How QS helped me find a scholarship to study in the UK | TopUniversities
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How QS helped me find a scholarship to study in the UK

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Craig OCallaghan

Updated Oct 15, 2025
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Ravi Prasad

Ravipprasad Parameswaran is a full-time MBA student at the University of Birmingham. Originally from Tamil Nadu, India, he made his decision to study in the UK with the support of a QS Apply counsellor. 

We spoke to Ravipprasad about his academic journey so far and to get his advice for prospective applicants.

What motivated you to pursue a full-time MBA?

I hold a degree in Hotel Management and have built my career in trust & safety, content moderation, and operational strategy across global tech and online platforms.

Over the past decade, I’ve worked with diverse teams handling complex issues in digital safety, risk assessment and community integrity.  

I reached a point in my career where I wanted to combine my operational expertise with an internationally acclaimed formal strategy and innovation training.

Among the multiple offers, the MBA at the University of Birmingham stood out because of its strong emphasis on global business perspectives, electives I liked, and its presence in the Middle East with its own campus. 

Why did you choose the UK specifically?

The UK offers a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural diversity and strong industry connections. For an MBA, the UK’s business schools also provide an international cohort, which means learning is enriched by peers from a variety of industries and geographies.

Additionally, the UK’s business ecosystem is deeply connected to global markets, making it a strategic location for expanding my network. Personally, I feel a one-year MBA gives a quicker ROI.  

What advice would you give students aspiring to study in the UK?

Start your research and applications early, be clear about your goals, and keep your communication with universities and advisors consistent.

Leverage platforms like QS for guidance. They not only connect you with the right institutions but also help you prepare for the application process in a structured way.

Most importantly, don’t be afraid to tell your story authentically. 

Did you face any challenges during the application process?

Yes, one of the main challenges was aligning my personal commitments with the application deadlines and documentation requirements. The key was breaking the process into smaller milestones and tackling them consistently.

My QS Apply counsellor’s timely reminders and structured approach ensured I stayed on track without compromising my responsibilities. 

Tell us more about the scholarship you received.

I received a Purposeful Leader Scholarship. Receiving the scholarship was both an honour and a relief, as it validates my professional journey and potential, while also reducing the financial burden of studying abroad.

It will allow me to focus more on academic and networking opportunities rather than be deterred by finances. 

How will this MBA contribute to your personal and professional growth?

On a personal level, the programme will sharpen my leadership skills, strategic thinking and decision-making ability.

Professionally, it will equip me to take on senior roles that require both operational expertise and business acumen, and open doors to international opportunities.

The exposure to peers from varied sectors will also broaden my problem-solving abilities. 

What support did you receive from your QS Apply counsellor?

The QS Apply counsellor assured success from the first interaction. She was instrumental in helping me shortlist universities that matched my aspirations, guiding me through application nuances, and preparing me for the visa application requirements.

Their network and industry insights saved me countless hours of independent research.