Higher education in London 2025
This content was developed and approved with active participation of Chris Skidmore.
In the process of preparing the material, we referenced the following sources:
- https://www.newsshopper.co.uk/news/23789139.full-list-londons-best-universities-based-times/
- https://www.universityworldnews.com/post.php?story=20231006112040960.
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95% of graduates are employedUnited KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 2
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95% of graduates are employedUnited KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 2from 8590.00 β¬ / year
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Students are well-prepared for the next stage of their educationUnited KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 2from 18500.00 Β£ / year
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Students are well-prepared for the next stage of their educationUnited KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 1from 16150.00 Β£ / year
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collaborate with teams VOGUE, LOVE, Glamor, GQUnited KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 2from 29400.00 Β£ / year
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Students are well-prepared for the next stage of their educationUnited KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 2from 11000.00 Β£ / year
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has been awarded Outstanding by OfstedUnited KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 1from 19800.00 Β£ / year
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from 23000.00 Β£ / year
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130 retail brands are working with the universityUnited KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 1from 2100.00 Β£ / 26 weeks
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from 8110.00 Β£ / year
Today, British education is globally recognized as the most prestigious due to the high quality of teaching. Such popularity among foreign students is easily explained: there is a great number of famous elite universities with a rich choice of programs in the British capital. London provides the widest opportunities for recreation, walks and cultural leisure, internships and practical work.
Alternative destinations
Key Features of Higher Education in London's Top Colleges and Universities
England is a home to the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, which contributes to its popularity as a destination for education and global recognition. Many of these educational institutions apply teaching methods in studying which were developed centuries ago. England prides itself on not just following global trends, but setting them as well. This dedication to excellence is reflected in the fact that nearly 100 out of 120 British universities are ranked in well-known international lists like THE and QS.
Specializations at Universities in London
In London, undergraduate programs in most facilities typically last three years, whereas graduate programs are generally one year in duration. Some specialized fields, such as art, architecture, and engineering, require a 4+2 year course structure, blending foundational sciences with cutting-edge technologies.
Medical Education at Higher Education Institutions in London
Medical education is particularly rigorous in London's higher education landscape. Students at medical faculties usually undergo a seven-year training program, a system that is also followed in Wales and Northern Ireland. Scotland's education system varies slightly, typically requiring 4+2 years of study.
Curriculum and Assessments in London's Higher Education Institutions
At London colleges, 4-5 compulsory disciplines are studied each semester. Moreover, students have an opportunity to take additional courses, complying with their major. Students are regularly assessed through tests, assignments, and projects. Higher education institutions in London are striving to minimize bias by anonymizing student work—only a student number serves as identification.
Practical Experience and Work Opportunities
A significant focus is placed on acquiring professional experience. Higher education in London stipulates conducting lectures, seminars, practical preparation, and internships. During studies in London, international students have the opportunity to work up to 20 hours per week in a semester. As for holidays, foreign students can engage in work a full day.

What advice do you have for those who want to go to top universities in the UK?
Carefully consider all the information about the university of interest, including the cost - prices vary greatly, so you need to understand what options you will financially pull. Carefully prepare for tests in English (IELTS in the first place) - this will be needed for admission to any British university. Consider the courses that interest you more than others, and check the academic requirements for them, make sure that you have time to study this area well in your high school.
List of Leading Higher Education Institutions in London
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University of Oxford
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University of Cambridge
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Imperial College London
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University College London
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London School of Economics and Political Science
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University of Edinburgh
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King’s College London
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University of Manchester
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University of Bristol
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University of Glasgow
Master's Programs for International Students at Universities in London
Master’s degrees in London universities are characterized by effectiveness of studying and intensity, usually providing studying of 15 - 20 disciplines. Masters programs in England are classified in two categories:
- Research-Oriented: These programs focus on scientific activities. Also the educational process stipulates conducting independent research by each student.
- General Education: Specialized programs offer an in-depth study of the chosen direction of education by attending lectures and seminars.
In both types, completing a thesis is the core factor for awarding the degree.
Higher Education in London Fees: Understanding the Cost
Obtaining higher education in the British capital costs a lot, demanding from foreign students significant financial resources. Upon completing studies in prestigious London universities, graduates receive in-depth academic knowledge, opening doors of international companies in Britain and other countries for successful employment.
By understanding these features and costs, you can thoroughly consider and make a decision on studying in one of London’s respected institutions.
Learning programs-summary information
Name | Meaning | Equivalent | Min. age | Duration, years |
Next stage | Cost |
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GCSE | General certificate of secondary education | secondary education (non-accomplished) | 14 | 1–2 | A-Levels | 15,000 USD+ |
A-Levels | Advanced level | secondary education (accomplished) | 16 | 2 | University | 15,000 USD+ |
BTEC | Business and Technology Education Board | secondary special education | 14 | 2–3 | University/ work | 15,000 USD+ |
Oxbridge Preparation | Preparing for Oxford and Cambridge | secondary education (accomplished) | 17 | 1 | University | 15,000 USD+ |
International Baccalaureate | International baccalaureate | secondary education (accomplished) | 16 | 2 | University | 18,000 USD+ |
Foundation/ Pathway Year | Preparatory year | admission to the 1st year of university | 17 | 1 | University | 14,000 USD+ |
NCUK | The Northern consortium | 2 year university | 17,5 | 1 | 2 year University of NCUK | 13,000 USD+ |
Special Preparation (Medics/Math/Business) | Specialized training | - | 14 | optional | optional | 4,000 USD+ |
Academic English | Academic English | Language school | 8 + | 6–12 months | School or University | 8,000 USD+ |
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1 | Glion Institute of Higher Education Switzerland |
2 | Les Roches International School Montana |
3 | César Ritz Colleges Switzerland |
4 | IHTTI School of Hotel Management |
5 | Ecole Hoteliere de Lausanne |
6 | Geneva Business School |
7 | HIM Hotel Institute Montreux |
8 | Swiss Hotel Management School |
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10 | Business and Hotel Management School |
11 | Luzern IMI |
12 | Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS) Caux |
13 | International University in Geneva |
14 | Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland |
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Literature and references
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List of universities and higher education colleges in London β Wiki
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Full list of London's best universities based on The Times
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Three London universities have been named the best in the UK
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World university rankings for 2023/24, according to Times Higher Education
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Labour market value of higher and further education qualifications: a summary report
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Study abroad has big benefits, but is out of reach for many
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London remains best city in the world to study in new rankings β the Guardian