London is home to 17 well-ranked universities, and 2 of them appear in the top 10 global QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) World University Rankings 2024. Moreover, factors like a welcoming environment, vibrant student life, and excellent job prospects make it a fantastic academic spot. So, this is the guide for you if you are planning to pursue your further studies from here.

Key Highlights

• Top 5 universities in London, the UK
  • Imperial College London
  • University College London
  • King’s College London
  • Queen Mary University of London
  • London School of Economics and Political Science
• Eligibility criteria to study at the best universities in London
• Application process of the top universities in London
• Cost of studying at the best colleges in London, England

Top 5 universities in London, the UK

Imperial College London

Imperial College London is one of the world’s best public research universities that holds great pre-eminence. It is one of the top 10 universities in London that offers globally-recognised post-graduate, PhD, and other study programs in four domains: Science, Engineering, Medicine, and Business. The institute is home to ~23,000 students and 8,000 staff members.

QS Rankings 2024 (UK-specific)	3
Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2024 (UK-specific)	3

 

University College London (UCL)

Founded in 1826, UCL is a leading multidisciplinary university that is home to over 50,000 students from more than 150 countries. It offers graduate, doctoral, short courses, etc., in 11 areas of specialisation, including Brain Sciences, Arts & Humanities, Mathematical & Physical Sciences, etc.

QS Rankings 2024	4
THE Rankings 2024	4

 

King’s College London

It is one of the most prestigious and oldest English varsities that has been offering quality education so students can lead and change the world. The total student population is 33,000 from more than 190 countries. It is known for producing 14 Nobel laureates in fields like Physics, Chemistry, Medicine, etc.

QS Rankings 2024	7
THE Rankings 2024	6

 

London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

Founded in 1895, LSE is regarded as the best institution for pursuing higher education in Social Sciences. It offers post-graduate, executive, online, and other study programs in 29 academic fields like Management, Economics, Anthropology, and Mathematics, to name a few. It has 19 research centres and 7 academic partnerships with institutes across the globe.

QS Rankings 2024	8
THE Rankings 2024	7

 

Queen Mary University of London

London’s leading research-intensive university offers unparalleled education through its 6 campuses in London and 3 international campuses. Over 33,000 students from more than 170 nationalities are studying at this university. Out of which, 41% are of international origin.

QS Rankings 2024	21
THE Rankings 2024	17

 

Eligibility criteria to study at the best university in London

You need to meet the following requirements to study a master’s degree program in top universities in London:

• Bachelor’s in a related field from a reputed university
• Academic transcripts (degrees and certificates)
• English language exams like the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
• Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) score
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
• Resume
• Work experience (not mandatory)

Pro-Tip: You can study in the UK without taking the IELTS, as many London universities evaluate the English language proficiency of international students in different ways. For instance, some universities will check the English language scores you earned during your academic journey. Therefore, check university and course-specific guidelines before applying.

Application process of the top universities in London

• Conduct extensive research to form a London university list that offers your preferred course, and select your dream varsity.
• Understand the university and course-specific requirements, fill out an application form and attach necessary documents like Academic transcripts, LOR, SOP, etc., with it.
• Apply for a UK student visa after receiving the letter of confirmation from your selected university.

Cost of studying at the best colleges in London, England 

If you are planning to pursue a one-year master’s degree program from a reputed college in London, the average annual tuition fee will range from ~EUR 22,000 to ~EUR 40,000 (~INR 20,14,500 to ~INR 36,62,800). The cost of living may come to around ~EUR 1,000 to ~EUR 13,00 (~INR 91,500 to ~INR 1,19,000) monthly.

So, if you aspire to pursue your higher studies in London, but the rising cost of education is bothering you, you can opt for an education loan. At Avanse Financial Services, we offer customised education loans with benefits like 100% finance, quick loan sanctions, and flexible repayment options. If you have any queries regarding education loans and eligibility criteria, feel free to connect with us.