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UNITED KINGDOM · LONDON

London Guildhall University

public · Founded 1848 · Languages: English

In short

London Guildhall University, operating from 1992 to 2002, was located in the City of London and focused on business, law, and social sciences. It merged to form London Metropolitan University.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1848
Students: 9,000
International students: 1,500
Acceptance rate: 80%
Tuition (intl): €10–16k/yr
Languages: ENGLISH
Location: London, United Kingdom

London Guildhall University was a public university operating from 1992 to 2002 in the City of London. Formed from the City of London Polytechnic (founded 1848), it focused on business, law, and social sciences, serving a diverse urban student body. In 2002, it merged with the University of North London to create London Metropolitan University.

Why study here

Central London location providing access to major financial and legal employers.
Strong tradition of widening participation for diverse and non-traditional students.
Practical, professionally oriented programmes in business and law.
Continuation of legacy through London Metropolitan University.
Historical roots in the City of London dating to 1848.

Student life

London Guildhall students benefited from the energy and resources of central London. The student union organised cultural events reflecting the university's diverse community. Access to London's museums, galleries, and professional networks enriched the student experience.

Fees

InternationalHistorical estimate: approx. GBP 7,000-12,000 per year (approx. EUR 10,000-16,000).

HomeFees were set by UK government policy for the era.

LivingApprox. GBP 10,000-14,000 per year for living costs in London (historical).

London Guildhall University merged into London Metropolitan University in 2002. Refer to London Metropolitan University for current fees and programmes.

Admissions

A-Levels or BTECStandard UK higher education entrance requirements.

UCAS ApplicationApplications via the UCAS central admissions system.

IELTS6.0 overall (historical estimate)

Accreditation

Merged with University of North London in 2002 to form London Metropolitan University, which holds full UK degree-awarding powers.

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)

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

When was London Guildhall University in operation?

London Guildhall University was a public university that operated from 1992 to 2002. It was formed from the City of London Polytechnic, which was founded in 1848.

What was the focus of London Guildhall University's programs?

The university primarily focused on business, law, and social sciences. It was known for practical, professionally oriented programmes in these fields.

Where was London Guildhall University located?

London Guildhall University was situated in the City of London, a major global financial centre. This location offered students access to leading finance, law, and business employers.

What is the current status of London Guildhall University?

London Guildhall University merged with the University of North London in 2002 to create London Metropolitan University. For current programmes and fees, prospective students should refer to London Metropolitan University.

What were the estimated living costs for students?

Historically, living costs in London for students were estimated to be around GBP 10,000-14,000 per year. These estimates are historical and do not reflect current costs.

Last updated 3 July 2026