If you have a great passion for mathematics and would like to pursue further study in the UK, the following best universities for mathematics can definitely meet your demand. You will not only learn about their rankings, but also better understand their entry requirements. Here are the best universities for mathematics in the UK.
Ranking of the Best Universities for Mathematics UK
The Guardian and The Complete University Guide are the two ranking organizations that are most widely recognized and trusted in the UK. The following league table chooses some of their data and adds new metrics based on universities’ websites, all of which can definitely be a good gauge of the best universities for mathematics in the UK.
Rank | University Name | QS World University Rankings 2025 | Overall Score | Research Quality | Graduate Prospect | Entry Standards |
1 | University of Oxford | 3 | 100 | 94% | 91% | 93 |
2 | University of Cambridge | 5 | 100 | 93% | 89% | 97 |
3 | Imperial College London | 2 | 97 | 92% | 90% | 97 |
4 | University College London | 9 | 96 | 85% | 87% | 90 |
5 | University of Warwick | 69 | 96 | 91% | 90% | 88 |
6 | University of St Andrews | 104 | 96 | 86% | 84% | 100 |
7 | University of Edinburgh | 27 | 95 | 88% | 91% | 93 |
8 | London School of Economics and Political Science, University of London | 50 | 95 | 88% | 92% | 85 |
9 | University of Bath | 150 | 95 | 87% | 91% | 82 |
10 | University of Manchester | 34 | 94 | 89% | 84% | 81 |
11 | University of Bristol | 54 | 94 | 92% | 85% | 80 |
12 | Durham University | 89 | 94 | 82% | 88% | 90 |
13 | Lancaster University | 141 | 94 | 90% | 86% | 71 |
14 | University of Glasgow | 78 | 93 | 92% | 84% | 93 |
15 | University of Birmingham | 80 | 93 | 86% | 83% | 75 |
16 | Heriot-Watt University | 211 | 93 | 88% | 96% | 83 |
17 | Loughborough University | 224 | 93 | 82% | 85% | 73 |
18 | University of Southampton | 80 | 92 | 87% | 79% | 71 |
19 | University of Exeter | 168 | 92 | 86% | 87% | 72 |
20 | Queen’s University Belfast | 206 | 91 | 80% | 84% | 72 |
Top 20 Universities for Mathematics in the UK
University of Oxford
Remaining high in the mathematics university ranking, University of Oxford ranks 2nd in the UK and 3rd in the world in QS World University Rankings for Mathematics 2023.
You can immerse yourself in the inspiring mathematical lectures delivered by renowned professors. You will also be able to acquire a deeper understanding of particular mathematical knowledge and address difficulties with the help of your tutor. This teaching style of combining lectures and tutoring classes can really improve your competitiveness in the future.
Entry Requirements
- A-Level: AAA in Maths; A* in Mathematics and Further Mathematics
- Language: IELTS: 7.5 (7+ in each sub – test); TOEFL: 110 (22+ in L; 25+ in S; 24+ in R, W)
- IB: 39 overall, with 766 at Higher Level (7 for Mathematics)
- Note: If you want to apply for the mathematics course of this top-notch university, you need to take the Mathematics Admissions Test(MAT), which is to examine your reasoning skills.
University of Cambridge
As one of the best unis for maths, the University of Cambridge has nurtured a great number of world-famous scientists and scholars, including Stephen Hawking, Issac Newton and Charles Darwin.
There are two mathematics departments in this prestigious university, namely, the Department of Pure Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics and the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics. You can enjoy a comfortable and enriched environment that cultivates your imagination and stimulates achievement.
Entry Requirements
- A-Level: AAA in Maths; A* in Mathematics and Further Mathematics
- Language: IELTS: 7.5 (7+ in each sub – test)
- IB: 41-42 overall, with 776 at Higher Level (7 for Mathematics)
Imperial College London
As one of the top universities in the world, Imperial College London is at the top of maths uni rankings. It is home to a number of the Royal Society fellows and winners of international awards, offering vibrant and inspiring mathematical classes to students.
Thanks to its international recognition and high-quality education, most graduates can leverage their mathematical expertise and find a decent job in financial, business or computer sectors with a handsome income.
Entry Requirements
- A-Level: AAA in Maths; A* in Mathematics and Further Mathematics
- Language: IELTS: 6.5 (6.0+ in each sub – test); TOEFL: 92 (22+ in R; 21+ in L & W; 23+ in S)
- IB: 39 overall, with 7 for Mathematics and 6 for other subjects
- Note: Applicants should participate in the Test of Mathematics for University Admission (TMUA); otherwise, you will be required to summit the STEP score in your conditional offer.
University College London
University College London retains a high position in the mathematics university ranking. A total of three Field medalists once studied at UCL. Besides, what makes UCL Department of Mathematics stand out is that it has the most professors in the whole country, which allows you to frequently enjoy inspiring mathematical classes.
Entry Requirements
- A-Level: AAA in Maths; A* in Mathematics and Further Mathematics
- GCSE: English and Mathematics at C/4
- Language: IELTS: 6.5 (6.0+ in each sub – test)
- IB: 39-40 overall, with 19-20 at Higher Level (7 in Mathematics)
University of Warwick
Standing out as one of the best universities for mathematics, the University of Warwick ranks 19th in the world in QS World University Rankings for Mathematics 2023. According to the REF 2021, 65% of research in the Department of Mathematics was deemed to be world-leading.
This university features a flexible mathematical program. In the first year of your undergraduate study, you’ll be exposed to core mathematical theories and methods. From the second year, you’ll be able to choose different modules beyond mathematics depending on your interest.
Entry Requirements
- A-Level: AAA in Maths; A* in Mathematics and Further Mathematics
- GCSE: English and Mathematics at C/4
- Language: IELTS: 6.5 (6.0+ in each sub – test); TOEFL: 92 (22+ in R; 21+ in L & W; 23+ in S)
- IB: 39 overall, with 19-20 at Higher Level (7 in Mathematics)
University of St Andrews
The University of St Andrews is one of the best universities for mathematics and ranks 4th in the UK in the 2024 Times “Mathematics” subject ranking. Among the best schools of mathematics, the university’s School of Mathematics and Statistics is globally renowned for its teaching and research.
Entry Requirements
- A-Level: AAA in Maths; A in Mathematics
- Language: IELTS: 6.5 (6.0+ in each sub – test); TOEFL(iBT): 79 (12+ in L; 13+in R; 21+in W; 18+in S)
- IB: 36-38 overall
University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh is ranked 4th in the mathematics university ranking by The Guardian in 2024 and 5th in the UK in QS World University Rankings for Mathematics 2023.
The university offers a 4-year BSc Mathematics program for international students. For those intending to pursue further study, the MMath degree is also available, which is an integrated master degree containing the standard BSc degree and an extra year of masters-level study.
Entry Requirements
- A-Level: A*A*A* for Maths; A in Mathematics
- GCSE: English at C/4
- Language: IELTS: 6.5 (5.5+ in each sub – test)
- IB: 34-38 overall, with 765-766 at Higher Level (7 in Math: Analysis & Approaches)
London School of Economics
The London School of Economics remains high in the mathematics university ranking. According to the REF 2021, all research fields in the Department of Mathematics were judged to be world-leading or internationally excellent.
LSE’s mathematics is closely connected with economics and finance, deepening your understanding of the application of maths theories to macro-economics and micro-economics.
Entry Requirements
- A-Level: A*A*A* for Maths; A in Mathematics
- GCSE: English and Mathematics at B/6
- Language: IELTS: 7.0 (7.0+ in each sub – test); TOEFL: 100 (27+ in W; 24+ in L & S; 25+ in R)
- IB: 38 overall, with 18 at Higher Level (7 in Math: Analysis & Approaches)
- Note: It is worth mentioning that, for BSc Economics and BSc Econometrics and Mathematical Economics, the TMUA is mandatory to examine your mathematical thinking and reasoning skills.
University of Bath
The University of Bath stands out as one of the best universities for mathematics. It engages in cooperation with many leading companies and research organizations, such as BAE Systems and Deloitte, allowing you to spend your second year on placement in the selected company.
A variety of activities held by this university help you fit in with fellow students. You can also address maths problems in the Mathematics Resources Centre.
Entry Requirements
- A-Level: AAA for Maths; A in Mathematics and Further Mathematics
- GCSE: English at 4/C
- Language: IELTS: 7.0 (6.5+ in each sub – test)
- IB: 36 overall, with 666 at Higher Level
University of Manchester
The University of Manchester retains its status as one of the best universities for mathematics in the world and also boasts one of the largest departments of mathematics.
In terms of mathematics teaching, it features an extensive integration between mathematics and finance and engineering and cooperates with QinetiQ, Hewlett Packard and many other businesses. You will be allowed to enhance your understanding of various mathematical methods in work.
Entry Requirements
- A-Level: A*A*A* for Maths AND A in Mathematics
- Language: IELTS: 6.5 (6.0+ in L, R, S; 6.5+ in W); TOEFL: 90 (20+ in L, R, S; 22+ in W)
- IB: 37 overall, with 19 at Higher Level (7 in Math: Analysis & Approaches, 6 for another two Higher Level)
University of Bristol
The University of Bristol is one of the best universities for mathematics in the UK and it has one of the best schools of mathematics in the world. The School of Mathematics of this university is proud to have the Fry Building, a world-class facility for maths teaching and learning that provides a variety of spaces for quiet study and areas for groups.
Various courses are open for your application, including Statistics and Mathematics and Computer Science. You can always find what you want to devote yourself to in this prestigious university.
Entry Requirements
- A-Level: A*A*A* for Maths and another maths-related subject OR A*AA in Mathematics and Further Mathematics
- GCSE: English and Mathematics at C/4
- Language: IELTS: 6.5 (6.0+ in each sub – test); TOEFL: 85 (20+ in L, R, W; 21+ in S)
- IB: 40 overall, with 18 at Higher Level (7 in Math: Analysis & Approaches or Applications & Interpretation, 6 for another maths-related subject)
Durham University
Durham University is widely recognized as one of the best unis for maths in the UK. According to the REF 2014, 96% of its research achievements were deemed to be world-leading or internationally excellent.
Some courses in Durham University will be updated in an effort to ensure that students can master the latest skills and knowledge. With a distinctive building of its Department of Mathematics and an inspiring learning environment, you will have an unforgettable college experience.
Entry Requirements
- A-Level: AAA for Maths; A and A* in Mathematics and Further Mathematics respectively
- Language: IELTS: 6.5 (6.0+ in each sub – test)
- IB: 38 overall, with 776 or 766 at Higher Level
- Note: If you excel in the TMUA or MAT or STEP (getting a grade of 2), A*AA is also acceptable for your admission.
Lancaster University
Lancaster University is one of the best unis for maths in the UK and it ranks 7th by the Times Higher Education. According to the REF 2021, 100% of its research was judged to be world-leading or internationally excellent.
Most of its graduates with the mathematics major have a promising career future. They can find jobs in business, technology and many other fields with a starting salary as high as £27,250.
Entry Requirements
- A-Level: A*AA – ABB
- Language: IELTS: 6.5 (5.5+ in each sub – test)
University of Glasgow
The University of Glasgow ranks among the top 5 in the UK in the mathematics university ranking by the Times Higher Education. It is home to one of the largest departments of mathematics and statistics in the UK. Its research-oriented teaching style can help students keep abreast of the latest academic achievements and research methods.
Entry Requirements
- Language: IELTS: 6.5 (6.0+ in each sub – test); TOEFL(iBT): 90 (20+ in R; 19+in L, S; 23+ in W)
- IB: 32-38 overall
University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham ranks among the top in the mathematics university ranking in the UK. It offers a variety of mathematical courses and programs and combines them with emerging fields, including computer science, to enhance your understanding of maths theories and methods.
Entry Requirements
- A-Level: AAA for BSc (A in Mathematics and Further Mathematics); A*AA for MSci (A in Mathematics and Further Mathematics)
- Language: IELTS: 6.6 (5.5+ in each sub – test); TOEFL: 80 (19+ in L, R, W; 21+ in S)
Heriot-Watt University
Heriot-Watt University ranks first in the mathematics university ranking in Scotland and third in the UK for mathematical sciences research, according to the REF 2021. The university’s graduate employment prospects are also positive in The Times Good University Guide 2024, with that of its mathematics degree ranking first.
Entry Requirements
- A-Level: BBB for Maths
- Language: IELTS: 6.0 (5.5+ in each sub-test)
- IB: 28-30 overall
Loughborough University
Loughborough University is one of the best universities for mathematics in the UK. According to REF 2021, 100% of its research impact was rated as world-leading or internationally excellent.
Loughborough University provides a springboard where you can make your first foray into any fields you like on placement in companies like IBM and Jaguar Land Rover.
Entry Requirements
- A-Level: AAB – BBB
- Language: IELTS: 6.5 (6.0+ in L, R, S; 6.0+ in W); TOEFL: 90
- IB: 35+ overall, with 665 at Higher Level
University of Southampton
The University of Southampton ranks high in the mathematics university ranking in the UK for its high-quality teaching and research.
The university also provides rich resources and facilities for students. Python and the statistical software R are all accessible to you, which can significantly improve your ability of data analysis and modeling.
Entry Requirements
- A-Level: AAA for Maths, with A for Mathematics
- GCSE: English at C/4
- Language: IELTS: 6.5 (6.0+ in each sub-test)
- IB: 36 overall, with 18 at Higher Level (6 in Math: Analysis & Approaches)
University of Exeter
As one of the best universities for mathematics, the University of Exeter has invested 2.8 million pounds in the refurbishment of mathematical facilities, providing students with a better learning environment.
Like other renowned universities, the University of Exeter also cooperates with companies like Coca-Cola and offers students an opportunity to participate in “The Year in Industry” program, which means that you can gain working experience in sectors you like.
Entry Requirements
- A-Level: A*AA for Maths and another maths-related subject OR A*AA in Mathematics and Further Mathematics
- GCSE: English at C/4
- Language: IELTS: 6.5 (5.5+ in L, R, S; 6.0+ in W); TOEFL: 90
- IB: 38 overall, with 6 in Math: Analysis & Approaches
Queen's University Belfast
Queen’s University Belfast boasts one of the top schools of mathematics in the UK. In the latest REF in the UK, the university’s mathematics science ranks among the top 20 out of 92 mathematics departments.
The Research Centre offers high-quality facilities, including large computer rooms, lecture theatres and self-study rooms, so that students can immerse themselves in studying.
Entry Requirements
- A-Level: ABB – AAB
- Language: IELTS: 6 (5.5+ in each sub-test)
- IB: 30-36 overall
Conclusion
These are the top 20 best universities for mathematics 2025. If you want to apply for any one of them, just roll up your sleeves and improve your academic performance.
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FAQ
University of Cambridge and University of Oxford are the top 2 universities for mathematics in the UK due to their well-informed staff and lecturers, high-quality facilities, comfortable learning environment and extensive cooperation with globally famous companies.
Calculus is the hardest field of mathematics because it is a branch of higher mathematics that studies the differential calculus, integral calculus and more. Besides, algebra and logic are also the fields that students fear.
University of Cambridge and University of Oxford rank top in the mathematics university ranking in the UK, even in the whole world. Imperial College London and University College London are also widely recognized institutions.
The best university to study mathematics is Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the US, according to the QS World University Rankings by Subject: Mathematics. It also ranks 3rd in the Best Global Universities.
In terms of the international rankings for maths, the UK is one of the top performing countries in the western world. University of Cambridge and University of Oxford are the best universities for mathematics in this country.
