For many years, the United Kingdom has been a prime destination for Indian students seeking quality education. Known for its prestigious universities and globally recognized degrees, the UK offers a long-standing tradition of academic excellence.
Krishna Harish, an MSc student in Logistics and Supply Chain Management from Kerala, India, currently enrolled at Sheffield Hallam University, shared her thoughts: “I chose the UK for my studies due to its high academic standards, which guarantee top-quality education.”
However, with rising costs, students are increasingly concerned about finding value for money in the UK’s most renowned cities.
Krishna echoed this sentiment: “A significant concern was managing my personal budget while living in the UK, ensuring that I could cover my expenses without compromising my quality of life or educational experience.”
This is where Sheffield comes into play. Despite being the UK’s sixth-largest city, Sheffield is frequently ranked among the most affordable places to live in the country. Once considered a hidden gem, Sheffield is now gaining recognition.
The city has seen substantial investment in recent years, with over £470 million (₹49.8bn) spent on redeveloping the city center. This redevelopment includes major shopping areas, Europe’s largest food hall, and the city campus of Sheffield Hallam University.
Although the city is growing, it retains a strong sense of university life. Sheffield is home to over 60,000 students and is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Faris Chulliparambil Ammukunhi, an International Hospitality and Tourism Management student from India, highlighted this aspect: “The biggest surprise of UK life so far has been the warmth and friendliness of the people. Despite the reputation for reserved behaviour [among British people], I’ve found locals to be welcoming and helpful.”
Sheffield’s unique charm lies in its combination of a large city environment with a hometown feel. Ranked the UK’s greenest city in 2021, Sheffield boasts the second-highest percentage of green space (61%) of any city in the world. It features five rivers, more trees per person than any other European city, and a third of the city sits within the Peak District National Park.
Krishna expressed her admiration for the city’s natural beauty: “I was amazed by the Peak District and the number of beautiful, well-kept parks and gardens in urban areas of Sheffield, offering a peaceful retreat and a sense of nature even within busy city environments.”
Sheffield Hallam University, a key institution in the city, aims to be the world’s leading applied university. Its approach focuses on work experience and practical opportunities, offering work-based learning to all its students.
Roopal H Ramanna, a Global MBA student from Karnataka, India, at Sheffield Hallam, discussed the professional benefits: “Professionally, it has provided invaluable networking opportunities, connecting me with industry experts, diverse peers, and potential employers from around the globe.”
Workplace experience is particularly valuable for international students in the UK. The Graduate Route Visa scheme allows graduates to stay and work in the UK for two years after their studies. In May 2024, the UK government reaffirmed its commitment to this visa scheme, ensuring continued opportunities for Indian students who wish to study, live, and work in the UK.
Moving overseas is a significant decision, and the UK can seem like a daunting leap. Roopal emphasized the importance of research and support: “The comprehensive support services offered by Sheffield Hallam University, including dedicated advisers, skills center sessions, and a welcoming international student community, reassured me and made the transition smoother.”
She also offered advice for prospective students, highlighting the importance of an open mind: “Embrace opportunities to learn, share ideas, and build trust-based relationships with your peers and professors. By embracing the opportunities that studying in the UK offers, you can make the most of your international education experience.”
Sheffield’s rising profile as an affordable, welcoming, and academically rigorous city makes it an increasingly attractive option for international students. As the city continues to grow and invest in its future, students like Krishna, Faris, and Roopal find themselves at the heart of an exciting and supportive community.
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