Top Universities In UK To Study: Ranking, Eligibility, Scholarships, And More

Rahul Kumar 04 Oct 2024 United Kingdom

The top universities in UK are world-renowned for their academic achievements and research. Students admire studying in UK because of the availability of diversified courses, part-time work opportunities, research facilities, availability of scholarships, etc. Studying overseas is a life-changing choice for all students.

Students need solid reasons to choose a study destination and academic institution from a list of options. This instructive blog provides the most recent rankings and statistics to make a sound selection to get enrolled into one of the best university in UK. You can also take professional help in choosing the best public and private universities in UK of the best study abroad consultancy, The Student Helpline.

List of Best Universities in UK For International Students

Below are the 10 best universities in the UK for international students, their QS ranking, and their location.

Top Universities in UK

QS Ranking

of Best Universities in UK

Location of Best Universities of UK

University of Oxford

1

Oxford

University of Cambridge

2

Cambridge

Imperial College London

8

London

University College London (UCL)

10

London

University of Edinburgh

20

Edinburgh

University of Manchester

27

Manchester

London School of Economics

49

London

University of Warwick

54

Coventry

University of Bristol

58

Bristol

University of Glasgow

77

Glasgow

Compelling Reasons To Study In UK's Top Universities

The best universities in UK provide a unique chance to develop as individuals and level up students' academics. You can expect the following when you study in UK.

  1. World-class universities in UK have a long-maintained image to provide high-quality education.
  2. A research powerhouse, 38% of Nobel Prize recipients had pursued higher education in UK.
  3. Part-time work options for international students are permitted at UK institutions, making it one of the top reasons to study in the UK.
  4. Active student community with many clubs and societies.
  5. Availability of quality support and healthcare services for international students.
  6. Innovative Methods of Teaching and Learning Environments.
  7. Networking Opportunities for Global Professionals.
  8. Best universities in UK offer short-duration courses when compared to United States and Canada.

Total Number of Universities in UK

160 universities and 40 colleges

Cost of Studying in Best Unviersities in UK

Approximately £10,000 to £38,000 (per year)

Cost of Living in UK

Approximately £9,000 to £15,000 (per year)

Part-time Work Allowed

20 hours/week

Post-study Work Visa (PSW UK or Graduate Route Visa)

2 years (3 years in case of Doctoral qualification)

Top Courses In UK For International Students

The United Kingdom offers a diverse choice of outstanding courses, allowing students to grow holistically. Some courses at best universities in UK provide students with a solid foundation of practical skills and exposure to cutting-edge facilities.

Studying in top ranking universities in UK is also rewarding with modern world-class faculties and facilities, along with a pulsating academic environment, hence preparing students for a successful career in their chosen fields.

Top MBA Universities in UK

In UK, an MBA or Master of Business Administration typically lasts 12 months. Some colleges, such as London Business School, provide programs lasting longer than a year. Many top UK universities offer MBA programs, with annual fees ranging from £23,000 to £90,000.

The list below is of the 10 best universities for MBA programs in the UK.

  1. London Business School
  2. Durham University Business School
  3. University of Birmingham (Birmingham Business School)
  4. University of Nottingham (Nottingham University Business School)
  5. Imperial College Business School
  6. Aston University (Aston Business School)
  7. University of Liverpool (Liverpool Management School)
  8. University of Sheffield (Sheffield University Management School)
  9. University of Leeds (Leeds University Business School)
  10. Warwick Business School

Which Are The Best Medical Universities In UK?

All UK universities that provide Medicine degrees are fully approved and subject to frequent reviews by the GMC's education committee. This evaluation procedure guarantees that all medical graduates maintain a high level of knowledge, competency, and safety.

List of Best Universities in UK for Medicine

  • University of Oxford- UK Ranking 1
  • University of Cambridge- UK Ranking 2
  • Imperial College London- UK Ranking 3
  • University College London (UCL)- UK Ranking 4
  • King's College London- UK Ranking 5
  • University of Edinburgh- UK Ranking 6
  • University of Glasgow- UK Ranking 7
  • University of Manchester- UK Ranking 8
  • University of Bristol- UK Ranking 9
  • Queen Mary University of London- UK Ranking 10

Top Universities for MS in Automotive Engineering in UK

Order No.

Best Universities for MS in Automotive Engineering in UK

Scholarship offered by universities for Automotive Engineering in UK

1

Cranfield University

Cranfield University Automotive and Motorsport Scholarship

2

Loughborough University

Loughborough University Postgraduate Bursary

3

University of Bath

University of Bath Dean's Award for Academic Excellence

4

Coventry University

Coventry University Automotive Excellence Scholarship

5

University of Leeds

University of Leeds International Excellence Scholarship

6

University of Huddersfield

University of Huddersfield International Scholarships

7

University of Sussex

Chancellor's International Scholarship

8

University of Sunderland

University of Sunderland International Scholarship

9

University of Hertfordshire

Chancellor's International Scholarship

10

University of Brighton

International Huxley Scholarship

Best Engineering Universities in UK

The best engineering universities in UK helps students to gain knowledge about their respective streams. The points listed below provide the name of the top engineering universities in UK with their renowned respective streams.

  • University of Sheffield: Aerospace Engineering, Civil Engineering
  • University of Leeds: Mechanical Engineering, Electronic and Electrical Engineering
  • University of Southampton: Mechanical Engineering, Electronic Engineering
  • University of Warwick: Materials Science and Engineering, Civil Engineering
  • Newcastle University: Computer Science Engineering, Aerospace Engineering
  • University of Birmingham: Automotive Engineering, Civil Engineering
  • University of Nottingham: Aeronautics and Astronautics, Civil Engineering
  • University of Liverpool: Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering
  • University of Strathclyde: Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering
  • University of Surrey: Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering

Top Universities in UK For Masters in Finance

When it comes to pursue masters or bachelors in finance from the top universities of UK. Students can check out the table which provides the names of the top universities with their admission fees.

Order No.

Name of the Best Universities in UK For Masters in Finance

Top University in UK for Masters in Finance Admission Fees (approx.)

1

London School of Economics (LSE)

£39,384 per year

2

University of Oxford

£48,670 total

3

University of Cambridge

£47,520 total

4

Imperial College London

£39,000 per year

5

London Business School

£44,900 total

6

University of Warwick

£32,250 per year

7

University of Manchester (Alliance MBS)

£30,000 per year

8

University of Edinburgh

£31,450 per year

9

University of Bristol

£28,200 per year

10

University of St Andrews

£28,500 per year

Best Universities For Masters in Public Relations in UK

The best universities in public relations in UK provide cutting-edge programs, experienced teachers, and strong industry connections, assuring a well-rounded education and good employment opportunities in the dynamic public relations profession. Listed below are the best universities for masters in public relations in UK and the scholarships they offered.

  • University of Westminster: Westminster International Scholarships
  • University of Stirling: University of Stirling International Postgraduate Awards
  • University of East Anglia (UEA): UEA International Excellence Scholarship
  • Bournemouth University: BU International Postgraduate Scholarships
  • Cardiff University: Cardiff University International Scholarships
  • Manchester Metropolitan University: MMU Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarships
  • University of Leeds: Leeds International Excellence Scholarship
  • University of the Arts London (UAL): UAL International Postgraduate Scholarships
  • University of Lincoln: Lincoln Global Postgraduate Scholarships
  • University of Central Lancashire (UCLan): UCLan International Bursary

Top IT Universities in UK

There are many students who aspire to pursue IT from the UK universities. The table presented below furnishes information about the top IT universities in UK with the admission month.

Order No

Name of the Best IT Universities in UK

Top Universities of UK Admission Intake Month

1

University of Southampton

September, January

2

University of St Andrews

September

3

University of Exeter

September, January

4

University of Sussex

September, January

5

University of Surrey

September, February

6

University of Strathclyde

September, January

7

University of Kent

September, January

8

University of Essex

September, January

9

University of Aberdeen

September, January

10

University of Reading

September, January

Eligibility for Top Ranking Universities in UK For International Students

To be considered for admission to the top universities in UK, there are certain requirements that have to be met. The first steps that are crucial for the successful application are the understanding of the requirements and preparation for it.

Admission Criteria for the top Universities in UK for Undergraduates

  • Competitive grades, usually AAA or AAB grade in 12th and 10th standards
  • IELTS or TOEFL to demonstrate English ability

Admission Criteria for top universities in UK for Masters

  • Hold a bachelor's degree - usually minimum 2:1 or 3.0 GPA
  • Meet the English language requirement for IELTS/TOEFL other English language requirements: IELTS 6.5 and above
  • Appropriate Transcripts and certificates

Admission Criteria for top universities in UK for PhD

  • Master's degree or its equivalent
  • Strong academic performance, usually about 3.5 GPA or more
  • Submit a detailed research proposal on your potential area of study and methodology
  • IELTS 7.0 and above score in the english language level.

Admission Intakes in Famous Universities in UK

The country has multiple admission intakes for international students seeking to study in UK, which is quite flexible and opens crises of opportunities throughout the year. The major intakes are given below.

January Intake Universities in UK

  • University of Westminster
  • University of East London
  • Coventry University
  • University of Sunderland
  • University of South Wales

May Intake Universities In UK

  • University of Hertfordshire
  • University of East London
  • Bournemouth University
  • University of Gloucestershire
  • Teesside University

September/October Intake Universities in UK

  • University of Oxford
  • University of Cambridge
  • University College London (UCL)
  • University of Edinburgh
  • University of Manchester

How to Apply for University In UK?

Applying to a university in the United Kingdom can be one of the most exhilarating task. This guide will give you the necessary information and the procedure to follow when applying for the best universities in the UK for masters. The Student Helpline can help students to explain the application process and other aspects in detail.

  1. Identify top universities in UK and courses as per your area of interest and the careers you plan to pursue.
  2. Verify academic and language requirements including academic background required, English language, and any other program-specific requirements
  3. Prepare your application materials, which typically include application documents. These are application form, academic certificates, IELTS and TOEFL Score Card, SOP, and Letter of Recommendation.
  4. Complete your application to get enrolled into your choice of top ranking university in UK before the due dates that differ for each program and university
  5. Wait for the admissions decisions and act accordingly to the offers that are given.
  • If accepted, complete the enrollment process, which may involve:
  1. Accepting the offer
  2. Applying for a student visa for UK (if necessary)
  3. Making arrangements for accommodation and other related issues
  4. Tuition fees and other costs related to the payment of tuition fees

Requirement Of English Language Proficiency For UK Universities

For international students to attend a university in UK, they must provide evidence of their English language skills through tests such as IELTS or TOEFL. Minimum English language requirements are different for each university and the course, but they are usually around IELTS 5. 5 to 7. 0 or equivalent.

Some without IELTS Universities in UK which may accept alternative method of English proficiency, such as:

  • Passing the top course in UK for which the degree is awarded when the degree is taught in English
  • Meeting the university's internal English language proficiency test
  • Passing English with a given grade in high school or in a foundation program.

Scholarship To Study In UK For International Students

Students who have applied for the best Universities of UK will also be provided scholarships. These scholarships can provide assistance to students to complete their education successfully. Here are the high-paying scholarships in UK provided by the universities.

  • Chevening Scholarships
  • Commonwealth Scholarships and Fellowships
  • Clarendon Scholarships (University of Oxford)
  • Cambridge Trust Scholarships (University of Cambridge)
  • Imperial College President's Scholarship
  • UCL Global Masters Scholarship
  • University of Edinburgh Global Undergraduate Scholarship
  • King's College London International Undergraduate Scholarship
  • University of Manchester President's Doctoral Scholar Award
  • University of Warwick Chancellor's International Scholarship
  • University of Bristol Global Outstanding Undergraduate Scholarship
  • Durham University International Scholarship
  • University of Glasgow International Leadership Scholarship
  • University of Sheffield Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship

Key Points To Consider For International Students To Get Enrolled in Top UK Universities

Some of the essential aspects that international students should be informed before joining the best universities in the UK. This should be kept in mind while taking admission in the UK university.

  • Top University in UK Application Process: Start very early to meet application deadlines, which vary from institution to institution and from program to program.
  • Top University in UK Visa Requirements: Ensure that you have enough time to apply for and obtain a student visa.
  • Best University in UK Financial Planning: Discuss the financial plan with respect to tuition fees, living costs, possible scholarships, etc.
  • Best University in UK Accommodation: Pre-book accommodation well in advance, particularly during the main intake period, when the demand for accommodations is usually high.
  • Top University in UK Scholarships: Check scholarships available and finance options in relation to your proposed studies.

Famous Universities in UK Overview

The process of applying for top universities in UK can be quite daunting. However, the right information and assistance, it can be a smooth ride. The Student Helpline aims to support students in their academic endeavours through assistance. This assistance can be with the university applications, personal statement writing, and interview preparation.

The team of professional advisors in The Student Helpline assist you in the application process. This further improves your chances of getting into your preferred top universities in Uk for masters. Contасt The Stuԁent Helрline toԁаy to get stаrteԁ on your journey to асаԁemiс suссess!

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Top Universities in UK

Which Are The Best Universities In UK?

Oxforԁ University, Cаmbriԁge University, аnԁ Imрeriаl College Lonԁon are top universities in UK. These аre the best universities thаt рroviԁe quаlity eԁuсаtion аnԁ асаԁemiс сourses. For more informаtion on аррliсаtions, The Stuԁent Helрline offers рrofessionаl аԁviсe to аssist you in getting enrolleԁ.

Which Universities In UK Offer Master's Programs?

University College Lonԁon, Eԁinburgh, Mаnсhester, etс.are some of the best universities in UK to stuԁy for а mаster's ԁegree. These institutions offer vаrious аnԁ ԁistinсt рrogrаms of stuԁy. The Stuԁent Helрline саn helр you in сhoosing the right рrogrаm аnԁ guiԁe you through the рroсess to аррly.

Are There Public Universities In The UK?

Yes, there аre severаl рubliс universities in UK inсluԁing University of Birminghаm аnԁ University of Leeԁs thаt рroviԁe quаlity eԁuсаtion. If you neeԁ helр in аррlying to these institutions, The Stuԁent Helрline is аlwаys reаԁy to guiԁe you through the рroсess.

Which Universities In The UK Have A January Intake?

Coventry University аnԁ University of Eаst Lonԁon аre some universities in Lonԁon UK thаt ассeрt stuԁents in Jаnuаry. This mаkes it рossible to hаve flexibility in your stuԁy sсheԁules. Stuԁent Helрline mаy be аble to offer extensive suррort in terms of the аррliсаtion ԁeаԁlines for these intаkes.

Which Are The Top Medical Universities In The UK?

The best meԁiсаl universities in UK inсluԁe Oxforԁ, Cаmbriԁge, аnԁ University College Lonԁon. These institutions аre fаmous for their meԁiсаl сourses. If you wаnt to get рrofessionаl tiрs on how to аррly to these universities, then you neeԁ to turn to The Stuԁent Helрline.

What Are Some Cheap Universities In The UK?

University of Hull аnԁ University of Chester аre the сheар universities in UK. They offer quаlity eԁuсаtion at cheaper рriсes. For more informаtion аnԁ to аррly suссessfully, The Stuԁent Helрline is there to guiԁe you bаseԁ on your finаnсiаl situаtion.

Are There Universities In The UK That Accept Students Without IELTS?

Yes, there are without IELTS universities in UK such as the University of Essex and the University of Central Lancashire. The Student Helpline can assist you in identifying such universities and navigating the admission process.

How To Apply For University In UK?

To apply for a university in UK, you need to find the universities, check the requirements for the university and apply either through the UCAS or directly to the university. The Student Helpline provides comprehensive information and assistance throughout this process.

What Ranking Is Uclan University In The UK?

UCLan University ranks as one of the top 10 universities in UK. For more information on UK universities and the rankings, get in touch with The Student Helpline.

How Many Universities In UK?

There are in excess of 150 the best universities of UK engaged in a broad spectrum of courses and opportunities. If you are confused about which university you should go to, you may get advice from The Student Helpline.


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Rahul Kumar

Rahul Kumar, a seasoned writer and Study Abroad Expert at The Student Helpline, has over five years of experience crafting SEO-focused content rich in data insights and storytelling. He specializes in education abroad, creating strategies, and coveri

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