UK vs France: Where to Study?

Study in UK vs France?

The UK is well known for having a top-notch educational system that helps overseas students advance in their professions. Top institutions like Oxford University and the University of Cambridge are located in the UK which provide the best Masters in the UK, which continues to be the top choice for students looking to study abroad.

While France has also become a well-liked study-abroad location. France provides excellent education and a wonderful multicultural learning environment. Are you having trouble deciding which option is best for you? Let's evaluate all you need to know about the UK vs France game.

Perks of Studying in the UK

The United Kingdom is a top choice for foreign study because of its top-notch universities, diversity, and energetic student cities. The benefits of attending school in the UK are as follows:

1. Top-notch Education

The UK is a great place for international students to study since it successfully integrates a centuries-old educational system with contemporary teaching techniques. Their academic staff is knowledgeable and skilled. Universities in the UK utilise innovative and creative teaching methods to interact with their students.

2. Institutions having International Accreditation

Some of the most renowned universities in the world, such as Oxford University, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, and others, are found in the United Kingdom. Eight of the top 50 institutions in the world, along with 26 of the top 200, are located in the UK. International students from all over the world who are dedicated to acquiring a top-notch education go to these renowned universities in droves.

3. Full Support for Foreign Students

Each university has a section that deals specifically with serving and assisting international students and responding to questions about fees, accommodations, and academic support. A helpful website for foreign students with information for mental health support, accommodation, employment, and immigration is provided by the UK Council for International Student Affairs, which acts as an advisory body for international students.

4. Lucrative Career Possibilities

Along with your education, you can take a part-time job or do an internship to gain valuable skills that you can emphasise on your CV. When you have finished your education, universities in the UK can help you find employment. You may now stay in the UK for two years after completing your studies thanks to the New Graduate Route Visa.

5. Flexible Course Length

If you decide to study in the UK, you may feel secure knowing that the courses are brief and adaptable, enabling you to complete your coursework fast without compromising your academic advancement. In the UK educational system, students are instructed to think in novel ways and to be more pragmatic in their academic pursuits. The flexible nature of the UK educational system is well recognised, allowing students to create their own curricula depending on their interests.

Perks of Studying in France

One of the most welcoming and accommodating countries for students is France. As a result, interest in learning more about French student life is stimulated. The following are the main advantages of studying France: 

1. There's a lot to learn

A foreign student first spends a significant amount of time visiting the nation. Many French cities and towns, including Paris, Milan, Lyon, and Brest, are among the most desirable places in the world to live. While studying here and experiencing the student lifestyle in France, they have a lot of opportunities to check items off their bucket list.

While you're here studying, take some time to see the 42 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the ancient and medieval cities, the Mediterranean seas, theatres, opulent clothing stores, museums of classical art, and iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower. Without a doubt, visiting France is a fresh experience that will excite and challenge you.

2. Learning a New Language

Because it enables you to live in a strange country, learning French is the most crucial component of student life in France. This is because learning French is a need for success in France, where it is the official language and is spoken by almost 300 million people globally. If you think that learning English will allow you to live in France, you are mistaken since not all French people can speak English. Start treating your French courses seriously as a consequence.

3. Making New Connections

You will meet new individuals and a lot of foreign students from all over the world while studying in France. You'll have the opportunity to converse with individuals from a variety of ethnicities and cultural backgrounds who are multicultural, open-minded, proud of their heritage, and constantly optimistic about the future.

4. Understanding the Educational System

Being familiar with the French educational system is the most important aspect of student life in France. The country's academic year starts in mid-September and lasts through the end of June throughout the progressive year. The French university system distinguishes itself via a concentration on high-quality education delivery, a variety of training, and an engaging learning atmosphere.

Top Colleges in UK

Did you know that some of the oldest universities in the world are found in the UK? Universities with a long history include the Universities of Oxford, Glasgow, and Edinburgh. Here are some of the best colleges in the UK for you:

Top UK-based colleges:

• University of Oxford
• University of Cambridge
• Imperial College London
• University College London
• University of Edinburgh
• The University of Manchester
• King’s College London
• London School of Economics and Political Science
• University of Bristol
• The University of Warwick

1. University of Oxford

The THE(Times Higher Education) World University Rankings continuously place this collegiate research university first for the years 2018, 2019, and 2020. Approximately 24,000 students are now enrolled at the institution, and 11,000 of them are undergraduate students. The remaining students are spread among a variety of postgraduate programs in various academic fields. In terms of curriculum, Oxford alone offers 350 different degree programs. Read our blog on how to acquire admission to Oxford University from India if you're a student from India and wish to enroll in a degree program at the prestigious school.

2. University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge, which was founded in 1209, is one of the most prestigious and regarded academic institutions in the world. If you want to study in the UK at Cambridge, you will be challenged to go beyond your comfort zone and inspired to investigate various research possibilities in your subject of interest. The university provides access to a wide range of employment prospects thanks to its 31 colleges, which offer a number of degree and short-term courses. More than 100 academic departments from six colleges make up the institution, which offers well-known academic degrees including the BBA, MBA, BTech, and MS, among others.

3. Imperial College London

Imperial College London is another name on the list of top universities in the UK. This institution has over 17,000 students and is renowned for its conducive atmosphere for research. The college provides three different types of doctoral programmes, including PhD, Integrated PhD, and Professional Doctorates, in addition to the master's degree. Some of the well-known courses provided by this college are MSc Mechanical Engineering, MRes Advanced Molecular Synthesis, MSc Human and Biological Robotics, MD(Res) Clinical Medicine Research, etc.

4. University of East Anglia

Indian students might consider attending the University of East Anglia, which was founded in 1963 and is located in Norwich, a City of Literature designated by UNESCO. It has earned the 21st spot in the UK's 2020 Complete University Guide and the 192nd spot in THE World University Rankings' 2020 list of the best universities. Every student may find the ideal course at UEA, which offers exceptional undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctorate programmes as well as brief diploma courses. It has 4 faculties, which are further broken down into 26 schools according to expertise. The entirety of the facilities a candidate would need is housed on the 320-acre university campus. If you want to study at UEA, you should be aware that some of the most well-known novelists include Kazuo Ishiguro and Ian McEwan.

5. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

The London School of Economics and Political Science is a public research institution that was first established in 1895 and is located in Houghton. Beatrice Webb, Graham Wallas, George Bernard Shaw, and Sidney Webb, who were all members of the Fabian Society, are just a few of the well-known people that contributed to the growth of this university. LSE provides a wide range of executive, short-term, and certificate courses in addition to its undergraduate and graduate programs. The institution offers a variety of degree programs, including a BSc in Actuarial Science, a BSc in Economic History, MSc in Economy, Risk, and Society, an MSc in Data Science, an Executive MSc in Cities, etc.

6. University of Bath

The University of Bath is one of the best universities in the nation. It is frequently listed as one of the best institutions in the UK. UOB operates as a single-site school and provides a distinctive view of a varied student body. 38 buildings make up the institution, which serves the academic needs of students from all over the world. It is renowned across the world for the top-notch programs and academic resources provided by its elite professors. Another aspect of this reputable university that attracts candidates from outside is its infrastructure.

Top Colleges in France

More than 3,500 public and private higher education institutions may be found in France. These consist of:

• Universities - these publicly-funded schools offer courses in all disciplines, from science and sport to humanities and medicine, serving close to 75% of the 250,000 international students in the nation.
• Specialist institutions, such as engineering, architecture, business and management, and fine and applied arts colleges.
• Grandes Écoles are renowned schools that cultivate the abilities of only the best students. They are often smaller than universities. They are extremely exclusive, typically only accepting students who have successfully completed a two-year preparatory program and an admission exam.
• The QS World University Rankings 2022 include 30 schools from France, with four of them ranking in the top 100. The top three schools are Université Paris Sciences et Lettres (Université PSL), Ecole Polytechnique, and Sorbonne University, with Université Paris-Saclay coming in at number 72 (86th).
• France's business schools are likewise highly successful. In the MBA Business School Rankings 2022, INSEAD, which includes campuses in France and Singapore, is now ranked joint third, while HEC Paris is ranked joint eleventh.

1. International School of Management Paris

ISM instructors, students, and alumni from all around the world come together to promote networking, information exchange, and degrees ranging from MBAs to doctorates.

2. NEOMA Business School

NEOMA Business is ranked 43rd globally and 10th in France in the 2019 Financial Times Masters in Management ranking. It has earned worldwide triple accreditation from EQUIS, AACSB, and AMBA.

Best Programs in France

Popular programs in UK

Did you know that institutions in the UK provide overseas students with the freedom to mix courses and specializations across many fields of study

• Business Studies
• Accounting and Finance
• Economics
• Law
• Art & Design
• Computer Science
• Mechanical Engineering
• Biological Sciences
• Electrical Engineering
• Politics 

Popular courses in France 

The greatest learning experiences are what French institutions strive to provide for their students. They are well aware of these areas and make sure to educate kids more than just the fundamentals of education. Take a look at the well-known courses provided by universities in France if you're interested in studying there.

• Medicine
• Pharmacology
• Psychology
• International Business Administration
• Finance
• International Finance
• International Economics
• Communication Technology
• Information Technology
• Geography
• Art History
• International and Comparative Politics
• Sociology
• Literary Studies
• Film Studies
• Global Communications
• Creative Arts
• Linguistics
• French Studies
• European and Mediterranean Cultures

UK vs France: Qualifications

UK eligibility requirements

• Completion of undergraduate or graduate courses with a grade point average of 65% to 70%.
• A replica of a current passport
• Results of English language examinations including the TOEFL, IELTS, C1 Advanced, and Duolingo. Students who satisfy the requirements may be excluded from this requirement at some universities.
• GMAT, GRE, or any other masters program admission test
• A transcript of grades
• Recommendation letter (LOR)
• Portfolio (for certain courses) (for specific courses)
• A resume/CV (if applicable)
• Purpose Statement (SOP)

France eligibility criteria

• Each course will require a Standard XII academic record of at least 70% or higher. Students may enroll in foundational and diploma programs if their grade point average is 60% or greater. The student must be at least 18 years old to enroll in a degree program.
• Copies of the Standard X, XII, and bachelor's degree mark sheets that have been attested
• A replica of a current passport
• Results of English language examinations including the TOEFL, IELTS, C1 Advanced, and Duolingo. Students who satisfy the requirements may be excluded from this requirement at some universities.
• GMAT, GRE, or any other masters program admission test
• A transcript of grades
• Recommendation letter (LOR)
• Portfolio (for certain courses) (for specific courses)
• A resume/CV (if applicable)
• Purpose Statement (SOP)
• Medical Insurance
• Evidence of Funds
• Additional awards certificates, if any

Costs Related to Study

Fees in french colleges

The average yearly tuition costs at public universities in 2022 for residents of the EU, EEA (European Economic Area) nations, plus Andorra and Switzerland, were:

• Bachelor's/license degrees cost €170 (£145).
• Masters degrees cost €260 (£221)
• For PhDs, €396 (£337) is required.

Different registration costs apply to students from the UK and other non-EU countries. When non-EU students seek to study for their first bachelor's or master's degree, the state has furthermore committed to cover two-thirds of the tuition fees.

The most you might be charged for registration in 2022 is:

• Bachelor's degrees cost €2,770 (£2,360) a year, while mastering degrees cost €3,770 (£2,963) annually.

Fees in UK colleges

The cost of attending school in the UK also includes housing, a visa, daily costs, transportation, and other fees. Details on the costs associated with studying in the UK are provided below:

• UG : 8000-9000(INR 7,10,000 INR-8,00,000) – up to 30000 (27,00,000 INR)
• PG: 12000-15000 (INR 10,70,000 INR-13,00,000) – up to 35000 (31,00,000 INR).

There would be a slight premium over other nations for programs like MBBS, clinical degrees, and several engineering areas. However, students can get a scholarship in the UK if they are eligible.

Since you are exempt from the new differential tuition rates at the doctoral level, the French government will cover the majority of your expenditures. Consequently, this is fixed at €380 (£324) per year for 2022–2023.

Higher tuition rates are charged at private universities, Grandes Écoles, and for courses in particular areas. For example, the average annual tuition rate for engineering students at public institutions is around €601 (£512). For precise costs, get in touch with the Grandes Écoles directly as they often determine their own rates.

Additionally, business and MBA students must pay substantially greater tuition. For instance, the cost of the HEC Paris MBA is €78,000 (£66,447) for the September 2022 intake and €80,000 (£68,318) for the January 2023 intake.

How to Apply: Step by Step Guide

Before beginning the application process, international students applying to UK institutions must read and abide by the following research-based instructions:

Step 1: Narrow Your List of Schools and Courses

Based on your academic choices and profile, you must first narrow down the institutions and courses you are interested in applying to. Students can use AI-Course Finder to reduce their options for majors and universities, make a list of the schools where they stand the highest chance of getting accepted, and set up application deadlines.

Step 2: Be aware of your deadlines

Knowing the exact application deadlines for the UK universities and institutes you plan to apply to is the next step. For international students, the application process must be finished well in advance (one year to 6 months before the actual deadline). This ensures that students can fulfil all college criteria, including those for housing, money, SOP, reference letters, and English proficiency tests.

Step 3: Take Admission Exams

The third stage of the admissions process for UK colleges requires candidates to take exams including the IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, GRE, GMAT, LNAT, BMAT, and MAT (in some courses). Students can submit their SAT or ACT exam results to some universities.

Step 4: Gather Your Documents

The fourth step is to compile all the papers and test results required for the application process. To do this, students should start composing their SOPs, asking their professors and supervisors for letters of recommendation, and organizing their financial accounts with other records like exam results. For the COVID-19 pandemic, students must collect their immunization records, and they must specify the administered vaccine on the application.

Step 5: Begin Developing Your Application

Once they have all the necessary documentation, students can start the application process either directly or through UCAS. By going to the institution's website, students may start the application process for UK universities that accept direct applications. They need to decide on the courses they want to take, complete their online applications, and pay the application fees.

Popular Intakes: France vs UK

Major UK intakes

The three types of most prevalent intakes in the UK are primary, secondary, and the least intake. Students are often confused between Fall or Spring intake. Let's have a look at them to find out when they begin and the deadlines for applications.

Major France intakes

The month of September is when most students enrol at French institutions. As a result, due dates for various courses and universities would span from February to May. In March, certain colleges also accept applications. The deadlines for this intake would be between November through January.

Post-Study Job Opportunities

The abundance of work chances you'll find after graduation is one of the main benefits of studying abroad. The UK has a high record number of hiring agencies at around 27,700. Top businesses in the UK frequently look for students seeking higher education there. Finding accommodation in the UK with the help of alumni is easy. With these renowned recruiters, entry-level positions can pay anything from 80,000 and 300,000 GBP per year.

France trails only Germany in terms of national income, affordability, and employment when compared to other European nations. Numerous Fortune 500 companies with locations around the nation provide qualified candidates with a wide variety of high-quality positions.

Employment Options in the UK

The following is a list of some of the top UK recruiters who provide high-paying employment to overseas students.

Employment Options in the france

France's key industries include aerospace, automobiles, pharmaceuticals, industrial machinery, electronics, banking, food and beverage, and tourism. The following are a few of the biggest businesses with headquarters in France:

Conclusion

A degree from a reputable French institution has the same weight in terms of potential future employment as a degree from a British university of comparable caliber, and the courses will be taught at a roughly equivalent level. MiM-Essay has a lot of resources to clear your doubts about which country to choose.

Of course, the best solution could be for a student to simply choose their preferred location for the course they are taking. Even while things often work out well, it would be nice to learn about any situations that would make me seem like a more helpful and educated parent.