Top 10 Colleges in London for International Students



There are some great colleges in London for international students, as the city is home to the world’s top educational institutions. Moreover, the sheer vibrance, cosmopolitanism, history and economy of this capital city attracts students from all over the globe. If you are looking to study in London, then here’s where you’ll find all the information.



What are the benefits of studying at the top universities in London?


The United Kingdom is world-renowned for offering a wide range of courses and having some of the world’s most prestigious universities including the University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, and the University of Edinburgh to name a few. These are, of course, the top ones – there are many more great universities in the British Isles, apart from the top ranked ones.

Some of the popular courses in the UK include Psychology, Engineering, Architecture, MBA, Law and fashion design. It is also great for Biotechnology and MBBS.

If you are looking to classify universities in London, you can look at them as part of the following categories:

  • 1. Ancient/ Traditional universities: Some of the largest and the oldest universities in the United Kingdom, these are institutions of higher education that have stood the test of time. They have remained pioneers of education and have attracted students from all over the world through the course of their histories. Examples of ancient universities in the UK include the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, the University of Edinburgh and many more. In London, University College London (UCL) can be traced back to 1826.
  • 2. Red brick universities: Then, you have the red brick universities which were granted university status around World War I to meet the growing demands caused by developments in science, design and technology. These universities share a distinct red brick and gothic style architecture. The red brick universities are Universities of Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester and Sheffield
  • 3. Plate glass universities: The next is the group of universities who gained university status in the 1960s in an attempt to increase the number of degree granting institutions in the UK. They are named so because of their modern architecture wherein large areas have plate glass in steel or concrete frames. Examples include Brunel and City University London.
  • 4. Metropolitan Universities: This is the newest group of higher education institutions to attain university status. They are deeply rooted in history, as they functioned as places of tertiary education, polytechnic colleges, professional training or teacher training colleges until they expanded and gained a university status in the 90s. The London Metropolitan University is one such example.
  • 5. Russell Group universities: This is one classification that is not based on chronology. Comparable to the Ivy League in the USA, the Russell Group comprises global education leaders in the UK who offer world-class facilities for research, learning, employability and student satisfaction. There are 24 universities in this prestigious group, out of which Imperial College, King’s College, LSE, Queen Mary University and UCL are located in London.

Apart from these there are also some great public universities in the UK . Before we explore the top universities in London, we must first understand how studying in London can be fruitful for international students.

Some of the top reasons to study at universities in London include:

1. Access to world-class facilities and resources:

London has a number of top universities that are well-known for their excellent facilities. Around 94% of schools in the city have been judged to be good or outstanding by Ofsted. London college facilities are also top-notch. From on-campus accommodation to accessible healthcare facilities, the number of student services that are available universally is incredibly high.

2. High-quality education:

80 UK universities feature in the top 1000 global universities out of which there are at least 15 universities that are based out of the city, a unique feat that no other city can boast of.

3. Career opportunities:

The city is home to a number of businesses and multinational companies. Most universities have well-established networks that can help students to find employment opportunities with ease. Over 90% of students find a job within 3 months of graduating.

4. Cultural Diversity:

London has a multicultural environment that has been long sought-after by international students and those looking to settle in the UK.
Over 500,000 international students are currently studying in the UK of which around 120,000 study in one of the city’s institutions.

5. Delightful student life:

London college student life is unmatched, thanks to its lively and young population! The city boasts of having a diverse and inclusive environment that allows international students to meet and learn from people from different backgrounds and cultures. Despite being an international hub, there is no doubt that London is also a student city.

6. Wide array of programs:

Colleges in London offer some of the most diverse programs and courses across a wide array of disciplines, including some great business schools. Some of the top London college courses include

  • Master of Business Administration
  • Master of Finance
  • Bachelors in Nursing
  • Master of Science (Data Science)
  • Master of Science (Robotics)

Also, did you know that you can study in the UK without the IELTS? It’s possible!

How much does it cost to study in London?



Studying in London depends on several factors including the university one chooses, the programme, and the lifestyle of a student. London college fees are generally on the higher end but the quality of education is one of the best in the world.
Here is an estimate of the average costs for international candidates studying in London:

  • The average tuition costs for undergraduate students is between £10,000 to £30,000 annually for a typical course while graduate students have to shell out anywhere between £10,000 to £40,000 per year. Biomedical courses, medicine, dentistry, nursing and veterinary sciences can cost more.
  • The average cost of living is around £1,200 to £1,800 per month.
  • The cost of accommodation in London is around £500-£1000 a month. On-campus accommodation is between £130-£250 per week while off-campus accommodation  is between £100-£250 per week.
  • The average cost of transportation in the city is between £150-£200 a month.
  • Food costs anywhere between £200-£400 a month.
  • Other expenses including phone bills, entertainment and others may range between £100-£350 per month.

What are the scholarship options for the best colleges in London?


Studying in a city like London can be expensive. International students who are thinking of studying in London should explore scholarships or financial aid.

College admissions in London are incomplete without one applying for some type of financial aid. Thankfully, most UK universities offer scholarships, bursaries, or other types of awards that can provide financial support to students.

Some of the top London college scholarships include

What are the best universities in London for international students?


The London college rankings list of 2024 contains some of the top and internationally acclaimed UK universities. According to the QS world university rankings list of 2024, there are more than 90 UK universities within the global top 1000 out of which at least 20 are based out of London, which is what makes studying in the UK a superb option.
Let’s round up the top 10 universities in London for international students in 2024.

World Rankings University Tuition Fees
6 Imperial College London Undergraduate fees £30,000-£60,000 Graduate fees £20,000 – £48,000
9 University College London (UCL) Undergraduate fees  £23,300 – £34,100 Graduate fees  £25,800 – £36,900
40 King’s College London Undergraduate fees £30,000 – £35,000  Graduate fees £18,000 – £35,000
45 The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) Undergraduate fees £25,656 Graduate fees £30,000 – £70,000
145 Queen Mary University of London Undergraduate fees  £20,000 – £40,000 Graduate fees  £25,000 – £60,000 a year.
328 City, University of London Undergraduate fees £16,000 – £30,000 per year Postgraduate tuition fees £16,000 – £25,000 per year
343 Brunel University London £19,000 – £44,000
374 Birkbeck, University of London Around £19,000 to £35,000 a year
413 Royal Holloway, University of London £25,200
511 SOAS University of London Undergraduate fees £22,000 a year Postgraduate fees £8,000 – £25,000 a year

Source: topuniversities.com


1. Imperial College London


Source: imperial.ac.uk

Imperial College London was formed in 1907 through the combination of the Royal College of Science, Royal School of Mines, and the City & Guilds College. The institution has several branches across London including South Kensington, Hammersmith, and Charing Cross, among others and remains one of the top-ranked institutions in the city.

Why is it good to study here?

ICL offers over 100 bachelors degrees and 168 master’s degrees across several disciplines including engineering, business studies and medical sciences. The university is well-known for its excellence in research and academics due to the state-of-the-art facilities that are made available to its students.

Fees

The average tuition fee at Imperial College London is around £30,000-£60,000 for undergraduate programs while for postgraduate programs, the tuition fee is between £20,000 – £48,000.

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for admission at Imperial College London include

  • English-language proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/Duolingo English Test)
  • GMAT/GRE for business and management programs
  • Accepted qualification equivalent to an A-level
  • Course competency requirements (through the relevant subjects studied previously or by attending the admissions test)
  • Student visa or study permit

Courses offered & admission process

A few of the most popular courses offered at Imperial College London include

  • Aeronautical Engineering (MEng)
  • Biomedical Engineering (MEng)
  • Biotechnology (BSc)
  • Physics (BSc)
  • Mathematics (Pure Mathematics) (BSc)
  • Computing (Visual Computing and Robotics) (MEng)

The admission process involves several steps including,

  • Choose a course
  • Apply online through UCAS Hub.
  • Check the general eligibility requirements for admission.
  • Submit all necessary supplementary documents (including references, personal statements, etc).
  • The admission team will verify whether the application meets the requirements.
  • Some departments have an admission test so attend one in case you are eligible.
  • Attend interviews.

2. University College London (UCL)



Source: www.ucl.ac.uk

UCL has been ranked 9th by the QS World University Rankings 2024 list of global universities. It is also the second largest university in the England in terms of enrolment. The university is known for its research-intensiveness with a focus on arts, humanities and social sciences.UCL has been home to 30 Nobel laureates over the years!

Why is it good to study here?

UCL offers more than 400 undergraduate programs and over 600 postgraduate programs across several disciplines. The institution also offers several services to its students including careers and employability, entrepreneurship opportunities, global connectivity, and other facilities that help students to gain more hands-on expertise.

Fees

  • The average undergraduate tuition fee for international students at UCL is around £23,300 – £34,100.
  • The average graduate tuition fees for international students at UCL vary between £25,800 – £36,900.

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for admission at University College London include

  • English-language proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/Duolingo English Test)
  • For graduate programs, a Bachelor’s Degree from an Indian university recognised by UCL.
  • For undergraduate programs, the Year 12/Standard 12 Indian School Certificate is awarded by CISCE or CBSE.
  • Student visa or study permit
  • Relevant requirements for the course one is applying to.

Courses offered & admission process

Some of the most popular courses offered at UCL include

  • Biomedical Sciences BSc
  • Chemical Engineering BEng
  • Chemistry BSc
  • Computer Science BSc
  • Economics and Statistics BSc (Econ)
  • Fine Art BFA

The admission process involves several steps including,

  • Choosing a course.
  • Checking academic requirements
  • Getting academic transcripts ready
  • Submitting application
  • Gaining access to Portico, the UCL applicant portal
  • Submitting additional documents based on requirements
  • Receiving an offer of admission
  • Accepting offer

3. King’s College London


Source: KiloCharlieLima  via wikimedia.org

King’s College London (KCL) was established in 1829. The college has a rich history bearing testimony to its status as a premier organisation of higher education. The university is a global leader across several disciplines including law, natural sciences, psychiatry, medicine, and social sciences.

Why is it good to study here?

King’s College London is known for its history and its location in central London, making it a popular choice among international students. The institution offers more than 180 undergraduate programs for applicants to choose from. Graduates from King’s College are highly employable and are in demand across the globe.

Fees

The average undergraduate tuition fee at King’s College London is between £30,000 – £35,000 a year.
The average graduate tuition fee at King’s College London is between £18,000 – £35,000 a year.

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for admission at King’s College London include

  • English-language proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)
  • Take the exact test specified for each program
  • A-level grades for undergraduate courses
  • Some programs require applicants to have studied a specific set of subjects including mathematics, physics, chemistry, etc

Courses offered & admission process

Some of the most popular courses offered at King’s College London include

  • Biomedical Engineering (BEng)
  • International Management (BSc)
  • Artificial Intelligence (BSc)
  • Law undergraduate at The Dickson Poon School of Law

The admission process involves several steps including,

  • Search for the available courses
  • Applications for graduate courses can be made through the institution’s website
  • Undergraduate applicants can apply through UCAS.
  • Track applications
  • Check if you’ve been invited to interview
  • Apply for accommodation

4. The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)


Source: www.lse.ac.uk

The London School of Economics is a pioneering social sciences institution in the world. Established in 1895, LSE is a multicultural community of innovative minds that has been reinventing ways to improve research and academic excellence.

Why is it good to study here?

Ranked 45th in the QS World University Rankings of 2024, LSE is known for its research excellence. Around 92% of LSE graduates found employment within the first 15 months of graduation. The median salary of LSE graduates was around £35,000.The school’s research ethos has produced a total of 18 Nobel prize winners over the years.

Fees

  • The average undergraduate tuition fee at LSE is around £25,656.
  • The average graduate tuition fee at LSE is around £30,000 – £70,000.

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for admission at LSE include

  • English-language proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)
  • Program-specific requirements
  • Study permit or student visa
  • A-level grades for undergraduate courses
  • Standard XII examinations
  • Undergraduate/bachelor’s degree from a recognized university

Courses offered & admission process

Some of the most popular courses offered at The London School of Economics and Political Science include

  • Executive Global MSc Management
  • MSc in Global Media and Communications (with USC, Fudan or UCT)
  • MSc in Marketing
  • MSc in Applied Social Data Science
  • BSc Mathematics with Economics
  • BSc Econometrics and Mathematical Economics

The admission process involves several steps including,

  • The application must be submitted through UCAS.
  • Submit all necessary documents
  • Applications are considered by Academic Selectors
  • Track applications
  • Accept the offer, if made
  • Make the payment

5. Queen Mary University of London


Source: www.qmul.ac.uk

Queen Mary University of London is a public research university in London. A member of the federal University of London, the institution was established in 1885.

Why is it good to study here?

The institution offers over 130 undergraduate courses and over 300 postgraduate courses across several disciplines. Ranked 145th in the QS World University Rankings of 2024, Queen Mary University of London has been at the forefront of technological advancements and innovative research outcomes.

Fees

The average undergraduate tuition fee at Queen Mary University of London is between £20,000 – £40,000 a year.
The average graduate tuition fee at Queen Mary University of London is around £25,000 – £60,000 a year.

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for admission at Queen Mary University of London include

  • English-language proficiency test scores (TOEFL/IELTS/PTE)
  • Program-specific requirements
  • Must have successfully completed A-Levels or the International Baccalaureate for undergraduate courses
  • For postgraduate courses, an undergraduate/bachelor’s degree from a recognized university is mandatory
  • Study permit or student visa

Courses offered & admission process

Some of the most popular courses offered at Queen Mary University of London include

  • Advanced Robotics MSc
  • Cancer and Therapeutics MSc
  • Clinical Microbiology MSc
  • Economics MSc
  • English BA (Hons)
  • History BA (Hons)

The admission process involves several steps including,

  • Students will have to apply from UCAS.
  • Interviews and additional assessments
  • Understand the offer (Conditional, unconditional)
  • Accepting offer

6. City, University of London


Source: www.london.ac.uk

City has been ranked 328th by the QS World University Rankings 2024 list of global universities. The university has consistently ranked amongst the top institutions in the UK and has been ranked 42nd in the UK by the Complete University Guide 2024.

Why is it good to study here?

The city offers a large number of options for students to choose from. The university offers over 130 graduate-taught courses and 70 undergraduate courses (including degree, foundation, and short courses)
City University has connections with the top organizations in London, thus ensuring that students have access to the best employment opportunities that the UK has to offer. The university also offers several student services to ensure that the student’s life is a positive experience.

Fees

  • The average undergraduate tuition fee at City is around £16,000 – £30,000 per year
  • The average postgraduate tuition fee at City is around £16,000 – £25,000 per year.

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria include

  • English-language proficiency test scores (TOEFL/IELTS/PTE)
  • Program-specific requirements
  • A minimum requirement of passes in two subjects at A-level or equivalent for undergraduate courses.
  • Applicants must also have achieved a minimum of grade 4/C in English and Mathematics at GCSE
  • Individual course requirements can be checked here.
  • For postgraduate courses, an undergraduate/bachelor’s degree from a recognized university is mandatory
  • Study permit or student visa

Courses offered & admission process

Some of the most popular courses offered at City include

  • Actuarial Science BSc (Hons)
  • Aerospace Engineering BEng (Hons)
  • Biomedical and Healthcare Engineering MEng (Hons)
  • Business with Finance BSc (Hons)
  • Computer Science BSc (Hons)
  • Data Science MSci (Hons)
  • LLB (Hons) Law Degree

The admission process involves several steps including,

  • Selecting a program
  • Apply through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS)
  • Submission of all relevant documents
  • Assessment of application
  • Interviews and auditions

7. Brunel University London


Source: brunel.ac.uk

Brunel, a public research university, was founded in 1966. The university offers programs across several areas including anthropology, chemical engineering, computer science, and theatre among others.

Why is it good to study here?

The university is ranked 343rd by the QS World University Rankings List of 2024. The graduates of Brunel University are among the world’s most employable. Brunel is also known for its interdisciplinary approach to the curriculum.

Fees

The average tuition fee at Brunel is around £19,000 – £44,000 a year.

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria include

  • English-language proficiency test scores (TOEFL/IELTS/PTE)
  • Program-specific requirements
  • Must have successfully completed A-Levels, Standard XII, CBSE, CISCE, or the International Baccalaureate for undergraduate courses.
  • For postgraduate courses, an undergraduate/bachelor’s degree from a recognized university is mandatory
  • Study permit or student visa

Courses offered & admission process

Some of the most popular courses offered at Brunel include

  • Theatre BA
  • Medicine MBBS
  • Biomedical Sciences (Immunology) BSc
  • Marketing Management BSc
  • Aerospace Engineering BEng

The admission process involves several steps including,

  • Choose your course
  • Checking admission requirements
  • Apply to undergraduate courses through (UCAS) at www.ucas.com
  • Applications to postgraduate courses need to be made directly to the college
  • Application assessment
  • Admission decision
  • Acceptance
  • Apply for accommodation

8. Birkbeck, University of London


Source: www.chevening.org

Founded in 1823, Birkbeck, University of London is a world-class research and teaching university. It is popular for helping people to access higher education and to transform their lives for the better.

Why is it good to study here?

Birkbeck has been ranked 374th in the QS World University Rankings of 2024. The campus is located in Bloomsbury, which happens to be the heart of the city of London. The student-friendly area is well-known for being an intellectual and literary hub. The institution is also popular for its evening teaching.

Fees

The average tuition fee at Birkbeck is around £19,000 to £35,000 a year.

Eligibility

The eligibility requirements include,

  • English-language proficiency test scores (IELTS)
  • For postgraduate applicants – Applicants are required to achieve a first-class/first-division mark in their undergraduate programme at a good institution of higher education
  • For undergraduate applicants = Higher Secondary Certificate
    • All India Senior School Certificate
    • Higher School Certificate
    • Indian School Certificate (ISC)
    • Intermediate Certificate
    • Pre-University Course awarded on completion of Standard XII.
  • International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma or A-levels
  • Student visa/study permit

Courses offered & admission process

Some of the most popular courses offered at Birkbeck include:

  • Sociology and criminology BA (Hons)
  • Financial Economics BSc (Hons)
  • Law LLB
  • Journalism and Media BA (Hons)
  • Master of Business Administration

The admission process involves several steps including,

  • Apply for full-time undergraduate courses via UCAS.
  • Apply directly to Birkbeck for postgraduate study
  • Submit application form
  • Submit documents (personal details, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, official transcripts etc)
  • Initial assessment
  • Shortlisting applicants
  • Call for interview
  • Enrolment

9. Royal Holloway, University of London


Source:royalholloway.ac.uk

Royal Holloway is a public research university that has been formally incorporated as Royal Holloway and Bedford New College. Founded in 1879, the university has been one of the most international universities in the UK, thanks to students from across 160 countries attending programs on campus.

Why is it good to study here?

Ranked 413rd by the QS World University Rankings of 2024, the university also has managed to remain in the top 25% of all UK research in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021.

Fees

International students have to make a  £3,000 tuition fee deposit.
The average tuition fee at Royal Holloway is around £18,000 – £25,200.

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria include

  • English-language proficiency test scores (TOEFL/IELTS/PTE)
  • Program-specific requirements
  • Must have successfully completed A-Levels or the International Baccalaureate for undergraduate courses
  • For postgraduate courses, an undergraduate/bachelor’s degree from a recognized university is mandatory
  • Study permit or student visa

Courses offered & admission process

Some of the most popular courses offered at Royal Holloway include

  • Psychology (BSc)
  • Geography (BSc)
  • Law (LLB)
  • Computer Science (BSc)

The admission process involves several steps including,

  • Apply to undergraduate courses through (UCAS) at www.ucas.com
  • Applications to postgraduate courses need to be made directly to the college
  • Checking admission requirements
  • Application assessment
  • Attending interviews
  • Admission decision
  • Acceptance

10. SOAS University of London


Source: www.soas.ac.uk
Established in 1916, SOAS is a research university that specialises in the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The school has several undergraduate and graduate programmes from various disciplines such as economics, law, history, and others.

Why is it good to study here?

SOAS has been ranked 511th by the QS World University Rankings List of 2024. The university seeks to address the current issues faced by our world including climatic changes, social inequality, and social polarization among others. The university has been ranked 6th in the UK for employment outcomes.

Fees

The average undergraduate tuition fee at SOAS University of London is around £22,000 a year for international students.
The average postgraduate tuition fee at SOAS University of London is between £8,000 – £25,000 a year.

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria include

  • English-language proficiency test scores (TOEFL/IELTS/PTE)
  • Program-specific requirements
  • Indian School Certificate (ICSE or CBSE) with at least five subjects for undergraduate courses. ‘A’ levels or the IB Diploma will also be considered.
  • For postgraduate courses, second class upper (or equivalent) bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
  • Study permit or student visa

Courses offered & admission process

Some of the most popular courses offered at SOAS include

  • LLM Environmental Law and Sustainable Development
  • MA Cultural Studies
  • MA Media in Development
  • MSc Economics
  • BA History
  • BSc Management
  • BA/BSc Business, Management, Economics & Law with Foundation Year

The admission process involves several steps including,

  • Choose a program (postgraduate or undergraduate)
  • Apply to undergraduate courses through (UCAS) at www.ucas.com
  • Applications to postgraduate courses need to be made directly to the college through individual course pages
  • Applications are reviewed
  • Admission decision
  • Acceptance

The number of institutions of higher education in London is higher than that of any other, making it one of the most sought-after study-abroad destinations among international students. Some of the other top London colleges and institutions that are located in the city include,

  • St George’s, University of London
  • University of Westminster
  • Middlesex University
  • Royal Veterinary College, University of London
  • Goldsmiths, University of London

Now that we have discussed some of the best universities in London, let’s take a look at how we can go about applying to them. You can also explore the top medical colleges in London.

Apply to universities in London with TC Global


Applying to universities in London as an international student might seem to be a daunting task that can be overwhelming for most applicants.

At TC Global, we simplify international education, learning, and mobility through connecting students, universities, and a global community on a single platform where there are over 1000+ education providers and over 80,000+ courses.

Our platform enables students to study anywhere in the world in just a few steps. From search and discovery and finding the right course fit for you, to applications, visas, and departure – we see you through it all.

To move forward with us, download our app or visit tcglobal.com and sign in to create an account on our student platform and onboard with us in quick, easy steps.! 🚀. Hope this helps you zero in on the best colleges in London for international students.

Let’s shape your future together!

Also Read



Date added
20.11.2023

Filed under:

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