Masters in Social Work in UK for Indian Students: Top Universities, Costs, Scholarships & Eligibility
Masters in Social Work in UKMasters in Social Work in UK is a 2 years postgraduate program designed for those who are passionate about serving society for the great causes. The program is generally pursued by individuals who want to enrich the lives of the under privileged.
There are many universities which are offering Masters in Social Work in UK with University of Edinburgh, University of York, University of Bath, University of Bristol being the leading universities. The program undertakes admissions in the January and September session every year.
To be eligible for Masters in Social Work in UK the candidate requires a Bachelor’s degree preferably in Social Work and must pass the English Proficiency Test. The accepted English proficiency exams are IELTS/TOEFL/DET/CET. Some universities ask for experience as a social worker or volunteer as well.
The tuition fees for Masters in Social Work in UK range between £16,000 to £26,000 per year. The cost of living varies depending on the lifestyle, city and type of accommodation chosen. The average university accommodation costs £1,000 to £1,500 per month, while private accommodation ranges between £1,000 to £1,700 per month.
The students who complete Masters in Social Work in UK are recruited majorly by Non-profit organisations, local authorities and community centers. The average package is £25,000 per year.
In this blog we will discuss everything students must know, if they are planning to pursue Masters in Social Work in UK.
Masters in Social Work in UK - Quick Highlights
Check the table below for the quick highlights on Masters in Social Work in UK.
Particulars | Highlights |
Program Name | MS in Social Work |
Intake Sessions | Winter (January) and Fall (September) |
Tenure | 1 - 2 years |
Eligibility Criteria |
|
Specialization |
|
Tuition Fees | £16,000 to £26,000 per year |
Medium of Teaching | English |
Top Universities |
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English Requirements | Pass IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/DET |
Career Opportunities |
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Top Recruiters | NHS Trusts, Barnardo's, The Children's Society |
Why Choose a Masters in Social Work in UK?
Here why you must opt for a Master in Social Work in UK.
- Global Qualification - The Masters in Social Work in UK is recognised and accredited globally and is a highly acceptable degree.
- Contribute towards Society - The degree gives you opportunity towards the betterment of society and underprivileged.
- Work Permit - The UK provides international students with work permits to work once they have completed their degree.
- Global Exposure - The degree provides students with international exposure and diverse culture.
- High Demand - The degree is in high demand in the healthcare and NGO sectors. Even many top MNC’s require social work graduates to overlook CSR activities.
Masters in Social Work in UK - Important Dates, Events & Deadlines
It is crucial to be updated with the important dates, timelines and deadlines related to admissions to ensure that you do not stumble while applying and have a smooth admission journey.
Masters in Social Work in UK - Important Admission Dates
The admissions in Masters in Social Work in UK are usually conducted in September intake but some universities also take January intake. Check the table below for the important dates related to the admission in Masters in Social Work in the UK.
Event | January Intake (2026) | September Intake (2026) |
Application Start | September, 2025 | April, 2026 |
Application End | December, 2025 | August, 2026 |
Commencement of Classes | January, 2026 | September, 2026 |
University-Specific Application Deadline for Masters in Social Work
Check the table below for the university specific admission dates for Masters in Social Work in UK.
University | Intake Session | Application Deadline |
University of Edinburgh | September | 30 June, 2025 |
University of York | September | 31 July, 2025 |
University of Sussex | September | 30 June, 2025 |
University of Bath | September | August, 2025 |
University of Bristol | September | 20 June, 2025 |
University of Nottingham | September | Not announced yet |
Royal Holloway University of London | September | 20 August, 2025 |
Masters in Social Work in UK - Visa Processing Timeline
If you are planning to pursue MS in Social Work in the UK it is crucial that you apply for the Student Visa. It usually takes 15-30 days to get a Visa. Check the table below for the Visa Processing timelines.
Event | Timeline |
Application | Apply immediately after you have received your confirmation letter from the university in the UK. |
Documentation Submission | Within 1 week of Application |
Verification | Within 7 - 15 days of document submission |
Visa Arrival | Within 15 - 20 days of verification |
Masters in Social Work in UK Fees
It is important that students must be aware of expenses incurred by them apart from tuition fees. Check the table below for the fee and cost of living in the UK.
Particulars | Cost |
Tuition Fees | £ 16,000 to £ 26,000 per year |
Accomodation Cost (private) | £500 per month |
Transport Cost | £ 45 per month |
Food Expense | £ 200 per month |
Books and study material | £ 500 per year |
Other Expenses (Utilities, bills and personal expenses) | £ 300 per month |
Average Hostel Accommodation with food | £1,200 per month |
University-Specific Fees for Masters in Social Work
Check the table below for the university specific fees for MS in Social Work in the UK.
University | Program | Fees per year |
University of Edinburgh | Master in Social Work | £ 30,500 |
University of York | Master in Social Work | £ 25,900 |
University of Sussex | MA Social Work | £ 16,900 |
University of Bath | MRes Social Work | £ 23,500 |
University of Bristol | MSc Social Work | £ 26,000 |
Royal Holloway University of London | MSc Social Work | £ 20,800 |
Masters in Social Work in UK University-Specific Cost of Living for Hostel Accommodation
The universities in the UK offer university accommodation for the students. The university accommodation includes accommodation and food. Check the table below for the university specific estimated cost of living per month for university accommodation.
University | Cost of Living (University Accomodation + mobile charges + Travel + Health and Well being costs) |
University of Edinburgh | £1,167 to £2,330 per month |
University of York | £800 per month |
University of Sussex | £1,066.04 to £1,801.97 per month |
University of Bristol | £1,963 per month |
University of Nottingham | £800 per month |
Royal Holloway University of London | £1,000 per month |
Masters in Social Work in UK University-Specific Cost of Living for Private Accommodation
Check the table below for university specific estimated cost of living in the UK per month.
University | Accomodation | Food | Personal Items | Travel | Miscellaneous | Total |
University of Edinburgh | £750 | £480 | £300 | £ 54 | £ 80 | £1,744 |
University of Sussex | £ 540 | £220 | £151 | £50 | £130 | £1,090 |
University of Nottingham | £530 | £ 300 | £ 100 | £30 | £270 | £833 |
Royal Holloway University of London | £640 | £400 | £280 | £30 | £250 | £1,600 |
Masters in Social Work in UK - Eligibility Criteria
To secure a seat in MS in Social Work in a university in the UK the students are required to meet certain eligibility criteria. Check the table below for the eligibility criteria.
Particulars | Eligibility Criteria | Highlight |
Academic Qualification | Bachelor’s in Social Work or similar field | Must pass with a minimum score of 60% or GPA of 6.0 on a scale of 10. |
English Requirement | IELTS/TOEFL | Must have passed one of the english proficiency test |
Documents | Passport | Must have a valid passport |
Resume (optional) | To highlight working experience (if any) | |
Students Visa | Student Visa for Indian students to pursue education in the UK. | |
Letters | 2 to 3 LOR (Letter of Recommendation) | LORs are crucial as they serve as third party endorsement of an applicant's academic abilities, character, potential and capabilities. |
SOP (Statement of Purpose) | SOPs are comprehensive overview of applicant’s previous academic background, qualifications and represents suitability of candidate for the course and university. |
Masters in Social Work in UK University-Specific Eligibility Criteria
Check the table below for the university specific eligibility requirements for Masters in Social Work in the UK.
University | Academic | IELTS | TOEFL |
University of Edinburgh | Bachelor’s degree with minimum score of 60% or GPA of 8.0 on scale of 10. | Minimum score of 7.0 with no band less than 6.5 | Minimum iBT score of 100 with no section less than 23. |
University of York | Bachelor’s degree | Minimum score of 7.0 with no band less than 7.0 | Minimum iBT score of 96 with no section less than 24. |
University of Sussex | Bachelor’s degree with minimum score of 60% | Minimum score of 7.0 with no band less than 6.5 | - |
University of Bath | Bachelor’s degree | Minimum score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0 | Minimum iBT score of 90 with no section less than 21. |
University of Bristol | Bachelor’s degree with minimum score of 60% or GPA of 6.0 on scale of 10. | Minimum score of 7.0 | - |
University of Nottingham | Bachelor’s degree | Minimum score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0 | Minimum iBT score of 90 with minimum 19 in writing and listening, 20 in reading and 22 in speaking. |
Royal Holloway University of London | Bachelor’s degree with minimum score of 60% or GPA of 6.0 on scale of 10. | Minimum score of 7.0 with no band less than 5.5 | Minimum iBT score of 97 with minimum 17 in writing, 17 in listening, 18 in reading and 20 in speaking. |
Masters in Social Work in UK - University Specific Eligibility Criteria
Check the table below for university specific eligibility criteria.
University | Eligibility Criteria |
University of Sussex | Must be physically healthy Requires experience as a social worker Must pass interview |
MS in Social Work in the UK - Admission Process
The admission process for the universities in the UK is simple and easy. Here are the admission related details for the students.
Masters in Social Work in UK - Documents Required
Check the list below for the required documents to get admission in Masters in Social Work in the university in the UK.
- Bachelor’s degree in Social Work
- 10 and 10+2 marksheet
- Passport
- UK Student Visa
- IELTS/TOEFL Score card
- Funds Proof
- Character Certificate
- University admission Letter
- Passport size photographs
- LORs (2-3)
- SOPs
- Experience letter Social worker or volunteer
Masters in Social Work in UK - Admission Procedure
Students who wish to take admission in the MS in Social Work programs in the UK can follow the following steps.
- Step 1 - Apply for the MS in Social Work program in the university of your interest through the university website or using the UCAS portal which is a centralized portal.
- Step 2 - Submit the documents like 10+2 marksheet, graduation marksheet, english proficiency exam score card, LORs, SOPs and funds proof for verification.
- Step 3 - Appear for the interview conducted by the university. Not all universities conduct an interview process but many do.
- Step 4 - Once you are selected, the university will share an admission confirmation letter.
- Step 5 - Pay the required amount of fees and go to university as per the date of commencement.
Masters in Social Work in UK - Entrance Exams
Check the table below for the entrance exam required to pursue Masters in Social Work in the UK.
Entrance Exam | Highlights | Accepted Score |
IELTS | For English Proficiency | Minimum score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0 |
TOEFL | For English proficiency | Minimum score of iBT 92 |
Tips to Crack IELTS/TOEFL Exam for Masters in Social Work in UK
English Proficiency is a major and non-negotiable eligibility criteria for taking admission in Masters in Social Work in the UK. Here are some tips to crack the English Proficiency exam.
- It is necessary that you understand the exam pattern of both the English proficiency tests. IELTS conducts a time bound test separately for listening, speaking and reading while in TOEFL, it is combined in one.
- The best path to crack the exam is practice. Daily practice the questions, previous years and give mock tests.
- Analyze your strengths and weaknesses. After every practice do a thorough self-analysis to understand the areas you are lagging at.
- Sharpen your English listening and reading skills by listening to English news and reading English newspapers.
- Create a proper study plan and follow it strictly to ensure success.
Masters in Social Work in UK Syllabus
Masters in Social Work in the UK is a two year degree. Check the table below to understand what curriculum students study during the 2 years of Masters in Social Work in the UK.
Year | Concepts | Syllabus |
Year 1 | Core Modules |
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Year 2 | Specialization |
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Best Universities for Masters in Social Work in UK
Check the table below for details on the top universities in the UK for pursuing MS in Social Work.
Name of University | University of Edinburgh | University of Sussex | University of York | University of Bath | University of Bristol |
Type | Public | Public | Public | Public | Public |
Establishment | 1853 | 1961 | 1963 | 1966 | 1876 |
Location | Scotland | England | York | Bath | Bristol |
Acceptance Rate | 10% | 61% | 78.5% | 64.68% | 60% |
IELTS | Minimum score of 7.0 with no band less than 6.5 | Minimum score of 7.0 with no band less than 6.5 | Minimum score of 7.0 with no band less than 7.0 | Minimum score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0 | Minimum score of 6.5 |
TOEFL | Minimum iBT score of 100 with no section less than 23 | - | Minimum iBT score of 96 with no section less than 24 | Minimum iBT score of 90 with no section less than 21 | iBT score of 90 |
Fees per year | £ 30,500 | £ 16,900 | £ 25,900 | £ 23,500 | £26,000 |
Country Rank | 4 | 18 | 15 | 20 | 6 |
World Rank | 23 | 148 | 118 | 164 | 61 |
Intake Session | September | September | September | September | September |
Masters in Social Work in UK Scholarship- Key highlights & Deadlines
Check the table below for the important highlights and deadlines on the scholarships available for students pursuing Masters in Social Work in the UK.
Scholarship Name | Awarding Institution | Eligibility Criteria | Benefits |
Commonwealth Scholarships for International Students | UK Department of International Development | Masters or PhD student | Airfare to and from the UK, tuition fees, examination fees, personal maintaining allowance, and thesis grant initial arrival allowance |
GREAT Scholarship | UK Government | Hold an offer to study at university at UK | £ 10,000 |
Chevening Scholarship | British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office |
| 100% tuition fees, plus accommodation and living costs, travel and expenses |
University of Sussex Chancellor's International Scholarships | University of Sussex | Full-time postgraduate student at the University of Sussex on the basis of academic performance, and potential basis. | 50% tuition fees waiver for one year |
South Asia Postgraduate Excellence Award | University of Nottingham | Must have an offer to study master’s at University of Nottingham | £ 2,000 - £ 8,000 |
Postgraduate 60th Anniversary Scholarship | University of York | Must have offer to study at University of York | £ 10,000 |
Masters in Social Work in UK VS USA VS India
Check the table below for an in-depth comparison between Masters in Social Work in the UK, USA and India.
Parameter | UK | USA | India |
Duration | 2 years | 2 years | 2 years |
Fees | ₹ 22,90,000/- per year | ₹ 37,30,000/- per year | ₹ 50,000/- per year |
Language | English | English | English-Hindi mixed |
Proficiency Test | IELTS/TOEFL | IELTS/TOEFL | Not Required |
Eligibility | Bachelor’s in Social Work or related field | Bachelor’s in Social Work or related field | Bachelor’s in Social Work or related field |
Career | Multiple opportunities | Wide scope | Not much |
Average Package | ₹ 31 LPA | ₹ 49 LPA | Not much scope |
Career Scope Masters in Social Work in UK
A lot of career fields and options are available for students who completed their MS in Social Work from the UK. Check the table below for the available career options and average salary package.
Career Option | Salary Package |
Social Worker | £37,825 |
Child Protection Social Worker | £ 29,951 |
Outreach Worker | £ 24,020 |
Crisis Practitioner | £ 34,147 |
Social Care Assessor | £ 25,000 |
Mental Health Practitioner | £ 37,268 |
Top Recruiters/Placement Companies
The top recruiters who recruit students of Masters in Social Work in UK are majorly local authorities, NGOs, charitable organisations and private healthcare providers. Check the below list of top companies who recruit from Universities in the UK.
- NHS Trusts
- Barnardo'
- The Children's Society
- Nottingham City Council
- Nottinghamshire County Council
- Derby City Council
- Derbyshire County Council
Conclusion
Master in Social Work in UK offers global experience, international exposure, hands-on experience with social discrepancies and opportunity to serve the society and underprivileged. If you're passionate about creating positive change in society, the UK is one of the best places to begin your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques - Who are the top recruiters if I completed my degree in MS in Social Work from the UK?
Ans - The major recruiters are local authorities, NGOs, charitable organisations and private healthcare providers. The top recruiters are - NHS Trust, Barnado and The Children’s Society.
Ques - Do international students get work permits?
Ans -. Yes, international students can apply for the work permit in UK after completing their Masters in Social Work degree.
Ques - What is the tuition fee for Masters in Social Work in the UK?
Ans - The tuition fee for Masters in Social Work in the UK ranges between £16,000 to £26,000 per year.
Ques - What is the tenure of Masters in Social Work in the UK?
Ans - The Masters in Social Work in UK typically takes 2 years to complete. Some universities also offer 1 year and 3 year programs. The 3 year program is usually part-time.
Ques - What is the average package of a student who graduated in MS in Social Work from the UK?
Ans - The students who complete their MS in Social Work from the UK can expect a package between £25,000 to £40,000 per year.