Best Universities in UK with Ranking & Fees

Are you planning on pursuing higher education in the UK but need help deciding which university to choose? Look no further! We have compiled a list of the top 10 universities in the UK that offer exceptional academic programs, world-renowned faculties, and incredible student experiences. From historic institutions steeped in tradition to modern campuses buzzing with innovation, this list has it all. So, let's dive into what makes these universities stand out from the rest.

Top Universities in the UK

Listed below are the top public universities in the UK offering an exceptional education:

University of Oxford

The University of Oxford is a famous institution with a rich history. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. The university has produced many notable alumni, including prime ministers, Nobel laureates, and other influential people.

Ranking

#4 QS World University Rankings 2023

Average course duration

3 to 4 years

Popular Courses offered

Medicine, Philosophy, Economics, Chemistry, Mathematics, History

Average fees

£28,950 to £44,240

Location

Oxford, England

University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge is a world-renowned institution with a long and rich history. Located in Cambridge, the university has produced some of the world's most famous alumni, including Stephen Hawking, Charles Darwin, and Isaac Newton. 

Ranking

#2 QS World University Rankings 2023

Average course duration

3 to 4 years

Popular Courses offered

Linguistics, Medicine, Economics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Philosophy

Average fees

£9,250 for the year

Location

Cambridge, England

Imperial College London

Imperial College London is a world-renowned institution for science, engineering, and business. Located in the heart of London, Imperial offers a truly global experience with students from over 140 countries. Imperial has consistently ranked among the top 10 universities in the UK and is a member of the elite Russell Group of research-intensive universities. The college provides an exceptional education, with small class sizes and world-class facilities and resources.

Ranking

#6 QS World University Rankings 2023

Average course duration

1 to 2 years

Popular Courses offered

Science, Engineering, Business

Average fees

£35,100

Location

London, England

University College London

Founded in 1826, University College London was the first institution established in London and is now one of the city’s most prestigious universities. UCL has an international reputation for groundbreaking research and teaching, with a particular focus on interdisciplinary work. The university has produced some of the world’s most notable alumni, including Nobel Prize winners, politicians, actors, and scientists.

Ranking

#8 QS World University Rankings 2023

Average course duration

1 to 2 years

Popular Courses offered

Arts and Sciences, Business and Management Studies, Economics 

Average fees

£26,200 - £47,000

Location

London, England

The University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh is a world-renowned institution located in Scotland’s capital city. The university offers an incredible range of degree programs across its five colleges. Notable alumni include writer J.K. Rowling, politician Winston Churchill, and scientist Charles Darwin. The university also has a strong reputation for research, with recent discoveries including the development of a new HIV treatment and the identification of a gene linked to Alzheimer’s disease.

Ranking

#15 QS World University Rankings 2023

Average course duration

3 to 4 years

Popular Courses offered

Biological Sciences, Mathematics, Engineering and Electronics, Geography

Average fees

£9,250 for the year

Location

Edinburgh, Scotland

King's College London

King's College London is a world-renowned university located in the heart of London. The university has an international reputation for excellence in teaching and research. 

Ranking

#37 QS World University Rankings 2023

Average course duration

1 to 2 years

Popular Courses offered

Arts, Humanities, Law, Sciences, Health

Average fees

£9,250 per annum

Location

London, England

The University of Manchester

The University of Manchester has an excellent reputation for teaching and research. In addition to its academic excellence, the University of Manchester is also known for its vibrant student life. The university has many clubs and societies to get involved in and some of the country's best student facilities.

Ranking

#28 QS World University Rankings 2023

Average course duration

1 to 2 years

Popular Courses offered

Engineering, Computer science, Social sciences, Humanities

Average fees

£9,250 for the year

Location

Manchester, England

The London School of Economics and Political Science

The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) is a world-renowned institution for its teaching and research in the social sciences. With a strong emphasis on economics, politics, and international relations, LSE is one of the most prestigious universities in the world. Located in the heart of London, it is also one of the most cosmopolitan and diverse campuses, with students from over 140 countries.

Ranking

#56 QS World University Rankings 2023

Average course duration

3 to 6 years

Popular Courses offered

Economics, Politics, International relations

Average fees

£25,272

Location

London, England

University of Glasgow

The University of Glasgow is a world-renowned institution with a long history of excellence in teaching and research. Located in Glasgow, the university is home to students from more than 140 countries. The University of Glasgow offers various undergraduate and postgraduate programs across many disciplines. The university also has an excellent reputation for research, with five Nobel laureates affiliated with the university.

Ranking

#81 QS World University Rankings 2023

Average course duration

2 to 3 years

Popular Courses offered

Arts and Humanities, Business, Law, Medicine, Engineering, Science

Average fees

£19,920

Location

Glasgow, Scotland

University of Bristol

The University of Bristol is a world-class university with a rich history. The university was founded in 1876 and has since grown to become one of the leading universities in the UK. The University of Bristol is an internationally respected institution with a strong reputation for research and teaching excellence. The university has a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, offering something for everyone. The University of Bristol is also home to many world-renowned researchers working on cutting-edge projects that could change the world.

Ranking

#61 QS World University Rankings 2023

Average course duration

3 to 4 years

Popular Courses offered

Dentistry, Education, Economics, Electrical, and Electronic Engineering

Average fees

£9,250 per year

Location

Bristol, England

Degree Level Wise Best Universities in the UK

Top Universities in the UK for UG Programs

University

Rank

Top Courses Offered

Average Fees

University of Oxford

#4 QS World University Rankings 2023

Medicine, Philosophy, Economics, Chemistry, Mathematics, History

£28,950 to £44,240 annually

Imperial College London

#6 QS World University Rankings 2023

Science, Engineering, Business

£35,000 annually

King’s College London

#37 QS World University Rankings 2023

Arts, Humanities, Law, Sciences, Health

£9,250 per year

The University of Edinburgh

#15 QS World University Rankings 2023

Biological Sciences, Mathematics, Engineering and Electronics, Geography

£9,250 per year

University of Bristol

#61 QS World University Rankings 2023

Dentistry, Education, Economics, Electrical, and Electronic Engineering

£9,250 per year

Top Universities in the UK for Masters

University

Rank

Top Courses Offered

Average Fees

University of Oxford

#4 QS World University Rankings 2023

Medicine, Philosophy, Economics, Chemistry, Mathematics, History

£28,950 to £44,240 annually

University of Cambridge

#2 QS World University Rankings 2023

Linguistics, Medicine, Economics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Philosophy

£9,250 per year

King’s College London

#37 QS World University Rankings 2023

Arts, Humanities, Law, Sciences, Health

£9,250 per year

London School of Economics and Political Science

#56 QS World University Rankings 2023

Economics, Politics, International relations

£25,272 annually

University of Bristol

#61 QS World University Rankings 2023

Dentistry, Education, Economics, Electrical, and Electronic Engineering

£9,250 per year

Top Universities in the UK for Doctorate Courses

University

Rank

Top Courses Offered

Average Fees

University of Oxford

#4 QS World University Rankings 2023

Medicine, Philosophy, Economics, Chemistry, Mathematics, History

£28,950 to £44,240 annually

Imperial College London

#6 QS World University Rankings 2023

Science, Engineering, Business

£35,000 annually

University of Cambridge

#2 QS World University Rankings 2023

Linguistics, Medicine, Economics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Philosophy

£9,250 per year

The University of Edinburgh

#15 QS World University Rankings 2023

Biological Sciences, Mathematics, Engineering and Electronics, Geography

£9,250 per year

University of Manchester

#28 QS World University Rankings 2023

Engineering, Computer science, Social sciences, Humanities

£9,250 per year

Top Universities in the UK for Diploma Courses

University

Rank

Top Courses Offered

Average Fees

University of Oxford

#4 QS World University Rankings 2023

Diploma in Creative Writing, Diploma in British Archaeology, Diploma in the History of Art

£28,950 to £44,240 annually

University of Cambridge

#2 QS World University Rankings 2023

Advanced Diploma in Economics, Diploma in Medical Education, Diploma in Clinical Medicine

£9,250 per year

University of Derby

#1001-1200 QS World University Rankings 2023

PG Diploma in Tourism & Hospitality Management, Diploma in Sports Psychology

£9,250 per year

University of Essex

#465 QS World University Rankings 2023

PG Diploma in Nursing, PG Diploma in Computer Science, PG Diploma in Business Analytics

£18,500 annually

Imperial College London

#6 QS World University Rankings 2023

Diploma in Cardiovascular and Respiratory Healthcare, Diploma in Genomic Medicine

£35,000 annually

Admission Requirements for Top Universities in the UK

Admission requirements for top universities in the UK can vary depending on the university and the specific program you are applying to. However, here is a general overview of the admission requirements for some of the top UK universities:

  • Strong academic record with excellent grades in your most recent exams, such as A-levels, International Baccalaureate, or equivalent qualifications
  • UCAS application, including a personal statement
  • Two or more academic references
  • Some courses may require an admissions test or interview
  • For international students, proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) may be required.

These are just a few general admission requirements for the top 10 colleges in the UK for international students. However, it is crucial to research the specific requirements for the course and university you are interested in, as there may be additional or different requirements. Additionally, some universities may have specific grades or subject requirements for certain courses.

Documents Required for Top Universities in the UK

Applying to top universities in the UK typically requires a range of documents to support your application. While individual institutions may have specific requirements, the following list provides a general overview of the documents you are likely to need when applying to top UK universities:

  • Application Form (duly filled)
  • Personal Statement (this showcases your skills, experiences, and motivations for pursuing your chosen course)
  • Academic Transcripts
  • Proof of English Language Proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and CAE)
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • Proof of Funding (International students may need to provide documentation showing they have sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs associated with studying in the UK. This could include bank statements, scholarship or grant letters, or a sponsor's financial guarantee.)
  • Passport and Visa

Scholarships Available at Top Universities in the UK

There are numerous scholarships available for students at top universities in the UK. These scholarships can be based on merit, financial need, or a combination of factors. Here is a list of some of the scholarships offered by top UK universities:

University of Oxford

  • Clarendon Scholarships
  • Rhodes Scholarships
  • Reach Oxford Scholarships

University of Cambridge

  • Gates Cambridge Scholarships
  • Cambridge Trust Scholarships
  • Cambridge International Scholarships (CISS)

Imperial College London

  • President's PhD Scholarships
  • Imperial College Business School Scholarships
  • Faculty of Engineering Dean's Excellence Scholarships

University College London (UCL)

  • UCL Global Excellence Scholarships
  • UCL Graduate Research Scholarships
  • UCL Overseas Research Scholarships (UCL-ORS)

University of Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh Global Undergraduate Scholarships
  • Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships
  • Principal's Career Development PhD Scholarship
...Read more

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University of Nottingham

University of Nottingham

Nottingham, UK

#114 by
QS Top Universities
The University of Nottingham, situated in the United Kingdom, is a beacon of academic excellence with a rich heritage dating back to 1881. Its commitment to cutting-edge esearch and innovation has earned it a stellar reputation worldwide. The institution's multi-campus presence extends to the UK, China, and Malaysia, creating a truly global learning environment. Nottingham is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community, nurturing talents, and addressing global challenges through interdisciplinary research. It offers many undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs for students to explore their passions and achieve their academic goals. ...Read more
University of the West of Scotland

University of the West of Scotland

Paisley, UK

#119 by
QS Top Universities
The University of the West of Scotland (UWS) is one of the most reputed and progressive institutions in Scotland. University of the West of Scotland is a public universit in the United Kingdom (UK). The university is spread across four campuses in the West of Scotland and a new campus in London. University of the West Scotland, UK, was formerly known as the University of Paisley. The Paisley School of Design was founded in 1848 and the foundation stone was laid for the Paisley Technical School laid in 1897. As a precursor to UWS, it opened in 1900 and the college turned into the University of Paisley with Ayr and Paisley campuses. In 1999, the campus at Dumfries was set up while the university ultimately became the University of the West of Scotland in 2007 via mergers. The fourth campus in Scotland also came up at Lanarkshire. The brand new and cutting-edge Ayr campus came up in 2011 while the London campus was launched in 2015. The new Lanarkshire campus opened in 2018 while the London campus expanded to its new facility in the Docklands by 2020. The University of the West of Scotland ranking is 103 (2022) in The Complete University Guide rankings list and 501-600 in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings for 2022. It also achieved a ranking of 101-200 in THE Impact Rankings 2021 and 148 in the 2022 Young University Ranking. The medium of instruction at the University of the West of Scotland is English. ...Read more
Newcastle University

Newcastle University

Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

#122 by
QS Top Universities
Newcastle University is a public research university in Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. Newcastle University is a Russell Group member with one of the largest EU research portfoios in the country.The University’s origins may be traced to the School of Medicine and Surgery (later the College of Medicine), which was founded in 1834, and the College of Physical Science (later called Armstrong College), which was formed in 1871. The more significant part of the federal University of Durham was created by these two colleges, with the Durham Colleges comprising the other. In 1937, the Newcastle institutions combined to establish King’s College. King’s College was renamed the University of Newcastle in 1963. ...Read more
Queen Mary University of London

Queen Mary University of London

London, UK

#125 by
QS Top Universities
TheQueen Mary University of London is a government-funded research facility with offices in London, United Kingdom. Having been established in 1887, it has over 28,000 stdents enrolled, including over 5,000 international students from more than 160 different countries. Undergraduate and graduate studies are available at theQueen Mary University of London in various disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, and science. Its excellent reputation for excellence is a result of its ranking as one of the top 20 universities in the UK for the caliber of its research. ...Read more
University of Suffolk

University of Suffolk

Suffolk, UK

#126 by
QS Top Universities
The University of Suffolk is a globally recognized public university situated in Suffolk, England, United Kingdom (UK). It is one of the prestigious universities for undegraduate and postgraduate students to pursue world-class education. The university has a distinctive and thriving academic community to make a clear and immediate impact. The purpose of the university is to change the lives of both individuals and communities. In 2007, the University of Suffolk was established as University Campus Suffolk (UCS), and on August 1, 2016, the University of Suffolk was officially launched. ...Read more
Lancaster University

Lancaster University

Lancaster , UK

#146 by
QS Top Universities
Lancaster University is a public research university situated in the United Kingdom (UK). It has been a top school in north-western England for more than ten years now.Lacaster University, UK, was consolidated in the 1970s-80s. The school introduced several combined degree schemes with subjects like Environmental Science and Philosophy during this time. It was also the period for constructing modern laboratories for teaching and research.The university has its prestigious campus at Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4YW, United Kingdom.Lancaster University’s ranking is commendable on most university ranking indexes. It is ranked #122 on the World University Rankings by Times Higher Education 2022, whereas the QS World University Rankings 2022 places the university at #132 globally. ...Read more
University of Exeter

University of Exeter

Exeter, UK

#163 by
QS Top Universities
The University of Exeter is a leading public institution offering world-class academic and research facilities to over 30,000 students in the United Kingdom (UK). Even thugh the university was officially established in 1955, its history goes back to the 1900s. It includes six departments, offering knowledge in various subjects and education levels.The magnificent campus of the university is located at Stocker Rd, Exeter EX4 4PY, United Kingdom.In terms of the University of Exeter rankings, it is exceptional. In the QS World University Rankings 2022, the institution is listed at 149th position. The university bagged 143rd place in the World University Rankings by Times Higher Education. This speaks volumes about the institution’s popularity and performance. ...Read more
Newman University

Newman University

Birmingham, UK

#Top 166 by
QS Top Universities
Newman University is a public university located in Birmingham, England, United Kingdom (UK). The university is well known for its international exposure in top-ranked corses for undergraduate and postgraduate study programs. It was founded in the year 1968 at Newman College of higher education. From the year 2008 to 2013 it was known as Newman University College until it gained complete university status in 2013. ...Read more
University of Bath

University of Bath

Bath, UK

#179 by
QS Top Universities
The University of Bath is a public university located in Bath, Somerset. It provides quality education to over 19,000 students with the help of around 1,500 faculty membes. The University of Bath in the UKreceived its royal charter in 1966 and is now a part of the top 10 UK universities with a reputation for research and teaching excellence. ...Read more
Cardiff University

Cardiff University

Cardiff, UK

#187 by
QS Top Universities
Cardiff University is one of the United Kingdom’s leading public research and teaching universities. The school combines a range of modern facilities clubbed with an exciing approach to teaching students.Cardiff University, United Kingdom, first opened its doors on 24 October 1883 and the Royal Charter formally established the school in 1884. In 1988, the institution got merged with the University of Wales Institute of Science and Technology, and the public name of the university was officially changed to Cardiff University in 1999.Situated at Cardiff CF10 3AT, United Kingdom, the university has an impressive rankings tally. Cardiff University ranking stands #151 in the QS World University Rankings 2022 by TopUniversities, while the Academic Ranking of World Universities given by Shanghai Jiao Tong University 2021 places the school at #151. ...Read more
University of Aberdeen

University of Aberdeen

UK

#205 by
QS Top Universities
The University of Aberdeen is a prestigious research university in Aberdeen, Scotland. It was founded in 1495 and is the world's fifth-oldest University in English. The Uiversity's academic disciplines are diverse and divided into three colleges: Arts and Social Sciences, Life Sciences and Medicine, and Physical Sciences. It provides undergraduate and postgraduate degrees and research opportunities in various fields such as medicine, law, engineering, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The University is well-known for its research excellence, particularly emphasizing health sciences, energy, and the environment. It has consistently been ranked among the top universities in the United Kingdom. ...Read more
Queen’s University Belfast

Queen’s University Belfast

Belfast, UK

#216 by
QS Top Universities
Queen's University, a public research educational institution, is situated in Kingston, Canada. Established in 1841, it is among the oldest educational institutions and amodern center of academic study. Queen's University, simply referred to as Queen's, offers almost 80 undergraduate courses as well as 125 graduate programs to international students across 24 research institutes and centres. The Queen's University experience involves embracing and encouraging students across every nation and background in a dynamic, safe, and caring community. Queen's rating currently stands at 209th in worldwide rankings, which is up from its 246th place in 2023. ...Read more
University of Reading

University of Reading

Reading, UK

#229 by
QS Top Universities
The University of Reading, UK, was founded in 1892 and is currently a public university situated in Reading, Berkshire, England. The university was founded as an extensio of the University of Oxford but later, in 1962, received the ability to grant its degrees by the royal charter from King George V. It was the first and only new university within the United Kingdom that received such a charter between the two world wars.It was earlier identified as the College of Reading, but later, it was renamed to its current name after receiving the grant. In 1928, the university was included in the Combined English Universities constituency, and in 1984 it began a merger with the Bulmershe College of Higher Education, which was over in 1989.The institution offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses and has improved academic collaborations worldwide with other organizations and institutions. ...Read more
Queen's University Belfast

Queen's University Belfast

Belfast, UK

#233 by
QS Top Universities
Queen's University Belfast is a prestigious public research university situated in the vibrant city of Belfast, Northern Ireland. With a legacy spanning over 175 years, te university has established itself as a symbol of academic excellence and global recognition. Queen's University Belfast offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various fields, catering to students with interests in arts and humanities, sciences, engineering, and more. The university takes pride in its world-class faculty, who are experts in their respective fields, and its state-of-the-art facilities that provide an optimal learning environment. Students at Queen's University benefit from a supportive and inclusive educational setting, where research-driven education and experiential learning opportunities abound. The university's commitment to fostering inclusivity, embracing diversity, and promoting innovation creates an intellectually stimulating and inspiring atmosphere for students to thrive and reach their full potential. ...Read more
University of Sussex

University of Sussex

Brighton, UK

#240 by
QS Top Universities
The University of Sussex is a public research university in the south of England, near the coastal city of Brighton. Founded in 1961, the university has established itsel as a premier institution in research and teaching, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies. It provides undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in topics ranging from the arts and humanities to science and technology. The university has a diverse student body, with students from over 120 nations. Sussex is noted for its progressive beliefs and commitment to social justice, as well as for research in fields such as sustainability, development studies, and neuroscience. ...Read more
Loughborough University

Loughborough University

Loughborough, UK

#256 by
QS Top Universities
The university is located right in the heart of the UK, providing access to amazing support services like Loughborough’s conference centre, excellent accommodation faciliies, a wonderful library, and laboratories. The University also has an arts centre, a bank, a health centre, two theatres, restaurants, and some shops. Also, it provides the students with excellent sports facilities.The University has a postgraduate campus in London too. This is where the best faculties and their students can be found. The University has been working hard to offer a high-quality education so that its campuses receive many rankings and awards for it. Originally, Loughborough University focused mainly on education in technical subjects like art and science. There have been 22 academic schools and departments with over 100 research groups, institutes, and centres, and over 35 professional services teams during the University’s development.Loughborough is one of the UK’s top universities and has extensive connections in the industry. The university has a unique feature, providing year-long placements in all fields. 94% of the graduates were in employment or further study after graduating, and about 91% were in professional or managerial roles. The university is affiliated with Wallace Group, EUA, EQUIS, M5 Universities, and many more. ...Read more
University of Leicester

University of Leicester

Leicester, UK

#279 by
QS Top Universities
The University of Leicester is a public research university in Leicester, England. It is one of the UK's youngest universities, founded in 1921, and has quickly establishd itself as a leading institution for research and teaching. The university offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in the arts, humanities, social sciences, science, engineering, and medicine. The university is well-known for its groundbreaking research in areas such as genetics, space exploration, archaeology, and cardiovascular sciences. It is also committed to inclusivity and diversity, providing a welcoming and stimulating environment for students of all backgrounds. ...Read more
Heriot-Watt University

Heriot-Watt University

Edinburgh , UK

#281 by
QS Top Universities
Heriot-Watt University is a public research university situated in Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom. It is the eighth oldest higher educational institution in the Unitd Kingdom.The university began as the School of Arts of Edinburgh, the first mechanics institute in the world, in 1821 and received the Royal Charter in 1966.The official address of Heriot-Watt University UK is:Edinburgh, Scotland, UK EH14 4AS, +44 131 449 511Additionally, Heriot-Watt University’s ranking is rather impressive. The QS World University Rankings 2022 by Top Universities gives the university the #270 rank globally. The World University Rankings 2022 by Times Higher Education, on the other hand, places the institution at #501. The Graduate Employability ranking lies between 301 and 500.As per THE World University Rankings 2021, the university is listed in the top 25 in the world for Engineering and Technology. Lastly, the QS WUR Ranking by Subject 2022, Heriot-Watt University, stands at #10. ...Read more
University of Surrey

University of Surrey

Guildford, UK

#305 by
QS Top Universities
The University of Surrey is a worldwide community of ideas and people committed to transforming lives through research and teaching. The university provides great teachin and practical learning on a beautiful and dynamic campus to inspire and empower the students for personal and professional success. The campus is located on the outskirts of Guildford.The university facilitates events for young people and mature learners and community groups at the University of Surrey UK to assist the development of ambitions and attainment and provide information, advice, and guidance on further development education. The university also has a lot of new teaching and learning materials, such as monthly webinars on a range of topics to help you and your students. ...Read more
University of Strathclyde

University of Strathclyde

Glasgow, UK

#325 by
QS Top Universities
TheUniversity of Strathclyde, based in Glasgow, Scotland, is a renowned public research institution. It has a long history and is well-known for its exceptional teaching,research, and innovation in various subjects. Engineering, science, business, humanities, social sciences, law, and education are among the many undergraduate and postgraduate programs available at the university. ...Read more

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