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Top Universities in UK: Rankings, Admission Process, Who Ranks Them & Much More

Top Universities in UK: Rankings, Admission Process, Who Ranks Them & Much More

Introduction

The United Kingdom boasts some of the world’s most prestigious universities, attracting students worldwide who seek a world-class education. Reportedly, the UK has close to 166 universities in the region offering various course choices to the students.

From the storied halls of renowned Oxford and Cambridge to the innovative campuses of Imperial College London and the London School of Economics, the UK is home to a diverse range of higher education institutions that offer an array of programs and courses designed to meet the needs and interests of students from diverse backgrounds.

With a plethora of university choices, students are often confused about which university to choose! This guide will prove to be your one-stop solution to knowing the top universities to study in the UK and their admission process. It is also important for you to know who ranks these universities, to understand which one is more genuine.

When it comes to higher education, the UK is a force to be reckoned with. The country is home to several universities that consistently rank among the best in the world, making it a premier study destination for students from around the world.

Notably, the total number of international students in the UK in 2023 was recorded at a whopping 559,825, showcasing a 23.7% surge from previous years’ numbers, and with the rising demand for study abroad programs, this number will only double in the coming years.

Total Record Count: 87
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UK | Dundee
Abertay University

Fees Range: GBP 13750 - GBP 18000

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UK | Dundee
Abertay University - MSM Unify

Fees Range: GBP 13750 - GBP 17000

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UK | Dundee
AL Maktoum College of Higher Education

Fees Range: GBP 1200 - GBP 20000

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UK | Cambridge
Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge

Fees Range: GBP 13900 - GBP 19200

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UK | Poole
Arts University Bournemouth

Fees Range: GBP 14250 - GBP 19950

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UK | Birmingham
Aston University, UK

Fees Range: GBP 9000 - GBP 23500

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UK | Gwynedd
Bangor University, Bangor

Fees Range: GBP 18000 - GBP 20000

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UK | Birmingham
Birmingham City University International College (BCUIC)

Fees Range: GBP 9500 - GBP 18700

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UK | Birmingham
Birmingham City University, UK

Fees Range: GBP 1950 - GBP 26510

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UK | Poole
Bournemouth University, England

Fees Range: GBP 18700 - GBP 22000

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UK | London
BPP University, London

Fees Range: GBP 11000 - GBP 29160

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UK | Cardiff
Cardiff Metropolitan University, UK

Fees Range: GBP 11000 - GBP 17500

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UK | Cardiff
Cardiff University

Fees Range: GBP 9000 - GBP 31950

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UK | Coventry
Coventry University, Coventry

Fees Range: GBP 12400 - GBP 24050

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UK | Bedford
Cranfield University, UK

Fees Range: GBP 26580 - GBP 32445

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UK | Leicester
De Montfort University, England

Fees Range: GBP 1500 - GBP 18780

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UK | Durham
Durham University

Fees Range: GBP 18500 - GBP 27500

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UK | Edinburgh
Edinburgh Napier University, Edinburgh

Fees Range: GBP 11290 - GBP 20570

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UK | London
European school of economics London

Fees Range: EUR 22000 - EUR 35000

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UK | Edinburgh
Heriot Watt University, Scotland

Fees Range: GBP 2536 - GBP 29960

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UK | Hatfield
Hertfordshire International College, Hertfordshire

Fees Range: GBP Null - GBP Null

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UK | Portsmouth
ICP-International College of Portsmouth

Fees Range: GBP 8150 - GBP 15500

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UK | Aberdeen
ICRGU-Robert Gordon University

Fees Range: GBP 7550 - GBP 14935

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UK | London
Kingston University, UK

Fees Range: GBP 1994 - GBP 25000

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UK | Liverpool
Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool

Fees Range: GBP 7100 - GBP 7100

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UK | Uxbridge
London Brunel International College, London

Fees Range: GBP 6365 - GBP 19330

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UK | London
London Metropolitan University, London

Fees Range: GBP 5000 - GBP 20100

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UK | Southwark
London South Bank University, London

Fees Range: GBP 9933.33 - GBP 22353.33

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UK | Manchester
Manchester Metropolitan University, UK

Fees Range: GBP 2000 - GBP 20500

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UK | London
Middlesex University, UK

Fees Range: GBP 12600 - GBP 22000

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UK | Newcastle upon Tyne
Newcastle University, Newcastle

Fees Range: GBP 19995 - GBP 28800

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UK | Nottingham
Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham

Fees Range: GBP 12450 - GBP 24000

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UK | London
Queen Mary University of London, England

Fees Range: GBP 0 - GBP 55750

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UK | London
Queen Mary University of London-Online

Fees Range: GBP 8200 - GBP 13750

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UK | London
Ravensbourne University London, London

Fees Range: GBP 16500 - GBP 19500

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UK | Aberdeen
Robert Gordon University

Fees Range: GBP 11430 - GBP 19030

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UK | London
SOAS University of London

Fees Range: GBP Null - GBP Null

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UK | Middlesbrough
Teesside University, UK

Fees Range: GBP 17000 - GBP 17000

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UK | Aberdeen
The University of Aberdeen

Fees Range: GBP 4380 - GBP 50100

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UK | Huddersfield
The University of Huddersfield

Fees Range: GBP 15000 - GBP 18000

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UK | Huddersfield
The University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield

Fees Range: GBP 15000 - GBP 20000

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UK | Nottingham
The University of Law - Nottingham

Fees Range: GBP 12900 - GBP 20350

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UK | Birmingham
The University of Law Birmingham

Fees Range: GBP 10750 - GBP 17000

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UK | Bristol
The University of Law- Bristol

Fees Range: GBP 12900 - GBP 15900

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UK | Leeds
The University of Law Leeds

Fees Range: GBP 10750 - GBP 16700

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UK | London
The University of Law London Bloomsbury

Fees Range: GBP 11750 - GBP 18100

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UK | Manchester
The University of Law Manchester

Fees Range: GBP 6000 - GBP 17000

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UK | Manchester
University Academy 92, Manchester

Fees Range: GBP 14450 - GBP 23001

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UK | London
University College Birmingham

Fees Range: GBP 9250 - GBP 18000

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UK | London
University College Birmingham, Birmingham

Fees Range: GBP 13500 - GBP 15000

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UK | Farnham
University for the Creative Arts, UK

Fees Range: GBP 11670 - GBP 18500

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UK | Luton
University of Bedfordshire, UK

Fees Range: GBP 500 - GBP 31250

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UK | Bolton
University of Bolton, Bolton

Fees Range: INR 13550 - INR 22515

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UK | Bradford
University of Bradford, Bradford

Fees Range: GBP 1740 - GBP 25618

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UK | Preston
University of Central Lancashire, England

Fees Range: GBP 0 - GBP 50000

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UK | Chester
University of Chester, England

Fees Range: GBP 13450 - GBP 20400

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UK | Derby
University of Derby, Derby

Fees Range: GBP 14045 - GBP 19950

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UK | Dundee
University of Dundee, Dundee, UK

Fees Range: GBP 2142 - GBP 40100

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UK | Norwich
University of East Anglia, England

Fees Range: GBP 19800 - GBP 42300

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UK | London
University of East London, London

Fees Range: GBP 10020 - GBP 18060

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UK | Colchester
University of Essex, Essex

Fees Range: GBP 10637 - GBP 25000

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UK | London
University of Greenwich, London

Fees Range: GBP 17000 - GBP 21000

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UK | Hatfield
University of Hertfordshire, UK

Fees Range: GBP 11100 - GBP 25000

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UK | Kingston upon Hull
University of Hull, UK

Fees Range: GBP 12000 - GBP 43950

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UK | Leicester
University of Leicester, Leicester

Fees Range: GBP 21850 - GBP 23650

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UK | Lincoln
University of Lincoln, UK

Fees Range: GBP 15900 - GBP 19300

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UK | Liverpool
University of Liverpool, England

Fees Range: GBP 18450 - GBP 31500

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UK | Liverpool
University of Liverpool, UK

Fees Range: GBP Null - GBP Null

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UK | Northampton
University of Northampton, Northampton

Fees Range: GBP 2000 - GBP 17500

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UK | Northampton
University of Northampton, UK

Fees Range: GBP 2000 - GBP 17995

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UK | Newcastle upon Tyne
University of Northumbria

Fees Range: GBP 16500 - GBP 33000

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UK | Nottingham
University of Nottingham

Fees Range: GBP Null - GBP Null

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UK | Plymouth
University of Plymouth International College, Plymouth

Fees Range: GBP Null - GBP Null

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UK | Portsmouth
University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth

Fees Range: GBP 16200 - GBP 25400

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UK | London
University of Roehampton, London

Fees Range: GBP 15488 - GBP 37800

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UK | Sheffield
University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK

Fees Range: GBP 2430 - GBP 49900

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UK | Pontypridd
University of South Wales, UK

Fees Range: GBP 2200 - GBP 16000

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UK | Southampton
University of Southampton, Southampton

Fees Range: GBP 2970 - GBP 29514

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UK | Stirling
University of Stirling, Stirling

Fees Range: GBP 4567 - GBP 14995

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UK | Glasgow
University of Strathclyde, Scotland

Fees Range: GBP 10868 - GBP 38400

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UK | Sunderland
University of Sunderland, England

Fees Range: GBP 9000 - GBP 20500

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UK | Brighton
University of Sussex

Fees Range: GBP 12200 - GBP 19500

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UK | Bristol
University of the West of England

Fees Range: GBP 7950 - GBP 19500

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UK | Glasgow
University of the West of Scotland

Fees Range: GBP 13325 - GBP 17250

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UK | Wolverhampton
University of Wolverhampton, UK

Fees Range: GBP 4000 - GBP 16950

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UK | York
University of York, England

Fees Range: GBP 19050 - GBP 29950

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UK | Wrexham
Wrexham University Wrexham

Fees Range: GBP 9750 - GBP 16000

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Why study at top universities in the UK?

Here are some of the top reasons to consider studying at a top university in the UK:

  • World-class education: UK universities consistently rank highly in global rankings, boasting excellent teaching and research facilities. You'll be learning from leading academics and researchers in your field.
  • Globally recognized degrees: A degree from a top UK university holds significant weight with employers around the world. It demonstrates your academic ability and opens doors to exciting career opportunities.
  • Focus on employability: Many top UK universities prioritize equipping students with the skills and knowledge employers seek. This can include internships, work placements, and career development programs.
  • Diverse and vibrant student life: Top universities attract students from all over the world, creating a rich and diverse learning environment. You'll have the opportunity to connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures.
  • Strong research focus: Top universities are at the forefront of research in many fields. You may have the chance to participate in research projects alongside leading academics.
  • Culturally Rich and Historic Setting: The UK is steeped in history and culture. Studying in the UK allows you to explore iconic landmarks, museums, and art galleries, while experiencing a unique cultural environment.
  • Potential for scholarships: Many top universities and scholarship organizations offer financial aid specifically for international students. This can help make studying in the UK more affordable.
  • Shorter degree programs: Undergraduate degrees in the UK typically take three years, and Master's degrees can be completed in one year. This can save you time and money compared to other countries.
Of course, the best choice for you will depend on your individual goals and priorities. But studying at a top university in the UK offers a wealth of potential benefits for ambitious and talented students.
Top universities in UK Intro min

List of top universities in the UK

Here are the top universities to study in the UK (2024) include:

University Name

QS World Ranking (2024)

Average Tuition Fees (USD)

University of Cambridge

2

£38,000 – £53,000

University of Oxford

2

£38,000 – £53,000

Imperial College London

3

£42,000 – £58,000

UCL (University College London)

7 (tied)

£33,000 – £48,000

London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

7 (tied)

£40,000 – £55,000

University of Edinburgh

16

£28,000 – £43,000

King’s College London (KCL)

23

£35,000 – £50,000

University of Manchester

27

£25,000 – £40,000

University of Warwick

61

£22,000 – £37,000

University of Bristol

63

£27,000 – £42,000

Please note: Tuition fees can vary depending on the specific program you choose and your residency status. These figures are intended as a general guide.

Location-based list of universities to study in the UK

Sure, here is a list of top universities in the UK categorized by location:

England

  • University of Cambridge (Cambridge) (QS World Ranking: 2nd) - A collegiate research university known for its world-class academics and historic campus.
  • University of Oxford (Oxford) (QS World Ranking: 2nd) - Another collegiate research university with a long and prestigious history.
  • Imperial College London (London) (QS World Ranking: 3rd) - A science and technology university located in central London.
  • UCL (University College London) (London) (QS World Ranking: 7th (tied)) - A leading university in a wide range of subjects, situated in central London.
  • London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) (London) (QS World Ranking: 7th (tied)) - Renowned for its social sciences programs, located in central London.
  • King's College London (KCL) (London) (QS World Ranking: 23rd) - A comprehensive research university with a focus on the humanities, law, medicine, and social sciences, based in central London.
  • University of Manchester (Manchester) (QS World Ranking: 27th) - A research-intensive university with a broad range of subjects, located in Manchester.
  • University of Warwick (Coventry) (QS World Ranking: 61st) - A research university known for its strong focus on business, engineering, and the sciences, situated near Coventry.
  • University of Bristol (Bristol) (QS World Ranking: 63rd) - A redbrick research university in Bristol, offering a variety of subjects across eight faculties.

Scotland

  • University of Edinburgh (Edinburgh) (QS World Ranking: 16th) - The sixth oldest university in the English-speaking world, located in Edinburgh.

Wales

  • Cardiff University (Cardiff) (QS World Ranking: 151-160th) - The largest university in Wales, situated in Cardiff.

Northern Ireland

  • Queen's University Belfast (Belfast) (QS World Ranking: 173rd) - A public research university in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Course-based list of universities to study in the UK

Here are some examples of popular courses to study in UK university:

  • Business: University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), University of Warwick (Business School)
  • Engineering: Imperial College London, University of Manchester, University of Edinburgh, University of Bristol
  • Computer Science: University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, Imperial College London, UCL (University College London)
  • Law: University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), University of Edinburgh
  • Medicine: University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, UCL (University College London), Imperial College London
  • Creative Arts: University of Edinburgh, University of Glasgow, University of the Arts London

Eligibility criteria to study in the UK

Eligibility criteria to study in the UK can be broadly categorized into two sections: academic requirements and application requirements.

Academic Requirements:

  • Prior qualifications: This will vary depending on the level of study you're applying for:
  • Undergraduate: You'll typically need a qualification equivalent to a UK A-Level (typically completed after Year 13) with good grades in relevant subjects.
  • Postgraduate: A minimum of a bachelor's degree from a recognized university, preferably in a similar field of study, with good grades (often a minimum of 60%).
  • PhD: A postgraduate degree (usually a Master's) in a relevant field with a strong research component.
  • English Language Proficiency: You'll need to demonstrate proficiency in English through a standardized test like IELTS or TOEFL. The required score will vary depending on the university and program, but generally:
  • Undergraduate: IELTS 6.0 or equivalent
  • Postgraduate: IELTS 6.5 or equivalent (often higher for competitive programs)

Application Requirements:

  • Completed application form: This will be submitted through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) for undergraduate programs, or directly to the university for postgraduate programs.
  • Academic transcripts: Official transcripts from all previous educational institutions.
  • References: Letters of recommendation from teachers, professors, or employers (requirements may vary).
  • Personal statement: An essay outlining your academic background, reasons for applying to the program, and future goals.
  • Proof of financial support: You'll need to demonstrate you have sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of your studies. This could be through personal bank statements, scholarships, or sponsorship letters.
  • Additional requirements: Some programs may require additional tests, portfolios, or interviews.Intakes available to study in the UK.

Intakes to study in the UK

There are traditionally three main intakes in the UK:

  • September Intake (Fall Intake): This is the largest and most popular intake, typically starting in September or October. The majority of courses are offered during this intake.
  • January Intake (Winter Intake): This is a smaller intake, usually starting in January or February. Fewer courses are offered compared to the September intake, but it can be a good option for students who missed the deadline for the main intake or want to start their studies earlier.
  • May Intake (Spring Intake): This is the smallest intake, with the least number of courses available. It usually starts in May or April.

Cost of studying to study in the UK

Thanks to the numerous scholarships and grants provided by most UK universities, international studies have become more accessible and straightforward for Indian students. Here is a summary of the typical annual costs of studying in the UK:

Type of education

Fees in £

Fees in INR 

Bachelor’s degree

£15000 – £34000

INR 15 lakhs – INR 30 lakhs 

Master’s degree

£19000 – £40000

INR 17 lakhs – INR 35 lakhs 

Scholarship to study in the UK

Here are the top UK scholarships for Indian students to study in the UK that include:

Scholarship name

Funded by

Level of study

Chevening Scholarships

UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO)

Postgraduate (Master’s)

Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP)

UK Department for Education

Undergraduate & Postgraduate

Gates Cambridge Scholarships

Gates Foundation

Postgraduate (PhD & Research)

As we all know, the UK is home to some of the world’s top universities, offering a wide range of courses and programs that cater to students from all walks of life. With their rich histories, world-class faculty, and cutting-edge facilities, these institutions are well-deserving of their prestigious rankings.

However, it is important to note that if a student wishes to study in one of the leading colleges in the UK, the admission process can seem tricky and strict. But with the right preparation research and guidance from your study abroad consultant, you can increase their chances of being accepted into the university of your choice.
If you want to study at a top UK university, it’s crucial to start your research and preparation early. Be sure to carefully review the entry requirements for each university and course you’re interested in, and make sure you meet all the criteria.

Studying in the UK offers a unique and enriching experience that can open up a world of opportunities for your future. With a rich history, diverse student body, and a global community, the universities in the UK are the perfect place to pursue your academic and career goals.

If you wish to know more about which university to study from in the UK and their individual admission process, connect with the experienced counselors at MSM Unify overseas education consultant today!

Universities and Colleges in UK- Courses, Fees, Scholarships, Eligibility Criteria & Exams
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Q. What are the top universities in the UK?

The top 5 universities include:

  • University of Cambridge
  • University of Oxford
  • Imperial College of London
  • UCL
  • University of Edinburgh
To get admission into top universities in the UK, start by researching courses and universities that fit your interests and career goals. It is advisable to reach out to a credible UK study consultant who can help you with further stages of- applying through UCAS, preparing a strong personal statement, and gathering necessary documents.
According to a ranking by QS University Rankings- The University of Cambridge ranks as the #1 university in the UK.
As per a study carried out by QS Rankings in 2023, 20 universities in the UK rank in the global top 50.
There are many sources for UK university rankings. But the top three are- QS University Rankings, Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU)
According to the Times, the best UK university to study is the University of Oxford.
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