UK Masters: Indian PhD student warning about studying in the UK

An Indian PhD student studying Computer Science in the UK has shared a serious warning for students planning to study there. In a viral Reddit post, the student described the tough realities faced by international students, including financial difficulties, low-paying jobs, and the questionable value of a one-year MSc degree.

UK Masters: Indian PhD student warning on Reddit

According to the student, many international students in the UK struggle to find well-paying jobs, which forces them into low-paying part-time roles that barely cover rent, food, and basic expenses.

"If you’re considering coming here, please think twice—you might end up wasting your money, time, and energy. Many students take part-time jobs that don’t pay enough for a decent life. I’ve seen friends who completed their UK Masters, extended their post-study visas, and still couldn’t find good jobs. They became very thin, lost their hair, and eventually returned to India because they couldn’t survive," the student wrote.

The student also pointed out that 99% of their friends returned to India after completing their UK Masters or after their post-study work (PSW) visa expired.

What is the post-study work (PSW) visa in the UK?

The Post-Study Work (PSW) visa, officially known as the Graduate Route, allows international students who have completed an eligible degree in the UK to stay and work in the country for a certain period after graduation.

This visa helps students gain work experience and look for permanent job opportunities.

For those seeking extended stays or specific permissions, other visa options include the UK Visit Visa for longer tourist or business visits, the UK E-Visa for digital processing, the UK Settlement Visa for residency, the UK Sponsorship License for employers hiring foreign workers, and the UK Student Visa for education. Additionally, individuals may apply for a Self-Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa to work independently or a Spouse Visa to join a UK-based partner.

Academic quality and ranking concerns

Another major concern is that a one-year MSc from the UK is often not valued as highly as an MTech or MS in India or the US. Many Indian government jobs and top companies, including FAANG firms, prefer MTech/ME/MS graduates over MSc holders. This makes it difficult for students to secure well-paying jobs after returning to India. As a result, many graduates find themselves in a difficult position, having spent a significant amount of money on their education but receiving little return on investment.

UK Master’s programs also face concerns over academic quality, with reliance on take-home assignments and lack of global rankings affecting credibility. Employers question qualifications due to assignment outsourcing, while universities focus on tuition over standards. The UK Masters: Indian PhD student warning advises future students to reconsider studying in the UK.

The post sparked widespread debate. Some students agreed, saying UK universities prioritize profit over quality education, while others defended the UK education system, pointing out that two-year Master’s programs and PhD courses still offer good value.

Additional challenges for international students

The student also discussed several policies and restrictions that make it harder for international students to stay in the UK:

• Spouse visa restrictions: In January 2024, the Home Office banned dependent visas for most Master’s students. Previously, some international students relied on their spouses working full-time while they studied.

• Skilled Worker Visa salary hike: The minimum salary requirement for a Skilled Worker Visa was increased, making it harder for graduates to qualify.

"All of these issues are well known—students, immigration officers, universities, and employers are aware of them. Still, no one will tell you."

The UK remains a popular study destination, but this UK Masters: Indian PhD student warning is an important reminder for students to research carefully before making a decision.