How Many Universities Are There in the UK? UK University Ranking & List of Universities

The UK has 165 universities, some of which are known world over, such as the University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, and Imperial College London, while others are newer establishments with a specialized focus. It is, however, very difficult for students to choose a specific university because of the existence of such a huge variety based on differences in ranking, tuition fee, and specialization offered. This applies more so to students who are coming from a different country because they have to deal with visa requirements and know the league table rankings and subject rankings.

So what do you do? While the idea may seem like a maze, the best way is to understand the UK university rankings, entry requirements, and subject strengths. Whatever path you choose-from the Russell Group to a new university making some waves-choosing the best fit for your aims is vital to making an informed decision. 

List of all the Top Universities in the United Kingdom

Did you know that the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) has recently surpassed both Oxford and Cambridge to claim the top spot in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025?

The United Kingdom boasts a diverse array of universities, each offering unique strengths across various disciplines. Below is a curated list of UK universities, highlighting their best courses, average tuition fees, average graduate salaries, required entrance exams, and their rankings in the QS World University Rankings (QS) and Times Higher Education (THE).

University	Best Courses	Average Tuition Fees (International Students)	Entrance Exams Required	QS Ranking 2025	THE Ranking 2025
University of Oxford	Humanities, Law	£40,000 per year	IELTS, TOEFL	2	1
University of Cambridge	Engineering, Sciences	£40,000 per year	IELTS, TOEFL	3	2
Imperial College London	Computer Science, Medicine	£35,000 per year	IELTS, TOEFL	6	4
London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)	Economics, Political Science	£25,000 per year	IELTS, TOEFL	4	3
University College London (UCL)	Architecture, Law	£30,000 per year	IELTS, TOEFL	8	5
University of Edinburgh	Arts, Informatics	£28,000 per year	IELTS, TOEFL	15	10
University of Manchester	Business, Engineering	£27,000 per year	IELTS, TOEFL	27	20
University of Glasgow	Veterinary Medicine, Law	£25,000 per year	IELTS, TOEFL	31	25
University of Bristol	Medicine, Engineering	£28,000 per year	IELTS, TOEFL	29	22
University of Warwick	Business, Economics	£26,000 per year	IELTS, TOEFL	35	30

What are the Types of Universities in UK?

Whether you’re an international student planning to study in the UK, or a local applicant looking for the best options, choosing the right university isn’t just about rankings—it’s about what works best for you.

Some universities focus on research and global impact, while others specialize in hands-on, career-driven programs. Then, there are specialist universities that cater to students with specific talents and career aspirations. In this guide, we’ll break down the three main types of universities in the UK, so you can make an informed decision.

1. Russell Group Universities: The UK’s Ivy League

The Russell Group is made up of 24 universities, including some of the oldest and most prestigious institutions in the UK, such as Oxford University, the University of Cambridge, Durham University, and the University of London. These universities are known for high research output, world-class faculty, and strong industry links.

They dominate world rankings, consistently placing among the top universities in the UK and the world in the QS World University Rankings 2024 and Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025. If you want a degree with global recognition, a Russell Group university is one of the best choices.

Why Choose a Russell Group University?

• Academic Prestige: These universities attract world leaders, Nobel laureates, and top researchers.
• Career Prospects: Graduates often land jobs at global companies with high starting salaries.
• Strong Research Focus: Cutting-edge discoveries in STEM, medicine, and humanities.
• Highly Competitive Admissions: Students are required to have top grades and strong applications.

Top Russell Group Universities:

• University of Oxford – One of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world.
• University of Cambridge – Known for its 31 colleges and centuries of academic excellence.
• Imperial College London – A top-ranked STEM and medical university.
• Durham University – One of the top five universities in the UK according to The Sunday Times Good University Guide.
• University College London (UCL) – A global leader in arts, sciences, and innovation.

2. Modern Universities: Post-1992 Institutions

Not every top university in the UK has a 500-year-old legacy. Some of the most dynamic and career-focused universities were granted university status after 1992. These young universities offer modern teaching methods, industry partnerships, and hands-on learning.

Unlike traditional universities, modern universities prioritize real-world experience—meaning more internships, industry collaborations, and vocational training. If you want a high-quality degree without the academic pressure of a Russell Group university, this might be your best option.

Why Choose a Modern University?

• Lower Tuition Fees – More affordable than Russell Group institutions.
• Industry-Focused Courses – Strong business, engineering, and creative programs.
• More Accessible Admissions – Students can apply with a wider range of qualifications.
• New Facilities & Technologies – Often have state-of-the-art labs, creative studios, and innovation hubs.

Top Modern Universities in the UK:

• University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) – Among the top 10 universities in the UK for employability.
• Coventry University – Ranked among the top universities for automotive and engineering programs.
• Nottingham Trent University – A top-ranked institution in the Complete University Guide for business and arts.
• Oxford Brookes University – A leading young university for hospitality and architecture.
• University of Greenwich – Excels in computing and engineering.

3. Specialist Universities: Focused on Arts, Business, and Technology

Some universities don’t try to cover every subject—they focus on specific fields and excel in them. If you’re pursuing a career in arts, business, design, or music, attending a specialist university can give you a competitive edge.

Many of these universities are ranked among the top in the world for their subjects and have strong industry connections. For students who want to master a niche field, these institutions offer intensive training, smaller class sizes, and expert mentorship.

Why Choose a Specialist University?

• Highly Focused Programs – Ideal for students with a clear career path.
• Smaller Class Sizes – More personalized teaching and mentorship.
• Industry Connections – Strong job placement rates in specific industries.
• Globally Recognized – Often rank among the top universities in the world for their subjects.

Top Specialist Universities in the UK:

• London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) – Ranked among the top five universities for business and economics.
• University for the Creative Arts – One of the top-ranked universities in the UK for art and design.
• Royal College of Art – Consistently ranked #1 in the world for art and design.
• Guildhall School of Music & Drama – One of the best universities in the UK for performing arts and theatre.
• Cranfield University – Specializes in aerospace, engineering, and defense studies.

What are the Factors to Consider When Choosing a University in the UK?

Choosing a university in the UK is more than just looking at rankings—it’s about finding the right academic environment, career opportunities, and overall experience. With over 165 universities and colleges, including ancient universities like the University of St Andrews and modern higher education institutions, the UK offers something for everyone. But with so many choices, how do you decide?

Here are the most important factors to consider when selecting a university in the UK:

1. University Rankings & Reputation

Before applying, check where a university stands in global rankings such as Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025 and QS Top Rankings 2024. Some universities listed excel in overall reputation, while others rank high in specific subject areas. If you want a degree that stands out, choosing a top-ranking university is a smart move.

2. Course Structure & Faculty

Not all universities offer the same course content. Some institutions, like University of St Andrews, focus on traditional, research-based learning, while others provide industry-driven, hands-on training. If you’re a postgraduate student, researching faculty expertise and research opportunities can make a big difference in your academic experience.

3. Location & Campus Life

Do you prefer a bustling city campus like University College London or a smaller, close-knit community like Durham University? Living costs, social life, and access to part-time jobs vary depending on where you study. A university in England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland will each offer a different student experience, so location matters.

4. International Student Support & Visa Process

If you’re looking for universities in UK for international students, check whether the university offers visa support, accommodation assistance, and cultural integration programs. Institutions like University of London and Imperial College London have dedicated international student offices to help with UK student visa applications and post-study work opportunities.

5. Tuition Fees & Scholarships

Tuition fees vary significantly between universities. While Russell Group universities tend to be more expensive, many universities offer scholarships for international students. If affordability is a key factor, consider institutions that provide financial aid, government grants, or tuition discounts for postgraduate students.

6. Graduate Employability & Career Support

Some universities have stronger job networks than others. Universities in the UK 2025 like University of St Andrews, University of Manchester, and University of Oxford have high graduate employability rates and global industry connections. The Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) provides reports on graduate employment rates, which can help you choose a university that improves your job prospects.

7. Campus Facilities & Student Life

A university’s facilities and student experience can make or break your time there. Look for universities with modern libraries, advanced research labs, sports centers, and student accommodations. Universities for students offer vibrant student communities, while larger institutions like University of London provide access to cultural and business hubs.

Conclusion

The UK is home to 165 universities, ranging from historic institutions like the University of Oxford, the first university in England, to modern, career-focused universities. These institutions are spread across 44 colleges and specialized schools, offering diverse programs for students studying various disciplines. According to Times Higher Education and The Complete University Guide, UK universities excel in research, teaching quality, and global employability.

For international students in the UK, the choices can be overwhelming. If you’re looking to search UK universities, compare rankings, or get expert advice, Ambitio Elite provides everything you need to know—from admission guidance to scholarship opportunities. Get personalized university shortlists and expert consultation today! Start your journey with Ambitio now!

FAQs