London

All programmes in the United Kingdom

London is the capital of the United Kingdom and one of the most vibrant metropoles in the world. With over 8.5 million residents, London is a bustling centre of activity in the south of the country. The city is full of a diverse array of cultures and subcultures, and offers a welcoming environment for students from around the world.

London dates back to the pre-Roman era, but is named for its Latin name Londinium. Even then London was a hub of trade and commerce, a reputation which it maintains to this day. Thanks to its long and rich history, London is full of landmarks old and new which make it a fascinating place to explore. From classic British icons like Big Ben and the Tower of London, to markers of its modern prowess like the London Eye and the Gherkin, there is plenty to see and do in London.

The nightlife in London is some of the best in the country, and students can often find excellent deals on events in the city. So whether you are after an incredible night out, or a cultural experience you will remember for the rest of your life, London is the city for you.

Universities in London

London is seen as a centre of innovation and forward thinking, and this is due in no small part to the number of universities and higher education establishments in the city. In total, there are more than 40 universities in London, and thousands of study programmes you can enrol in - regardless if you are looking for a Bachelor, Master or Doctorate degree.

Here’s a quick overview:

• University College London: UCL is one of the best universities in London and a popular choice for international students thanks to its strong academic reputation and central campus location.

• Imperial College London: Imperial College London is especially well known for science, engineering, medicine, and business degrees and consistently ranks among the top universities in the UK.

• Royal College of Art (RCA): The Royal College of Art is one of the world’s top art and design universities and a leading destination for students interested in creative postgraduate programs.

• King’s College London (KCL): King’s College London attracts students from around the world with highly ranked programs in law, health sciences, and humanities and campuses across central London.

• London School of Economics and Political Science: LSE is one of the world’s leading universities for economics, politics, and social sciences and is ideal for students interested in global careers.

• Escape Studios: Escape Studios is a specialized creative school in London known for industry-focused programs in animation, visual effects (VFX), game art, and motion graphics. 

• Queen Mary University of London: Queen Mary University of London offers a strong academic experience with a diverse student community and more affordable study options compared to central London universities.

• City, University of London: City, University of London is a great option for students who want practical degrees in business, finance, journalism, and law with strong links to employers.

Universities in London generally have a strong focus on inclusivity and diversity, with policies in place to ensure that everyone is welcome.

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Career opportunities for international graduates

London is not only a great place to study, it also offers a wide range of career opportunities for graduates of all sorts of subjects. Many of those who decide to study in London decide to stay there afterwards. Not that they would need to: A degree from a UK university will always be met with high regard internationally.

London’s largest industry is finance: The City competes with New York as the most important financial center of the world, and countless banks, funds and insurance companies have offices there.

Good to know for prospective students from outside the EU in need of a visa: The universities in London are usually fully accredited and recognized by the UK Border Agency as “Highly Trusted Sponsors”.

Cost of living

London is one of the more expensive cities in Europe, but many international students still choose to study here thanks to the wide range of housing options, student discounts, and part-time work opportunities.

Most students spend around €1,100 and €1,600 per month (excluding tuition), depending on lifestyle and accommodation type, with rent being the biggest expense. The cost of living is also higher than most other cities in the United Kingdom. However, do not let the cost factor discourage you: The hundreds of thousands of students studying in London come from all walks of life, and many institutions offer financial support if needed.

Study.eu Tip: Living slightly outside central London and sharing accommodation with other students can significantly reduce your monthly costs while still giving you easy access to campuses and city life.

Getting there and around

As a large global metropole, London can seem quite daunting from those arriving from abroad, but the world-class transport systems in place in the city allows you to get around quickly. London was the first city in the world to build an underground rail system, and the “tube” is still the most important mode of transportation in the city.

Since London is made up of smaller areas, many of which were villages which got absorbed into the city, it is easy to get to know your own area quickly and it will soon feel like home.

London is well-connected: There is a total of 8 airports; the largest, London Heathrow, is the world’s third-busiest air transport hub. There are also numerous train connections to anywhere in the UK. The Eurostar train connects London with Paris and Brussels on the other side of the English Channel.

List of universities in London

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