London, a leading study-abroad and tourist destination, is one of the best cities in the United Kingdom. Home to fashion, history, art, academics and diverse cultures, London is for everyone. No matter where you come from, there is something exciting for everyone in this city. Students from all corners of the world choose to study in London since it is home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world. In this article, you will get all the information you need about the top universities in London, United Kingdom. So, let’s begin.
Top Universities in London
University QS World University Rankings 2025
Imperial College London 2
University College London 9
King’s College London 40
London School of Economics & Political Science 50
Queen Mary University of London 120
Brunel University, London 342
City, University of London 352
Birbeck, University of London 408
Royal Holloway, University of London 477
SOAS University of London 508
Top 5 Universities in London
Imperial College London
Founded in 1907, this public research university is the best in London, United Kingdom. With an acceptance rate of just 14.3%, getting admission to this prestigious university is very difficult. The university shares a great history, as it was formed after merging the Royal College of Science, City & Guilds College and the Royal School of Mines. The university welcomes more than 6000 students every year from more than 125 different countries. The prime location of the campus is another advantage for students, as everything is easily accessible.
- Rank: As per QS World University Rankings 2025, Imperial College London ranks #2 in the world.
- Courses: The university offers about 67 undergraduate programs and 155 postgraduate programs to students all over the world. The university focuses majorly on science, medicine, engineering and business.
- Fees: The course fees for different programs can vary. However, the average tuition fee at Imperial College London is 35,000 GBP per year.
University College London
Founded in 1826, UCL is known for being the first-ever academic institute to be established in London, United Kingdom. This public research university is known for its excellent academic reputation and the courses that it offers to students worldwide. With more than 40,000 students getting enrolled every year, the university is home to many international students. The multicultural campus provides students with diversity and a home-like feeling, thereby giving it the tag of ‘London’s Global University’. Did you know? UCL has partnerships with around 300 foreign institutions, thereby making it a desirable place for education.
- Rank: According to QS World University Rankings 2025, University College London ranks #9 in the world.
- Courses: UCL offers students about 190 undergraduate programs and more than 500 different Master’s programs. With various options to specialize in, students choose this college for its unique courses. Some specializations offered include Data Science, Biochemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Crime & Security Science, Data Science, and more.
- Fees: The fees for UCL for undergraduate students from the UK are fixed at £9,250 annually. However, they can differ from program to program, and international students have higher fees.
King’s College London
Founded in 1829, this public research university is a popular and renowned university in the world. With an acceptance rate of just 13%, getting admission to KCL is highly competitive and a dream for many students worldwide. Established by the royal charter, KCL became one of two founding colleges of the University of London. Did you know? According to 2024, KCL ranked as the sixth-best university in the United Kingdom. Students choose to pursue their education here due to its high employability rate, excellent academic reputation, brilliant faculty and practical exposure that it offers. Known for a number of courses and programs, studying at King’s College London is truly rewarding.
- Rank: According to QS World University Rankings 2025, King’s College London ranks at #40 in the world.
- Courses: King’s College London offers students more than 180 courses. The institution is majorly famous for its programs in fields such as humanities, law, and sciences such as psychiatry, medicine, and nursing, among others.
- Fees: The tuition fee at King’s College London depends on the course the student chooses. The average fee for international students is somewhere around 18,100 GBP annually.
London School of Economics & Political Science
Founded in 1895, this public research university has an acceptance rate of just 8.9%. This means that getting admission to this university is very competitive, and students really need to work hard to study at LSE. As the name suggests, LSE specializes majorly in social sciences. Studying at LSE is a dream of students worldwide since it offers excellent education, exposure and opportunities. Boosting both personal and professional growth, LSE is the ultimate place for students who wish to study and live in London.
- Rank: QS World University Rankings 2025 ranks LSE at #50 globally.
- Courses: LSE offers students both bachelor’s and master’s programs. Students can choose from 36 undergraduate and 140 postgraduate programs. Some of the most renowned courses at LSE include Accounting, Economics, Finance, Law, Research Methods, and International Relations, among others.
- Fees: The average annual tuition fee for international students pursuing undergraduate programs at LSE is 18,408 GBP. However, the tuition fee can change according to the course taken.
Queen Mary University of London
Founded in 1885, this public research university is an excellent choice for students who to study in London, United Kingdom. It has an acceptance rate of 44%, which means its difficulty level is neutral. With more than 20,000 students, the university is home to both local and international students. Being a part of the Russell Group, this prestigious university is a great place for students to grow professionally.
- Rank: As per QS World University Rankings 2025, the Queen Mary University of London ranks #150 globally.
- Courses: Queen Mary University of London offers students both, bachelor’s and master’s programs. Students can choose from a variety of unique courses at the university.
- Fees: While the exact tuition fee depends on course to course, students can expect the average annual tuition fee to be 9,250 GBP.
Conclusion
London is a dream of many students, entrepreneurs and tourists. From arts to history, academics to job opportunities and culture to diversity, the capital of the United Kingdom is truly a fantastic place for students to study. Offering students with top-notch education quality and an amazing student life, universities in London are an experience students must have. So, start preparing and apply to your dream university.