Until the 1990's, the United States was the unchallenged leader in attracting foreign students. But now US dominance is ebbing as other nations such as the Australia and the United Kingdom have begun aggressively recruiting foreign students. What does that mean for students? Arranging and financing study in those countries is now easier than ever before. 

According to UNESCO statistics, since 1990s, Australia has increased the number of foreign students in Australia by 221%. The United Kingdom has increased the number of students at British institutions by 148%. Meanwhile, the number of foreign students coming to US has increased by only 11%.
 
Over 800,000 international students are currently enjoying the benefits of a British education. Here are some reasons why:

Internationally recognized qualification 
UK has very high academic standards and as such a degree from UK is internationally recognized. This means you can look forward to better career prospects and higher salaries once your studies are complete. 

Wider choice of courses 
One of the main advantages of studying in the UK is the sheer choice of courses on offer. There are literally thousands of courses for you to choose from and hundreds of schools, colleges and universities in which to study:

· Over 180 institutions offering degrees 
· Over 500 colleges of further education 
· 600 plus boarding schools 

Among the most popular with international students are business courses, computing, information technology and engineering. From 2001, new two-year vocational Foundation Degree courses are being introduced for those who are looking for a shorter programmed than the traditional honours degree. The important thing to remember is that, with such a massive choice available, there's a degree that's right for you, whatever you want to study. 

A culture of success
International students get closer to the heart of their subject in the UK. Those studying the arts, for instance, do so against the backdrop of a design industry that is worth some £12 billion and which supports over 300,000 jobs.

Aspiring media professionals can seek direction from a film and television industry that commands a quarter of the European market. And science and engineering students will be at home in the country that first split the atom, that successfully cloned the first mammal and that supports the work of leading scientific thinkers such as Steven Hawking and Brian Josephson.

Quality assured
The unique quality assurance system in the UK ensures accountability in all areas. From student support services to the quality of the teaching staff, every school, college and university is subject to rigorous scrutiny by the government.

This makes choosing a course and the institution that much more easy as you are secure in the knowledge that each one has been assessed according to the same demanding criteria. Giving you the peace of mind that comes from knowing the education you receive will live up to your expectations...in every way.

Unique teaching methodology
UK education has always placed great importance on the ability of students to work independently and to develop their own thinking. Classes and lectures are often supplemented by small, informal group tutorials in which you will be free to exchange ideas and opinions with your teachers. A process, which in turn, stimulates new ideas and new avenues for discussion.

The education system in the UK is geared to not just impart a thorough understanding of your subject but also with analytical abilities and problem-solving skills that are much prized by employers in professional life.

Learning can cost less in the UK 
Postgraduate degrees in the UK can be completed in a shorter time than those in many other countries, with courses being much more intensive. In some cases, you only have to pay fees for one year and you only have to live away from home for one year. Of course, fees and living costs vary from one institution and one part of the country to another so it's worthwhile doing a bit of research to find out how the cost of study compares around the UK. 

Support when you first arrive
Student life in the UK is, by and large, a supportive and social one. But even the most outgoing person can be forgiven for feeling a little apprehensive for their first few days in an unfamiliar country.
All educational institutions in the UK understand this and go out of their way to make their international students feel at home. Many universities will guarantee you accommodation in halls of residence for your first year, close to all the campus facilities. And most organize welcome meetings where you can familiarize yourself with your new surroundings.
In addition, counseling and special advice services are always available, while student unions and societies for international students also offer valuable support. But the best cure for homesickness -- and the one that always works -- is simply to get out and get involved with UK life in all its unique character, colour and diversity.

Health insurance
All international students staying in the UK for more than six months are guaranteed free hospital treatment plus reduced dentists' and opticians' fees through the UK National Health Service. This means you can take the cost of health insurance out of your budget.

Living in the UK
United Kingdom is a vibrant, vital place, alive to new ideas and open to new influences. Traveling around is cheap and simple, with affordable public transport making access to even the most remote areas a straightforward affair. UK is the perfect gateway to the rest of Europe with frequent, affordable flights to all the major European destinations and direct rail links via the Channel Tunnel. All in all, it's an experience that will enrich your intellect, your future and, not least, your memories.