UCL (University College London)

Founded in 1826, University College London (UCL) is one of the world's leading multidisciplinary universities, located in the heart of central London. With over 51,000 students from more than 150 countries, UCL offers a truly global learning environment in one of the most dynamic cities in the world.

UCL is a member of the prestigious Russell Group and has consistently ranked among the world's top 10 universities across multiple independent rankings, including QS World University Rankings and U.S. News & World Report. Its academic reputation is built on world-class teaching, research, and innovation across a broad range of disciplines - from medicine and engineering to law, education, arts and the humanities.

Students at UCL learn from leading experts who are actively shaping their fields. Courses are academically rigorous, research-led, and designed to prepare graduates for global careers.

The main campus in Bloomsbury is undergoing major development ahead of UCL's 200th anniversary in 2026, including a transformation of the Main Quad and Gordon Street area to create a more inclusive and accessible space for students. UCL East, a state-of-the-art campus that opened in 2022 in east London, is also expanding opportunities for innovation and collaboration.

From outstanding student support and modern facilities to a vibrant social and cultural life, UCL offers an exceptional all-round experience. Its central London location provides direct access to professional networks, museums, libraries, business hubs and global employers - ensuring students have the competitive edge both during and after their studies.

UCL is known around the world for its high academic standards and commitment to research-led teaching. Places on several programmes are in high demand due to the quality of education they offer, and the reputation those qualifications carry.

In the UK's Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023, UCL was awarded Silver overall, with a Gold rating for student outcomes, recognising the excellent achievements of its graduates. This reflects the university's focus on academic rigour, innovation in teaching, and strong graduate employability.

At UCL, students are taught by leading academics who are actively involved in cutting edge research that is shaping the future. Teaching is designed to be intellectually challenging, encouraging students to think critically and work across traditional subject boundaries. Many degree programmes offer project-based learning, practical skills training, and the opportunity to work with real-world data or case studies.

Depending on the chosen study path, learning can include small-group tutorials, seminars and lab work are a key part of the student experience, alongside lectures and digital learning. UCL also invests in ongoing curriculum development to ensure that teaching remains inclusive, up to date and globally relevant.

From medicine and engineering to education and the arts, UCL degrees are respected by employers and institutions worldwide, helping students achieve their academic goals and prepare for a successful future (most targeted university in London by graduate employers (The Graduate Market in 2024, High Fliers Research)).

The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across 11 faculties.

Faculty of Arts & Humanities

This faculty explores human culture, creativity and communication through subjects such as philosophy, literature, languages and fine art.

Faculty of Brain Sciences

Home to leading research in psychology, neuroscience, and speech and language, this faculty focuses on understanding the brain and behaviour.

Faculty of the Built Environment (The Bartlett)

Ranked among the world's best for architecture and planning, this faculty leads innovative teaching and research on how people shape and experience the built world.

Faculty of Engineering Sciences

This faculty prepares students for global engineering challenges, offering programmes in areas like civil, mechanical, biomedical and electronic engineering.

Faculty of Education & Society (IOE)

Globally ranked number one for education, this faculty specialises in teaching, learning and social research.

Faculty of Laws

One of the UK's top law schools, this faculty combines academic excellence with real-world legal engagement in London's legal district.

Faculty of Life Sciences

With a focus on biology, pharmacology and biomedical sciences, this faculty leads discoveries in health, disease and the natural world.

Faculty of Mathematical & Physical Sciences

This faculty teaches and researches core scientific disciplines including mathematics, physics, astronomy, chemistry and statistical science.

Faculty of Medical Sciences

Working closely with major hospitals, this faculty offers expert education in medicine, dentistry and related clinical fields.

Faculty of Population Health Sciences

This faculty focuses on public and global health, epidemiology, child health and health policy, aiming to improve health outcomes worldwide.

Faculty of Social & Historical Sciences

Covering subjects like history, politics, economics, anthropology and geography, this faculty helps students shape the world around them.

UCL welcomes applications from international students and accepts a wide range of global qualifications for both undergraduate and postgraduate study. Requirements vary depending on the course, and students are advised to check UCL's official website for detailed, country-specific guidance.

Demand for places at UCL is high, and so applicants typically need strong academic results. Some competitive programmes, such as medicine or law, may have additional requirements including admissions tests or interviews.

Postgraduate taught courses usually require a UK upper second-class bachelor's degree (2:1) or international equivalent. For any specific entry requirements, check the programme page for details. Research programmes such as MPhil/PhD may also ask for a master's degree and evidence of independent research experience.

All applicants must meet UCL's English language requirements, which vary by course and are proved through a relevant test provider. Pre-sessional English courses are available through the UCL Centre for Languages & International Education (CLIE) for students who need further language preparation.

UCL also offers foundation pathways for undergraduate students through partner institutions for those who require academic or language support before entry.

The university offers world-class facilities designed to support students academically, socially and personally. Its main campus in Bloomsbury, central London, is home to a mix of historic and modern buildings, including cutting-edge laboratories, design studios, performance spaces and collaborative learning environments. Students also benefit from 18 specialist libraries, as well as access to the nearby British Library, one of the world's largest research libraries.

Study spaces are available across campus, including in the award-winning UCL Student Centre, which is open 24 hours a day during term time and offers flexible, quiet and group work areas, as well as a cafe and support services.

Sports and fitness facilities include a gym in central London and a large sports ground in Shenley, just outside the city, where students take part in training, matches and recreational activities. UCL also offers a wide range of student accommodation, with over 7,000 rooms available and dedicated support on site.

As part of UCL's ongoing campus development plan, upgrades to the Main Quad, Wilkins Building and Gordon Street are helping to improve the student experience, with more green spaces, improved accessibility and modernised communal areas for study, relaxation and social events.

University College London (UCL) offers a number of scholarships and financial support options for international students at undergraduate and postgraduate level. These awards are designed to recognise academic excellence, support students from lower-income backgrounds, and help make studying in London more accessible.

One of UCL's key initiatives is the UCL Global Master's Scholarship supports applicants who demonstrate strong academic potential but may face financial barriers.

In addition to these flagship schemes, there are a wide range of faculty- and country-specific scholarships.

Most scholarships require a separate application and have specific deadlines, so early planning is recommended. Detailed guidance and eligibility criteria are available on UCL's official scholarships website.

While scholarships are competitive, UCL remains committed to widening access and helping students succeed regardless of background or nationality.

As UCL approaches its 200th anniversary in 2026, the university is preparing to mark the milestone with both celebration and transformation. Major developments are already underway to enhance the student experience and create a more inclusive and welcoming campus.

Since January 2025, significant progress has been made on the Main Quad and Wilkins Building, with enhancements of Gordon Street beginning in summer 2025. Improvements will include more green spaces, a new canopy and a living wall on the Christopher Ingold Building, aiming to create an inclusive central hub for all who study, work and visit to feel more welcomed and supported.

Alongside physical improvements, UCL continues to excel on the global stage. In the 2026 QS World University Rankings, UCL has retained its place as 9th best in the world for the third year running.

Alongside this, the university was ranked 7th in the world by U.S. News & World Report and retained a top 5 UK position in the QS Sustainability Rankings. It remains number one globally for education, as well as architecture and the built environment (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025). These recognitions reflect the university's ongoing commitment to world-class research, innovation and collaboration.