5 Reasons to Study in the UK

The below information was provided by The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, University of London.

The UK has always been a hugely popular study destination for students from all over the world. Here’s why we think it’s one of the best places to achieve your dreams.

You get to discover a unique country 

Studying in the UK can be a rich experience that will broaden your perspective and give you the chance to explore an exciting array of cultures from all over the world. 

The UK’s four regions of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland offer a mix of buzzing city life, sleepy villages and idyllic countryside. National trains and planes connect you to an abundance of beautiful landscapes, walks and cities to explore.  

Immerse yourself in a world of theatre, food and the arts! 

London is often described as the theatre capital of the world, with audiences flocking to the West End for shows like Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and Matilda the Musical. There are also plenty of intimate studio and off-West End spaces throughout the capital and the UK where you can catch emerging and innovative theatre. It’s not all about performance though - the UK is home to thousands of galleries, restaurants, museums, nightlife venues and pubs, so that wherever you find yourself, you’re never far from a new adventure or inspiration. 

It can be quicker and cheaper 

Undertaking a degree in the UK can be a quicker and cheaper option than many other countries. Most UK bachelor’s courses, including Central’s, take three years, whereas degrees in the USA usually take four. Even with challenges to the UK economy in recent years, living costs and tuition fees remain lower than many other desirable study locations. This means that you could spend less overall while studying in an exciting environment. 

Another bonus is that international students studying full-time undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in the UK are allowed to work up to 20 hours during term-time and full-time during the holidays. The Graduate VISA also allows the opportunity for international students to remain in the UK for two years to work after completing their studies. 

The UK’s global reputation  

Obtaining a degree from a UK drama institution can be seen as invaluable to employers upon entering the industry after your studies. 

Theatres, companies and organisations the world over recognise the UK as a leading figure in culture, technology, education and ideas. Much of the greatest theatre, film and TV is written and produced here and the UK has a rich tradition of notable creatives, performers and storytellers (do we really need to mention Shakespeare?).  

Central’s reputation is known throughout the UK and beyond and our broad range of courses means there is something for just about anyone looking to work in the theatre industry and many of our graduates – including Kit Harrington, Andrew Garfield and Naomi Ackie – are recognised across the globe.   

Friendly Student Support 

Arriving in a new country can be daunting. To help you settle in when you first arrive, most institutions run an orientation programme or ‘welcome week’ so you can get to know your new campus and fellow students. Student Unions usually put together a busy ‘Freshers Week’  of fun activities and gatherings so new students can meet each other. Make sure you look out for international pre-courses to help you adjust to academic study here.  

Additionally, should you face any challenges during your time, there's friendly student support available to offer guidance and help students access further support. At Central, we also offer a Neuro-Inclusion and Disability Service and free counselling for all students.

The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama is a leading UK performing arts institution, based in London. They offer bachelor’s degrees, graduate degrees and short courses across the breadth of the performing and dramatic arts. Find out more at www.cssd.ac.uk