Cities To Study in UK for Indian Students

When planning to study in UK, the university is important, but so is the city you’ll be living in. For Indian students and others coming from abroad, the overall environment — including affordability, cultural experience, access to part-time jobs, student support, and safety — all play a critical role. Fortunately, the UK offers a wide range of cities that cater well to international students.

According to the QS Best Student Cities 2025 rankings, several UK cities are among the top global destinations for higher education. Let’s explore the top-ranked cities and what makes them ideal for those who want to study in UK for Indian students, especially those planning to go after 12th, without IELTS, or with scholarships.

1. London

QS Global Rank: #1

London continues to hold the top spot globally as the best student city. With over 18 internationally recognised universities and a multicultural population, it’s a dream destination for students who wish to study in UK universities.

• Why study in UK in London? It combines world-class academics with top-tier networking and career opportunities.
  
• Offers options to study in UK without IELTS for students meeting certain academic or MOI requirements.
  
• Highly competitive scholarships for Indian students to study in UK, such as the GREAT and Commonwealth awards.
  
• The total cost to study in UK from India in London is higher than other cities, but the return on investment is strong.
  
• Top institutions: University College London, Imperial College London, King’s College London.
  

2. Edinburgh

QS Global Rank: #10

Edinburgh is known for its historical charm, academic legacy, and relatively lower cost of living than London. The University of Edinburgh is one of the oldest and most prestigious in the UK.

• Popular among those who wish to study in UK for Indian students after 12th due to its undergraduate program variety.
  
• Known for strong humanities, law, and science courses.
  
• Universities often provide flexible admission paths and scholarship to study in UK for international students.
  
• Safe, culturally rich, and ideal for focused academic growth.
  

3. Manchester

QS Global Rank: #28

A hub of innovation and music, Manchester combines affordability with academic strength. The city attracts thousands of Indian and other international students each year.

• The University of Manchester is a global leader in engineering and data sciences, one of the best courses to study in UK.
  
• Offers multiple scholarships to study in UK, and several courses accept MOI letters as a replacement for IELTS.
  
• Ideal for students looking to study in UK from India in a city that blends modern lifestyle with strong academic support.
  

4. Glasgow

QS Global Rank: #35

Glasgow is rapidly gaining popularity among students who want to study in UK for international students. It’s known for affordability, modern infrastructure, and quality education.

• The University of Glasgow and University of Strathclyde are leading institutions.
  
• Courses in engineering, finance, and social sciences are popular among Indian students.
  
• Many programs allow students to study in UK without IELTS based on English-medium schooling in India.
  
• A top option for those looking to lower their total cost to study in UK from India.
  

5. Birmingham

QS Global Rank: #44

Birmingham, the UK’s second-largest city, offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate options with extensive student services.

• A major destination to study in UK after 12th, especially in commerce, life sciences, and law.
  
• University of Birmingham offers multiple scholarships for Indian students to study in UK.
  
• Several university departments waive IELTS if previous education was in English.
  
• A rising city for international talent and employability, it’s ideal for long-term career planning.
  

6. Coventry

QS Global Rank: #53

Coventry is known for its focus on student satisfaction and employability. The University of Warwick and Coventry University are popular among Indian students.

• High-tech courses like automotive engineering, data analytics, and healthcare management are in demand.
  
• The city is affordable, which helps reduce the total cost to study in UK from India.
  
• Many undergraduate and postgraduate programs accept alternative English proficiency measures.
  
• Career services are strong, with a good track record of graduate employment.
  

7. Nottingham

QS Global Rank: #60

Nottingham offers a balanced lifestyle and top-rated academic infrastructure. It’s home to the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University.

• Popular among Indian students for scholarship to study in UK and pathways for studying after 12th.
  
• Offers engineering, business, and health sciences among the best courses to study in UK.
  
• Strong international student presence and consistent academic ranking make it a preferred choice.
  
• Part-time job opportunities and affordable accommodation contribute to lower student expenses.
  

8. Leeds

QS Global Rank: #65

Leeds is a thriving academic city with vibrant student life and excellent learning environments.

• University of Leeds is part of the prestigious Russell Group and ranks high in employer reputation.
  
• Known for marketing, management, and computer science programs.
  
• Several merit-based scholarships to study in UK are available for Indian students.
  
• Students who wish to study in UK for Indian students after 12th can apply to foundation and direct undergraduate programs.
  

9. Sheffield

QS Global Rank: #72

Sheffield is an affordable and student-friendly city known for its green spaces, safety, and academic excellence.

• University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University attract many Indian students.
  
• A suitable city for those aiming to study in UK without IELTS, as both universities offer IELTS waivers.
  
• Scholarships are available in engineering, business, and media studies.
  
• A quiet yet well-connected city that reduces overall student expenses.
  

10. Newcastle

QS Global Rank: #82

Newcastle is often overlooked but ranks high on affordability, student satisfaction, and quality teaching.

• Newcastle University and Northumbria University are known for research-driven learning.
  
• A good choice for students seeking an engaging environment without high living costs.
  
• Suitable for engineering, architecture, and healthcare programs—some of the best courses to study in UK.
  
• Indian students often opt for this city due to flexible entry requirements and good post-study work opportunities.
  

Whether you’re applying after 12th, searching for the total cost to study in UK from India, or need options to study in UK without IELTS, selecting the right city can make a big difference.

It’s advisable to connect with experienced study in UK consultants who can guide you on choosing the ideal city, university, and course based on your academic profile, goals, and financial plans.