The UCAS International Podcast: Why study in the UK?
In this episode our guests take you through everything you need to know before you make your choice about where to study. We discuss the UK as a study destination, the realities of choosing the UK and what it's actually like. This includes what the UK has to offer, the options available, and what it all actually looks like.

Catriona McCarthy
Catriona is the British Council's Global Head of Student Mobility and Internationalisation of UK Education, leading on three of the British Council's six global programmes within Education. She joined the British Council having spent more than two decades leading on global strategies, engagement, and operations within the HE sector.
During that time, she also served as Vice Chair and then Chair of the British Universities International Liaison Association, and was the organisation's first Chair to come from one of the devolved nations.
Catriona has served as a member of both the UCAS International Advisory Group and of the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) Strategic Advisory Committee. She is also a Non-Exec Director at Ireland’s largest overseas aid charity, and is a member of the Visit Belfast Ambassador Circle Steering Group.

Anastasiia Guseva
Anastasiia Guseva is an International Student Ambassador with the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) and a current undergraduate student at the University of Greenwich pursuing a degree in International Business. She has served as a #WeAreInternational Student Ambassador since January 2024.
Arriving in 2022, she has studied in the UK across both further and higher education, and now advocates for equitable access, inclusion, and student voice in policy making.
Anastasiia brings a passionate perspective on how studying in the UK empowers international students to grow academically, professionally, and personally – while building a truly global outlook.
Other episodes
This debut series covers the fundamental questions every international student faces. We explore what makes the UK such an attractive study destination, dive into the practicalities of funding your education through scholarships and smart budgeting, and give you an insider's view of what student life really looks like.
We'll also examine the exciting alumni networks and career opportunities available to graduates, and explain the graduate visa system and job market to help you plan your future beyond university.
In this series, we tackle the key decisions and practical steps you'll need to take on your journey to studying in the UK – from exploring your options and applying, to relocating and finding your feet. We'll guide you through the research process to help you identify the perfect courses and universities that align with your ambitions.
You'll learn how to navigate the application system effectively, understand Clearing and Extra, discover support networks and get essential advice on the practicalities of moving to the UK.

Chat to students
Choose a uni, degree subject or select by their home country, and find out what life’s really like at uni.
Every international application requires a student visa and a basic knowledge of immigration. Find out what you need to do, how to make it as easy as possible, and when to apply for yours.