London has been topped for years as one of the best cities for international students to pursue higher education. On top of quality education, get ready to immerse yourself in the city's cultural diversity, rich history, and vibrant social calendar for students to enjoy.
London has numerous excellent universities that attract international students from all over the world. There are more than 40 universities and higher education facilities in London, with a good percentage of the student population coming from overseas.
Many students decide to apply for a work visa after having completed their studies or having found an employment sponsor. The Graduate visa allows students to stay in the UK for at least two years after completing their studies.
Where to study in London
It is important to research which institutions across London teach the course you wish to study and to be aware of the entry requirements and course fees. You can read more on admission formalities in the article Studying in the UK.
Quite a few universities are located in central London. The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) is within walking distance from the British Library and Trafalgar Square. Middlesex University, on the other hand, is based further out and takes at least 30 minutes by tube to reach the city centre. Some universities have more than one campus, which may be situated in different parts of the UK, so keep this in mind as you research where your course will be located.
London is home to several Russel Group Universities, including the University College of London and the London School of Economics, which rank in the Top 10 in the UK and the Top 20 globally.
Tuition fees and cost of living in London
International tuition fees vary depending on the institution, the course, and the latter's duration. These fees start at around £11,400 and go up to £35,000. Humanities and social sciences tend to be the least expensive courses to study, while law and medical studies can be the most expensive.
Accommodation and living expenses are high in London, with accommodation guaranteed to be your biggest expense. You need to budget at least £1000 for a studio flat. However, you may be able to find less expensive accommodation in university halls or flat shares.
You may be eligible for loans, grants, scholarships, and other forms of funding to cover your tuition fees and living expenses. Explore the options available through your preferred universities or institutions and from independent organisations such as The British Council.
Prominent UK or EU scholarships for international students include:
- Chevening Scholarships funded by the UK government;
- Erasmus Programme Scholarships for students in the EU;
- Royal Society grants: Post-doctoral science research.
Good to know:
To be exempted from paying council tax in London, you must study for at least 21 hours per week for at least one academic year. This tax applies to any owner or tenant aged 20 or above.
Tip:
Consider looking for a part-time job to help adjust to London's cost of living. University campuses usually look for students to help out with on-site facilities.
Useful links:
Student visas
Student support
Brunel University
City, University of London
Imperial College London
King's College London
London Metropolitan University
London South Bank University
London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
London University
Middlesex University
Queen Mary, University of London
University College London (UCL)
University of East London (UEL)
University of Greenwich
Westminster University
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.
