UK universities for international students

The UK has more than 150 universities, many of them long-established student visa sponsors. The institutions below are among the best known internationally — but the right choice depends on your subject, budget, and city, not just rankings.

Imperial College London

A world-leading London institution focused exclusively on science, engineering, medicine and business.

University of Cambridge

A historic collegiate university in Cambridge and one of the world's most prestigious research institutions.

University of Oxford

The oldest university in the English-speaking world, built around a historic collegiate system.

King's College London

A Russell Group university in central London with particular strength in law, medicine and humanities.

London School of Economics and Political Science

A specialist social science institution in central London renowned for economics, law and politics.

University College London

A large, multidisciplinary Russell Group university in central London known for its research breadth.

University of Birmingham

A founding member of the Russell Group, located on a large campus in Edgbaston.

University of Edinburgh

One of Scotland's ancient universities and a leading Russell Group member founded in the 16th century.

University of Glasgow

One of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world and a Russell Group member in Scotland.

University of Leeds

A large Russell Group university with a broad course range and a leafy campus near the city centre.

University of Manchester

A large Russell Group university formed by merger, known for research strength across many disciplines.