An exploration of UK higher education suggests that the difficulty of entry to UK universities varies. At one end of the spectrum, the hardest universities to get into UK with very competitive admissions processes require great A-level scores, strong personal statements, and typically demanding interview performances. These universities are well-known for their academic quality and rigorous admissions requirements.
On the other hand, the easiest university to get into has more accessible admittance requirements, which frequently focus on different criteria or lower UCAS points levels.
Is it true that the lower the university ranks, the easier it is to get into? You will find your answer in our detailed listings, which provide an understanding of what are the hardest universities to get into in the UK and the unis with low entry requirements and high acceptance rates. Start your exploring now!
Hardest & Easiest Universities to Get into in the UK
In terms of higher education, the United Kingdom is known for its great universities, which consistently rank among the top in the world. However, one thing you need to know is the UK has both universities with low entry requirements UK and universities with lowest acceptance rate. You are free to choose according to your academic performance. Read on to learn about them.
Top 20 Hardest Universities to Get into UK
| No. | University Name | Offer Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Oxford | 19.20% |
| 2 | University of Cambridge | 24.40% |
| 3 | London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) | 20.60% |
| 4 | University of St Andrews | 26.60% |
| 5 | University College London (UCL) | 29.50% |
| 6 | Imperial College London | 33.10% |
| 7 | The University of Edinburgh | 37.40% |
| 8 | King’s College London | 38.50% |
| 9 | St George’s, University of London | 41.10% |
| 10 | University of the Arts London | 44.80% |
| 11 | University of Strathclyde | 49.50% |
| 12 | University of Manchester | 53.30% |
| 13 | Leeds Arts University | 54.20% |
| 14 | Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh | 55.30% |
| 15 | London South Bank University | 55.80% |
| 16 | University of Suffolk | 55.80% |
| 17 | University of Leeds | 56.90% |
| 18 | Wrexham University | 57.90% |
| 19 | University of Bristol | 58% |
| 20 | City, University of London | 58.40% |
Top 5 Hardest Universities to Get into in The UK [Explained]
Getting into top universities is a dream for many students, but in the UK, some institutions are notorious for their highly competitive entry requirements. For those aiming for the highest echelons of academia, navigating the admissions process can be daunting. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 5 hardest UK universities to get into, exploring what makes these institutions stand out.
University College London (UCL)
- Location: Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT
- Acceptance Rate: 7%
- Tuition Fees: £20,000 – £32,000/year
- Student Ratings: 4.1
- Popular Courses: Archaeology, Architecture & Built Environment, Anthropology, Education
Founded in 1826, University College London (UCL) is one of the UK’s top public research universities, known for its academic excellence and innovation. In 2024, The Times and Sunday Times named it University of the Year, and it’s the largest UK university for postgraduate students and the second-largest by overall student population, attracting a diverse student body from around the world.
UCL’s research reputation further underscores its competitive nature. Ranked 2nd in the UK for research power in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework, the university is at the forefront of academic innovation. Its long tradition of excellence is reflected in the 30 Nobel Prize winners among its alumni and staff, showcasing UCL’s influence in the global academic community. This track record of groundbreaking achievements, combined with its high academic standards, makes UCL one of the most selective and hardest university to get into in the UK.
Note: Once you get into the university, you’ll need to confirm the student housing ASAP. UCL on-campus accommodation is offered on a first come, first served basis. It’ll be better to find your student home as soon as you get accepted. But no worries! uhomes.com provides a wide selection of off-campus UCL accommodation within walking distance of the campus. Our accommodations are well-furnished and safely equipped. Whether you want affordable or luxury student housing across the city, we have it all.
London School of Economics and Political Science
- Location: Houghton Street. London. WC2A 2AE UK. LSE
- Acceptance Rate: 8.9%
- Tuition Fees: £21,528 – £30,528/year
- Student Ratings: 4.0
- Popular Courses: Political Science and International Relations, Law, Management, Economics, Econometrics
London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) offers a variety of specialized undergraduate and postgraduate courses, including BSc Economics, BSc Philosophy, Politics and Economics, and Master’s in Management (MiM). Renowned for its academic excellence, LSE attracts students from over 160 countries, creating a diverse and vibrant global community. Because there is a lot of competition for spots at LSE, they look for applicants with strong GCSE results, typically requiring most grades to be A (7–9) or A* (8–9). This rigorous selection process makes LSE one of the hardest universities to get into UK.
University of Edinburgh
- Location: Old College, South Bridge, Edinburgh EH8 9YL
- Acceptance Rate: 10%
- Tuition Fees: £16,700 and £44,300/year
- Student Ratings: 4.1
- Popular Courses: Medicine, Veterinary, Computer Science, Business and Management, MBA, Engineering
University of Edinburgh, founded in 1583 in the historic city of Edinburgh, Scotland, is renowned for its academic excellence and is considered one of the hardest universities to get into in the UK. Admission is highly competitive, with typical entry requirements ranging from A*AA to ABB, depending on the course. This rigorous selection process reflects the university’s commitment to maintaining high academic standards.
University of Cambridge
- Location: The Old Schools, Trinity Ln, Cambridge CB2 1TN
- Acceptance Rate: 21%
- Tuition Fees: £21,168 – £50,130/year
- Student Ratings: 4.2
- Popular Courses: Engineering, Social Science and Humanities, Natural Sciences, Mathematics, Computer Science, Health
University of Cambridge is considered one of the toughest universities to get into due to its high entry requirements. Applicants typically need top grades of A* or A in their A Levels (or equivalent), and many courses require entrance exams, such as the Mathematics Admissions Test (MAT) or the Sixth Term Examination Papers (STEP). Candidates are expected to study three to four A Levels, focusing on relevant subjects, and science students must complete practical assessments. These stringent criteria make gaining entry into Cambridge a significant challenge for prospective students.
University of Oxford
- Location: Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JD
- Acceptance Rate: 30%
- Tuition Fees: £24,570 – £40,920/year
- Student Ratings: 4.2
- Popular Courses: Mathematics, Law, Economics and Management, Computer Science
University of Oxford, founded in the 11th century, is the oldest university in the English-speaking world and one of the most prestigious globally. It is the best university to study medicine in the world, and has 39 subjects among top 10 in quality in the UK. With 44 colleges, it draws a varied group of students, including many international students. With just over 3,300 spots each year and demanding outstanding grades and entrance tests, its strict admission criteria and competitive process make it among the toughest universities to get into in the UK.
Top 20 Easiest Universities to Get into UK
| No. | University Name | Offer Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University for the Creative Arts | 97% |
| 2 | Aberystwyth University | 93.5% |
| 3 | University of Sussex | 93% |
| 4 | Solent University, Southampton | 92.4% |
| 5 | Bishop Grosseteste University | 91.9% |
| 6 | SOAS, University of London | 91.2% |
| 7 | Nottingham Trent University | 90.1% |
| 8 | University of South Wales | 89.4% |
| 9 | University of Kent | 89.2% |
| 10 | St. Mary’s University, Twickenham, London | 88.5% |
| 11 | Coventry University | 88.5% |
| 12 | University of Reading | 88% |
| 13 | Birmingham Newman University | 87.6% |
| 14 | Royal Holloway, University of London | 87.1% |
| 15 | De Montfort University | 86.7% |
| 16 | Harper Adams University | 86.4% |
| 17 | Abertay University | 86.2% |
| 18 | Northumbria University, Newcastle | 86% |
| 19 | London Metropolitan University | 85.8% |
| 20 | Liverpool Hope University | 85.5% |
Top 5 Easiest Universities to Get into in The UK [Explained]
Whilst lots of universities in the UK have highly tough admissions processes, there are still unis with low entry requirements. These institutions provide possibilities for individuals who do not have the best grades or substantial extracurricular activities but want to pursue a degree in the field they desire. Below are some examples of easy to get into universities:
Bishop Grosseteste University
- Location: Longdales Rd, Lincoln LN1 3DY
- Acceptance Rate: 95%
- Student Ratings: 4.3
- Tuition Fees: £12,000 – £15,500/year
- Popular Courses: Primary Education (with QTS), Childhood & Youth Studies, Psychology, History, Drama
Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) in Lincoln is one of the easiest universities to get into in the UK. With a minimum IELTS score of 6 (with 5.5 in all sections) required for direct entry, BGU offers accessible pathways for potential students. Established in 1862, the university is known for its strong focus on teacher training and education, providing a supportive environment from enrollment to graduation. Its emphasis on student success and diverse career support options further enhance its appeal, making BGU a welcoming choice for many aspiring students.
Aberystwyth University
- Location: Penglais, Aberystwyth SY23 3FL
- Acceptance Rate: 94%
- Tuition Fees: £13,950 – £20,700/year
- Student Ratings: 4.4
- Popular Courses: Celtic Studies, Psychology, Agriculture & Forestry, International Politics, Criminology, Computer Science
Aberystwyth University is the first university in Wales and boasts a rich history dating back to 1872. Recognized for its strong academic reputation, Aberystwyth University features a broad selection of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across diverse fields of study. With entry requirements that include a minimum grade C or grade 4 pass in GCSE (or equivalent) English or Welsh, Aberystwyth offers low admission standards along with robust academic programs, making it one of the best UK universities for less competitive applicants.
University of Sussex
- Location: Sussex House, Brighton, BN1 9RH
- Acceptance Rate: 93%
- Tuition Fees: £15,600 – £23,400/year
- Student Ratings: 4.2
- Popular Courses: Law, Psychology, Business and Management, Social Work
University of Sussex, located in Brighton, England, is a public research university that was founded in 1961. It’s known for its innovative teaching and research across various subjects. It is considered one of the easiest universities to get into UK, usually requiring a 65% pass mark from a relevant foundation course for first-year entry. Factors that make it accessible include a supportive learning environment, a focus on student welfare, and a vibrant campus community that encourages student involvement.
Nottingham Trent University
- Location: 50 Shakespeare Street, Nottingham, NG1 4FQ
- Acceptance Rate: 90%
- Tuition Fees: £15,600 – £22,500/year
- Student Ratings: 4.4
- Popular Courses: Law, Media and Communication, Business, Art and Design, Building, Information Technology & Systems, Childhood & Youth Studies, Land & Property Management, Forensic Science
Nottingham Trent University (NTU) is a well-regarded public research university in Nottingham, England, known for its commitment to student satisfaction and employability. Established in 1843, NTU offers a diverse range of over 500 programs across six campuses, blending academic excellence with vibrant campus life. With an acceptance rate of around 90%, it’s considered one of the more accessible universities in the UK, making it an attractive choice for students seeking quality education and numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth.
University for the Creative Arts
- Location: Falkner Rd, Farnham GU9 7DS
- Acceptance Rate: 77%
- Tuition Fees: £14,000 – £16,500/year
- Student Ratings: 3.8
- Popular Courses: Graphic Design, Fine Art, Film Production, Fashion Design
University for the Creative Arts (UCA) is a great option for students looking for an easy way to enter higher education in creative fields. As the UK’s top specialist creative arts university, UCA has flexible entry requirements, allowing students to apply with a minimum GPA of 3.5 or its equivalent. With picturesque campuses in the southeast of England, students can enjoy state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant creative community while pursuing diverse undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Creative Arts, Business, and Technology, all designed to support a fulfilling career path.
Popular UK University Acceptance Rates
University admissions are really affected by reputation. The greater the reputation, the more applications will be received. At the same time, the acceptance rate decreases as the number of applications increases. It’s not just a matter of having high A Level grades and meeting entry requirements. In some cases, low acceptance rates are due to universities having a limited number of spaces or just targeting specific areas of specialism.
You can check the acceptance rate of the most popular universities in the UK:
| No. | University | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bishop Grosseteste University | 95% |
| 2 | Aberystwyth University | 94% |
| 3 | University of Sussex | 93% |
| 4 | Nottingham Trent University | 90% |
| 5 | University for the Creative Arts | 77% |
| 6 | University College London | 7% |
| 7 | London School of Economics and Political Science | 8.9% |
| 8 | University of Edinburgh | 10% |
| 9 | University of Cambridge | 21% |
| 10 | University of Oxford | 30% |
Summary
The spectrum of entry difficulty among UK universities highlights the diverse opportunities available to prospective students. At one end, the hardest universities to get into UK require not only exemplary academic achievements but also a well-rounded application that demonstrates exceptional potential and fit. These universities often set a high bar for admission, reflecting their prestigious status and rigorous academic environment.
Conversely, the easiest university to get into provides important opportunities for a diverse range of students, focusing on different aspects of qualifications and potential. This diversity ensures that students with varying levels of academic achievement and personal backgrounds can find a suitable institution to pursue their goals. Ultimately, understanding these differences allows students to make informed decisions and navigate their academic journey effectively.
How to Find Homes After Getting into the Hardest UK Universities?
If you receive an acceptance letter from any of the universities mentioned above, whether it’s one of the most prestigious or more accessible institutions, you’ll be pleased to know that finding affordable accommodation during your studies is easier than ever. uhomes.com is an excellent online platform dedicated to helping students navigate their housing options. With a team of professionals who act as personal consultants, uhomes.com offers tailored assistance to address all your accommodation needs.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy studio close to campus, shared housing with fellow students, or a more spacious apartment, uhomes.com provides a comprehensive range of listings to suit various budgets and preferences. uhomes.com’s expertise ensures you can focus on your academic journey while it handle the intricacies of your housing search.
FAQs About Hardest and Easiest Universities to Get Into UK
University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, University College London, and the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) are frequently regarded as the most competitive and hardest universities to get into in the UK.
Aerospace engineering, Chemical engineering, Law, Medicine/Dentistry, and Architecture are frequently mentioned as the degrees that are most difficult to obtain in the UK.
Start preparing early to improve your chances of getting into the most selective universities UK. Check the guidelines below:
- Compose a captivating personal account that emphasizes your distinctive skills and experiences.
- Make sure you keep good grades by choosing GCSE and A-Level subjects.
- Get involved in extracurricular activities to present an interesting profile.
London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, University of St Andrews, and Imperial College London are the most competitive universities in the UK.
