The United Kingdom is a European island country and a world-leading commercial and cultural center. It has a reputation for strong public service broadcasting, historic castles and buildings, and time-honored educational institutes. The country’s long history includes leading the Industrial Revolution and developing parliamentary democracy. It is also home to the royal family and previous Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning monarch in Britain.
The United Kingdom continues to have a tremendous economic and political influence worldwide. That’s why this article will look at the best universities in this country to consider for your studies if you’re interested in pursuing a degree in the UK.
Top Universities in the UK for International Students
| INSTITUTION NAME |
TOP-RATED PROGRAMS |
| University of Oxford |
Medicine, Law, and History |
| University of Cambridge |
Modern Language, Archaeology, and Linguistics |
| Imperial College London |
Chemical Engineering and Civil Engineering |
| University College London |
Architecture, Education, and Biological Sciences |
| London School of Economics and Political Science |
Management, Economics, and Law |
| University of Edinburgh |
Art, Engineering, and Political Science |
| King’s College London |
Medicine, Nursing, and Liberal Arts |
| University of Manchester |
Law, Politics, and Sociology |
| University of Warwick |
Economics, Management, and Psychology |
| University of Bristol |
Computer Science and Mathematics |
| Kingston University |
Computing, Engineering, and Humanities |
| University of Buckingham |
Accounting and Business Administration |
| University College Birmingham |
Finance and Accounting, Culinary Arts Management, and Business |
| Royal Holloway University |
Classical Studies, Comparative Literature & Culture, and History of Art & Visual Culture |
| University of Southampton |
Nursing, Archaeology, and Geology |
| University of St. Andrew’s |
Medicine, Ancient History, and International Relations |
| University of Leeds |
Chemistry, Civil Engineering, and Biology |
| University of Nottingham |
Medicine, Chemistry, and Economics |
| Durham University |
Archaeology, Classic & Ancient History, and Theology & Religion |
| Brunel University London |
Business, Computer Science, and Life Sciences |
| University of Glasgow |
Cancer Sciences, Engineering, and Business |
| University of Sheffield |
Law, Social Sciences, and Education |
| Queen Mary University of London |
Physics, Dentistry, and International Relations |
| Lancaster University |
Linguistics, English Language and Literature, and Fine Art & Design |
| University of York |
Business and Management, English and Related Literature, and Psychology |
| Newcastle University |
Engineering, Architecture, and Medicine |
| University of Exeter |
Geography, Ecology, and Medical Sciences |
| University of Sussex |
Development, American Studies, and Zoology |
| University of Bath |
Management, Social Policy, and Psychology |
| University of Liverpool |
Accounting and Finance, Computer Science, and International Business |
1. University of Oxford
The oldest university in the English-speaking world, the University of Oxford, is the best for international students in the United Kingdom. It has over 30 independent colleges, six private halls, over 100 libraries, and the largest university press in the world. The university is ranked number one worldwide for medicine and is world-leading in its four academic divisions: social sciences, medical sciences, humanities, and mathematical, physical & life sciences. Since 2017, Oxford University has consistently ranked first internationally in Times Higher Education, or THE World University Rankings.
The collegiate institution is scattered around Oxford, making it a “city university.” Colleges and halls organize weekly small-group tutorials for undergraduate teaching, a feature unique to the university and its close relation, Cambridge. Nearly 27,000 students have been studying at Oxford University since December 2023, and over 50% are international students.
2. University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge, one of the best higher education providers in the United Kingdom for international students, was founded in 1209 by a group of scholars who left the University of Oxford. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions in the world. Over 150 academic departments in Cambridge are organized into six schools: clinical medicine, biological sciences, arts and humanities, humanities and social sciences, technology, and physical sciences.
Moreover, this institution has produced the most Ph.D. and research papers of all British universities. It coordinates closely with tech ventures like Silicon Fen and major schools outside the UK like MIT. Cambridge is also ranked sixth globally for “openness and diversity,” with over 9,000 international students. Like Oxford, its small group teaching sessions provide close supervision and effective teaching.
3. Imperial College London
The Imperial College London is a public research institution focusing on medicine, science, technology, and business. It was established in 1907 as a merger of the Royal College of Science, the Royal School of Mines, and the City & Guilds College. According to subject rankings from different academic analytics firms, it has high-ranking clinical health, physical sciences, engineering and technology, and computer science subjects.
Moreover, ICL ranked first in the country for innovation. This forward approach applies to its internationally excellent research and inclusive community. Over 50% of Imperial’s students are from outside the UK. An established leader in research and education, this school has produced several Nobel Prize Winners, thinkers, and artists, including Sir Alexander Fleming, Thomas Huxley, Brian May, H.G. Wells, and more.
4. University College London
University College London is the United Kingdom’s most prominent university in terms of total enrollment. This top institution for international students was founded in 1826 and inspired by the radical thinking of English philosopher Jeremy Bentham. UCL was the first in England to admit students regardless of gender and religion.
With 11 faculties and over 400 undergraduate degree programs, the comprehensive institute delivers high-quality teaching and research. Their research priorities include sustainable cities, global health, human well-being, and intercultural interaction. It ranks in the global top 10 in architecture, education and training, pharmacy and pharmacology, and more.
It further fosters knowledge and culture with museums devoted to archaeology, art, and anatomy. It also administers the Orwell Prize, a prestigious award for political writing in London.
5. London School of Economics and Political Science
London School of Economics and Political Science is a public research university dedicated to the broad subject of social science. Since its foundation in the 1800s, the university has pledged to improve society by analyzing poverty, inequalities, and related issues. It displays academic excellence in politics, law, sociology, economics, and anthropology. LSE has produced over 50 world leaders and 18 Nobel Prize laureates, including the philosopher Bertrand Russel.
LSE is one of the best universities in the UK for international students, with over 9,600 students from nations outside the country. It has close partnerships with Columbia University, Peking University, the University of Cape Town, and other institutions abroad.
6. University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh is a prestigious research university and one of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world. It made significant contributions to the Scottish Enlightenment in Edinburgh that earned the city the nickname “Athens of the North.” Presently, this top university in the United Kingdom has 20 academic schools in three colleges: Science and Engineering, Medicine and Veterinary Science, and Arts, Humanities, and Social Science. Moreover, it ranks top in the UK for medicine and informatics research.
The UoE has five main campuses in Edinburgh, a known cultural hub. It is a site of historical and architectural prowess. Aside from academics, the university students and alumni also excel in performing arts, sports, and independent publications.
7. King’s College London
King’s College London is one of the country’s best universities. It resulted from eminent social changes in the Industrial Revolution and is renowned for its research contributions in stem-cell cloning, DNA discovery, the Higgs boson, communication technology, and more. This institution is a significant healthcare education, dentistry, and nursing center with several teaching hospitals. Moreover, it leads in biomedical research, being the UK’s only World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) accredited laboratory.
KCL has five campuses around London and provides quality education worldwide. It closely cooperates with the British Museum, British Library, Shakespeare Globe, and more. Furthermore, KCL’s global engagements enrich students’ and staff’s experiences.
8. University of Manchester
The University of Manchester is the UK’s largest single-site university. Its buildings are integrated with Manchester City, including parks, residences, and the Jodrell Bank Observatory. Three faculties comprise UoM: Biology, Medicine and Health, Science and Engineering, and Humanities. It is most notable in economics, social sciences, life sciences, and engineering.
With its large campus and diverse programs, the University of Manchester naturally has the largest student population in the UK. Students can enjoy a lively campus, an extensive national research library, an art gallery, and sports facilities.
9. University of Warwick
The University of Warwick was established in 1965 as part of a government initiative to expand higher education in England. It is comprised of over 30 academic departments in the faculties of arts, science, engineering, medicine, and social sciences. Mathematics, management, statistics, and economics are among its highest-ranking subjects. The university also operates a business school, a medical school, the Coventry College of Education, and Horticulture Research International.
As one of the best universities in the UK for international students, the University of Warwick has over 26,000 students, and more than 40% come from outside the United Kingdom. It has close partnerships with major international universities like Columbia University, Cornell University, McGill University, and UC Berkeley.
10. University of Bristol
The University of Bristol started as an engineering faculty and grew into one of the best research universities in England. It offers first-class teaching in the following faculties: arts, engineering, life sciences, science, health sciences, social sciences, and law. The university’s highest-ranking courses are computer science, electrical and electronic engineering, biological sciences, psychology, and mathematics.
Moreover, the institution is a member of prestigious university groups such as the Russel Group, the Coimbra Group, and the Worldwide Universities Network. It fulfills the Bristol Futures principles and values of innovation and enterprise, global citizenship, and sustainable futures. These principles shape academic excellence that produces well-rounded students and graduates.
11. Kingston University
Kingston University is a prestigious institution that specializes in art programs. It is one of the best universities in the country for anyone interested in pursuing a career in design, illustration, animation, and other artistic fields. Guardians 2022 Rankings ranked it among the top 50 universities. It is located near the River Thames and is excellent for local and international students to study.
The campus is near several accommodation options, and the students can find stores in charming old buildings around town. The university also has a sizeable international student body. Almost a quarter of its student population are international students from over 140 countries.
12. University of Buckingham
The University of Buckingham is a private, selective institute with the only Royal Charter granted by the monarchy. It offers law, humanities, arts and languages, business, and science and medicine courses. Studying here is an excellent choice, as the Office for Students National Student Survey ranks sixth overall in student satisfaction and third in academic support in the UK.
13. University College Birmingham
University College Birmingham is a specialist academy located in the center of Britain’s biggest regional city. Initially named the Midland School Cookery in the 1880s, the university underwent remarkable development and was finally granted full university status in 2012. The university offers various degree programs, from apprenticeships to postgraduate degrees.
UCB’s mission is to provide quality education to those with the ambition and drive to succeed. It is an excellent choice for both local and international students. Its student population comprises over 3,000 out-of-country students from more than 70 countries.
14. Royal Holloway University
Though it is now among the top UK institutions, Royal Holloway University, established in 1849, came from humble beginnings. The school was among the first places in the country where women were granted access to higher education. It was first named Bedford College before being called its current name.
Royal Holloway University is renowned for its research. Its projects are ranked by the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF) within the top 25% of all studies in the United Kingdom. Moreover, it has over 12,000 students, 2,028 of whom are international. The university is also known to have one of the most beautiful campuses in the world because of its beautifully decorated the Founder’s Building and Picture Gallery.
15. University of Southampton
Among the original members of the Russell Group, the University of Southampton is one of the top 100 universities in the world, according to the QS World University Rankings in 2024. The Sunday Times Good University Guide in 2024 also recently ranked the higher institution as the 17th best university to study in the UK.
Over 25,000 students are enrolled in the university, and more than 20% are international students. The school administration goes to great lengths to ensure students’ success, often collaborating with other institutions worldwide to provide them with unique learning opportunities.
16. University of St. Andrew’s
The University of St. Andrews is an international institution in Scotland. Its staff is culturally diverse, and students come from over 135 nationalities. The school is located in the heart of the small town of St. Andrews, and students may find living here charming and peaceful. Moreover, it aims to be recognized as a world-class institution pioneer in many fields.
The university is renowned for its teaching system and the learning opportunities it provides students. Many international students call St. Andrews home and celebrate centuries-old traditions with fellow students and citizens. Students here also participate in town politics and fundraising activities and volunteer in various organizations.
17. University of Leeds
The University of Leeds was established in 1904 and is one of the largest universities in the UK. The main campus in Leeds is a ten-minute walk from the city center, and accommodations for fitness, sports, and health facilities are nearby. The institution is known for its excellent research and teaching methods. It aims to improve further the lives of its students and the local community in Leeds.
As one of the UK’s top universities, the University of Leeds has received numerous awards for academic excellence. It was awarded the Queen’s Anniversary Prize thrice in 2009, 2011, and 2021. More than 39,800 students are currently studying at this higher education provider, 14,400 of whom are international students from 137 countries.
18. University of Nottingham
The University of Nottingham is a prestigious institution, making it an excellent choice for international students. Over 40,000 students represent over 150 nations, and the school has established satellite campuses in Malaysia and China. Moreover, the QS World University Rankings for 2025 also ranked it among the top 20 universities in the United Kingdom.
As a prominent research institute in the UK, it employs an interdisciplinary research approach, which helped several of its alumni win Nobel Prizes. Sir Peter Mansfield’s work on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was the most famous of these graduates.
19. Durham University
Durham University is an internationally recognized hub of research and academic excellence. The institution is well-known for conducting innovative research that improves the quality of life. The QS Rankings ranked Durham University among the top 90 universities in the world. Moreover, its high standards for education are evident in its curricula.
Durham University offers over 330 programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Furthermore, over 20,000 students are spread within its four faculties, 17 colleges, and 26 departments, with over 40% being international students.
20. Brunel University London
Named after the famous engineer Isambard Brunel, Brunel University London is dedicated to providing quality research and education to meet industry needs and preparing its students to be globally competitive professionals. This top UK institution is located between Heathrow Airport and Central London, an area that is safe and friendly for students.
Brunel University London strives to offer the best student experience in the UK. Several top-of-the-line sports facilities and restaurants are available on campus, and a sound student support services system is also in place.
21. University of Glasgow
The University of Glasgow has a five-century-long history that focuses on educating students who will have the power to change the world. The university is famous for producing prominent historical figures, such as the economist Adam Smith, the architect Donald Delwar, and the renowned physicist Lord Kelvin. It is also a pioneer in developing new treatments for cancer, heart complications, and other chronic diseases.
As one of the top schools in the UK, it’s no surprise that the university takes in students from 140 countries worldwide and has over 33,000 students annually. The university also offers its students opportunities through partnerships with various institutes worldwide, particularly in Singapore and China.
22. University of Sheffield
The University of Sheffield was founded in 1905 and has a 117-year-long history of shaping the world through its research. This prestigious institution focuses on projects that improve quality of life. Its research teams pioneered research in many fields, from the first medical use of penicillin to developing the drugs used to treat ovarian and breast cancer.
That’s why students worldwide regard the University of Sheffield as a desirable place to learn, and the university welcomes students from over 150 countries.
23. Queen Mary University of London
Founded in 1785, Queen Mary University of London is a quality research university that teaches various subjects, from humanities to science and engineering. It is located in the culturally diverse and student-friendly area of East London, boasting the most extensive residential campuses in the English capital.
QMUL offers its students a high-quality and engaging learning experience through its doors. Students have access to its top-of-the-line facilities and competent teaching staff backed by its research. That’s why pupils from over 170 countries vie for a spot to study on one of its campuses.
24. Lancaster University
Lancaster University aims to sustain its reputation as one of the top UK schools. It welcomes students from over one hundred countries, encourages their growth, and instills global values in each one. Students get access to the best education possible, and it produces top-class graduates desired in every corner of the globe. This initiative is accomplished through partnerships with like-minded institutions and by establishing overseas branches in China, Germany, Ghana, and Malaysia.
The school can accommodate 7,000 students in its residential halls. Facilities like the campus pharmacy, health centers, and the famous Lancaster University Sports Centre are also available on campus. The university also has multi-faith facilities for major religions inside campus grounds.
25. University of York
A member of the Russell Group, the University of York is an institute that prioritizes developing research-intensive education. It achieves this by partnering with numerous institutions worldwide. Students benefit from these links, and employers worldwide hire their graduates as top talents—their international student body numbers over 7,000 people across its departments.
The university offers students excellent facilities and accommodations that make them feel right at home. There are also cycling lanes with designated parking spaces and routes, and a dedicated information app helps commuters through the streets of York.
26. Newcastle University
Located on the UK’s Northwestern coastline, Newcastle University is a top-rated academic institution that welcomes students from over 145 countries. It is widely famous for its quality education and high employability. According to the QS World University Rankings in 2025, it is also included among the world’s top 130 universities.
Its 50-acre campus offers its students a wide range of facilities, including research, teaching, and recreational activities. Newcastle University also boasts an extensive collection of resources across its four libraries. Moreover, its administration also promotes a sustainable lifestyle for its students on campus grounds. Accommodations and restaurants are set up, as well as cultural events, accessible theaters, and museum visits in the city that students can enjoy.
27. University of Exeter
A member of the Russell Group, the University of Exeter is a top institution in the UK known for its excellent student satisfaction rates. The university also has a reputation for upholding world-class excellence in both teaching and research, garnering a Gold award from the Teaching Excellence Framework. It also prioritizes bringing a diverse global experience to its campuses, with over 29,500 students from over 130 countries, and establishing partnerships with its students and other international academic organizations.
Students can benefit from excellent teaching and research facilities on various courses, most notably the Environment and Sustainability Institute at Penryn Campus and the Living Systems Institute and Digital Humanities Lab at Streatham Campus.
28. University of Sussex
Founded in the 1960s, the University of Sussex was among the first universities granted a Royal Charter. Today, the school’s mission is to deliver innovative, exciting, appealing, and engaging education to students from all walks of life. According to previous data, it has 18,000 students, 35% of whom are overseas, supported by more than 2,000 staff members.
The university has also established an extensive global presence in the past decade, partnering with 329 academic institutions across almost 60 countries. At the institution, students will feel right at home with the accommodations. Many facilities are also on and off campus, including shops, bars and cafes, study spaces, and health centers.
29. University of Bath
The University of Bath is a research-intensive university. In 2021, the Research Excellence Framework recognized it as internationally excellent. UNESCO also deemed the city of Bath a World Heritage Site, and students can explore many historic locations around the university. It currently has over 20,000 students enrolled, with 31% coming from over 162 nationalities.
Students can also enjoy the whole experience of living in Bath while also immersing themselves in a friendly and safe community. You can also enjoy many facilities on or off campus, with great bars and restaurants for socializing. The city also has museums and galleries, as well as gorgeous parks and gardens to relax in.
30. University of Liverpool
The University of Liverpool, founded in 1881, is a research powerhouse known for its world-class education and strong international student community. The higher education institution also aims to support its students as they become graduates ready to compete in the global market. Renowned as one of the best UK universities, it houses a large student population.
This prestigious university has over 22,000 students studying undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Furthermore, it has partnerships and collaborations with 1,300 external organizations worldwide and has produced nine Nobel laureates.
FAQs: Studying in the UK Universities
Is the United Kingdom Good for International Students to Study In?
Some of the top universities in the United Kingdom are leading in teaching and research worldwide. They consistently rank among the top universities globally. Thus, over 500,000 international students apply to UK institutions every year. Because courses are shorter in this country, you can reduce overall fees and living costs. Moreover, you must demonstrate English proficiency from standardized tests to enjoy over 50,000 world-class higher education courses.
Living in the UK guarantees a rich diversity of culture, efficient transport links, safe accommodation, and extraordinary cuisine. England, Northern Ireland, Wales, and Scotland each offer a unique experience, whether from their cosmopolitan cities, countryside villages, or historic old towns. The United Kingdom is also a venue for famous music festivals and international sports events.
Can International Students Work in the U.K. While Studying?
International students who wish to study while working part-time must follow some rules and regulations. Students staying for more than six months in the UK are given a student visa that allows part-time jobs up to 20 hours per week. During vacations, students may work full-time. Students studying presessional English or courses below the UK degree level may only work 10 hours per week. Lastly, short-term study visas do not allow students to work at all.
Can International Students Stay in the U.K. After Graduation?
Starting in 2021, the United Kingdom launched a new graduate immigration route. After graduation, international students can change their current visas to post-study work visas. With this, you can stay in the country for up to two years, take on paid employment, or start a business. Not only that but Ph.D. students are also allowed to stay for three years. At the end of the post-study work duration, you can apply for another UK visa or settlement options with the Immigration Office.
Studying in the United Kingdom can offer many opportunities to receive the best higher education while engaging in the vibrant British culture. It is home to some of the world’s best universities, such as Oxford and Cambridge, making enrolling in this country highly beneficial and rewarding for international students. Moreover, many colleges and universities are also on par with these world-class institutions, so you don’t have to worry about which school you should go to!
We hope this article on the best universities in the UK for international students was helpful. If you would like to know more information on studying in this country, check out our Study in the U.K. and the Available Programs for International Students in the UK!
