Study in London 2025

London is a popular destination for foreign students, who are interested in pursuing high quality education. Schools in London provide studying according to a nationally recognized educational system, consisting of  several stages:

• Nursery or Kindergarten (Age of pupils 3-4)

•    Elementary Classes (Ages 5-11)

•     Middle School (students aged 11-14)

•     GCSE Programme (Ages 14-16) for incomplete secondary education

•     Sixth Form Courses (students aged 16-18): University preparation programs such as A-level, IB, Foundation Programme, and Cambridge Pre-U

•    Higher Education: Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate Degrees

In the United Kingdom, education is compulsory for children  aged from 5 to 16 years old. Schools in London are usually divided into several categories: public schools, providing education free of charge for UK residents, and private schools, which offer studying on paid base and are open to foreign students.

Cost of Education in London and Accommodation Options

Most private schools in the UK offer campus accommodations. However, studying in London comes with its unique considerations, primarily due to the high cost of land. Private schools in London often provide host family accommodations instead of traditional dormitories.

During studying, the students are expected to use interactive technology, including online learning platforms. Also there are extensive libraries, theaters, and excellent sports facilities are open. The core advantage of studying in London concerns the proximity to cultural and infrastructural sights, allowing to enrich educational excursions.

Best Programs to Study in London: Top Private Schools

Here are some highly-ranked private schools in London known for their educational excellence:

• Abbey DLD College London

Specializing in middle and high school education and university preparation, this school is part of the esteemed Abbey network and ranks in the top 3 London schools based on academic achievements.

• CATS College London

This school invites students aged from 14 to 20 years old for studying, listing in the top 5 colleges in London. CATS College has various programs adapted for international students.

• Bellerbys College London

A part of the Bellerbys educational network, the college focuses on pre-university preparation and is consistently in the top 30 British private schools.

• Mill Hill School

Located 16 km from central London, this school emphasizes arts, creativity, and culture, offering an authentically British educational experience.

• Royal Russell School

With location in the prestigious Croydon area, this school provides studying at all levels of a full secondary education. Also it has a spacious 100-acre campus.

• Westminster School

One of the oldest schools in the UK, it offers a complete educational cycle and consistently ranks high based on A-level and GCSE results.

• Dulwich College

A school for boys, known for its strict discipline and academic rigor, focuses on GCSE and A-level programs.

• Chelsea Independent College

The college is located in the prestigious Chelsea district, gaining popularity due to offering effective pre-university preparation.

• Harrow School

This school offers a separate form of studying, enrolling only boys, recognized as one of the world’s most elite educational institutions. The popularity of the school is gained due to its strict discipline and historical traditions.

For successful enrollment in London schools, foreign students are required to obtain a study permit. The application process varies, which is stipulated by the chosen school and the student's country of origin.

Study in London Fees and Financial Considerations

The tuition fees in London significantly range, as it depends which type of school and educational program are chosen by a student. In addition to it, cost of living expenses concerning accommodation, meals, and transportation should be taken into account when planning an educational trip in London.

Study Abroad in London: Pre-University Programs

While deciding on study in London, foreign applicants can choose one of the pre-university courses, including A-levels, International Baccalaureate (IB), Foundation programs, and specialized courses like Oxford Prep or BMAT and UKCAT for medical faculties. 

In addition to excellent academic performance, foreign students are guaranteed a vibrant cultural experience, modern transportation infrastructure  to other European cities, and a great number of extracurricular activities during their stay.

In the case of wishing to make a career in the global academic and professional arena, education in London is the best option to achieve it.

London is home to many prestigious universities, offering a various specializations:

• Classical fields like philology, law, international business, and medicine.

• Innovative areas concerning molecular biology, nanotechnology, modern power engineering, and robotics.

• Traditional educational programs: Bachelor's (studying takes 3-6 years), Master's and MBA (course duration is 1-2 years), and doctoral studies (1-1.5 years).

Best Programs to Study in London

Below there are top ranking universities located in London:

1. London School of Economics and Political Science

2. Royal Holloway - University of London

3. University College London UCL

4. The Imperial College London

5. University of King's College London

6. University of City London

7. Royal Veterinary College

A huge number of short-term programs, including interesting vacation courses, are offered for foreign students. Basically, these options combine a universal, intensive English language course and leisure-entertainment program: creativity, sports, art, excursions to the most famous sights of London, England and the UK.

Below some prestigious educational institutions are listed, which offer short-term programs:

• The children's camp of the University of Brunel
• The Millrow Summer School
• Harrow Summer School
• Pilgrims Harrow School
• St Giles Junior summer London
• Tottenham Football Camp
• INTO St George's University of London
• Bucksmore Three Capitals

The tuition fee in London significantly ranges, depending on the institution's reputation and ranking, type of educational program, its duration.

Secondary Education Costs

For secondary education in private schools, the fees are relatively steep. On average, one trimester costs between £5,200 and £12,500, typically inclusive of accommodation.

Anna Chebotar

Regional Manager CIS

What are the expenses for parents during the year, in addition to paying for living and studying?

In addition to studying and accommodation, additional expenses are possible: preparation for IELTS, payment for exams, additional classes, guardian services. Add in personal expenses, and on average, in addition to studies and living, about 10 thousand pounds per year are added in additional costs.

Cost for Short-Term Courses

Short-term course fees for foreign students range from £560 to £1,350 per week, usually encompassing accommodation, meals, and additional leisure activities.

Higher Education Costs

Deciding on pursuing higher education in London, the foreign students should be prepared for tuition fees on average accounts to £15,000 per year, without living expenses, food, transportation, and personal costs.

How to Apply for a Study Permit in London

For guidance on how to apply for a study permit in London and any other queries, don't hesitate to consult with SMAPSE experts, who are always on hand to provide comprehensive answers to your questions.