UNITED KINGDOM · LONDON

King's College London, University of London

public · Founded 1829 · Languages: en

In short

King's College London is a historic and prestigious university in central London, offering research-led teaching and a diverse international community. It is highly ranked globally and provides strong career support for its students.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1829
Students: 35,000
International students: 18,000
Acceptance rate: 17%
Tuition (intl): €20–33k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: London, United Kingdom

For international students

United Kingdom

Student visa & funds

International students apply for the UK Student visa, which replaced the former Tier 4 (General) route. You need an unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor and must show maintenance funds held for at least 28 consecutive days. As of November 2025 the requirement is £1,529 per month (for up to nine months) for courses in London and £1,171 per month for courses elsewhere, on top of tuition. Students who have already held a UK visa for 12 months, and nationals of certain low-risk countries, are exempt from evidencing the funds.

Working while you study

On a degree-level course at a licensed higher-education provider, you may work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official vacation periods; sub-degree courses are capped at 10 hours per week. There is no distinction between on-campus and off-campus work, but self-employment and working as a professional sportsperson or coach are not permitted. Once you have completed all course requirements you may work full-time until your visa expires.

After you graduate

Graduates of an eligible UK degree can apply for the Graduate visa (the Graduate Route) without needing an employer sponsor. As of 2026, bachelor’s and master’s graduates receive two years of open work permission and PhD graduates receive three years. Under the 2025 immigration reforms, applications made on or after 1 January 2027 will grant 18 months instead of two years for non-doctoral qualifications, while PhD holders keep three years.

English tests

IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; competitive/Russell Group courses up to 7.0–7.5
TOEFL iBTUG 80–90; PG 90–100; top research universities 100+
PTE AcademicUG 51–65; PG 59–75

Main intakes

SeptemberJanuary

Typical living cost

€1,400/month

Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.

SourcesGOV.UK — Student visa: money you need · GOV.UK — Student visa: working · GOV.UK — Graduate visa · UKCISA — Changes to the Student and Graduate rules · Fateh Education — IELTS requirements for UK universities (2026) · Fateh Education — UK living expenses for students (2026)

Programs

a selection

View top programs →

King's College London, University of London · United Kingdom

Contemporary Literature, Culture & Theory MA

This Master's program delves into texts and theories from 1945 to the present, with a specific focus on the late 20th and early 21st centuries. You will explore cutting-edge topics such as post-1999 literary production, imperialism, sexuality, gender and race theories, and the politics of violence and dissent. The course provides training in research methods essential for your dissertation project. You'll engage with a flexible curriculum that includes core modules and two optional modules, allowing you to tailor your studies to your specific research interests. Taught by specialists in the contemporary period within a research-intensive department, the program benefits from an excellent international reputation and a prime location in central London, offering access to major libraries and archives.

King's College London, University of London · United Kingdom

Early Modern English Literature: Books That Matter MA

This Master's program, a unique collaboration between King's College London's Department of English and the British Library, focuses on the transmission, circulation, and reception of key early modern literary texts. You will develop skills in reading early modern handwriting, transcribing neglected manuscripts and rare printed texts, and editing them for contemporary readers. The course emphasizes the materiality of texts and the conditions of their production and interpretation, offering a unique perspective on literary history.

King's College London, University of London · United Kingdom

Early Modern History MA

This Master of Arts (MA) program in Early Modern History focuses on the period between 1500 and 1800, exploring political, cultural, religious, and social themes across Britain, Europe, and the wider world. You will develop essential research skills, including archival navigation and the ability to work with historical documents in various languages and scripts. The course emphasizes critical evaluation of historical theories and methods, informed by the expertise of academic staff. Optional modules allow for specialization, and the program culminates in a substantial dissertation. As the only Early Modern History MA offered in London, this program provides exceptional access to museums, archives, and libraries, both locally and across Europe. You will learn from leading academics whose research actively shapes current debates in the field. King's College London is highly ranked for history and graduate employability, offering a vibrant research culture through seminars and workshops. The curriculum encourages interdisciplinary study, with opportunities to take modules in related subjects, other universities within the University of London, or even to enhance language skills.

King's College London, University of London · United Kingdom

Film Studies BA

Explore cinema and its evolution in the 20th and 21st centuries with our Film Studies BA. This program offers critical, historical, and theoretical tools to understand cinematic and digital media, examining their social, cultural, political, and economic significance. You'll gain a deep appreciation for film, from mainstream to avant-garde, and its place in an increasingly complex media landscape. The course is taught in the heart of London, providing unparalleled access to film institutions and cultural sites, fostering a rich learning environment.

King's College London, University of London · United Kingdom

Master of Laws (LLM) - China-UK Legal Innovation Scholarship

The China-UK Legal Innovation LLM Scholarship supports exceptional students from mainland China who wish to pursue a Master of Laws (LLM) or LLM Pathway Law Non-Award programme at King's College London for the 2026-27 academic year. This scholarship is designed to recognize outstanding potential in contributing to global legal innovation. The award covers the full tuition fees for the programme.

King's College London, University of London · United Kingdom

Medieval Studies MA

This interdisciplinary MA program offers advanced training in Medieval History, Literature, and Languages, with a strong focus on research skills. Taught by one of the UK's largest concentrations of medievalists across eight departments, the program leverages King's College London's central London location, providing unparalleled access to major archives, museums, and libraries like the British Library and the British Museum. The curriculum emphasizes both traditional medieval studies and critical engagement with modern perceptions of the medieval past. Students will develop key research skills, including medieval languages and palaeography, and explore historical representations of the medieval era across different cultures. The program is designed to prepare students for doctoral research and careers in cultural sectors by equipping them with analytical skills and a deep understanding of the past.

Scholarships

for United Kingdom

Browse all scholarships →

full funding

Wellcome Trust

Wellcome Discovery Awards

Open to established researchers and research teams with a proven record of research delivery who are based at, or will be hosted by, an eligible not-for-profit organisation in the UK, the Republic of Ireland, or an eligible low- or middle-income country (excluding India and mainland China). Projects must propose bold, transformative research aligned with Wellcome's mission to improve health. The award does not cover the lead applicant's own salary, and a researcher may lead only one active Discovery Award submission.

The Alan Turing Institute

Open Source AI Fellowship (UK)

Open to AI professionals and researchers who are legally eligible to work in the UK without sponsorship, have resided in the UK for at least 5 years (a security check is required), are employed by a UK-based organisation willing to support a 12-month secondment, and hold a PhD or equivalent professional experience in AI or a related discipline.

Skoll Foundation / University of Oxford Saïd Business School

Skoll Scholarship for the Oxford MBA

Open to applicants of any nationality admitted to the full-time one-year Oxford MBA at Saïd Business School who can demonstrate a track record of entrepreneurial action creating positive social or environmental impact, and for whom the cost of the programme is a significant financial burden.

Rhodes Scholarship

For talented young people from around the world to undertake postgraduate study at the University of Oxford. Around 100 scholars are selected each year from more than 60 countries and constituencies; applications are made in your home country or constituency, each with its own age and eligibility rules.

Gates Cambridge Trust

Gates Cambridge Scholarships

Open to citizens of any country outside the United Kingdom applying for a full-time postgraduate degree (PhD, MSc/MLitt, or one-year master's) at the University of Cambridge. Selection weighs academic excellence, a strong fit with the chosen Cambridge course, a clear commitment to improving the lives of others, and leadership potential.

Africa Initiative for Governance (AIG), tenable at the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford

Africa Initiative for Governance (AIG) Scholarships at the University of Oxford

Open to West African nationals (for example from Nigeria and Ghana) seeking to study the Master of Public Policy at the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford. Applicants are generally aged between 25 and 45, hold a strong undergraduate degree (typically second-class upper or above), demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to Africa's public sector, and intend to apply their learning in their home country's public service.

Frequently asked questions

What are the tuition fees for international students at King's College London?

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Online Master's programs for international students have fees ranging from £17,400 to £29,000 for two-year degrees. An additional non-refundable application fee of £85 is required. These fees cover registration, tuition, assessments, examinations, online resources, and student support.

What is the international student experience like at King's College London?

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King's College London hosts a diverse community with students and staff from over 190 countries, fostering a global outlook. Four of its five campuses are located in the heart of London, offering a vibrant urban experience and access to the city's cultural scene.

How is King's College London ranked globally and for specific subjects?

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King's College London is ranked #31st globally by QS World University Rankings 2026 and 6th in the UK by Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026. It also ranks highly for specific subjects, such as 16th globally for Law and Top 10 in the UK for Theology, Divinity & Religious Studies.

What support does King's College London offer for career development?

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King's College London emphasizes graduate employability, ranking 6th in the UK for career prospects. They offer comprehensive careers services, including appointments, events, and a platform for finding opportunities, available for up to two years post-graduation.

What are the English language requirements for international students?

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International students must demonstrate effective English communication skills. While specific requirements vary by course, IELTS Academic scores are accepted, with scores varying by course band. Some students from majority English-speaking countries may be exempt from additional tests.

King's College London, University of London

Why study here

Student life

For international students

Programs

Contemporary Literature, Culture & Theory MA