Top UK Universities for International Students in 2025

Welcome back! If you’re an international student eyeing the UK for your higher education, you’re in the right place. The UK is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, but choosing the right one can be tough.

We’ll dive into the 10 best universities for international students in the UK, including their QS rankings, Times rankings, tuition costs, top courses, and more. If you’re new, I talk about moving across the world to study or for that dream job. With that, let’s dive in!

Now, the UK is a major student destination. In fact, in 2023, the UK granted 457,000 sponsored visas to main student applicants. According to the last official data in 2021 and 2022, there were 679,000 international students studying at UK higher educational institutions. Of these, 120,000 students were from the EU, and 559,000 were non-EU students.

Chinese students made up the largest group of international students, with 151,000 students studying in 2021–2022. China was followed by 120,000 students from India and 32,000 students from Nigeria. While this data is two years old, it provides a basic idea of the number of international students in the UK—and it’s not a small number!

In fact, the UK often ranks second in terms of the best student destinations in the world after the US. Studying in the UK not only gives you access to world-class education and resources, but also the opportunity to access the UK job market with the post-graduate visa, which allows you to work in the UK for up to two years after graduation.

If you don’t plan on working in the UK and want to return to your home country, UK universities still add that extra weight to your resume. The UK’s strategic location also means you’re never too far from home.

Now, let’s dive into the best universities to study at in the UK.

1. University of Oxford

Ranked second in the QS World Rankings and first by the Times, Oxford is a no-brainer. The average cost of studying at Oxford is £28,000–£34,000 per year for undergraduate programs and £25,000–£45,000 per year for postgraduate programs. The best courses include philosophy, politics, economics, law, medicine, and computer science. Oxford boasts a 91% employment rate within six months of graduation. Its perks include a rich academic heritage, one-on-one tutorials with world-class professors, and access to more than 100 libraries. In terms of diversity, Asian students make up 13.3% of the population, while students of Black African or Caribbean heritage account for 3.6%.

2. University of Cambridge

Cambridge holds the fifth spot in both QS and Times rankings. Undergraduate programs cost £26,000–£33,000 per year, while postgraduate programs range from £20,000–£45,000 annually. Top courses include engineering, law, mathematics, and natural sciences. Cambridge has a 90% employment rate within six months of graduation. The university is renowned for its world-class research facilities, unique collegiate system, and vibrant international student community. Approximately 29% of students belong to Black, Asian, or minority backgrounds.

3. Imperial College London

Imperial College London is perfect for science and technology enthusiasts, ranked second in QS and eighth in the Times. Undergraduate programs cost around £35,000 per year, while postgraduate programs range from £30,000–£40,000. Top courses include engineering, computer science, medicine, and business. With a 93% employment rate within six months of graduation, Imperial offers strong industry connections, cutting-edge research labs, and a central London location.

4. University College London (UCL)

UCL is the most targeted university by graduate employers, with a QS ranking of 9 and a Times ranking of 22. Undergraduate courses cost £22,000–£28,000 per year, and postgraduate courses range from £25,000–£32,000. The best courses include architecture, medicine, and law, with an impressive 94% employment rate within six months. Perks include a central London location and a robust alumni network.

5. University of Edinburgh

This prestigious Scottish university ranks 27th in QS and 30th in the Times. Undergraduate programs cost £23,000–£30,000 annually, while postgraduate programs range from £20,000–£35,000. Top courses include arts, humanities, informatics, medicine, and veterinary medicine. Edinburgh offers a stunning campus, active international societies, and opportunities for interdisciplinary studies.

6. University of Manchester

Known for science and humanities, Manchester ranks 34th in QS and 51st in the Times. Undergraduate courses cost £22,000–£28,000, and postgraduate courses range from £20,000–£35,000. Its best programs include business, engineering, computer science, and social sciences. Perks include a vibrant city life and a strong global alumni network.

7. King’s College London

A perfect blend of tradition and modernity, King’s ranks 40th in QS and 38th in the Times. Undergraduate courses range from £22,000–£32,000, while postgraduate programs cost £20,000–£40,000. Its top courses include law, humanities, international relations, and dentistry. The perks include central London access and excellent arts and humanities programs.

8. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

Ideal for future economists and politicians, LSE ranks 50th in QS and 46th in the Times. Undergraduate programs cost £24,000–£26,000, and postgraduate programs range from £20,000–£32,000. Top programs include economics, international relations, law, and social policy. Perks include strong ties with financial institutions, regular guest lectures, and significant international scholarships.

9. University of Bristol

Known for its pioneering spirit, Bristol ranks 54th in QS and 81st in the Times. Undergraduate courses cost £20,000–£24,000, and postgraduate programs range from £22,000–£26,000. Top programs include engineering, law, and medicine. It boasts a vibrant student life and an employment rate of 94%.

10. University of Warwick

Warwick ranks 69th in QS and 106th in the Times. Undergraduate courses cost £21,000–£25,000, and postgraduate programs range from £20,000–£30,000. Its best courses are business, economics, mathematics, and data science. The perks include a green campus, a world-class business school, and excellent employer connections.

And that wraps up our list of the top 10 universities for international students in 2024–2025! Whether you’re looking for global recognition, strong career prospects, or a beautiful campus, the UK has something for everyone. Start your applications early, and good luck!