Studying in London: worth the expense?

Anne Lobjoie; Mar 26, 2009

Why are students keen to study in the UK? And why are they willing to pay big money in order to do so?

The UK, and London, more specifically, has always been an appealing centre for many students across the world.

According to the UK Council for Student Affairs, 15 per cent of the student population for Higher Education in 2008 was of non-UK origin.

One might say it’s because this city is exciting and culturally diverse, others might argue that its Universities are amongst the best in the world.

Many students from EU countries come here to study and strengthen their English, even though they would pay next to nothing, if they studied in their native countries.

This is led by their belief that English is the market language.

Others come from both developed and developing countries, to acquire the necessary tools and an internationally recognised diploma. It’s a way for them to expand their opportunities.

Speaking from personal experience, the education system in London seems more practical than other European countries, including my own country, France.

Hence, when stepping into the employment market, the transition from school to work would be rather smooth.

London, an international platform

London is without the slightest doubt an international platform.

It assists one in interacting with all types of cultures, thus having a positive effect on their personality development, a tool that is important in all careers.

For all the above mentioned reasons, and many more, London is, and one can argue, will stay, one of the most attractive destinations for students.

Currently, University Vice-Chancellors accross the UK are fighting to increase tuition fees for international students as a way to curb the recession. However, the debate remains a hot area of discussion at the House of Commons.

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Some MPs argue that it is indeed a way to maintain their world class level in education.

Others feel it will discourage students from pursuing higher studies, as it will plunge them into debt from an early stage in their lives.

Marilyn Feghali, a 24-year-old student from Syria confesses, “Having to pay over ten thousand pounds is already a burden, especially as loans are not easy to acquire in the UK. If they increase the tuition fees next year, then I would probably reconsider studying in the UK."

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