UK Universities Engage Indian Students in Delhi Ahead of September Intake: Focusing on Careers, Connections, and Global Opportunities

In a dynamic engagement ahead of the September 2025 intake, ten prominent UK universities came together in New Delhi to interact with over 140 Indian students preparing to begin their academic journeys in the United Kingdom. The half-day event, titled ‘Great Aspirations, Great Careers, Great Britain,’ was jointly hosted by the British Council and OneStep Global, placing a strong emphasis on the career outcomes, life skills, and global networks that UK education offers.

Empowering Students with Real-World Knowledge

The primary objective of the gathering was to help students connect the value of UK education with long-term goals—whether academic, professional, or personal. Through panel discussions, interactive sessions, and industry-led talks, the event offered students a realistic picture of what to expect during their time abroad.

Representatives from top UK institutions including the University of Reading, University of Sussex, Lancaster University, University of Bradford, Nottingham Trent University, Kingston University, University of Westminster, and University of Worcester were in attendance. Their presence allowed students to seek guidance on everything from academic programmes and course selection to life on campus and beyond.

Industry Leaders Share Employability Insights

In addition to university voices, the event brought together experts from leading organisations such as Hindustan Unilever Foundation, Standard Chartered Bank, Student Circus, Pearson, and The World Bank. This cross-industry representation helped students gain a broader understanding of how their education could translate into career success.

The expert panel delivered practical advice on employability, highlighting the value of building professional networks early, joining alumni communities, and developing cross-cultural competencies. The discussions focused on how Indian students can leverage a UK degree not just for academic enrichment but as a launchpad for global opportunities.

British Council Highlights Cross-Cultural Bridge

Michael Houlgate, Deputy Director of the British Council India, opened the event with a message that struck a chord with many in the room. “Choosing the UK is about more than just getting a world-class education—it’s about joining a global community and becoming part of the living bridge that brings the UK and India closer together,” he said.

Encouraging students to make the most of every opportunity, Houlgate urged them to be open-minded, embrace the unknown, and dive into both academic and non-academic experiences abroad. His message highlighted the UK’s commitment not only to excellence in education but also to building enduring cultural and professional ties with India.

Bridging Education and Employability

Aritra Ghosal, Founder and Director of OneStep Global, echoed this theme by emphasizing the importance of viewing education through the lens of long-term value and life outcomes. “Students today are making choices based on careers, networks, and employability. This event was about helping them connect the dots between academic choices and future success,” Ghosal said.

Ghosal pointed out that today’s students are more informed and intentional, seeking more than just degrees—they are looking for environments where they can thrive personally and professionally. Events like this, he noted, are crucial to guiding students at the start of that journey.

A Well-Prepared Start for Indian Students

The event was structured to ensure that students leave not only inspired but well-informed and prepared for their upcoming transition. Key areas covered during the sessions included:

• Navigating life in the UK as an international student
• Making informed course and university choices
• Building connections with faculty, peers, and alumni
• Planning for internships, job opportunities, and further studies
• Understanding the cultural and academic expectations in UK institutions

Students were also advised to stay engaged with support systems, including university mentorships, career services, and international student offices, to maximise their academic and personal experiences abroad.

Strengthening the UK–India Educational Bridge

With an increasing number of Indian students choosing the UK as a higher education destination each year, initiatives like this are designed to foster a stronger, more collaborative international education ecosystem. By bringing together universities, students, and industry professionals in a single forum, the event created an invaluable space for dialogue and preparation.

The success of the event reflects the ongoing commitment of the British Council and OneStep Global to not only promote UK education but also ensure that Indian students receive practical guidance and support before they even set foot in the classroom.