Top Universities in London for Indian Students

The UK, among several other countries, has always been one of the widely-preferred study-abroad destinations. The capital city of London witnesses a huge influx of international students every year. As per the latest data received from the UK Home Office, nearly 94,253 study visas were issued to students keen on pursuing higher education in the UK. London is home to many of the country’s top universities. This is why several Indian students prefer the city for their advanced studies. This article takes a look at some of the best colleges in London for Indian students.

_{Related Source: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/immigration-system-statistics-year-ending-june-2024/why-do-people-come-to-the-uk-to-study?}

Why Study at Universities in London?

London is a famous centre of academic excellence around the world. Some of the top reasons international students opt for London universities are:

• London is the popular commercial hub in the UK. It opens doors to several internship and job opportunities for students.

• The universities in London offer a wide array of courses to students. They can choose as per their academic background or career aspirations.

• Several London colleges offer 1-year Masters programs, which are highly popular in the UK. These short-duration programs allow students to finish their studies faster and start working earlier, thus unlocking earning potential. 

List of Top Universities in London for International Students  

London is the hub for several high-ranked and globally renowned educational institutions. The table below presents some of the best universities in London as per QS World University Rankings 2025:

_{Related Source: https://www.topuniversities.com/world-university-rankings?page=1&countries=gb}

Top Undergraduate Courses to Study in London Universities

London colleges offer a wide range of undergraduate programs to students globally. Some of the top UG programs are:

_Sources: https://www.idp.com/universities-and-colleges/university-college-london/bsc-econ-hons-economics/PRG-UK-00252502/

https://www.idp.com/universities-and-colleges/kings-college-london/bsc-hons-business-management/PRG-UK-00102772/

https://www.idp.com/universities-and-colleges/university-of-warwick/bsc-hons-management/PRG-UK-00073649/

https://www.idp.com/universities-and-colleges/queen-mary-university-of-london/bsc-hons-international-business-with-a-year-abroad/PRG-UK-00376782/

https://www.idp.com/universities-and-colleges/loughborough-university/beng-hons-mechanical-engineering/PRG-UK-00095949/

Top Masters Degree Courses to Study in London Universities

London is a popular study abroad destination for those aspiring for higher education in a chosen field. Some of the top Masters programs offered at colleges in London are shared below:

_Sources: https://www.idp.com/universities-and-colleges/brunel-university-of-london/msc-in-advanced-electronic-and-electrical-engineering/PRG-UK-00105453/

https://www.idp.com/universities-and-colleges/city-university-of-london/msc-data-science/PRG-UK-00120088/

https://www.idp.com/universities-and-colleges/birkbeck-university-of-london/msc-accounting-and-finance/PRG-UK-00095765/

https://www.idp.com/universities-and-colleges/royal-holloway-university-of-london/msc-international-business-management/PRG-UK-00070151/

https://www.idp.com/universities-and-colleges/soas-university-of-london/msc-global-development/PRG-UK-00448591/

Eligibility and Admission Requirements to Study in Top Universities in London for Indian Students

Indian students aspiring to study at London universities must meet certain admission criteria, which include:

• Some colleges accept direct entry into undergraduate degree programs for students who have completed A-levels or the International Baccalaureate.

• Students must have completed class 12 examinations with an aggregate score in the range of 60% - 80%.

• For postgraduate admissions to most universities in London, students with a Bachelor’s degree of minimum 3 years are considered. 

• Indian students must also demonstrate proficiency in the English language with a minimum score of 7.0 on the IELTS test. 

_{Related Source:https://www.qmul.ac.uk/international-students/englishlanguagerequirements/undergraduate-and-postgraduate-programmes/}

Note: All London colleges have different admission criteria for international students. It’s best to check with the institution you are applying to for more details.

Cost of Studying in London Universities for Indian Students

The actual fee structure may vary from one college in London to another depending on its rank, course, level of degree, curriculum, etc. For instance, the London university fees for MSc in Accounting and Finance are estimated at GBP 38,000 for Indian students. 

_{Related Source: https://info.lse.ac.uk/staff/divisions/Planning-Division/Assets/Documents/Table-of-Fees/Table-of-Fees-2025-26-Dec24.pdf}

Disclaimer: The figures are indicative only and should be used as a reference. The fee may vary from one college in London to another.  

Visa Requirements for Indian Students to Study in London Universities 

Indian students aged 16 years and above who have been admitted to a university in London must apply for a UK student permit at least 3 months before the start date of their course. To apply for a London student visa, Indian students must:

• Show the desirable English proficiency test score via IELTS

• Have received the confirmation of enrolment from a valid and recognised university in London

• Produce proof of finances to study in London

Some of the common documents required for obtaining a London study visa are:

• Recent passport-sized color photographs

• Assessment documentation

• Current passport with the desired validity

• Screening for tuberculosis 

• ATAS clearance certificate (if required)

Student Essentials Services (SES) by IDP for Studying Abroad   

Indian students travelling to London to study can rest assured of a comfortable stay in the city upon arrival. IDP Education Consultants offer the best Student Essentials Services to help make your stay hassle-free. Here are some of our most popular services for Indian students to study in London:

• Education loans

• Overseas Student Health Cover

• Accommodation arrangements 

• Guardianship for students less than 18 years of age

• Money transfer facility 

• Student banking services

• Sim card issuance

• Forex Card for hassle-free travel to the country
  

FAQs for Top Universities in London For Indian Students

1. How many universities are in London?

According to the Times Higher Education (THE), London has about 40 universities and institutions.

_{Related Source: https://www.timeshighereducation.com/student/best-universities/best-universities-london}

2. What is the number 1 university in London?

As per QS World University Rankings 2025, University College London is among the top institutions in the city, holding the 9th rank.

_{Related Source: https://www.topuniversities.com/where-to-study/europe/united-kingdom/top-10-universities-london}

3. Which is the cheapest university in London?

Some of the most affordable colleges in London are:

• University of Chester (GBP 8,500 for an MA in Art Therapy)

• Teesside University (GBP 15,000 for UG course)

• Leeds Beckett University (GBP 18,000 for Graduate MBA)

_Sources:https://www.idp.com/universities-and-colleges/university-of-chester/ma-art-therapy/PRG-UK-00365721/ https://www.idp.com/universities-and-colleges/teesside-university/ba-hons-games-design/PRG-UK-00067773/

https://www.idp.com/universities-and-colleges/leeds-beckett-university/IID-UK-00796/

4. How much percentage is required in 12th for studying in a London university?

Every university has its admission criteria; however, most London colleges expect students to have at least 55% in the class 12 board examination.

_{Related Source: https://www.surrey.ac.uk/india/entry-requirements}

5. Which university has the highest acceptance rate in London?

Aberystwyth University is one of the easiest institutions in London to get into for international students.

_Source: https://www.idp.com/blog/easiest-universities-to-get-into-uk/

_{Updated on 27 January, 2025}

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