The UK stands as a global beacon for IT education, attracting thousands of international students annually to its world-renowned universities and cutting-edge research facilities. The significance of choosing the UK for IT education extends far beyond classroom learning. Students gain access to a dynamic ecosystem where innovation thrives, from London’s thriving tech startup scene to Manchester's digital creative hub.
The UK IT sector contributes over £184 billion to the economy annually, creating an environment where academic institutions work closely with industry giants like Google, Microsoft, Amazon and emerging tech startups to shape curricula that meet real-world demands.
For Nepali students aspiring to build careers in the rapidly evolving tech industry, the UK offers an unparalleled combination of academic excellence, industry connections, and post-study career opportunities that few destinations can match.
The UK presents strategic advantages including English-medium instruction, a structured two-year post-study work visa, accessible scholarships programs and a multicultural environment that ease cultural adaptation.
The growing Nepali diaspora in the UK, numbering over 100,000, provides additional support networks that help newcomers navigate academic and professional landscape successfully.
Table of Content
Global Recognition and Quality
The UK maintains its position as the second most popular destination for international students globally, with its IT degrees recognized and valued by employers worldwide. UK universities consistently dominate global ranking, with institutions like Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London and UCL featuring prominently in the QS World University Rankings for Computer Science and Information Systems.
All UK universities meet rigorous academic standards. The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education ensures it. Even if students attend the prestigious Russell Group Institution or modern post 1992 universities, they receive education that meets internationally recognized benchmarks.
UK IT degrees emphasize both theoretical foundation and practical application, ensuring graduates possess not just academic knowledge but also the hands-on skill that employers demand.
Innovation-driven Curriculum
British universities lead globally in emerging technologies including AI, Machine Learning, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Blockchain, Cloud Computing, and Quantum Computing. The universities collaborate with industry partners, ensuring that course content reflects current technological trends and future industry needs.
The practical orientation of UK IT courses distinguishes them from purely theoretical programs elsewhere. Students engage in industry placements, live project work with real companies, hackathons and innovation challenges that build portfolios demonstrating their capabilities to future employers.
Career Prospects and Graduates Route Visa
The UK government’s Graduate Route visa, introduced in 2021, allows international students who complete undergraduate or postgraduate degrees to remain in the UK for 2 years after graduation to work or seek employment without sponsorship requirements. The policy dramatically improves the return on investment for Nepali Students, providing time to gain UK work experience, build professional networks, and potential transition to long-term employment visa.
The UK tech sector faces a significant skills shortage, with over 150,000 unfilled technology positions reported annually. This demand creates exceptional career opportunities for qualified IT graduates, particular in specialized areas like cybersecurity, Data Science, AI, and cloud architecture.
Major tech companies including Google, Amazon, Facebook, Microsoft, and Apple maintain substantial UK operations, alongside thriving domestic tech giants like ARM, Sage, and Sophos.
BSc Computer Science
Computer Science remains the most popular undergraduate IT Program, providing comprehensive coverage of programming, algorithm, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, and computer architecture.
The three-year program typically begins with foundational programming in languages like Python, Java, C++, progressing to advanced topics including machine learning, AI, distributed systems, and computer graphics.
Course duration is typically 3-years full-time or a 4-years with placement year.
Entry Requirements:
Career options that this program provides are:
Major Universities offering this programs:
BSc Information Technology
Information Technology programs focus more heavily on practical applications of computing technology in business and organizational contexts.
The curriculum emphasizes systems administration, network management, database systems, web technologies, project management, and IT service delivery, preparing students for roles that bridge technology and business operations.
Course duration is typically 3-years full-time or a 4-years with placement year.
Entry Requirements:
Career options that this program provides are:
Major universities offering this programs:
BSc Software Engineering
Software Engineering programs concentrate specifically on the systematic design, development, testing, and maintenance of software systems.
Students learn software development methodologies including Agile and DevOps, version control systems, quality assurance, user experience design, and project management, with extensive emphasis on team-based development projects.
Course duration is typically 3-years full-time or a 4-years with placement year.
Entry Requirements:
Career options that this program provides are:
Major universities offering this programs:
BSc Cybersecurity and Networking
Cybersecurity programs address the growing global demand for information security professionals who can protect organizations from cyber threats.
The curriculum covers network security, cryptography, ethical hacking, digital forensics, security policy and compliance, incident response, and risk management, often incorporating industry certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Certified Ethical Hacker.
Course duration is typically 3-years full-time or a 4-years with placement year.
Entry Requirements:
Career options that this program provides are:
Major universities offering this programs:
MSc Data Science
Data Science master's programs equip students with advanced skills in statistical analysis, machine learning, data mining, big data technologies, data visualization, and predictive modeling.
Students work with real-world datasets, learning to extract actionable insights using tools like Python, R, SQL, Tableau, Apache Spark, and TensorFlow.
Course duration is typically 1-years full-time or 2-years part-time.
Entry Requirements:
Career options that this program provides are:
Major universities offering this programs:
MSc Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence programs delve deep into machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, computer vision, robotics, and intelligent systems.
Students learn to design and implement AI solutions using frameworks like TensorFlow, PyTorch, and Keras, often completing research projects or dissertations that contribute to advancing AI applications.
Course duration is typically 1-years full-time or 2-years part-time.
Entry Requirements:
Career options that this program provides are:
Major universities offering this programs:
MSc Information Systems
Information Systems master's programs bridge technology and business management, focusing on how organizations leverage IT to achieve strategic objectives.
The curriculum covers enterprise systems, database management, IT strategy, project management, business process optimization, and digital transformation.
Course duration is typically 1-years full-time or 2-years part-time.
Entry Requirements:
Career options that this program provides are:
Major universities offering this programs:
MSc Cybersecurity
Master's-level Cybersecurity programs provide advanced technical training in protecting digital assets, including advanced cryptography, security architecture, penetration testing, digital forensics, security management, and compliance frameworks.
Many programs offer specializations in areas like network security, application security, or security governance.
Course duration is typically 1-years full-time or 2-years part-time.
Entry Requirements:
Career options that this program provides are:
Major universities offering this programs:
|
University |
UK Rank |
Global Rank |
|
University of Oxford |
1 |
1 |
|
University of Cambridge |
2 |
2 |
|
Imperial College London |
3 |
8 |
|
University of Edinburgh |
4 |
29 |
|
University College London (UCL) |
5 |
34 |
|
University of Manchester |
6 |
68 |
|
King’s College London |
7 |
91 |
|
University of Bristol |
8 |
100-150 |
|
University Category |
Annual Tuition (GBP) |
Annual Tuition (NPR Approx.) |
|
Top Russell Group Universities |
£25,000 - £40,000 |
NPR 4,375,000 - NPR 7,000,000 |
|
Mid-Tier Universities |
£15,000 - £25,000 |
NPR 2,625,000 - NPR 4,375,000 |
|
Affordable Universities |
£12,000 - £18,000 |
NPR 2,100,000 - NPR 3,150,000 |
Total Bachelor's Degree Cost (3 years): £36,000 - £120,000 (NPR 6,300,000 - NPR 21,000,000)
|
University Category |
Annual Tuition (GBP) |
Annual Tuition (NPR Approx.) |
|
Top Russell Group Universities |
£28,000 - £45,000 |
NPR 4,900,000 - NPR 7,875,000 |
|
Mid-Tier Universities |
£17,000 - £28,000 |
NPR 2,975,000 - NPR 4,900,000 |
|
Affordable Universities |
£14,000 - £22,000 |
NPR 2,450,000 - NPR 3,850,000 |
Total Master's Degree Cost (1 year): £14,000 - £45,000 (NPR 2,450,000 - 7,875,000)
Living expenses can significantly vary depending on location within the UK. London consistently ranks as the most expensive city, while cities in Northern England, Scotland and Wales offer more affordable living costs.
|
Expense Category |
Monthly Cost (GBP) |
Monthly Cost (NPR Approx.) |
|
Accommodation (shared flat/student halls) |
£700 - £1,200 |
NPR 122,500 - NPR 210,000 |
|
Food and Groceries |
£200 - £300 |
NPR 35,000 - NPR 52,500 |
|
Transportation (Oyster Card) |
£80 - £150 |
NPR 14,000 - NPR 26,250 |
|
Utilities and Mobile |
£50 - £100 |
NPR 8,750 - NPR 17,500 |
|
Personal and Miscellaneous |
£100 - £200 |
NPR 17,500 - NPR 35,000 |
|
Total Monthly Expenses |
£1,130 - £1,950 |
NPR 197,750 - NPR 341,250 |
Annual Living Expenses in London: £13,560 - £23,400 (NPR 2,373,000 - 4,095,000)
|
Expense Category |
Monthly Cost (GBP) |
Monthly Cost (NPR Approx.) |
|
Accommodation (shared flat/student halls) |
£400 - £800 |
NPR 70,000 - NPR 140,000 |
|
Food and Groceries |
£150 - £250 |
NPR 26,250 - NPR 43,750 |
|
Transportation (Oyster Card) |
£50 - £100 |
NPR 8,750 - NPR 17,500 |
|
Utilities and Mobile |
£40 - £80 |
NPR 7,000 - NPR 14,000 |
|
Personal and Miscellaneous |
£80 - £150 |
NPR 14,000 - NPR 26,250 |
|
Total Monthly Expenses |
£720 - £1,380 |
NPR 126,000 - NPR 241,500 |
Annual Living Expenses Outside London: £8,640 - £16,560 (NPR 1,512,000 - NPR 2,898,000)
Total Cost for Bachelor's Degree (3 years)
|
Cost Component |
London (GBP) |
Outside London (GBP) |
London (NPR) |
Outside London (NPR) |
|
Tuition Fees (3 years) |
£36,000 - £120,000 |
£36,000 - £120,000 |
NPR 6,300,000 - NPR 21,000,000 |
NPR 6,300,000 - NPR 21,000,000 |
|
Living Expenses (3 years) |
£40,680 - £70,200 |
£25,920 - £49,680 |
NPR 7,119,000 - NPR 12,285,000 |
NPR 4,536,000 - NPR 8,694,000 |
|
Total Cost |
£76,680 - £190,200 |
£61,920 - £169,680 |
NPR 13,419,000 - NPR 33,285,000 |
NPR 10,836,000 - NPR 29,694,000 |
Total Cost for Master's Degree (1 year)
|
Cost Component |
London (GBP) |
Outside London (GBP) |
London (NPR) |
Outside London (NPR) |
|
Tuition Fees (1 year) |
£14,000 - £45,000 |
£14,000 - £45,000 |
NPR 2,450,000 - NPR 7,875,000 |
NPR 2,450,000 - NPR 7,875,000 |
|
Living Expenses (1 year) |
£13,560 - £23,400 |
£8,640 - £16,560 |
NPR 2,373,000 - NPR 4,095,000 |
NPR 1,512,000 - NPR 2,898,000 |
|
Total Cost |
£27,560 - £68,400 |
£22,640 - £61,560 |
NPR 4,823,000 - NPR 11,970,000 |
NPR 3,962,000 - NPR 10,773,000 |
The UK government, universities, and private organizations offer numerous scholarship opportunities that can significantly reduce the financial burden of international education. Nepali students should actively pursue these opportunities to make UK education more affordable.
Chevening Scholarships
The Chevening Scholarship program, funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, represents the UK government's most prestigious international scholarship scheme. These fully-funded scholarships support one-year master's degrees in any subject at UK universities.
It covers:
Eligibility for Nepali Students:
Application Timeline:
Applications typically open in August and close in early November for courses starting the following September/October.
Selection Process:
The selection process is highly competitive with emphasis on leadership qualities, networking skills, and clear career plans that demonstrate commitment to contributing to Nepal's development.
Commonwealth Scholarships
Commonwealth Scholarships, funded by the UK Department for International Development, support students from Commonwealth countries including Nepal to pursue master's and PhD degrees in the UK. These scholarships specifically target candidates who could not otherwise afford UK education.
It covers:
Eligibility for Nepali Students:
Application Timeline:
Applications typically open in October and close in December for courses starting the following September/October.
Focus Areas:
Scholarships prioritize development-related fields including technology, engineering, health, and education.
GREAT Scholarships
The GREAT Scholarships program, a joint initiative between the British Council and UK universities, offers scholarships worth at least £10,000 for one-year postgraduate courses. Multiple UK universities participate in this scheme.
It covers:
Eligibility for Nepali Students:
Application Timeline:
Varies by university, typically between November and May.
Participating Universities:
Over 40 UK universities participate, including many offering IT-related programs.
University-Specific Scholarships
Imperial College London International Scholarships
Imperial offers various scholarships for international students including the President's Scholarship, departmental scholarships, and country-specific awards.
Coverage: £5,000 - £25,000 toward tuition fees, some fully-funded positions
Eligibility: Outstanding academic merit, research potential, financial need (varies by scholarship)
Application: Automatic consideration with admission application for some scholarships; separate application required for others
University of Manchester Global Futures Scholarship
Manchester offers dedicated scholarships for international students from specific countries including Nepal, recognizing academic excellence and leadership potential.
Coverage: £3,000 - £10,000 toward tuition fees
Eligibility: Excellent academic record, offer of admission to University of Manchester, country eligibility
Application: Separate scholarship application required after receiving admission offer
University of Edinburgh Global Undergraduate Scholarships
Edinburgh provides scholarships specifically for international undergraduate students demonstrating exceptional academic merit.
Coverage: £5,000 - £10,000 per year for duration of study
Eligibility: Outstanding academic achievement, offer of admission, specific country eligibility
Application: Automatic consideration with admission application
University-Specific IT Department Scholarships
Many university computer science and IT departments offer scholarships based on:
Bachelor’s Degree Entry Requirement
|
Criteria |
Details |
|
Educational Qualification |
Must complete 12 years of schooling from a recognized institution in Nepal. |
|
Minimum Academic Performance |
Must score a minimum of 60-70% aggregate for competitive programs. For admission in top universities minimum score is require 75-80% |
|
Preferred Background |
Must have strong performance in Mathematics, science and english. Mathematics is particularly important for computer Science programs. |
|
Transcripts Required |
Official transcripts from all secondary and higher secondary institutions are required, with certified translations if not in English |
|
Alternative Qualifications |
International Baccalaureate (IB): Minimum 30-36 points depending on university. Some UK universities may require foundation year for Nepali students |
Master’s Degrees Entry Requirements
|
Criteria |
Details |
|
Educational Qualification |
Must complete bachelors of typically 4 years from a recognized university in Nepal or internationally. |
|
Minimum Academic Performance |
Must score minimum 2.8-3.0 GPA on .0 scale or 60-65% aggregate. For top universities one must score 3.2+ GPA or first division. |
|
Preferred Background |
Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, or related technical fields are preferred. |
|
Work Experience |
It is not mandatory for most programs but can strengthen application, particularly for specialized master's programs. |
|
Research Experience |
It is beneficial for research-intensive programs. Publications or project work can help enhance competitiveness. |
|
Alternative Pathways |
Students from non-technical backgrounds may qualify for IT conversion master's programs designed for career changers. |
Accepted English Language Tests
UK universities accept multiple English language proficiency tests, though IELTS remains most commonly required:
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
|
Program Level |
Minimum Overall Score |
Typical Section Minimums |
|
Bachelor's |
6.0-6.5 |
5.5 in each section |
|
Master's |
6.5-7.0 |
6.0 in each section |
|
Top Universities |
7.0-7.5 |
6.5-7.0 in each section |
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
|
Program Level |
Minimum Overall Score |
Typical Section Minimums |
|
Bachelor's |
80-90 |
19-21 in each section |
|
Master's |
90-100 |
21-23 in each section |
|
Top Universities |
100-110 |
22-25 in each section |
PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic)
|
Program Level |
Minimum Overall Score |
Typical Section Minimums |
|
Bachelor's |
59-62 |
51-59 in each section |
|
Master's |
62-69 |
59-62 in each section |
|
Top Universities |
69 - 76 |
62-69 in each section |
Recommendation for Nepali Students: Plan to take IELTS or alternative English tests regardless of your educational background, as most universities require official test scores. Test preparation typically takes 2-3 months, so factor this into your application timeline.
Nepali students must obtain a Student visa before traveling to the UK for studies. The visa application process involves several stages and typically takes 3-6 weeks to process.
Step 1: Receive Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). After accepting your university offer and paying any required deposits, the university issues a CAS letter containing:
This document is mandatory for visa application and typically valid for six months from issue date.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents such as:
Step 3: Nepali students must demonstrate financial requirements, proving that they have sufficient funds to cover such as living expenses, tuition fees, and personal expenses.The financial evidence requirements are:
Step 4: Pay visa fees an immigration health surcharge. Student visa application fee is £490 or NPR 85,750 an immigration health surcharge is £624 per year or NPR 109,200 per year. The Immigration Health Surcharge grants access to the UK's National Health Service (NHS) for the duration of your visa. For a three-year undergraduate program, total IHS would be £1,872 (NPR 327,600).
Step 5: Schedule appointment at UK Visa Application Centre in Kathmandu:
Step 6: At last the visa is collected. The standard processing time is 3 weeks from biometric appointment. Priority service is available for an additional fee, which takes 5 working days. Super priority service is also available for an additional fee which will be available within 24 hours during working days only.
Once approved, collect a passport with a visa vignette allowing entry to the UK. Upon arrival in the UK, collect a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) from a designated post office or university.
Student Visa Conditions:
Students cannot claim public funds or benefits. Students can only work full-time during break. Students cannot register as self-employed or start a business in the UK and cannot work as professional sportspeople or entertainers.
The UK technologies sector experiences persistent talent shortages across multiple IT specializations, creating exceptional opportunities for skills graduates. The UK government identifies IT as a shortage occupation facilitating employment for international graduates.
Software developer or Engineer
Software developers design, build, test, and maintain software applications across various platforms including web, mobile, desktop, and embedded systems. This remains the most in-demand IT role with opportunities across virtually every industry sector.
Required Skills:
Average Salary Range:
Data Scientist or Data Analyst
Data scientists extract insights from complex datasets using statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization techniques. Organizations across finance, healthcare, retail, and technology sectors urgently seek these professionals.
Required Skills:
Average Salary Range:
Network Engineer or Systems Administrator
Network engineers design, implement, and maintain organization IT infrastructure including networks, servers, and communication systems. The increasing complexity of cloud computing and cybersecurity creates strong demand.
Required Skills:
Average Salary Range:
Cybersecurity Specialist or Analyst
Cybersecurity professionals protect organizations from cyber threats by implementing security measures, monitoring systems for vulnerabilities, and responding to security incidents. This field experiences the most acute talent shortage.
Required Skills:
Average Salary Range:
DevOps Engineer
DevOps engineers bridge development and operations teams, automating software delivery processes and maintaining infrastructure. This rapidly growing field offers excellent career prospects.
Required Skills:
Average Salary Range:
Step 1: Research Universities and Courses
Begin your journey by researching universities and IT courses that align with your career goals and academic background. Consider factors like course content, university ranking, location, tuition fees, and entry requirements.
Step 2: Prepare Academic and Language Test Documents
Gather all required academic documents including transcripts, certificates, and degree completion letters from your previous institutions. Obtain certified English translations if documents are not in English. Register for and take English proficiency tests (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE) well in advance, as test slots may fill quickly and you may need time for retakes if necessary.
Step 3: Apply Through UCAS or Direct Application
For undergraduate programs, apply through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service), the centralized UK application system. The application opens in September for courses starting the following September or October. For postgraduate programs, apply directly to universities through their online application portals. Submit all required documents including transcripts, English test scores, personal statement, and reference letters.
Step 4: Receive Offers and Accept
Universities will review your application and send either conditional offers (requiring you to meet specific conditions) or unconditional offers (no further requirements). Once you receive offers, compare them carefully considering factors like course content, location, scholarships, and career support.
Step 5: Receive CAS Letter and Apply for UK Student Visa
After accepting your offer and paying required deposits, the university will issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) letter. Use this CAS to apply for your UK Student visa at the UK Visa Application Centre in Kathmandu. Prepare financial documents proving you can cover tuition and living expenses, complete the online visa application, attend your biometric appointment, and submit your passport for processing.
Step 6: Arrange Accommodation and Travel
Once your visa is approved, arrange accommodation either through university halls of residence or private rental properties. Book your flight tickets to the UK, ensuring arrival a few days before orientation or course start date. Prepare for departure by arranging travel insurance, banking arrangements, packing essentials, and informing your university of your arrival details.
The UK is an exceptional destination for Nepali Students aspiring to build successful careers in IT. The UK provides world-class education with cutting-edge research opportunities, strong industry connections and post-study work rights.
Students benefit from English-medium instruction, diverse scholarship opportunities including Chevening and Commonwealth programs, accessible pathways to permanent residency, and a supportive international student community. The UK's thriving technology sector, facing persistent skills shortages, actively welcomes qualified IT professionals with competitive salaries and excellent career progression opportunities.
Start your IT journey in the UK by researching universities that match your interests and career goals, preparing for English language tests, exploring scholarship opportunities, and planning your application timeline. The path requires dedication, financial investment, and stepping outside your comfort zone, but the rewards of quality education, international experience, and enhanced career prospects make it worthwhile.
What is the minimum IELTS score required for IT courses in the UK?
Bachelor's programs require IELTS 6.0-6.5, while Master's programs require IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall. Top universities may require higher scores up to 7.5.
Can I work while studying in the UK on a student visa?
Yes, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during university holidays.
How much does it cost to study IT courses in the UK from Nepal?
For Bachelor's (3 years), expect £60,000-£170,000 / NPR 10.5-29.8 million including tuition and living expenses. For Master's (1 year), expect £23,000-£68,000 / NPR 4-11.9 million.
Which universities in the UK are cheapest for Nepali students?
University of West London, University of Central Lancashire, Teesside University, and University of Bedfordshire offer affordable tuition ranging from £14,000-£17,000 / NPR 2.45-2.98 million annually.
What are the job prospects after completing IT courses in the UK?
Excellent job prospects exist with entry-level salaries of £24,000-£38,000 / NPR 4.2-6.65 million annually. The two-year Graduate Route visa allows working without sponsorship after graduation.
Can I get permanent residency in the UK after completing my studies?
Yes, through Graduate Route visa (2 years) followed by Skilled Worker visa (5 years), you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain.
Are there scholarships available for Nepali students to study IT in the UK?
Chevening Scholarships (fully-funded), Commonwealth Scholarships, GREAT Scholarships (£10,000+), and university-specific scholarships are available for Nepali students.
What is the difference between Computer Science and Information Technology courses?
Computer Science focuses on programming, algorithms, and software development theory, while Information Technology emphasizes practical applications like systems administration and networking.
Do I need work experience to apply for a Master's in IT in the UK?
Work experience is not mandatory but strengthens your application. Most universities accept fresh graduates with strong academic backgrounds.
How long does the UK visa process take for Nepali students?
Standard processing takes approximately 3 weeks from biometric appointment. Priority services are available for faster processing at additional cost.
Also Read: Cost to Study in UK from Nepal: A 2025 Guide
UK Scholarships for International Students 2025-26
Best Courses to Study in UK for Nepalese Students
Cost to Study in UK from Nepal: A 2025 Guide