Study in UK from Nepal: A Comprenshive Guide 2025

Studying in the UK is a major aspiration for many Nepali students. The country is home to some of the best universities in the world, offers excellent academic programs and provides strong career prospects. With opportunities for part-time work, post-study visas, and even pathways to permanent residency, the UK is an attractive destination for higher education.

Every year, thousands of Nepali students choose the UK for higher education. But what does it really take to study in UK from Nepal? From visa requirements and tuition fees to part-time job opportunities and PR pathways, this guide will walk you through everything step by step. Plus, we'll share real insights to help you make informed decisions.

Table of Contents

Study in the UK from Nepal: The Ultimate 2025 Guide

1. Why Choose the UK for Higher Studies?
   1. How Does the UK Compare to Other Countries?
2. Intakes to Study in the UK
3. Top Universities to Study in UK from Nepal
4. Requirements to Study in the UK from Nepal
   1. Academic Requirements
   2. English Language Requirements
   3. Financial Proof: How much bank balance is required for UK student visa from Nepal?
   4. UK Student Visa Requirements Checklist
5. Total Cost to Study in the UK from Nepal
   1. Tuition Fees
   2. Living Expenses in the UK
   3. Pre-Visa Costs
   4. Travel Expenses
   5. Accommodation Costs
   6. Miscellaneous Costs
6. UK Student Visa Process for Nepali Students
7. Scholarships for Nepali Students in the UK
8. Part-Time Jobs & Earning Potential for Nepali Students
   1. Common Part-Time Jobs for Students in UK
9. Post-Study Work & PR Opportunities for Nepali Students
   1. Graduate Route Visa
   2. Skilled Worker Visa
   3. Permanent Residency (Indefinite Leave to Remain - ILR)
10. Common Challenges to Study in UK & How to Overcome Them
11. Conclusion
12. FAQs

 

Why Choose the UK for Higher Studies?

The UK has always been a top destination for international students, and Nepali students are no exception. Here’s why:

• World-Class Universities: British institutions like Oxford, Cambridge, and UCL consistently rank among the best globally.
• Globally Recognized Degrees: UK degrees are highly valued worldwide, boosting your career prospects.
• Post-Study Work Visa: After graduation, you can stay and work for two years under the Graduate Route visa.
• Diverse Student Community: The UK has a large Nepali student population, making it easier to adjust.
• Better PR Pathways: Compared to some other countries, the UK offers a simpler pathway to permanent residency (PR).

How Does the UK Compare to Other Countries?

Comparing higher education in the UK with the other top study destinations like Canada, Australia and the USA, the UK stands out for its short visa processing time, reasonable tuition fees compared to the USA and Australia, and a clear PR pathway through the Graduate Route. 

The following table highlights a comparison of the UK, Canada, Australia, and the USA based on tuition fees, visa processing time, work opportunities, and PR pathways.

Basis of Comparison	UK	Canada	Australia	USA
Tuition Fees (per year)	£10,000 - £38,000	CAD 15,000 - CAD 35,000	AUD 20,000 - AUD 45,000	$20,000 - $50,000
Visa Processing Time	3-4 weeks	6-8 weeks	4-8 weeks	3 days to a few weeks
Work Opportunities	20 hours/week during studies, full-time during breaks	20 hours/week during studies	40 hours/fortnight	20 hours/week on-campus during studies, full-time during breaks
PR Pathway	Graduate Route allows work for 2 years, leading to a Skilled Worker Visa, then PR after 5 years of work.	Gain work experience with a PGWP; apply for PR via Express Entry programs like CEC.	Use a Temporary Graduate Visa to gain experience; transition to PR through General Skilled Migration.	No direct PR pathway; may transition to PR through employment-based visas (e.g., H-1B) or family sponsorship.

These comparison should help you understand the best fit for you. You can also consult with a professional education partner to find out your ideal study destination and prepare for your education.

Intakes to Study in the UK

UK colleges and universities have two main intakes. Some collegs even offer a summer intake for international students.

Intakes	Duration
Autumn/Fall intake	September to December
Spring intake	January to April
Summer intake	April to June

 

Top Universities to Study in UK from Nepal

Rank in UK	University	Location
1	University of Oxford	Oxford, England
2	University of Cambridge	Cambridge, England
3	Imperial College London	London, England
4	University College London (UCL)	London, England
5	University of Edinburgh	Edinburgh, Scotland
6	King’s College London	London, England
7	London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)	London, England
8	University of Manchester	Manchester, England
9	University of Bristol	Bristol, England
10	University of Glasgow	Glasgow, Scotland

 

Requirements to Study in the UK from Nepal

Academic Requirements

Higher Education in UK	Academic Eligibility Criteria
Bachelor’s Degrees	High school / +2 / A-levels with a minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0 in a scale of 4
Master’s Degrees	Recognized undergraduate degree in relevant field with a minimum second-class division

 

English Language Requirements

To study in the UK, you need to present your English language proficiency through standardised test scores like IELTS academic, PTE or TOEFL. Most UK universities accept:

• IELTS: 6.0 – 7.0 (overall score)
• TOEFL: 80 – 100 (iBT score)
• PTE: 58 – 67

Financial Proof: How much bank balance is required for UK student visa from Nepal?

You must show enough funds to cover at least 9 months of tuition fees and living expenses in the UK. Your tuition fees depend on your chosen program and university. Your living expenses can vary based on your lifestyle too. However, the UK government suggests budgeting a minimum bank balance of:

• £1,023 per month if you are planning to reside outside London
• £1,334 per month to study and live in London

UK Student Visa Requirements Checklist      

• CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) from a UK university
• Proof of finances (bank statements showing required funds for 28 days).
• Valid passport
• Academic documents (certificates, transcripts)
• Health insurance (IHS fee of £470 per year).
• Tuberculosis (TB) Test Results (mandatory for students from Nepal)
• English Language Proficiency Proof like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE or equivalent scores (if required by the university/visa)
• Visa Application Fee Payment (£490)
• Passport-Sized Photographs
• Proof of Accommodation 

 

Total Cost to Study in the UK from Nepal

1. Tuition Fees

Programs in UK	Average Tuition Costs
Bachelor's	£10,000 - £25,000 per year
Master's	£12,000 - £30,000 per year
Doctoral degree	£15,000 to £24,000 per year

2. Living Expenses in the UK

Location	Monthly Cost
London	£1,200 - £1,500
Other Cities	£800 - £1,200

3. Pre-Visa Costs

Pre-Visa Expenses	Cost	Description
Admission Fee Deposit	£5,000 - £10,000	Deposit required by universities to secure admission.
Documentation Fees	~£300	Costs for notarizing, SOP writing, etc.
Student Visa Application	£490	Application fee for the UK student visa.

4. Travel Expenses

Expense	Cost	Description
Flight Tickets (One-Way)	£500 - £1,000	Cost of airfare from Nepal to the UK.
Airport Transfers	£50 - £100	Transportation from the airport to accommodation.

5. Accommodation Costs

Housing Options	Costs per month	Description
University Dorms	£400 - £800	On-campus housing is often cheaper and more convenient.
Private Rentals	£700 - £1,200	Flats or shared housing offer more independence but higher costs.
Rental Deposit	One month's rent	A security deposit is typically required for private rentals.

 

6. Miscellaneous Costs

Additional Expenses	Costs
Mobile & Internet	£20 - £50 per month
Transportation	£50 - £100 per month
Leisure & Entertainment	£10 - £20 per month
Health Insurance (IHS)	£470 per year
Books & Study Materials	£200 - £500 per year

Tip: Consider part-time jobs, scholarships, and student discounts to manage expenses better.

Learn More About Cost to Study in UK from Nepal in detail.

UK Student Visa Process for Nepali Students

Here’s a Step-by-Step Guide for your UK Student visa application:

1. Get accepted into a UK university.
2. Receive your CAS letter.
3. Arrange your bank balance & financial documents.
4. Apply for a UK Student Visa (Tier 4) online.
5. Pay the visa fee (£490) & health surcharge (£470 per year).
6. Attend your visa interview.
7. Wait for the visa decision, which typically takes 3-4 weeks.

Scholarships for Nepali Students in the UK

Studying in the UK can be expensive, but there are multiple scholarships available to help Nepali students reduce their financial burden. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both, depending on the program. If you have an excellent academic record, strong leadership skills, or financial need, you can apply for various scholarships provided by the UK government, universities, and private organizations. Here are some top scholarships in the UK that Nepali students can apply for:

Scholarship	Coverage	Eligibility	Benefits
Chevening Scholarship	Full tuition, living expenses, travel costs, and more	Nepali students with leadership potential and strong academic backgrounds	Covers all major expenses, allowing students to focus entirely on their studies
Commonwealth Scholarship	Full tuition and travel expenses	Nepali students with exceptional academic records and financial need; supports master's/PhD programs	Provides financial relief for students from developing countries, enabling access to top education
GREAT Scholarships	£10,000 towards tuition fees	Nepali students pursuing postgraduate studies in specific UK universities; must meet academic/English requirements	Significantly reduces tuition costs, making postgraduate education more affordable
Gates Cambridge Scholarship	Full tuition, living expenses, travel costs, and additional academic development funding	Open to international students (including Nepali), applying for full-time postgraduate degrees at the University of Cambridge	Comprehensive funding, covering maintenance, visa, and even family allowance (if applicable)
Rhodes Scholarship	Full tuition, living expenses, and travel expenses	Exceptional students worldwide, including Nepal, applying for postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford	Covers all major expenses and connects scholars to a prestigious alumni network

 

Tip: Many scholarships require an essay, personal statement, or interview. Take time to craft a compelling application that highlights your academic achievements, leadership skills, and future goals. Contact Counselors at KTM Alliance for complete guidance on choosing and applying for scholarships.

Part-Time Jobs & Earning Potential for Nepali Students

Working part-time while studying in the UK can help you manage your expenses and gain valuable work experience. The UK allows international students to work under specific conditions:

• 20 hours per week during the academic term
• Full-time during vacations.

 

Common Part-Time Jobs for Students in UK 

Part-Time Jobs	Job Options	Average Pay
Retail	Working as a cashier, sales assistant, or stock organizer in supermarkets or stores.	£10 - £12 per hour
Hospitality	Jobs in restaurants, cafes, and hotels, including waiting tables or working at the front desk.	£10 - £13 per hour
Tutoring	Teaching younger students or fellow classmates in subjects like mathematics, science, or English.	£12 - £15 per hour
Customer Service	Call centre or reception jobs that involve handling inquiries and assisting customers.	£10 - £14 per hour

 

Tip: Find part-time jobs near your university to save time and transportation costs. Some universities also offer on-campus jobs, which are convenient and flexible for students.

Post-Study Work & PR Opportunities for Nepali Students

One of the biggest advantages of studying in the UK is the opportunity to stay in the country and work after graduation. Here’s how you can extend your stay and eventually apply for permanent residency (PR):

1. Graduate Route Visa

This visa allows international students to stay and work in the UK for up to two years after completing their degree (three years for PhD graduates). It provides an opportunity to gain experience and apply for a more permanent work visa.

2. Skilled Worker Visa

If you secure a job with a UK employer who is a licensed sponsor, you can switch to this visa. This visa is valid for up to five years and is a key step toward getting PR.

3. Permanent Residency (Indefinite Leave to Remain - ILR)

After working in the UK for five years on a Skilled Worker Visa, you may be eligible to apply for ILR, which is the UK’s version of PR. ILR allows you to stay in the UK without immigration restrictions and eventually apply for British citizenship.

Tip: Start looking for job opportunities early. Internships, networking, and work experience during your studies can improve your chances of securing a job sponsorship for the Skilled Worker Visa.

 

Common Challenges to Study in UK & How to Overcome Them

Studying in the UK from Nepal is an exciting journey, but it also comes with challenges. Here are some common struggles Nepali students face in the UK and practical ways to overcome them:

1. Culture Shock & Homesickness

Moving to a new country can be overwhelming, especially when adapting to a different culture, food, and lifestyle. The best way to overcome homesickness is to connect with the Nepali student community in your university or city. Many UK universities have Nepali student associations that organize cultural events and gatherings to help students feel at home.

Tip: Stay in touch with your family through video calls and join social clubs to make new friends from different backgrounds.

2. Managing Finances as an International Student

The cost of living in the UK is high, especially in cities like London. To manage expenses effectively:

• Create a budget that includes rent, food, transportation, and other essentials.
• Look for student discounts on public transport, shopping, and entertainment.
• Take up a part-time job to support your expenses.

Tip: Many public rides, supermarkets and restaurants offer discounts to students. Always carry your student ID to take advantage of these offers.

3. Finding Accommodation & Student Housing

Finding a suitable place to live can be challenging, especially if you are new to the UK. These are your best housing options:

• University Dormitories: Convenient and offer a great way to meet fellow students.
• Private Rentals: Shared apartments or student housing are popular choices but require careful budgeting.
• Homestays: Living with a host family can provide a more personal experience and reduce initial culture shock.

Tip: If you’re renting a private flat, always check the contract carefully and avoid scams by dealing with trusted rental agencies.

By preparing for these challenges in advance, Nepali students can have a smoother transition and make the most of their experience studying in the UK.

Conclusion 

The UK offers excellent education, work opportunities, and clear pathways to PR, making it a top choice for Nepali students. It’s the dream destination for ambitious Nepali students looking to secure a future filled with success and growth.

At KTM Alliance, we specialize in making this dream a reality. With years of expertise, we’ve guided countless students like you through every step, helping them choose the perfect university, secure scholarships, and map the visa process smoothly. We’re more than a consultancy; we’re your partner in shaping your future.

If you’re planning to study in the UK from Nepal, now is the right time! Contact Us Today for FREE Expert Counselling and start your journey to the UK with confidence. Your dreams deserve the best guidance; Trust KTM Alliance to pilot your way! 

FAQs

How much GPA is required to study in the UK from Nepal?
To study in the UK, Nepali students need a minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0 for undergraduate programs and second-class division for master’s programs.

How much does it cost to study in the UK from Nepal?
The costs to study in the UK from Nepal can be totalled to about £25,890 to £54,790, including a year of tuition and living costs, admission and visa application costs, as well as one-way flight costs.  

Can I study in the UK without a bank balance?
No, you must show proof of funds covering tuition and living costs for at least 9 months.

Can Nepali students get PR in the UK?
Yes, Nepali students can achieve PR in the UK. The journey begins with securing a Student Visa for your education, followed by progressing to work opportunities through post-study work or skilled employment visas. Once you've met the required residence period and eligibility criteria, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which is equivalent to PR. This process allows you to settle in the UK and build a long-term future.

How to go to the UK from Nepal for studies?
To study in the UK from Nepal, apply to a UK university, secure your CAS letter, prepare financial documents, and take a TB test. Apply for a UK Student Visa, pay the necessary fees, and attend a biometric appointment. Once approved, arrange travel and accommodation, and complete formalities like collecting your Biometric Residence Permit upon arrival.

To understand the procedure to study in UK from Nepal in detail, Contact Expert Counsellors in KTM Alliance.

 

Also Read

Cost to Study in UK from Nepal 
Study in USA from Nepal 2024: A Comprehensive Guide 
Study in Australia from Nepal: A Complete 2025 Guide