According to the annual World University Rankings for 2024 put together by a famous British company Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) specialising in the analysis of higher education institutions around the world, the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) is in the top 10 British universities in the world.
The London School of Economics and Political Science is the world's leading university for teaching and research in the area of social sciences such as economics, law, management, and social policy. It has a diverse student community, with students from over 140 countries. LSE alumni and staff include 55 heads of state or government (including the 35th President of the United States John F. Kennedy) and 18 Nobel laureates.
The university was founded by Beatrice and Sidney Webb, socialist economists and reformers, in 1895, with an aim to contribute to 'the betterment of society'.
The pros and cons of living in London
There are many exciting reasons why London is considered to be the best university city in the UK for students from abroad. The UK's capital is a bustling melting pot of cultures and an important international economic hub where students get to explore and experience countless amazing places and activities, dive into London's rich history, art and music scene, and have plenty of opportunities to network and find a job.
London also boasts exceptional public transportation, plenty of big picturesque parks, affordable local markets, great travel links, and a relatively safe and welcoming environment.
However, there are downsides as well. The cost of living in London bites, getting around the city at certain times is quite stressful and time-consuming, and it can become too overcrowded, especially during the peak tourist season. Life in one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world can feel a bit too lonely and anonymous, too.
How do LSE students study?
According to former students, LSE is a great place for avid learners. Students can benefit from an excellent library, an intense and stimulating academic environment that focuses on developing critical thinking, and plenty of study opportunities, including optional courses outside your degree programme, participation in research experiments, student-led projects, and research internships.
What also makes LSE stand out is its emphasis on independent, self-motivated study. While academic hours are relatively short, LSE students are expected to work a lot on their own on reading, essay writing, project work and other assignments and prepare to share their independently researched ideas in the classroom. The university even created a series of podcasts to help students adjust to this particular style of learning.
How much does it cost to study at LSE?
Course fees will vary depending on your programme of study, but, on average, all undergraduate courses starting in 2024 will cost between £26,184 and £28,176 per year for international students.
When it comes to the living costs, LSE broadly estimates that an average student would spend £1,300-£1,400 per month on things like accommodation (students can live in LSE's halls of residence or private housing), travel, food, laundry, textbooks and stationery. The actual sum will vary depending on your lifestyle and requirements, so you must do your own research - for example, using the UCAS budget calculator. The university also helps its students find part-time jobs, including on campus.
Does LSE offer funding or scholarships to international students?
Yes – LSE awards several scholarships for international students each year.
For example, it includes three Kadas Scholarships for new undergraduate students from Central and Eastern Europe. Each of them is worth £15,000 per year and covers the full length of the undergraduate programme. These scholarships are awarded primarily based on one's academic record.
Want to know more about what it's like to study as an international student in the UK and how to become one? LEO International Online School offers a diverse and intensive two–year A-Level programme designed to prepare students for entry to universities in the United Kingdom. Learn more about this programme and our other courses here, and don't hesitate to contact us at info@leo-school.uk.