Loading…

UNITED KINGDOM · LOUGHBOROUGH / LONDON

Loughborough University

public · Founded 1909 · Languages: en

In short

Loughborough University is a top UK institution with two campuses, renowned for its exceptional student experience, world-class research, and leading sports programs. It offers a diverse range of courses with strong industry links and excellent graduate prospects.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1909
Students: 19,449
International students: 5,000
Acceptance rate: 45%
Tuition (intl): €26–34k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: Loughborough / London, United Kingdom

Loughborough University is a leading UK university renowned for its exceptional student experience, world-class research, and strong links with industry. With a main campus in Loughborough and a postgraduate campus in London, the university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. It fosters a strong community spirit and aims to empower students and staff to achieve extraordinary things, focusing on creating a better future for everyone through its research and innovation across various disciplines. The university consistently ranks among the top institutions in the UK for teaching, research, sport, student experience, and facilities. Loughborough is particularly celebrated for its sports-related subjects, holding the number one position globally for a decade. Loughborough University is committed to providing a life-changing academic and social experience, equipping its graduates with vital skills and experience that are highly valued by employers. It welcomes academically able and motivated students from all backgrounds, promoting fairness, equality, and diversity in its admissions.

Why study here

Consistently ranked as one of the UK's top universities for overall performance, teaching, and student experience.
Globally recognised as number one for sports-related subjects for ten consecutive years.
High-quality research across arts, humanities, business, social sciences, sport, health, science, engineering, and mathematics, creating positive societal change.
Excellent graduate prospects, with high rates of graduate-level employment or further study and competitive median salaries.
Award-winning campus facilities, described as one of the best in the UK.
Strong community feel on both campuses, fostering a supportive and inspiring environment.
Opportunities for professional development and practical experience through placements and industry links.
Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, welcoming students from all backgrounds.

Student life

Life at Loughborough University is characterized by a strong community feel, which is a defining feature of both campuses. The Loughborough campus offers world-class facilities, extensive green spaces, and a supportive environment. Accommodation is guaranteed for all first-year students joining through Clearing, with 17 catered or self-catered halls of residence providing a unique social experience, supported by Hall Committees and dedicated Warden teams. The university invests significantly in its accommodation, with £50 million already invested. Students have easy access to classes, sports, and leisure facilities. The town of Loughborough is student-friendly and affordable. The London campus, located on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, offers approved accommodation options to suit various lifestyles and budgets, as part of an exciting wider community.

Fees

InternationalInternational undergraduate and postgraduate tuition typically ranges from roughly EUR 26,000 to EUR 34,000 per year depending on the programme, with laboratory and engineering courses at the higher end.

HomeUK (home) students pay regulated undergraduate fees set by the UK government, substantially lower than international rates.

LivingLoughborough is an affordable, student-friendly town; the London campus has higher living costs. Guaranteed first-year accommodation is offered for students joining through Clearing in 2026.

Tuition fees are listed on individual program pages. The university provides information on fee bands and various funding options for postgraduate studies. Accommodation options are available for both Loughborough and London campuses, with guaranteed university accommodation for all first-year students joining through Clearing in 2026.

Admissions

IELTS Academic TestOverall 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in each element

Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)C/200

Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)C/180

Cambridge English: First (CFE)A

LanguageCert ESOL SELT (centre-based test)SELT C1:Pass overall (listening, reading, writing, speaking combined) with no sub-test lower than 33 out of 50. Tests from 2025 onwards: Overall 70 with not less than 65 in each test.

LanguageCert Academic SELT (centre-based test)Overall 70 with not less than 65 in each test

ONCAMPUS Test of English (OCTOE)65% overall with 60% in each sub-test (taken in the UK)

Pearson Test of Academic English (PTE) (centre-based test)Overall 65, with not less than 61 in each sub-test

TOEFL iBTTests prior to 21 January 2026: Overall 88, with not less than 21 in each test. Tests from 21 January 2026: Overall 4.5 with not less than 4.5 in Writing

Rankings

QS World University Rankings by Subject 2017-2026#1 in the world for Sports-related Subjects

Complete University Guide 20267th in the UK

Guardian University Guide 202611th in the UK

Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 202612th in the UK

Research Excellence Framework 2021Over 90% of research 'world-leading' or 'internationally-excellent'

StudentCrowd Awards 2025#1 in the UK for campus and facilities

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 20253rd for University Facilities

The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025Sports University of the Year

Daily Mail Good University Guide 2025Sports University of the Year

Complete University Guide 202610th in the UK for graduate prospects

UniHub RateMyPlacement Awards 2025Top 20 in the UK for Placements

StudentCrowd Awards 20252nd for Job Prospects

University scholarships

Women in Science Bursary£1000 per annum

International Excellence ScholarshipsPartial tuition reduction for high-achieving international students

Accreditation

Awarded eight Queen Elizabeth Prizes for Higher and Further Education. Awarded 5 stars for research by International QS Stars Scheme 2023. Awarded 5 stars for employability by International QS Stars Scheme 2023.

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 →

Loughborough University · United Kingdom

Financial Mathematics BSc (Hons)

This BSc (Hons) degree in Financial Mathematics combines core mathematical principles with essential knowledge of finance and economics. It is designed for students interested in pursuing careers in banking, finance, or economics. The program provides a comprehensive introduction to both financial concepts and the mathematical techniques used in the financial services industry, meaning no prior knowledge of economics or finance is required. You will develop a strong understanding of methodologies crucial for roles in banking and finance, covering areas such as probability theory, stochastic processes, corporate finance, and asset pricing.

Loughborough University · United Kingdom

Industrial Mathematical Modelling

This MSc programme focuses on equipping you with the skills and techniques essential for industrial mathematics, specifically the ability to solve real-world problems using applied mathematics. These skills are highly valued in industry and commerce. The course is ideal for those with a background in mathematics, science, or engineering who wish to apply their knowledge in an industrial setting, and it also serves as excellent preparation for PhD studies. You will explore mathematical models of real-world processes, with a strong emphasis on practical industrial applications, culminating in a 12-week summer project typically undertaken with a local business. This project, supported by the university's strong industry connections, offers practical insight into how mathematical theory is applied in organisational contexts. You will also work in groups on industry-based problems, covering topics such as dynamics, differential equations, and fluid mechanics.

Loughborough University · United Kingdom

MSc Data Science

This MSc conversion programme in Data Science is designed for graduates from diverse academic and professional backgrounds who wish to upskill for careers in data science, data analysis, data management, or data stewardship. Recognizing the critical role of data in the digital economy, this course provides the necessary expertise for a wide range of opportunities across all sectors and organizational levels. Developed in collaboration with industry partners and supported by funding, the programme emphasizes problem-based learning and modules focused on career goals. Core content includes fundamental data science principles, design thinking, innovation, data governance, ethics, and data analysis. It is particularly suited for individuals without a first degree in computer science, including those from industry, management, leadership, information administration, sciences (social, life, applied), and engineering, who want to analyze data or understand its business applications. The program is structured to equip students with practical skills and insights relevant to current industry demands.

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 Loughborough University?

International undergraduate and postgraduate tuition fees typically range from approximately EUR 26,000 to EUR 34,000 per year, with laboratory and engineering courses generally being at the higher end. Specific fees are listed on individual program pages.

Does Loughborough University offer guaranteed accommodation for international students?

The university offers guaranteed accommodation for all first-year students joining through Clearing in 2026. Information on accommodation options for both Loughborough and London campuses is available, with the Loughborough campus known for its affordable, student-friendly town.

What are the English language requirements for international applicants?

Most programs require an IELTS Academic Test score of 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in each element. Other accepted English language tests and their equivalent scores are listed, and pre-sessional English language programs are available.

What is Loughborough University known for?

Loughborough University is renowned for its exceptional student experience, world-class research, and strong industry links. It is particularly celebrated for its sports-related subjects, holding the number one position globally for a decade, and is consistently ranked among the top UK institutions for teaching and facilities.

Are there scholarships available for international students?

Yes, Loughborough University offers scholarships such as the Women in Science Bursary for specific undergraduate programs and International Excellence Scholarships for high-achieving international students based on academic merit.

Last updated 3 July 2026