Public Universities in the UK are the most preferred ones for international students. This is because of the ample government funding that these universities receive. Hence, there are a lot of scholarship opportunities, and the fees of these universities are also quite affordable. The public universities in the UK are also ranked by many top publications, and their rankings have remained consistently high for many years. Let’s learn about these universities and get a gist of their application process and eligibility criteria.
List Of Top Public Universities In The UK
Many of the top universities in the UK are public institutions. These universities are renowned for their high-quality education and the prestigious reputations they have established over the years. Many of them feature prominently in the QS World University Rankings 2024. Here is a list of the best public universities in the UK:
| University Name | Acceptance Rate | QS Rankings 2024 |
| Oxford University | 17% | #3 |
| The University Of Cambridge | 18-21% | #5 |
| Imperial College London | 15-18% | #2 |
| The University College London | 30-38% | #9 |
| The University of Edinburgh | Approx 33% | #27 |
| The University of Manchester | 27% | #34 |
| King’s College London | 13% | #40 |
| London School of Economics & Political Science | 9% | #50 |
| The University of Warwick | 24% | #69 |
| Bristol University | 67% | #54 |
Oxford University
The University of Oxford, established in 1096, is the oldest higher education institution in the English-speaking world. It has consistently ranked among the top five universities globally for over a decade. The university’s campus accommodates 26,000 students, 45% of whom are international, hailing from over 160 countries. International students can choose from approximately 400 courses at the University of Oxford. Popular disciplines include Medicine, Business, Law, and Humanities.
| University Of Oxford Overview | |
| Average Tuition Fees | UG: $39564PG:$59,945 |
| Top Programmes | Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Medicine, MBA, MSC, etc. |
| GPA/Scores Requirements | UG: Score 80% or A1 in 12th, for the subjects relevant to the field PG: 3.5-3.7 GPA or 90-93% |
| English Proficiency Requirements | PG: 7.0 in IELTS UG: 7.0 in IELTS |
| Other required documents | Copy of Passport CV/ResumeSOPLOR |
| Location | Oxford, England |
University Of Cambridge
Established in 1209, the University of Cambridge is the fourth oldest university in the world and one of the most prestigious. It consistently ranks among the top five universities in the UK and globally. Presently, 389 Indian students are enrolled at Cambridge. The university includes 31 colleges, accommodating over 22,000 students from around the globe. With more than 9,000 international students from over 140 countries, Cambridge is a popular destination for those pursuing high-quality research.
| University Of Cambridge Overview | |
| Application fees | 50 GBP (5,230 INR) |
| Top Programmes | Bachelor of Engineering [B.Eng] Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery [M.B.B.S], Bachelor of Arts [B.A], Architecture, Bachelor of Arts [B.A], Computer Science, Bachelor of Arts [B.A], Economics, Bachelor of Arts [B.A], English |
| GPA/Scores Requirements | UG: Academic score of 70-75%PG: CISCE/NIOS- 90%CBSE- A1State boards- 95% |
| English Proficiency Requirements | IELTS- 7.5TOEFL IBT- 110 |
| Other required documents | Personal StatementAcademic letter of recommendationInterview |
| Location | England |
Imperial College London
Imperial College London, founded in 1907, is a renowned public research institution. It consistently ranks among the top 10 universities worldwide, as recognised by numerous agencies. Currently, the campus hosts over 23,000 students from 145 countries. Offering an extensive range of courses, Imperial College London provides 130+ undergraduate and 200+ postgraduate programs through its 16 departments. The university is exclusively dedicated to STEM fields, encompassing science, engineering, medicine, and business. Many of its programs are globally ranked within the top 10.
| Application fees | 27.50 GBP (2,910 INR) |
| Top Programmes | Master of Science [M.Sc], Business Analytics, Executive Master of Business Administration [E.M.B.A] Master of Business Administration [M.B.A] Master of Science [M.Sc], Mathematics and Finance and Electronic Engineering |
| GPA/Scores Requirements | 3.5-3.66 GPA or 90-92% (3.5-3.8 GPA or 90-95% in major subjects) |
| English Proficiency Requirements | IELTS 6.5, TOEFL 92 |
| Other required documents | Transcript of gradesResume/CVEssays or SOP, as required by the coursePortfolio3-4 letter of RecommendationsForm for fee waiver (if eligible) |
| Location | London, England |
The University College London
Established in 1826, University College London has consistently ranked among the top 20 universities globally for over a decade. Situated in the heart of London, UCL’s campuses currently accommodate over 18,000 international students from 150 countries, constituting 49.8% of the student body. Prospective students have a choice of 403 undergraduate courses and 675 postgraduate and research courses at University College London. The university boasts renowned Indian alumni such as Rabindranath Tagore and Mahatma Gandhi. UCL is renowned for its international faculty, with over 30% of its staff originating from around the world.
| Application fees | 90 – 160 GBP (9,516 to 16,919 INR) |
| Top Programmes | Master of Science [M.Sc], Robotics and Computation, Master of Science [M.Sc], Data Science, Master of Science [M.Sc], Business Analytic |
| GPA/Scores Requirements | 6.75 – 9.0/10 or 55%-70% |
| English Proficiency Requirements | IELTS: 6.5 to 7.5TOEFL-IBT: 92 – 109 |
| Other required documents | EssaysWork experienceLetter of RecommendationInterview (Online or in person)Statement of PurposeResume |
| Location | London, England |
The University Of Edinburgh
Situated in Scotland’s capital city, the University of Edinburgh stands as a globally esteemed hub for learning and research. Established in 1583, it holds the distinction of being the sixth oldest university in the English-speaking world and is counted among Scotland’s ancient universities. With a proud tradition of academic distinction, it has nurtured countless influential alumni across a spectrum of disciplines, spanning from science and medicine to arts and humanities. Boasting a vibrant community, the university hosts over 50,000 students from more than 140 countries, fostering a richly diverse and inclusive environment.
| Application fees | PG- No application fee | (60 GBP for a few Masters courses) No application fee for UG courses |
| Top Programmes | Master of Science [M.Sc], Statistics with Data Science, Master of Science [M.Sc], Marketing and Business Analysis Master of Science [M.Sc], Computer Science, Master of Science [M.Sc], Business Analytics, Master of Business Administration Master of Science [M.Sc], Psychological Research |
| GPA/Scores Requirements | 8 out of 10 or 60% aggregate |
| English Proficiency Requirements | IELTS: 5.5 with 5.5 in each componentPTE: 54 |
| Other required documents | Copy of transcriptsLORSOP |
The University Of Manchester
A member of the prestigious Russell Group, the University of Manchester is renowned for its academic and research prowess. Founded in 1824, it welcomes a diverse community of over 40,000 students from over 180 countries, including approximately 1300 students from India.
| Application fees | GBP 20 (1,902 INR) for a single course | GBP 25 (2,377 INR) for multiple courses. |
| Top Programmes | M.ENG, MBA, MSC |
| GPA/Scores Requirements | GPA: Minimum 3.0 out of 4.0 (83-86%) or equivalent |
| English Proficiency Requirements | 7.0 overall, with 6.5 in each section |
| Other required documents | Statement of purpose in English (between 1000-4000 characters)LORsVisa and passport detailsEmployment details, if anyPortfolio, if required |
Other Top Public Universities In The UK
Given below are some of the top public UK universities that have consistently ranked top by the famous publications:
Scholarships Offered At The Top Public Universities In The UK
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Award/Benefit |
| British Chevening Scholarships | – Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of two years of work experience – Apply for a minimum of three courses and possess an offer from at least one of these courses – Excellent academic background | Fully Funded |
| Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan | -Below 30 years of age – Bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution with a first-class – Apply for a full -time postgraduate course in any affiliated institution – Submit proof of financial need | Fully Funded |
| Dr Manmohan Singh Scholarships | – Postgraduate degree from any of the affiliated Indian institutions – Indian citizens under 35 years – Fluent in English – Display the skills, qualities, and vision of a leader | – Tuition fees – International airfare – Monthly stipend |
| Rhodes Scholarships at the University of Oxford | – Undergraduate degree with first -class or equivalent recognition – Enrolled in a full -time post -graduation course at Oxford University – Within 19-25 years of age | – All tuition and international airfare covered – Settling -in allowance – Monthly stipend of £1,442.50 or £17,310 per annum |
FAQs
Which university is good in the UK, public or private?
Both public and private universities in the UK are highly regarded and offer excellent career opportunities for international students. Public universities typically boast well-established career services, strong industry connections, and extensive alumni networks, which can significantly enhance employability.
Which is the No. 1 ranking university in the UK?
The University of Oxford is the no.1 ranking university in the UK.
Is Oxford public or private?
Oxford is a public research university in the UK.
Which university in the UK is free for international students?
Edinburgh University doesn’t charge an application fee for international students for PG and UG programmes, except for some master’s programmes.
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I have done Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts from India and completed my graduation in the year 2022 .I am 22 years old. After graduation, I have done 1 year paid internship from USA .Now, I would like to take occupational experience and learn culinary skills and also do masters in Culinary arts.How can I find the college n best course / country where I can persue studying further