The United Kingdom (UK) is renowned for some of the world's best educational institutions, which offer diverse academic programs and maintain high standards of academic excellence. To promote independent thinking, problem-solving skills, and self-motivation, universities in the UK use a combination of traditional lectures and innovative teaching techniques. In the classroom, lab, or on field trips, students work in small groups to solve real-life problems related to their future careers. This motivates international students to leverage the best universities and colleges in the UK.
Rightly so, the UK education standards are among the highest worldwide, with rigorous monitoring and regulation by bodies such as the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA). This ensures that students receive top-tier education, which is both challenging and rewarding. To help you choose the right program, we have compiled a list of universities in the UK, along with their rankings and costs.
Top 10 Universities in UK
Listed below are the top universities in the UK.
University
Location
QS World University Ranking
2024
Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024
College Rd, Cranfield, Wharley End, Bedford MK43 0AL
14
22,150 GBP
152
Durham University Business School
Stockton Road, The Palatine Center, Durham, DH1 3LE
22
£8,500
-
Newcastle University Business School
Newcastle University
Newcastle upon Tyne
Tyne and Wear
NE1 7RU
26
£20,590
-
Bayes Business School (formerly Cass)
Bayes Business School
30
£31,000
-
University of Bristol
Beacon House, Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1QU
=47
£32,300
-
Aston Business School
295 Aston Express Way, Birmingham B4 7UP
51
£23,500
-
Brunel Business School
Eastern Gateway, Kingston Ln, Uxbridge UB8 3PN
51
£25,000
-
Edinburgh Napier University (The Business School)
9 Sighthill Ct, Edinburgh EH11 4BN
51
£7,965
-
Kent Business School
The University of Kent campus in Canterbury and at Medway on Chatham Historic Dockyard
51
£22,700
-
Trending Courses to Pursue at UK Universities
Data Science and Analytics: With the increasing importance of data-driven decision-making across industries, courses in data science, machine learning, and analytics continue to be in high demand.
Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence: The rapid advancement of technology fuels the demand for skilled professionals in computer science and AI. Specializations such as cybersecurity, cloud computing, and robotics are also popular.
Healthcare and Medicine: Given the global focus on healthcare, courses related to medicine, nursing, public health, and healthcare management remain popular. Additionally, specialized fields like biotechnology and bioinformatics are gaining traction.
Environmental Sciences and Sustainability: Concerns about climate change and sustainability drive interest in environmental science, renewable energy, conservation, and related fields.
Business and Management: Business degrees with specializations in areas like entrepreneurship, marketing, finance, and international business continue to attract students aiming for careers in diverse industries.
Engineering: Traditional engineering disciplines like civil, mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineering remain popular, along with newer fields like aerospace, nanotechnology, and renewable energy engineering.
Cybersecurity: With the increasing frequency of cyber threats, cybersecurity courses are in demand to train professionals in protecting digital assets and information.
Psychology and Mental Health: Growing awareness and emphasis on mental health issues drive interest in psychology and counseling courses.
International Relations and Global Studies: Given the interconnectedness of economies and societies, courses in international relations, diplomacy, and global studies are popular for students interested in politics, diplomacy, and global affairs.
Remember to research specific universities and their offerings, as trends may vary between institutions. Additionally, consider your interests, career goals, and the job market when choosing a course of study.
Basic Admission Requirements to Study at UK University
Examination Requirements
For your chosen course, you must ensure you have or are likely to achieve the right grades and are in the right subjects before applying. Make sure you check the details of your course requirements. Additionally, English competence through exams such as IELTS or TOEFL is necessary.
Grades expected vary according to the Board with which you are studying; examples of typical requirements from certain example boards are shown below:
CISCE and NIOS - candidates must score 90% or above in five or more relevant subjects.
CBSE - candidates must have five or more A1 grades in relevant disciplines.
State Boards - candidates will be considered individually but normally must have scores of 95% or higher in five or more relevant topics.
Note - There will be additional examinations for certain examinations.
Documents Requirement
Passport or Travel Documentation
Provide qualifications listed on your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) if applicable. If no qualifications are listed, none are required.
English Language Evidence
Provide translations for documents not in English, including translator validation, contact details, and translation date.
Submit documents demonstrating sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses, such as bank statements, loan letters, or sponsorship letters.
If sponsored by a government, provide a consent letter.
To study in the UK, students needing a visa must prove they have a certain level of English (B2 level according to CEFR) to the UK Visa and Immigration Authority (UKVI). This requirement applies to both undergraduate and postgraduate students, formerly known as Tier 4 visa holders. While score needs differ by course and university, here are some general scores for studying in the UK (specific skill scores may also be needed):
IELTS overall score
5.5
6
6.5
7
7.5+
TOEFL iBT
72
80
90
100
109–120
LanguageCert SELT (B2 Test)
100–128
132–152
156
NA
LanguageCert SELT (C1 Test)
NA
128
132
CAE or CPE
162–168
169–175
176–184
185–190
191–230
IELTS overall score
5.5
6
6.5
7
7.5+
TOEFL iBT
72
80
90
100
109–120
LanguageCert SELT (B2 Test)
100–128
132–152
156
NA
LanguageCert SELT (C1 Test)
NA
128
132
CAE or CPE
162–168
169–175
176–184
185–190
191–230
ISE II (accepted for foundation courses only)
Pass in each section
NA
ISE III
Pass in each section
Merit or above in each section
Check with academic School
ISE IV
Pass in each section
Note - This information is taken from the University of Manchester, and it can vary according to the University.
Intakes at UK Universities
Let’s understand the intakes at UK universities.
January Intake: The intake that occurs in January and February is regarded as supplemental in terms of admission cycles in the UK. January intake offers a second chance to students who were not accepted into the main intake, even though there are fewer programs offered than in September. It enables students to focus more on their college applications.
September Intake: The September intake is regarded as the most important of the three intakes held in the UK. The majority of UK universities offer every kind of program during this cycle. Nonetheless, it will always change based on the course and vary from university to university. The September entry deadline falls during the academic year, from February to May.
May Intake: In the UK, the least popular admissions are in April and May. Only a select few colleges and universities offer it, with the least options for courses. There are very few candidates available for enrollment in May. This admission cycle features the least tough competition because there is a better chance of earning an offer.
Scholarship Opportunities at UK Universities
Scholarship Name
Scholarship Benefits
British Chevening Scholarships
Full or partial funding for full-time graduate programs in any subject.
Commonwealth Scholarships for Developing Commonwealth Countries
Scholarships for master’s and PhD studies for international students from developing Commonwealth countries.
Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme at UK Universities
Scholarships for taught master’s programs relevant to the development of technology, economy, or society in the student’s country of origin.
Euraxess UK
Various graduate research scholarships for international students were provided by the European Commission initiative and managed by the British Council.
CastleSmart Scholarship
£6,000 annually for undergraduate students in the UK (open to all nationalities), requiring a compelling YouTube video outlining study and career plans.
Surfshark Privacy and Security Scholarship
A $2,000 prize for students enrolled in the UK or elsewhere as high school, undergraduate, or graduate students. It requires an essay submission and is open to all nationalities.
Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships
Scholarships for doctoral students, research students, and visiting fellows from India.
Saltire Scholarships
Scholarships are available for students from Canada, the US, India, Pakistan, Hong Kong, and China to study in Scotland at any degree level.
Aberystwyth University International Scholarships
Various scholarships, bursaries, and award schemes to support international students at Aberystwyth University in Wales.
Bristol University International Scholarships
Scholarships for international students to study at Bristol University in any undergraduate or postgraduate program.
Career Opportunities After Studying at UK University
A degree from the “best public universities in the UK” opens access to a plethora of professional options. Graduates can pursue a variety of careers in a wide range of industries with a globally recognized degree.
Job Roles
Average Annual Salary
Mechanical Engineer
£40,282
Biomedical Engineer
£35,968
Software engineer
£66,073
Researcher
£35,001
Nutritionist
£39,804
Source: Glassdoor
Why Choosing the Right University Matters?
Choosing your university or college is an important step in your academic career. It's about figuring out where your values, learning preferences, and goals meet.
Every institution has a distinct campus atmosphere, teaching philosophy, and culture. It's not only about the classes; it's also about the environment you'll be in for the next several years.
Selecting the right university is important because it contributes to the development of your professional network. It serves as a center for networking and relationships that can be useful in securing internship and employment opportunities.
Moreover, the university you choose will have a big influence on your future employment prospects. Check out the guidelines below to find out how to select the best university.
How to Choose the Right University?
A university's academic reputation is, of course, the main consideration when choosing one. After deciding what you want to study, you begin searching for institutions offering the course and evaluate them according to academic standards. In addition, make sure the teaching methods, curricula, and faculty members align with your preferred learning style.
The next consideration when selecting a university is a budgetary angle. It is necessary to determine the return on investment for the money you invest in your education. Consider all applicable fees in addition to the tuition.
On your university campus, you'll spend a lot of time. You'll attend events, work on group projects, hang out with friends, use the recreation center, and more when you're not in class.
Would you prefer an environment more akin to a park or a bustling metropolitan campus?
Do you see yourself surrounded by contemporary architecture or buildings covered in ivy?
Another key factor to take into account is how a university will prepare you for the future. It's crucial to understand how your degree will be used in the workplace, whether you choose to pursue further education or just start working.
Exist programs that assist with finding job openings, refining your resume, and enhancing your interviewing techniques?
How can the university assist you in preparing for graduate school, medicine, law, or other fields of interest?
Why Choose upGrad Abroad to Study in UK
There are several reasons for selecting upGrad Abroad as your study destination, such as:
Flexibility: You may study whenever it's convenient for you with upGrad's online courses.
Affordability: Unlike traditional classroom learning, which often entails extra costs like maintenance fees or administrative charges, upGrad's online courses are affordable.
Diverse Course Options: Select from a broad selection of courses that span a variety of topics and sectors, offering chances for both professional and personal development at affordable costs that are available everywhere in the world.
Disclaimer: Fees are subject to change depending on various conditions.
Newcastle University is a public research university in Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. Newcastle University is a Russell Group member with one of the largest EU research portfolios in the country.
The University’s origins may be traced to the School of Medicine and Surgery (later the College of Medicine), which was founded in 1834, and the College of Physical Science (later called Armstrong College), which was formed in 1871. The more significant part of the federal University of Durham was created by these two colleges, with the Durham Colleges comprising the other. In 1937, the Newcastle institutions combined to establish King’s College. King’s College was renamed the University of Newcastle in 1963.
The Queen Mary University of London is a government-funded research facility with offices in London, United Kingdom. Having been established in 1887, it has over 28,000 students enrolled, including over 5,000 international students from more than 160 different countries. Undergraduate and graduate studies are available at the Queen Mary University of London in various disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, and science. Its excellent reputation for excellence is a result of its ranking as one of the top 20 universities in the UK for the caliber of its research.
The University of Suffolk is a globally recognized public university situated in Suffolk, England, United Kingdom (UK). It is one of the prestigious universities for undergraduate and postgraduate students to pursue world-class education. The university has a distinctive and thriving academic community to make a clear and immediate impact. The purpose of the university is to change the lives of both individuals and communities. In 2007, the University of Suffolk was established as University Campus Suffolk (UCS), and on August 1, 2016, the University of Suffolk was officially launched.
Lancaster University sits in Lancaster England. It's a top-notch school that focuses on great research and teaching. Founded in 1964, it ranks high among UK and world universities. The school offers many undergraduate and graduate programs in fields like arts, sciences, engineering, business, and social sciences. Lancaster is famous for its college system, which creates a tight community feel. It also cares about being green and coming up with new ideas. With a lively campus and students from all over, Lancaster University gives students a chance to grow both in their studies and as people.
Highlights of Lancaster University
Established
1964
Website
www.lancaster.ac.uk
Also Known As
LU, Lancaster
QS Ranking
122nd globally (2024)
US News & World Report- Global University Ranking
150th globally
Times Higher Education (THE) Ranking
146th globally
Accepted Exams
IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, GMAT (for specific programs)
Total No. of Students
Approximately 16,000
Scholarships
Available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students
Student-Teacher Ratio
14:1
Contact Information
+44 (0)1524 65201, admissions@lancaster.ac.uk
Latest About Lancaster University
Lancaster University ranks among the best schools in the world. It stands out for its top-notch academics, lively campus, and many chances to do research. Lancaster is one of the few UK schools that uses a college system. This setup blends tough academics with community involvement. You'll find the university in Lancaster, England. Students love its beautiful campus and are usually very happy with their experience there.
History of Lancaster University
Lancaster University began in 1964, during a time when the UK started many new universities. People call this time the "new university" movement, which aimed to meet the growing need for college education in the country. Over the years, Lancaster has grown from a small local school into one of the UK's top research-focused universities known worldwide for its great teaching and research.
Mission: To motivate and enable our students and staff to build knowledge, skills, and creativity, and to help make society better.
Vision: To become a top-notch university that people around the world respect for its high-quality research, teaching, and the effect of its work.
Core values:
Excellence: Setting high standards in every part of university life.
Inclusivity: Appreciating differences and pushing for equal treatment.
Innovation: Supporting fresh thinking and breakthroughs.
Sustainability: Dedication to protecting the environment.
Popular Courses
Lancaster University offers the following popular courses:
MSc in Data Science
BSc in Computer Science
MBA (Master of Business Administration)
MSc in Management
BA in Politics and International Relations
MSc in Psychology
BEng in Mechanical Engineering
MSc in Environmental Science
BA in English Literature
MSc in Cyber Security
These courses aim to give students the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen fields.
Lancaster University Placements
Lancaster University boasts a solid track record in job placement for graduates, with companies worldwide eager to hire its alumni. The university's job center offers plenty of help such as:
Career Advice: One-on-one chats with job coaches.
Work Experience: Chances to get hands-on experience during or after your degree.
Meeting Employers: Job fairs and hiring events on campus.
Job Skills: Classes to improve your resume, ace interviews, and apply for jobs.
Students who finish at Lancaster University often land jobs at big-name firms like PwC, Deloitte, Google, Microsoft, and IBM. New graduates start with a salary of about £28,000 a year.
Lancaster University Campus Life
Lancaster University's campus sits on 560 acres of parkland giving students a beautiful and peaceful setting. The campus features:
Nine Colleges: Each has its own distinct character offering housing social gatherings, and student services.
Student Union: Plans lots of activities, clubs, and events throughout the year.
Sports Centre: Has a gym, pool, climbing wall, and sports halls.
Library: Stays open all day and night, with tons of resources and places to study.
Accommodation: Offers different options, from rooms with private bathrooms to shared apartments all within easy walking distance of class buildings.
The campus aims to create a tight-knit community offering many chances to socialize, unwind, and have fun.
Lancaster University Alumni
Lancaster University boasts a worldwide network of more than 130,000 former students, with many achieving remarkable success in different areas. Well-known graduates include:
Andy Serkis: Actor who played roles in "The Lord of the Rings" and "Planet of the Apes."
James May: TV host, writer, and journalist famous for co-hosting "Top Gear."
Ranvir Singh: TV host and journalist, recognized for her contributions to "Good Morning Britain."
Alison Holt: BBC Social Affairs Correspondent.
Catherine Bell: Canadian diplomat and Ambassador.
The university keeps close connections with its former students providing chances to network, get mentorship, and receive help with careers.
Lancaster University Faculty
The teachers at Lancaster University are top experts in their fields helping the university produce great research and maintain its academic standing. With over 700 academic staff, many take part in groundbreaking research that shapes their lessons. The 14:1 teacher-to-student ratio means students get one-on-one help and backing throughout their time at school.
The University of Exeter is a leading public institution offering world-class academic and research facilities to over 30,000 students in the United Kingdom (UK). Even though the university was officially established in 1955, its history goes back to the 1900s. It includes six departments, offering knowledge in various subjects and education levels.
The magnificent campus of the university is located at Stocker Rd, Exeter EX4 4PY, United Kingdom.
In terms of the University of Exeter rankings, it is exceptional. In the QS World University Rankings 2024, the institution is listed at 169th position. The university bagged #177 place in the World University Rankings by Times Higher Education. This speaks volumes about the institution’s popularity and performance.
Newman University is a public university located in Birmingham, England, United Kingdom (UK). The university is well known for its international exposure in top-ranked courses for undergraduate and postgraduate study programs. It was founded in the year 1968 at Newman College of higher education. From the year 2008 to 2013 it was known as Newman University College until it gained complete university status in 2013.
The University of Bath is a public university located in Bath, Somerset. It provides quality education to over 19,000 students with the help of around 1,500 faculty members. The University of Bath in the UK received its royal charter in 1966 and is now a part of the top 10 UK universities with a reputation for research and teaching excellence.
Cardiff University is one of the United Kingdom’s leading public research and teaching universities. The school combines a range of modern facilities clubbed with an exciting approach to teaching students.
Cardiff University, United Kingdom, first opened its doors on 24 October 1883 and the Royal Charter formally established the school in 1884. In 1988, the institution got merged with the University of Wales Institute of Science and Technology, and the public name of the university was officially changed to Cardiff University in 1999.
Situated at Cardiff CF10 3AT, United Kingdom, the university has an impressive rankings tally. Cardiff University ranking stands #151 in the QS World University Rankings 2022 by TopUniversities, while the Academic Ranking of World Universities given by Shanghai Jiao Tong University 2021 places the school at #151.
The University of Aberdeen is a prestigious research university in Aberdeen, Scotland. It was founded in 1495 and is the world's fifth-oldest University in English. The University's academic disciplines are diverse and divided into three colleges: Arts and Social Sciences, Life Sciences and Medicine, and Physical Sciences. It provides undergraduate and postgraduate degrees and research opportunities in various fields such as medicine, law, engineering, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The University is well-known for its research excellence, particularly emphasizing health sciences, energy, and the environment. It has consistently been ranked among the top universities in the United Kingdom.
Queen's University, a public research educational institution, is situated in Kingston, Canada. Established in 1841, it is among the oldest educational institutions and a modern center of academic study. Queen's University, simply referred to as Queen's, offers almost 80 undergraduate courses as well as 125 graduate programs to international students across 24 research institutes and centres. The Queen's University experience involves embracing and encouraging students across every nation and background in a dynamic, safe, and caring community. Queen's rating currently stands at 209th in worldwide rankings, which is up from its 246th place in 2023.
The University of Reading, UK, was founded in 1892 and is currently a public university situated in Reading, Berkshire, England. The university was founded as an extension of the University of Oxford but later, in 1962, received the ability to grant its degrees by the royal charter from King George V. It was the first and only new university within the United Kingdom that received such a charter between the two world wars.
It was earlier identified as the College of Reading, but later, it was renamed to its current name after receiving the grant. In 1928, the university was included in the Combined English Universities constituency, and in 1984 it began a merger with the Bulmershe College of Higher Education, which was over in 1989.
The institution offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses and has improved academic collaborations worldwide with other organizations and institutions.
Queen's University Belfast is a prestigious public research university situated in the vibrant city of Belfast, Northern Ireland. With a legacy spanning over 175 years, the university has established itself as a symbol of academic excellence and global recognition. Queen's University Belfast offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various fields, catering to students with interests in arts and humanities, sciences, engineering, and more. The university takes pride in its world-class faculty, who are experts in their respective fields, and its state-of-the-art facilities that provide an optimal learning environment. Students at Queen's University benefit from a supportive and inclusive educational setting, where research-driven education and experiential learning opportunities abound. The university's commitment to fostering inclusivity, embracing diversity, and promoting innovation creates an intellectually stimulating and inspiring atmosphere for students to thrive and reach their full potential.
The University of Sussex is a public research university in the south of England, near the coastal city of Brighton. Founded in 1961, the university has established itself as a premier institution in research and teaching, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies. It provides undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in topics ranging from the arts and humanities to science and technology. The university has a diverse student body, with students from over 120 nations. Sussex is noted for its progressive beliefs and commitment to social justice, as well as for research in fields such as sustainability, development studies, and neuroscience.
The university is located right in the heart of the UK, providing access to amazing support services like Loughborough’s conference centre, excellent accommodation facilities, a wonderful library, and laboratories. The University also has an arts centre, a bank, a health centre, two theatres, restaurants, and some shops. Also, it provides the students with excellent sports facilities.
The University has a postgraduate campus in London too. This is where the best faculties and their students can be found. The University has been working hard to offer a high-quality education so that its campuses receive many rankings and awards for it. Originally, Loughborough University focused mainly on education in technical subjects like art and science. There have been 22 academic schools and departments with over 100 research groups, institutes, and centres, and over 35 professional services teams during the University’s development.
Loughborough is one of the UK’s top universities and has extensive connections in the industry. The university has a unique feature, providing year-long placements in all fields. 94% of the graduates were in employment or further study after graduating, and about 91% were in professional or managerial roles. The university is affiliated with Wallace Group, EUA, EQUIS, M5 Universities, and many more.
The University of Leicester is a public research university in Leicester, England. It is one of the UK's youngest universities, founded in 1921, and has quickly established itself as a leading institution for research and teaching. The university offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in the arts, humanities, social sciences, science, engineering, and medicine. The university is well-known for its groundbreaking research in areas such as genetics, space exploration, archaeology, and cardiovascular sciences. It is also committed to inclusivity and diversity, providing a welcoming and stimulating environment for students of all backgrounds.
Heriot-Watt University is a public research university situated in Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom. It is the eighth oldest higher educational institution in the United Kingdom.
The university began as the School of Arts of Edinburgh, the first mechanics institute in the world, in 1821 and received the Royal Charter in 1966.
The official address of Heriot-Watt University UK is:
Edinburgh, Scotland, UK EH14 4AS, +44 131 449 511
Additionally, Heriot-Watt University’s ranking is rather impressive. The QS World University Rankings 2024 by Top Universities gives the university the #256 rank globally. The World University Rankings 2024 by Times Higher Education, on the other hand, places the institution at #351-400. The Graduate Employability ranking lies between 301 and 500.
As per THE World University Rankings 2021, the university is listed in the top 25 in the world for Engineering and Technology. Lastly, the QS WUR Ranking by Subject 2022, Heriot-Watt University, stands at #10.
The University of Surrey is a worldwide community of ideas and people committed to transforming lives through research and teaching. The university provides great teaching and practical learning on a beautiful and dynamic campus to inspire and empower the students for personal and professional success. The campus is located on the outskirts of Guildford.
The university facilitates events for young people and mature learners and community groups at the University of Surrey UK to assist the development of ambitions and attainment and provide information, advice, and guidance on further development education. The university also has a lot of new teaching and learning materials, such as monthly webinars on a range of topics to help you and your students.
The University of Strathclyde, based in Glasgow, Scotland, is a renowned public research institution. It has a long history and is well-known for its exceptional teaching, research, and innovation in various subjects. Engineering, science, business, humanities, social sciences, law, and education are among the many undergraduate and postgraduate programs available at the university.
The City University of London is a world-class research university in the heart of London, England. It began as the Northampton Institute in 1894 and became a university in 1966. The university provides undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs in fields such as business, law, engineering, health, social sciences, and the arts. City University is well-known for its dedication to academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and strong industry partnerships, which provide students with opportunities for work experience and internships. The university is also ranked among the top universities in the world for the quality of its teaching and the impact of its research.
The University of East Anglia (UAE) is a British public research university located in Norwich, England. The university was established in the year 1963. Initially, the Earlham golf course on the Norwich outskirts was chosen as the site for a permanent campus in 1961. The institution was set in the present-day University village with space for teaching 1200 students.
Today the University of East Anglia is situated at Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk, NR4 7TJ, United Kingdom.
Additionally, the University of East Anglia UK ranking is #3555 in the World University Rankings by Times Higher Education 2024 and #251-300
Furthermore, the QS World University Rankings by TopUniveristies 2024 places the University of East Anglia at #332.
All information provided on this page is for general use and upGrad Abroad is not responsible for any errors or omissions. The Universities involved in this Program are accredited/recognized in the countries where they are established. Relevant terms and conditions apply.Any action taken upon the information found on this website is strictly at your own risk.