe, affordable, and well-connected.
Students who are interested in studying in Northern Ireland should start applying soon. Doing so will open brand-new opportunities for professional and personal growth.