Master’s in the UK from Nepal: Requirements, Visa and Costs

Why Nepali graduates choose a UK master’s

The UK has a huge range of universities, from the Russell Group to newer, career-focused institutions, and a one-year master’s keeps the total cost of tuition and rent lower than a two-year programme. Business, data science, computing, public health, nursing and engineering management are the courses we see Nepali students pick most often.

The flip side is a packed timetable. Assignments start in the first weeks and the dissertation runs over the summer, so plan your part-time work around your studies, not the other way round.

Entry requirements

UK universities usually ask for a bachelor’s equivalent to a UK 2:2 or 2:1 honours degree. For Nepali degrees that is often interpreted as roughly 50–60% or a CGPA of about 2.5–3.0, but each university sets its own conversion. Some accept three-year degrees from Nepal for certain courses; others need four years.

• Bachelor’s transcripts, degree certificate and character certificate.
• IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall, or PTE/TOEFL where accepted. Some courses ask for IELTS for UKVI.
• Statement of purpose and two references.
• Work experience letters to explain any study gap.

UK Student visa from Nepal

• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) issued after you accept an offer and pay any deposit.
• Unpaid tuition for the first year plus the maintenance amount for up to nine months, held for at least 28 consecutive days. The monthly amount is higher for London. Check the current figures on gov.uk.
• Immigration Health Surcharge, paid online with the visa application.
• TB test certificate from a clinic approved by the UK Home Office in Nepal.
• Possible credibility interview with the university or the Home Office.
• Students on taught master’s courses can no longer bring dependants in most cases.

After your master’s: the Graduate Route

The Graduate Route lets students who complete a UK degree stay and work or look for work without a sponsor. The UK government has announced changes to how long it lasts, so check the current length on gov.uk before you rely on it. To stay longer you need a job that qualifies for a Skilled Worker visa.

UK or Ireland for a master’s?

Both countries offer one-year master’s degrees with similar tuition ranges. Ireland currently gives up to 24 months of Stamp 1G stay back after a Level 9 master’s and is home to the European headquarters of many US tech and pharma firms. The UK has far more universities and more January intake options. Many of our students apply to both and decide once offers arrive.

Step by step

1. 1

   Profile check

   Share your transcripts, gap details and budget with a Hub International counsellor.

2. 2

   English test

   Take IELTS or PTE; check whether your course needs IELTS for UKVI.

3. 3

   Apply and accept

   Apply to 4–6 universities, accept an offer and pay the deposit.

4. 4

   Funds and CAS

   Hold funds for 28 days, complete the credibility check and receive your CAS.

5. 5

   Student visa

   Get your TB test, apply online, pay the IHS and attend biometrics.

Frequently asked questions