STUDY ABROAD: Sheffield is a growing UK city

Studying in the UK has been a well-trodden path for Indian students for years. Home to many of the world’s best universities, it has a long history of academic excellence and an international reputation that means a UK degree is recognized around the world.

Krishna Harish is an MSc in Logistics and Supply Chain Management from Kerala, India, currently studying at Sheffield Hallam University in England. She told us: “I chose the UK for my studies because of its high academic standards, which guarantee a high-quality education.”

But costs are rising and some students are beginning to wonder how studying in the UK’s busiest and most famous cities can make it value for money.

Krishna had the same thought: “A significant concern was managing my personal budget while living in the UK, ensuring I could cover my expenses without compromising my quality of life or educational experience.”

Enter Sheffield. It is the sixth largest city in the UK, but is regularly ranked among the most affordable places to live in the UK. Until now, it has often been regarded as a hidden gem – but not for long.

The city has seen a major injection of investment in recent years. Over £470 million (₹49.8 billion) were spent on the redevelopment of the city center, which includes important commercial areas, The largest food hall in Europeand the city campus of Sheffield Hallam University.

The city may be growing, but it still has university life at its core. There are currently over 60,000 students in Sheffield and the city is a warm and welcoming place to live.

Faris Chulliparambil Ammukunhi, an international hospitality and tourism management from India, told us that: “The biggest surprise of living in Britain so far has been the warmth and friendliness of the people. Despite the reputation for reserved behavior (among the British), I found the locals welcoming and helpful.”

This is what sets Sheffield apart. It’s a big city with a hometown feel. It was ranked the greenest city in the UK in 2021, with the second highest percentage of green space (61%) of any city in the world. It has five rivers, more trees per person than any other European city and a third of the city is in the Peak District National Park.

Krishna said: “I was amazed by the Peak District and the number of beautiful and well-maintained parks and gardens in Sheffield’s urban areas, which offer a peaceful retreat and a sense of nature even in busy city environments.”

Sheffield Hallam University

The city is also home to Sheffield Hallam University, which has made it its mission to be the world’s leading applied university. The university’s approach is framed around work experience and practical opportunities and provides work-based learning to each of its students.

Roopal H Ramanna is originally from Karnataka, India and is currently studying a Global MBA at Sheffield Hallam. she described how opportunities in the industry helped her develop her professional connections: “Professionally, it provided invaluable networking opportunities, connecting me with industry experts, diverse peers and potential employers across the globe.”

Work experience for international students in the UK is particularly valuable. The visa scheme available to overseas students – known as a graduate route visa – allows graduates to stay and work in the UK for two years after their studies.

The UK government confirmed in May 2024 that it was committed to the visa system, so opportunities for Indian students who want to study, then live and work in the UK, will continue.

Taking the leap

Moving anywhere abroad is a big decision and the UK can feel like a big leap. Doing your research and finding support is key, says Roopal:

Roopal said: “Sheffield Hallam University’s comprehensive support services, including dedicated advisers, skills center sessions and a welcoming international student community, put me at ease and made the transition easier.”

As for the other advice he would give to potential applicants, it was an open mind top of the list: “Learn opportunities to learn, share ideas, and build trusting relationships with your peers and teachers. Of by embracing the opportunities that study in the UK offers, you can make the most of your international education experience.“

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