In order to assist you in selecting your ideal university, we have compiled a list of the top six UK universities, which are ranked according to three reputable university ranking systems. These universities are distinguished by their academic excellence and the unforgettable study-abroad experience they offer.
#6 The University of Edinburgh
#20 in the 2021 QS World University Rankings
#30 in the 2020 Times Higher Education World Rankings
#30 Comprehensive University Guide League Tables for 2021
Edinburgh, the metropolis of Scotland, is the location of the University of Edinburgh (UoE), which is consistently ranked as one of the most desirable destinations for both residence and tourism. The university has been awarded the highest potential rating for the quality of the student learning experience, which is a reflection of the city’s experience.
It is recognized for its academic excellence, as 89% of its graduates receive a first-class or 2:1 degree classification. Additionally, the university places a significant emphasis on research, ranking fourth in the United Kingdom for the excellence and breadth of its research.
The University of Edinburgh boasts an impressive and robust alumni base, including over 20 Nobel Laureates and notable historical figures such as Sir Conan Doyle, David Hume, and Charles Darwin. The university is a forward-thinking institution that is one of the largest providers of online distance programs in the UK, in addition to its historic legacy.
UoE is a university that prioritizes internationalization and strives to provide a warm and inclusive environment for international students. In 2020, international students comprise approximately 41% of the 29,000+ students.
#5 London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
#49 in the 2021 QS World University Rankings
#27 in the 2020 Times Higher Education World Rankings
#4 2021 Complete University Guide League Tables
The London School of Economics and Political Sciences (LSE) is a globally recognized institution of higher education that specializes in the study of economics, politics, sociology, law, and anthropology. The university is ranked second in the world for social sciences and management, and third in the world for communication and media studies and sociology.
Leading the way with the highest percentage of world-leading research from the UK, LSE has a strong focus on research in the social science disciplines. Additionally, the institution is at the vanguard of social science advancements and boasts one of the most esteemed public events programs.
Additionally, the student body is among the most internationally diverse in the globe. It is a popular choice for international students who are seeking a genuinely international education in the social sciences, as an astounding 71% of the 10,000+ students in 2020 are International students.
#4 UCL (University College London)
#10 in the 2021 QS World University Rankings
#15 in the 2020 Times Higher Education World Rankings
#10 Comprehensive University Guide League Tables for 2021
A progressive and diversified institution, University College London (UCL) is the foremost research-intensive university in the United Kingdom.
At UCL, the emphasis is on research and postgraduate studies, with over 50% of the student body enrolled in graduate programs. The university is proud to have had 29 Nobel Laureates and a Nobel Prize recipient in every decade since the award was established in 1901.
The history of UCL is impressively progressive. UCL was established in 1826 with the goal of providing higher education to individuals who were previously excluded. It was the first university in England to accept students from any religious or social background and the first to admit women.
The student population is indicative of the university’s diverse focus. In 2020, international students from more than 150 countries comprise more than 50% of the 32,000+ student cohort.
#3 Imperial College London
#8 in the 2021 QS World University Rankings
#10 in the 2020 Times Higher Education World Rankings
#5 Comprehensive University League Tables for 2021
The Imperial College of London is a top-tier science-based institution that exclusively concentrates on the fields of science, engineering, medicine, and business. It is ranked in the top 10 for natural sciences and engineering & technology.
The College is renowned for its cutting-edge research and world-class researchers, which have real-world, practical, and global applications. Additionally, the college boasts an impressive alumni list, including Nobel Laureates, medalists, award recipients, and Fellowships, which serves as a testament to its commitment to science and knowledge.
The college has a vibrant international student community, with approximately 59% of its 16,000+ student cohort in 2020 being international or non-UK students. Consequently, the college society is a diverse combination of nationalities and cultures.
#2 University of Cambridge
#7 in the 2021 QS World University Rankings
#3 in the 2020 Times Higher Education World Rankings
#1 Comprehensive University Guide League Tables for 2021
The University of Cambridge is the second-oldest university in the English-speaking world and is internationally recognized for its exceptional teaching, research, and international perspective. It is the second-ranked country in the world for English literature and language, archaeology, anthropology, and anatomy.
The University of Cambridge has a significant number of international students, with approximately 37% of its 18,000+ total student cohort being international. University students comprise approximately 20% of the Cambridge population.
Numerous distinguished scholars and leaders in the fields of mathematics, science, politics, law, philosophy, and the arts have received their education at the University of Cambridge. It has an impressive alumni, with 92 affiliates who have been awarded Nobel Prizes in every category.
The university campus and the small city of Cambridge are renowned for their cultural attractions and gorgeous and majestic campus. The university boasts over 100 libraries, nine world-renowned arts, scientific, and cultural museums, and numerous heritage-listed structures.
#1 University of Oxford
#5 in the 2021 QS World University Rankings
Number one in the 2020 Times Higher Education World Rankings
#2 2021 University League Tables: A Comprehensive Guide
The University of Oxford is a globally recognized institution that is a global leader in medical research and cutting-edge science. It has been ranked as the world’s top destination for medicine and in the top 10 globally for the arts and humanities, physical sciences, social sciences, and life sciences.
Additionally, the university has a remarkable historical legacy. It is the oldest university in the English-speaking world and boasts an impressive alumni list that includes 28 British prime ministers, over 30 world leaders, and 55 Nobel Prize recipients.
Located in the historic and breathtaking university city of Oxford, the small city is home to an abundance of students, with a quarter of its residents being university students. Consequently, it is regarded the youngest population in the United Kingdom.
The international student community is also very robust, with approximately 40% of the 22,000 students being international.
The college society is a fusion of nationalities and cultures.
Studying abroad is a huge endeavor that can open the door to international opportunities and career success. Therefore, there are numerous additional alternatives to the list that has been provided for those who are considering studying in the United Kingdom.