University College London

University College London

University College London, known as UCL, was established in 1826, making it the third university founded in England after the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. Located in central London with additional campuses in Qatar and Australia, UCL has forged partnerships and agreements with universities worldwide, such as the University of Montreal in Canada and Zhejiang University in China. UCL hosts students from around 150 countries. For first-year undergraduates, university housing is guaranteed, and the academic calendar consists of three terms with English as the language of instruction.

Presenting the UCL it’s crucial to mention its most distinguished alumni that have left an indelible mark on the world across a number of areas, from politics to science. Here are some notable examples:

• Alexander Graham Bell: Inventor of the telephone.

• Christopher Nolan: Acclaimed filmmaker behind Inception and The Dark Knight trilogy.

• Mahatma Gandhi: Leader of the Indian independence movement.

• Marie Stopes: Pioneering advocate for women's rights and birth control.

• Francis Crick: Contributed to the discovery of the structure of DNA, alongside James Watson.

• Ricky Gervais: English comedian

The acceptance rate is approximately 63%, reflecting the university's commitment to academic excellence. Emphasising the idea of education for global citizenship, UCL encourages students to explore ideas from diverse cultural perspectives while contributing to projects of international significance.

Leading Courses at UCL

As a premier institution in higher education, University College London (UCL) boasts a multitude of academic programs offering over 650 master's programs and nearly 500 undergraduate degrees. 

Ranked among the global top ten universities for a diverse array of subjects (QS World University Rankings 2023), UCL solidifies its academic excellence in various fields (ranking place in brackets):

- Education (1)

- Archaeology (3)

- Anthropology (4)

- Pharmacy and Pharmacology (4)

- Psychology (5)

- Geography (6)

- Medicine (6)

Academic Excellence

As the oldest and largest college of the University of London, UCL currently holds top positions among several rankings:

• 9th position globally (QS World University Rankings 2024) 

• 2nd in the UK for research power (2021 Research Excellence Framework)

• 6th in the Times University Guide 2024

• 8th in the Guardian University Guide 2024

With over 40,000 students, including 53% international students, UCL is a member of the Russell Group and the League of European Research Universities. Notably, staff and alumni at UCL have been awarded 30 Nobel prizes, and the university boasts 840 professors and 7,000 academic staff dedicated to research and teaching across 11 faculties. 

Beyond rankings, UCL prides itself on the employability of its graduates. About  90% of UCL alumni secure employment within six months of graduating, as stated here:  Highly employable graduates | Undergraduate Offer Holders - UCL – University College London, It serves as a testament to the university's commitment to preparing students for successful careers.

Scholarships for International Students

UCL offers scholarships for both undergraduate as well as masters’ students from abroad under its “UCL Global Scholarships” programme, and provides support for living costs and/or tuition fees for the duration of a degree programme, for low-income background international students. 

For detailed information visit: UCL Global Scholarships | UCL Scholarships and funding - UCL – University College London. 

Accommodation Options at UCL

UCL provides a range of housing choices for students, from on-campus residences to private accommodations, with living quarters guaranteed for first year undergraduates. The university's commitment to student well-being is reflected in the quality of these options, providing a conducive environment for both study and personal growth.

To find suitable university-provided accommodation as well as get further information from UCL visit the official website: UCL Accommodation - UCL – University College London.

For an in-depth exploration of accommodation options for students in the UK, check out our comprehensive blog post on the subject: Accommodation options for international students in the UK.

Extracurricular Activities at UCL

University College London (UCL) complements its academic programs with a rich selection of extracurricular activities.  The Students' Union oversees over 180 clubs and societies, catering to diverse student interests. These groups provide opportunities to delve deeper into academic subjects with the 180 Degrees Consulting Society, pursue physical fitness with the American Football Club, or engage with creative expression through the Analogue Magazine Society. Through participation in these student-led organisations, you can develop new skills, connect with like-minded peers, and create lasting memories during your time at UCL.

Explore the wide array of student societies: Clubs and societies | Students Union UCL .

Summary

UCL stands as a beacon of academic distinction, consistently delivering world-class education and shaping the future leaders of diverse industries. From its rich history and commitment to academic excellence to the global impact of its distinguished alumni, UCL offers a holistic educational experience that extends beyond the confines of its historic campus.

Ready to take the next step?

For further information on UCL, admissions processes, and personalised guidance tailored to your academic goals, get in touch with Study Space.