One of the most sought-after countries, United Kingdom is set off the northwest coast of France between the North Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea and comprises England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Home to the worlds oldest parliamentary democracy, UK has long been well known for the grandeur of its castles and palaces. Looking at the extraordinary blend of concrete and green, old and new, UK, from the very first look, comes across as a unique multi-colored metropolitan country. Essentially covered with low mountains and hills, United Kingdom experiences the most unpredictable climate that can change over hours. Though it is perceived by many that UK suffers from the dull and gloomy rains almost all year round, it would be a surprise to them that there are brilliant spells of sunny days with temperatures frequently exceeding 30C. Summer temperatures range between 14C and 30C, while winters are cold at 1C to 5C, with isolated regional contrasts. The rich art and culture of UK is built on the foundation of multi-ethnic, multi-lingual and multi-racial pillars. Birthplace of the likes of Newton, Shakespeare, John Lennon and many other famous personalities, it has been viewed as the land of opportunities and people from all parts of the world have made Britain their home. Being the first country to have experienced the industrial revolution, the strength with which it galloped back then has certainly not slowed down. According to the 2007 estimates, Britain enjoyed a magnificent GDP of $2.137 trillion, reflecting the prosperous and flourishing lifestyle of this magical country. Quick Facts: Capital: London Population: 60,943,912 (July 2008 est.) Nationality: Briton(s)/British Climate: Temperate Languages: English, Welsh, Scottish Govt. Type: Constitutional Monarchy Currency: British Pound (Varies between Rs 85 and Rs 88) Calling Code: +44 Time Difference: UTC/GMT (4 hours and 30 minutes behind IST) Education in United Kingdom: Second to none, the education system in UK boasts of iconic universities like Oxford & Cambridge, Middlesex University, West London College, Anglia Ruskin University and offers courses in varied disciplines. With high standard training, cutting-edge infrastructure and facilities, students are extended internationally recognized degrees in disciplines of their choice. Besides, colleges set in old, imperial castles with plush green surroundings, add to the whole experience of studying in UK. Scholarship and bursaries schemes are being offered to attract overseas students to study in UK. Popular courses: Business programs, Computers, Engineering, IT, design and technology, archaeological sciences, management, international studies, performing arts etc. Benefits of studying here: High quality education, continually UK universities are some of the oldest in the world assessed by official bodies Worldwide recognition of courses Huge range of academic and vocational courses of study Value for money, most under-graduate degrees take three years to complete and most post-graduate degrees last one year Multi-lingual, multi-ethnic Approximate tuition fees: (Under-graduation) Universities: 8000 to 10,000 per year College: 3500 to 7000 per year (Post-graduation) Universities: 8000 to 11,000 Colleges: 6000 to 8500 Approximate living expenses: London and Southeast: 9,500 per annum Other areas: 7,200 Work permit options: International students are allowed to work part-time (for not more than 20 hours per week) during term and full time during vacations.The International Graduate Scheme (IGS) has been replaced by the Tier 1-Graduate Students-Post Study Work Scheme. As per this scheme non-European students can remain in the country for two years after graduation for work. The permit is given according to a point-based system.