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London South Bank University

London, United Kingdom

  • Cost of Living£ 26,592
  • Tuition Fee From£ -1
  • Country Rank#86
  • Batch Strength12,144
  • Global Diversity7.7%
  • Gender Ratio44 : 56

Overview

About

London South Bank University was established in 1892 and was granted full university status in 1992. The University places a strong emphasis on practical education and employability, and its central London location provides close linkages to business and industry. It is one of the largest in London, with over 15,000 students enrolled, 2,000 of them being overseas students from 130 countries. The main campus is in Southwark, a short walk from important monuments and the Thames's South Bank. The university has seven schools that provide over 400 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes: applied sciences, arts and creative industries built environment and architecture, business, health and social care, and law and social sciences.

 

The institution has partnerships with a variety of international universities, allowing for great student exchange and study-abroad programmes. It also provides excellent practical education and seeks to improve students' employability and provide them with excellent work possibilities. The university is divided into seven schools that provide both research and teaching postgraduate programmes:

 

  • School of Applied Sciences
  • School of Arts and Creative Industries
  • School of The Built Environment and Architecture
  • School of Business
  • School of Engineering
  • Institute of Health and Social Care
  • School of Law and Social Sciences

 

The independent Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education has given LSBU the highest possible grade for the quality of its education (QAA). Courses are approved or produced in collaboration with major professional associations. The institution has a curriculum that is rich in cutting-edge, work-based projects that will allow students to go on placements and gain the expertise and knowledge needed to thrive in the real world. In addition to tackling today's critical concerns, the university's applied research attempts to give solutions to the corporate sector and beyond. 

Ranking

Established in 1892, London South Bank University is a renowned public research university located in the heart of London. The university is particularly well-known for its strengths in subjects like engineering, business and management, health and social care, applied sciences, built environment, and law. Some of LSBU's most popular courses include nursing, civil engineering, business management, accounting and finance, and sociology. Despite the variable rankings across different rating systems, the university continues to attract students from the UK and internationally with its career-focused programmes, exceptional industry connections, and location in one of the world's most vibrant cities.

London South Bank University maintained its global standing in 2025, holding the 801st position in the QS World University Rankings for the second consecutive year. The university also placed 112th among UK institutions in The Complete University Guide. In 2024, London South Bank demonstrated mixed performance across various rankings. It retained its 601st place in the Times Higher Education (THE) ranking, matching its 2023 position. Notably, the university made significant progress in The Guardian's rankings, climbing to 81st place. This marked a substantial improvement from its 96th position in 2023 and 113th in 2022. These results reflect London South Bank University's consistent global performance and its fluctuating but generally improving status within UK-specific rankings over the three-year period.

 

London South Bank University - QS Ranking 2025

In 2025, London South Bank University remained ranked 801st globally in the QS World University Rankings, the same as in 2024. In 2024, it was also ranked 801st globally, showing consistency from its position in 2023. Within Europe, London South Bank University was ranked 362nd in 2024.

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

Europe

-

362

-

World University

801

801

801

 

London South Bank University - THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking 2024

In 2024, London South Bank University maintained its position at 601st in the Times Higher Education (THE) ranking, consistent with its rank in 2023. Previously, in 2022, it was ranked 801st according to THE.

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

University

801

601

601

 

London South Bank University - The Guardian Ranking 2024

In 2024, London South Bank University improved its ranking to 81st according to The Guardian, a significant rise from 96th place in 2023 and 113th place in 2022. This upward trend reflects the university's improving performance over the past three years in The Guardian rankings.

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

University

113

96

81

 

London South Bank University - The Complete University Guide Ranking 2025

In 2025, London South Bank University is ranked 112th among UK universities according to The Complete University Guide, a slight improvement from 113th place in 2024. It also progressed from its position of 116th in 2023, indicating a trend of advancement in recent years in The Complete University Guide rankings.

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

UK University

116

113

112

 

Learn More About: London South Bank University’s Admission

 

London South Bank University - THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking 2024

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Clinical and Health

401

301

401

Engineering

601

601

801

PG Business and Economics

-

-

601

Psychology

401

301

401

 

London South Bank University - The Guardian Ranking 2024

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Accounting and Finance

42

27

33

Architecture

43

43

37

Business and Management

112

98

62

Chemical Engineering

21

25

-

Civil Engineering

51

51

49

Economics

57

44

10

Electronic and Electrical Engineering

4

31

29

Journalism

26

15

25

Law

84

70

56

Mechanical Engineering

15

16

14

Media and Film Studies

46

60

38

 

London South Bank University - The Complete University Guide Ranking 2025

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

Accounting and Finance

90

82

82

Architecture

43

47

48

Art and Design

61

37

51

Biological Sciences

100

72

77

Business and Management Studies UK

112

110

103

Chemical Engineering

25

28

29

Civil Engineering

46

47

54

Communication and Media Studies

81

91

84

Computer Science

113

95

90

Electrical and Electronic Engineering

68

55

50

Law

65

91

83

Mechanical Engineering

66

37

43

Nursing

59

44

59

Psychology

106

103

106

Sociology

97

100

99

 

 

Course Rankings

B.A.

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Sociology and Social Policy

60

67

45

The Complete University Guide - Sociology

-

63

59

The Complete University Guide - Art and Design

-

38

32

 

B.Arch

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Architecture

49

38

46

The Complete University Guide - Architecture

-

35

33

 

B.E. / B.Tech

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Civil Engineering

24

29

35

The Guardian - Electronic and Electrical Engineering

45

21

5

The Guardian - Mechanical Engineering

40

36

15

The Complete University Guide - Electrical and Electronic Engineering

-

49

51

The Complete University Guide - Mechanical Engineering

-

37

28

The Complete University Guide - Chemical Engineering

-

21

22

The Complete University Guide - Civil Engineering

-

42

38

The Complete University Guide - Computer Science

-

59

73

The Guardian - Chemical Engineering

22

19

6

 

Learn More About: London South Bank University’s Courses

B.J.M.C.

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Media and Film Studies

35

34

19

The Guardian - Journalism

16

25

21

The Complete University Guide - Communication and Media Studies

-

60

57

 

B.Sc.

Ranked by

2020

2021

2022

The Complete University Guide - Biological Sciences

89

91

92

The Complete University Guide - Psychology

54

61

77

 

BBA

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Business and Management

82

101

111

The Guardian - Accounting and Finance

7

7

22

The Complete University Guide - Accounting and Finance

-

68

64

The Complete University Guide - Business and Management Studies UK

-

81

83

The Guardian - Economics

-

61

22

 

BSN

Ranked by

2020

2021

2022

The Complete University Guide - Nursing

45

42

55

 

LL.B.

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Law

25

11

53

The Complete University Guide - Law

-

34

39

 

MS

Ranked by

2021

2022

2023

THE (Times Higher Education) - Engineering

801-1000

601-800

601-800

 

MSN

Ranked by

2018

2019

2020

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Nursing

151-200

101-150

151-200

 

Others PG

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology

301-400

301-400

401-500

THE (Times Higher Education) - Clinical and Health

601-800

601-800

601-800

 

Accounting & Commerce

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Accounting and Finance

7

7

22

The Complete University Guide - Accounting and Finance

-

68

64

 

Architecture & Planning

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Architecture

49

38

46

The Complete University Guide - Architecture

-

35

33

 

Arts ( Fine / Visual / Performing )

Ranked by

2020

2021

2022

The Complete University Guide - Art and Design

38

32

75

 

Business & Management Studies

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Business and Management

82

101

111

The Complete University Guide - Business and Management Studies UK

-

81

83

The Guardian - Economics

-

61

22

 

Engineering

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

THE (Times Higher Education) - Engineering

-

-

801-1000

The Guardian - Civil Engineering

24

29

35

The Guardian - Electronic and Electrical Engineering

45

21

5

The Guardian - Mechanical Engineering

40

36

15

The Complete University Guide - Electrical and Electronic Engineering

-

49

51

The Complete University Guide - Mechanical Engineering

-

37

28

The Complete University Guide - Chemical Engineering

-

21

22

The Complete University Guide - Civil Engineering

-

42

38

The Guardian - Chemical Engineering

22

19

6

 

Humanities & Social Sciences

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Complete University Guide - Psychology

-

54

61

THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology

301-400

301-400

401-500

The Guardian - Sociology and Social Policy

60

67

45

The Complete University Guide - Sociology

-

63

59

 

Law

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Law

25

11

53

The Complete University Guide - Law

-

34

39

 

Mass Communication & Media

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Media and Film Studies

35

34

19

The Guardian - Journalism

16

25

21

The Complete University Guide - Communication and Media Studies

-

60

57

 

Medicine & Health Sciences

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

THE (Times Higher Education) - Clinical and Health

601-800

601-800

601-800

 

Nursing

Ranked by

2018

2019

2020

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Nursing

151-200

101-150

151-200

The Complete University Guide - Nursing

-

-

45

 

Science

Ranked by

2020

2021

2022

The Complete University Guide - Biological Sciences

89

91

92

The Complete University Guide - Computer Science

59

73

101

 

Biology

Ranked by

2020

2021

2022

The Complete University Guide - Biological Sciences

89

91

92

 

Business Economics

Ranked by

2020

2021

2022

The Guardian - Economics

61

22

57

 

Chemical Engineering

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Complete University Guide - Chemical Engineering

-

21

22

The Guardian - Chemical Engineering

22

19

6

 

Civil Engineering

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Civil Engineering

24

29

35

The Complete University Guide - Civil Engineering

-

42

38

 

Computer Science

Ranked by

2020

2021

2022

The Complete University Guide - Computer Science

59

73

101

 

Electrical Engineering

Ranked by

2020

2021

2022

The Complete University Guide - Electrical and Electronic Engineering

49

51

51

 

Electronics Engineering

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Electronic and Electrical Engineering

45

21

5

 

Mechanical Engineering

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Mechanical Engineering

40

36

15

The Complete University Guide - Mechanical Engineering

-

37

28

 

Accounting

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Accounting and Finance

7

7

22

The Complete University Guide - Accounting and Finance

-

68

64

 

Journalism

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Journalism

16

25

21

 

Psychology

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Complete University Guide - Psychology

-

54

61

THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology

301-400

301-400

401-500

 

Sociology

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Sociology and Social Policy

60

67

45

The Complete University Guide - Sociology

-

63

59

Year

QS Ranks

US News Ranks

2024

#801 - 850

#1304

2023

#801 - 1000

-

2022

#801 - 1000

-

2021

#801 - 1000

-

Facilities

There are a variety of cutting-edge London South Bank University facilities, including specialist labs, a student centre, a library, and practical spaces meant to simulate business circumstances. A specialised International Team and Student Services assist students. Their services are available to help students with their educational, personal, professional, and spiritual requirements; they seek to help international students realise their full potential while studying by offering an approachable and dependable service. Their Students' Union houses a variety of programmes and activities aimed to assist students to make the most of their university experience. Some of the top facilities at the university are as follows -

  • Library
  • Individual Study Rooms
  • Computer Labs
  • Fitness Centre
  • Spin Studio
  • Loan Laptops
  • Badminton & Volleyball Courts
  • Counselling & Mental Health Services

Notable Alumni

David Adjaye
David Adjaye
Architect
Sue Black
Sue Black
Computer Scientist
Edd China
Edd China
English television presenter, mechanic, motor specialist and inventor

Courses

Admission

London South Bank University (LSBU) is a public university in Elephant and Castle, London. Founded in 1892 as the Borough Polytechnic Institute, it gained full university status in 1992. LSBU is based in the London Borough of Southwark, near the South Bank of the River Thames. London South Bank University (LSBU) offers prospective students a comprehensive and structured admissions process. It is a competitive university, so preparation in advance is necessary to make it through the London South Bank University admissions!

 

Things To Consider Before Applying

A carefully structured plan is crucial for successfully applying to the London South Bank University. Before beginning the application, several key factors should be considered to streamline the process.

Entry Requirements For Indian Students 

For those considering studying at LSBU, the entry requirements, scholarships, and application details are provided below to assist with the application process.

Foundation Entry:

  • Indian Standard XII: Average of 50-55%
  • International Baccalaureate Certificate

Undergraduate Entry:

  • Indian Standard XII: Minimum average of 55-65% or higher (depending on the exam board and the specific LSBU course)
  • Three passes at GCE A Level (required grades dependent on the LSBU course)
  • International Baccalaureate Diploma: 24 points or higher
  • Accredited UK Foundation Programme: Minimum 55-60% or higher
  • Accredited Polytechnic/College Diploma (2-3 years duration): 58% or higher

Note: Some LSBU courses require specific units/subjects at Standard XII/A Level/IB, etc. Refer to individual course entry requirements for details.

Postgraduate Entry:

  • Honours Degree from a prestigious Indian university: 53-55% or higher
  • Honours Degree from a recognised Indian university: 55% or higher
  • Honours Degree from a recognised international university: Equivalent to UK Bachelor Degree Second Class Honours or higher

Note: Certain LSBU courses may require specific units/subjects for the first degree to meet the London South Bank University eligibility, and some may require relevant work experience. Refer to individual course entry requirements for details.

Research Entry: The research section of the LSBU website provides details regarding research degree applications and entry requirements. Students can also connect with UniScholars experts to start their application process. 

English Language Requirements

In addition to the standard LSBU English language requirements, the following qualifications from Indian students are also accepted for Bachelor's Degree or Taught Masters level entry:

Qualification

Bachelor Degree Entry

Postgraduate Entry

Indian Standard XII English - ICSE, CBSE, and Maharashtra exam boards

Students with high grades in English at Standard XII will be considered (contact for details)

Students with high grades in English at Standard XII will be considered (contact for details)

Indian Standard XII English – all other State Exam Boards

Students with high grades in English at Standard XII will be considered (contact for details)

Students with high grades in English at Standard XII will be considered (contact for details)

 

Documents

Prospective students must submit several key documents to apply to LSBU. Here’s a list of the required London South Bank University documents that students must submit well in advance. 

  1. Completed Application Form: This can be submitted through the university's online application system or via a paper form.
  2. Photocopy of Passport: A clear photocopy of your current passport is required.
  3. Educational Transcripts: Original transcripts from the last attended academic institution. Translated copies must also be provided if these documents are not in English.
  4. English Language Proficiency Test Scores
    • Required for non-native English speakers. Acceptable tests include IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge certificates. Minimum scores typically required are:
      • IELTS: 6.0+ for undergraduate, 6.5+ for graduate
      • TOEFL: 80+ for undergraduate, 90+ for graduate
      • PTE: 52+ for undergraduate, 60+ for graduate
  5. References: Two written references from academic or professional sources, which should be on official letterhead or stamped.
  6. Personal Statement: A personal statement outlining your experiences, interests, and reasons for choosing the course.
  7. Proof of Settlement Status (if applicable): For applicants who have settled status in the UK or EU.
  8. Work Experience (if relevant): Document any relevant work experience, both paid and unpaid.

Students can also connect with experts at UniScholars to learn about the complete London South Bank University entry requirements. 

 

How To Apply To London South Bank University?

Students wishing to apply to London South Bank University must ensure they are aware of all the application steps. To apply, follow this detailed step-by-step process:

Step 1: Choose Your Course

  • Research the courses offered at LSBU and select the one that aligns with your academic and career goals.
  • Check specific entry requirements for your chosen course, including qualifications and English language proficiency.

Step 2: Prepare Your Application

  • For undergraduate courses, apply through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) 's online platforms. You must register and create an account.
  • For Postgraduate Courses, applications should be made directly through LSBU’s online application system.

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

  • Fill out the application form with accurate personal details, educational background, and course choice.
  • Include a personal statement that outlines your motivations, experiences, and why you want to study at LSBU.

Step 4: Gather Required Documents

Prepare the necessary documents as mentioned above. 

Step 5: Submit Your Application

  • Submit your application for undergraduate courses through UCAS or LSBU’s website for postgraduate courses.
  • Ensure that you keep track of your application ID for future correspondence.

Step 6: Await Response

  • After submission, your application will be reviewed by the admissions team.
  • You will receive an offer letter via email detailing any conditions you must meet.

Step 7: Accept Your Offer

  • If you receive an offer, follow the instructions to accept it. This may involve:
     
    • Meeting any outstanding conditions (e.g., submitting final transcripts).
    • Paying a deposit or registration fee to secure your place.

Step 8: Confirm Your Place

  • Once all conditions are met, LSBU will confirm your place and issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) if you require a visa.

Step 9: Apply for a Visa

  • If you are an international student, apply for a student visa using your CAS. Ensure you have all the required documentation for the visa application.

Step 10: Prepare for Arrival

  • Pay any required tuition fees and arrange accommodation.
  • Plan your travel and arrive in the UK before your course starts, ideally on the weekend before the arrival date specified in your CAS.

 

Deadlines

When applying to LSBU for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, it’s essential to be aware of critical deadlines. Timely submission of applications and London South Bank University documents is crucial to ensure all requirements are met and to accommodate any unforeseen delays.

Programme

Intake

Application Deadline

Undergraduate Applicants

September Intake

Generally by July

 

January Intake

Generally by November

Postgraduate Applicants

April Intake

Generally by January

Additional Important Dates for Upcoming Cycles

Event

Deadline

Last Application Date for September

Generally by August

Deadline to Meet Conditions and Payment of Deposit

Generally by August

CAS Deadline

Generally by August

 

Decision Dates

Understanding the key decision dates is crucial when applying to LSBU and ensuring a smooth admissions process. The following information outlines the decision timelines and important dates for undergraduate and postgraduate applicants.

Programme

Intake

Decision Timeline

Undergraduate Applicants

September Intake

Applications submitted by January 31 will typically have a decision by the end of March.

 

January Intake

Applications submitted by November 20 will receive a decision within 2-4 weeks.

Postgraduate Applicants

April Intake

Applications submitted by January 4 will receive a decision within 2-4 weeks.

 

Additional Important Dates

Event

Date

UCAS Extra opens

February 25

UCAS Extra closes

July 4

Clearing opens

July 5

 

Accepting Your Offer

Last Decision Received

Reply Date Deadline

On or before May 16

June 6

Between May 17 and June 30

July 13

To secure a place at LSBU, responding to offers by the specified deadlines is essential. For any queries, applicants are encouraged to contact the admissions office or visit the LSBU website for further updates and guidance.

 

London South Bank University Selection Criteria

LSBU employs a thorough selection process to identify students well-suited for success in their chosen field. The selection criteria encompass various factors, ensuring applicants are adequately prepared for the academic challenges ahead.

  • Academic Qualifications: Evaluation of grades in relevant subjects and overall academic performance in prior education.
  • Undergraduate Applicants: Consideration of performance in secondary education, including A-levels or equivalent qualifications.
  • Postgraduate Applicants: Assessment based on undergraduate degree performance and, where applicable, relevant work experience.
  • English Language Proficiency: A critical requirement, especially for international students, to ensure they can meet the demands of their course.
  • Programme-Specific Requirements: Some courses may require specific subject knowledge or work experience related to the field.
  • Commitment to Discipline: Demonstrated through personal statements, interviews, or portfolios, showing a strong dedication to the chosen field.

This comprehensive approach ensures that selected students are well-prepared to thrive at LSBU.

London South Bank University Acceptance Rate

The London South Bank University acceptance rate is quite competitive. LSBU has a highly competitive acceptance rate of approximately 17%, suggesting that out of every 100 applicants, only 17 are admitted. This figure reflects the university's selectivity and the competitive nature of its programmes, particularly for international students and certain courses.

 

Fees

At LSBU, the tuition fees vary based on the level of study and the residency status of the student. Here’s a breakdown of the London South Bank University fees:

Undergraduate Tuition Fees

  • Home Students: Approximately £9,250 per year.
  • International Students: Ranges from £14,900 to £15,860 per year, depending on the specific course.

Postgraduate Tuition Fees

  • Home Students: Starting from around £10,500 per year.
  • International Students: Typically between £15,500 and £17,000 per year, depending on the programme.

In addition to tuition fees, students should consider other expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and study materials. Here’s an estimated breakdown of additional costs:

Item

Cost per annum (in GBP)

Accommodation

£6,864 - £11,544

Food and leisure

£840 - £3,380

Transportation

£500

Books and supplies

£500 - £1,000

Miscellaneous

£880 - £2,280

Students can reach out to UniScholars to get an admission overview and even start the application. 

Scholarship

These are the various scholarships offered to international students at LSBU:
 

Name Of The Scholarship

Grant

International Scholarships

£1,570

International Merit Scholarships

Up to £4,000

Finances

Most international students are obligated to show proof of sufficient funds to obtain a visa. While some students may have the opportunity to make use of scholarships, not all students cut the eligibility to get a scholarship or a grant. Moreover, not all scholarships cover 100% of your study abroad expenses. At such times, most students resort to acquiring education loans to avoid the financial hassles associated with studying at the London South Bank University (LSBU) . For Indian students, UniCreds is the ideal education loan marketplace if you’re looking for low-interest rates and free consultation services!

Accommodation

There are several student accommodations in London near London South Bank University that are fully equipped for your needs. Student accommodation near London South Bank University offers a wide choice of affordable yet elegant student flats, halls of residence, studios, ensuites, and more! You have the option of staying on campus in the university halls of residence or a private residence. Because of their proximity to the university, on-campus housing options may be ideal; nevertheless, they tend to fill up fast and are more expensive.

UniAcco simplifies the process of finding student housing and offers a variety of options. As a result, students can select from an array of available student accommodations near the university, such as luxury studios, en-suites, and shared apartments that are inexpensive and fully furnished with 24/7 staff support.

Cost of Living

Living in London as an international student comes with a lot of perks. The cost of living in London is expensive, however, and students are advised to prepare and budget well in order to offset the exorbitant costs. There are many areas in London that offer affordable means of living and if students plan well in advance, then they may cut down on their expenses. The table below lists the average monthly expenses of students living in London -


 

Particulars

Monthly Cost (Pound Sterling)

Off-Campus Accommodation 

£1,220

On-Campus Accommodation

£1,200

Transportation

£186

Food Cost

£480

Entertainment

£60

Groceries

£200

Clothes

£70

Total Cost of Living with Off-Campus Accommodation 

£2,530

Total Cost of Living with On-Campus Accommodation 

£2,510

Annual Cost of Living

£30,360

 

The above data is sourced from Cost of Living in London on UniAcco.

 

FAQs