5 reasons why international students love studying abroad in England

The UK is one of the most popular study destinations for international students – and England tops the national leaderboard. Home to 8 of the UK’s top 10 student cities (QS Best Student Cities 2027), English universities offer globally recognized degrees, academic excellence and a student experience like no other.

But why do so many international students choose to study abroad in England? We spoke to students and alumni from our International Study Centers across the country to find out.

1. English universities offer a world-class education.
2. Career development and global opportunities.
3. English culture – from exciting cities to friendly locals.
4. The supportive university experience in England.
5. Diverse and multicultural cities and campuses.

1. English universities offer a world-class education

Duuamene, Nigeria

Universities in England are known for their quality of education. 20 of the world’s top 150 universities are located here (QS World University Rankings 2027).

Duuamene from Nigeria started his study abroad journey at UEA International Study Center: “the exceptional teachers are so invested in helping you succeed, and are very supportive of your dreams and aspirations.

Following his success at the University of East Anglia (UEA), he received the opportunity of a lifetime: “after completing my degrees, I was awarded a PhD scholarship at the University of Cambridge.”

If you need support with your studies, universities in England will help you succeed. “I received lots of academic support” says Laam from Hong Kong, who studied at the University of Exeter. “The tutors were professional and very patient – they even spent extra time with students if they were struggling.”

Eaint, from Myanmar, gave a shout out to the staff at INTO Manchester, who helped her secure a place at one of UK’s top universities. “My teachers were exceptionally amazing”, she says. “They helped me achieve the highest mark in my Accounting and Finance module.”

2. Career development and global opportunities

Owen, Indonesia

English universities are respected around the world. Many offer internships and employability opportunities as part of your degree, so you’ll be ready to achieve your career goals when you graduate.

When he moved to England from Indonesia to study at The University of Manchester, Owen wasn’t sure what career would suit him best. “Like a lot of high school students, I didn’t know what career I wanted – but studying at Manchester exposed me to companies in the finance industry.” Now, with the university’s support, he’s got a job as a Technology Analyst at the Bank of America. “Their emphasis on career prospects after graduating was clear.”

Dellavinta, also from Indonesia, studied at Newcastle University before landing a position in Field Marketing at Salesforce. “I am where I am because of Newcastle University. They significantly built my confidence, and now I’m able to demonstrate my knowledge throughout my career.”

3. English culture – from exciting cities to friendly locals 

Enzo, Philippines

England has a rich culture and history, with plenty to discover beyond the classroom. Eshet moved from Singapore to Lancaster University – a prestigious university close to the Lake District National Park. “Lancaster has that small-town feeling. I love the fact that it’s in the countryside, with lots of greenery. And the people are so friendly!”, she says.

The University of Exeter, on England’s beautiful south coast, is another top choice for international students. Enzo from the Philippines loves discovering the local area: “for me, the best part of Exeter is the scenery. Almost everywhere you go, you’ll see fresh green spaces. Compared to universities in big cities, Exeter is very calm and relaxing.”

But England’s big cities offer a great student experience too. Abdalrhman moved to London from Syria, and now studies at City St George’s, University of London: “living in one of the world’s best cities means there are so many exciting things to do. From the Thames to lush parks and vibrant restaurants, there’s always something new to explore.”

4. The supportive university experience in England

Anastasiia, Russia

If you want to feel supported throughout your study abroad journey, English universities put students’ welfare first.

“My experience was great!” says Anastasiia from Russia – another City St George’s, University of London graduate. “There was a friendly, supportive and accepting atmosphere where everyone did their best to help you understand.” And it worked! “I graduated with one of the best results in my course”, she says.

Rowena, from Mozambique, studied at INTO London – where you can start your pathway program before you decide on a university. “INTO London supported me from day one, making sure I understood the entry criteria for each university I was considering.” She also learnt valuable skills that are helping her succeed in her Doctor of Medicine studies: “they taught me time management, discipline and academic resilience – all of which play a major role in my university life.”

And if you live on campus, you’ll receive just as much support in your university accommodation. Dristi, a University of Exeter graduate from India, says: “living in halls of residence was the best decision. It was nice to live in a community with everyone right next to you. It felt safe and secure.”

5. Diverse and multicultural cities and campuses

Clara, Brazil

The UK is a culturally diverse nation, with English universities welcoming thousands of international students every year. 9 of the top 10 UK universities with the most international students are in England (HESA 2026 data).

City-based campuses, like Newcastle University, put you right in the heart of England’s multicultural communities. “Every time I go for a walk in Newcastle, it feels like a city full of different people, culture and diversity” says Gonzalo, who is originally from Peru.

For Clara from Brazil, studying in an international environment has opened doors in her professional life: “INTO London helped me become more open to meet new people from different cultures, helping my network increase.” Now, she’s working in another new country – Italy – as a Junior Project Manager at Expandi in Milan.

How to study abroad in England 

A pathway program is a great way to prepare for UK university life, adjust to completing assessments in English and gain entry to your degree. You can start at an International Study Center, where thousands of international students achieve their study abroad dreams each year.

An international pathway program will help you:

• secure your place at a top UK university
• feel supported as you begin your study abroad journey
• improve your English language, research and study skills
• experience university-style teaching, so you can start your degree with confidence.

“My pathway program gave me a full year to get ready for university. It helps you prepare for the skills and knowledge you need” says Zona, from Taiwan – an Operations Manager at Morgan Stanley. “I would have struggled a lot if I didn’t complete my International Foundation pathway at INTO Manchester in partnership with The University of Manchester.”

Marco, from Hong Kong, studied his pathway program at UEA International Study Center. “It was the best support I’ve ever had”, he says. “I could see myself going from strength to strength as I completed my pathway program.”

Find out more about studying a pathway program in England at one of our International Study Centers by visiting the links below:

• City St George’s, University of London
• University of Exeter
• INTO London (leading to a choice of UK universities)
• INTO Manchester (leading to a choice of UK universities)
• Lancaster University
• The University of Manchester
• Newcastle University
• University of East Anglia (UEA)

You might also want to read ‘8 tips for choosing the right UK university’. 

Join our online communities on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.