Loughborough University

Loughborough University has a long history of success as both a further and higher education institution since 1909. Now, it is one of the leading learning institutions in the UK and the world. Offering a high-class education and student experience to thousands of students every year, the university is consistently ranked in the top 10 in the UK (Complete University Guide, 2017-2026).

Loughborough University has a global reputation for sport and has been ranked the best university in the world for sports-related subjects (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2017-2025). It prides itself on outstanding teaching quality across all subjects and has recruited a diverse, multinational academic team, ensuring that students receive a varied education delivered by professional and experienced staff.

Exceptional facilities are provided across a full range of academic subjects, including engineering, design, business and more. International students are warmly welcomed at the university's inclusive campuses, with extensive support facilities available to help them settle and thrive throughout their studies.

The university is well-equipped to deliver an outstanding experience across both academics and a fun student lifestyle. It boasts a diverse students' union, relaxed study and social spaces, and extensive student support services.

The university has a campus that is situated in the town of Loughborough in the East Midlands. It is well-placed for transport links to the surrounding larger cities and has everything students need for an enjoyable experience during their studies. The second campus is in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London.

Loughborough's campus in London was established exclusively for postgraduate study and research. Loughborough University London combines influential thought leaders, pioneering researchers and creative innovators to deliver one of the best postgraduate experiences the UK has to offer.

Teaching quality

Loughborough University is recognised both nationally and globally for the quality of its teaching. In 2023, it was awarded a prestigious triple gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework. This ranking recognises the exceptional quality of teaching delivered by the university.

The university ranks in the top place globally for sports-related subjects in the QS World University Rankings by Subject (2025). In the Complete University Guide (2026), it ranks in the top 10 universities nationally and further ranks number one in the country for sports science, communication and media studies, building, and architecture (Complete University Guide 2026).

The university aims to inspire innovation, hard work, and a sense of participation amongst all students, staff, and researchers. It actively recruits top lecturers and academics from around the world. By bringing in the most talented teachers from such a broad background, students are assured of the highest quality education, and benefit from a truly diverse learning experience.

The vast range of courses available at Loughborough University are split across each campus. There are around 25 undergraduate subject areas taught at the Loughborough campus and around 25 postgraduate subject areas taught across the Loughborough and London campuses.

These subject areas make up departments that are varied, some offering a wider selection of courses, as well as those that are more specialised. There are broad schools and departments, such as Design and Creative Arts or Chemical Engineering to more focused schools, such as the Institute for Diplomacy and International Affairs or the Institute for Digital Technologies.

Every academic school and department at the university has its own distinctive research strengths, with an interdisciplinary approach that encourages a collaborative spirit. The university is well-connected across industry, and students benefit from the outstanding facilities and academic support provided on campus.

Loughborough University may be famous for its sporting courses, but any student in any department will enjoy an excellent and quality learning experience at the institution.

Students who wish to apply to Loughborough University must meet certain entry requirements to be accepted on to their chosen programme.

Each course has different entry requirements, which can be found on the undergraduate course pages on the website, or the master's and PhD projects listings.

Students on some courses may be asked to provide a portfolio to demonstrate their existing body of work in a field. This is limited to only a few courses and details are made clear to applicants when they apply.

English language

International students must also be able to demonstrate an ability to speak, understand and read English. The standard current requirement of English needed is an overall IELTS Academic score of 6.5, with no individual element scored at less than 6.0, or an equivalent English language qualification.

Some courses may require a more advanced level of English and students are advised to check the entry requirements for their preferred course prior to application.

Tuition fees

All students at Loughborough University must pay annual tuition fees. To view information regarding fees, please visit Loughborough University's website for undergraduate courses and postgraduate courses.

Scholarships and bursaries

To help cover the costs of studying at university, there are a number of undergraduate scholarships and bursaries and postgraduate scholarships that students can apply for to cover a portion of the fees involved. Please check the institution's website for details on these.

Some scholarships are tailored to UK students only, while others are exclusively for international students. Some are open to all students, regardless of their nationality. The funding varies between each option.

Loughborough University is equipped with some of the best facilities found in the UK. Students enjoy a fully rounded academic, social and sporting experience during their time at Loughborough.

Academic facilities

The university provides fantastic teaching facilities, ensuring all students have access to outstanding equipment and knowledge, developing the leaders of tomorrow in each respective field.

One example is the STEMLab, a recent addition to campus which has advanced laboratories, and workshops, and DigiLabs, a unique and innovative digital experience to enhance digital work skills.

Sports facilities

The Loughborough campus has world-class facilities for sport, accessible to students of all abilities. Furthermore, the London campus is connected and within easy reach of sporting excellence venues such as the Olympic velodrome (Lee Valley VeloPark) and the London Aquatics Centre.

Accommodation

Students benefit from a broad choice of accommodation options.

The Loughborough campus has numerous halls of residence for students to choose from, all situated either on campus or within a short distance. The London campus offers support with finding accommodation for students through the Student Accommodation Centre.

Students' Union

The Loughborough Students' Union provides a vibrant hub of social opportunities and student support services, with many clubs and societies that students can join to meet like-minded people.

Loughborough University is established as one of the top learning institutions in the UK. Nevertheless, the university is committed to consistent development to ensure the overall student experience continues to stand out.

Aftrak initiative

The university's groundbreaking initiative, Aftrak, was a winner of the USD 1 million Milken-Motsepe Prize in Green Energy global competition. Aftrak combines solar microgrids and tailored tractors to empower smallholder farmers across Africa.

The World Can't Wait campaign

The university has also launched a new campaign called The World Can't Wait, designed to make meaningful impact across lives and society. The campaign is dedicated to fighting the challenges society faces on planet Earth today. It comprises areas such as building better humans, empowering the planet, and creating inclusive communities.

New law programme

From October 2026, Loughborough University will offer a degree programme in law. The new Law LLB (Hons) degree is designed to equip students with all the relevant knowledge and experience needed for a future legal career.