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Loughborough University

Loughborough, United Kingdom

  • Cost of Living£ 14,796
  • Tuition Fee From£ 9,106.49
  • Country Rank-
  • Batch Strength15,556
  • Global Diversity10%
  • Gender Ratio59:40

Overview

About

Loughborough University (abbreviated as Lough or Lboro) is a public research university in the market town of Loughborough, Leicestershire, England. Despite being a university since 1966, Loughborough Technical Institute was founded in 1909 with a focus on practical skills that could be used in the real world. After that, it experienced a period of significant growth, during which it changed its name to Loughborough College and the current campus' construction started. Early on, there were attempts to replicate the atmosphere of an Oxbridge college. It served as an "instructional factory" during World War I, preparing workers for the weapons sector.

 

The university is a friendly environment where faculty, staff, and students should feel free to be themselves. They collaborate to build a brighter future for everyone in everything they do for the students studying at the university.

 

In March 2013, the university acquired the former broadcast centre at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park to serve as a second campus. Up until the 1994 Group's dissolution in November 2013, it belonged to the group of lesser research universities. In 2020-2021, it earned £308.9 million annually, of which £35.5 million came from grants and contracts for research.

Ranking

Established in 1966, Loughborough University stands as one of the premier institutions globally. The University achieved a global ranking of 224th in the QS World University Rankings in 2025. The university also maintained a notable position in the US News & World Report Global Universities rankings, ranking 526th in 2023. Moving to THE (Times Higher Education) World University Rankings, Loughborough University improved to 251st in 2024 after being placed in the 351-400 range in 2023. Additionally, in The Guardian Rankings for 2024, Loughborough held steady at 10th place, showcasing its consistent performance. Furthermore, in The Complete University Guide Rankings for 2025, Loughborough University secured the 7th position, highlighting its continued excellence in higher education. These achievements underscore Loughborough's commitment to academic excellence and its strong reputation across various reputable rankings.

 

Loughborough University - QS Ranking 2025

In 2025, Loughborough University achieved a global ranking of 224th in the QS World University Rankings, indicating a slight decrease from its position of 212th in 2024. Previously, in 2023, the university was ranked 256th. Within Europe, Loughborough University improved to 85th in 2024 from its previous position. These rankings highlight Loughborough's consistent presence among top institutions globally and its strong performance in academic assessments over recent years.

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

Europe

-

85

-

World University

256

212

224

 

Loughborough University - US News & World Report Ranking

In 2025, Loughborough University was ranked 527th among Global Universities by the US News & World Report, a slight increase from its 526th position in 2024. The university maintained consistency with its ranking in 2023, where it also held the 526th position in the same category.

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

Global Universities

526

526

527

 

Loughborough University - THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking

Loughborough University improved its position to 251st in THE (Times Higher Education) World University Rankings in 2024, marking a significant advancement from 2023 when it held steady at 351st. The university showed consistency in maintaining its academic standing, initially achieving a ranking of 351st in 2022. This progression highlights Loughborough's ongoing dedication to academic excellence and its stature as a prominent institution in global higher education.

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

University

351

351

251

 

Loughborough University - The Guardian Ranking

Loughborough University has consistently maintained its impressive position in The Guardian Rankings, holding steady at 10th place in 2024, 2023, and 2022. This consistent top-tier ranking underscores the university's commitment to excellence across various academic disciplines, making it a preferred choice for students seeking high-quality education and research opportunities in the UK.

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

University

10

10

10

 

Learn More About- Loughborough University’s Admission

 

Loughborough University - The Complete University Guide Ranking 2025

Loughborough University continues to excel in The Complete University Guide Rankings, securing the 7th position in 2025, and 2024, and 2023. This consistent top-level placement highlights the university's strong academic reputation, excellent facilities, and dedication to delivering outstanding educational experiences for its students. 

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

UK University

7

7

7

 

Loughborough University - QS Ranking

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Accounting and Finance

151-200

201-250

-

Architecture and Built Environment

101-150

51-100

-

Art and Design

27

32

-

Biological Sciences

-

551-600

-

Communication and Media Studies

51-100

51-100

-

Engineering and Technology

171

187

-

Global MBA

201-250

201-250

-

Masters in Business Analytics

81-90

91-100

-

Masters in Supply Chain Management

36

40

-

Mathematics

251-300

251-300

-

Mechanical Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering

51-100

51-100

-

Physics and Astronomy

451-500

401-450

-

Sociology

151-200

151-200

-

 

Loughborough University: THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking

Ranked by

2021

2022

2023

Arts and Humanities

151-175

251-300

176-200

Engineering

251-300

201-250

251-300

Life Sciences

251-300

201-250

251-300

PG Business and Economics

151-175

201-250

151-175

PG Computer Science

251-300

251-300

201-250

Psychology

251-300

201-250

201-250

 

Loughborough University - The Guardian Ranking

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Accounting and Finance

12

26

32

Architecture

-

-

4

Business and Management

7

7

6

Chemical Engineering

10

5

-

Civil Engineering

19

21

19

Economics

20

37

46

Electronic and Electrical Engineering

5

15

21

Mechanical Engineering

11

4

10

Media and Film Studies

13

3

3

Physics

20

23

7

Politics

24

16

10

Sociology and Social Policy

2

9

34

 

Loughborough University - The Complete University Guide Ranking

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Accounting and Finance

11

16

14

Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering

8

7

9

Architecture

3

4

4

Art and Design

4

2

4

Biological Sciences

17

32

14

Business and Management Studies UK

11

10

12

Chemical Engineering

17

7

13

Civil Engineering

22

10

15

Communication and Media Studies

1

4

1

Computer Science

24

20

17

Electrical and Electronic Engineering

21

20

20

Mechanical Engineering

19

8

16

Physics and Astronomy

33

34

27

Psychology

18

14

7

Sociology

13

6

6

 

Course Rankings

B.A.

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Sociology and Social Policy

9

11

8

The Guardian - Politics

5

6

21

The Complete University Guide - Sociology

-

9

10

The Complete University Guide - Art and Design

-

4

3

 

B.Arch

Ranked by

2020

2021

2022

The Guardian - Architecture

-

20

-

The Complete University Guide - Architecture

9

8

3

 

B.E. / B.Tech

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Civil Engineering

6

12

10

The Guardian - Electronic and Electrical Engineering

9

3

14

The Guardian - Mechanical Engineering

5

5

5

The Complete University Guide - Electrical and Electronic Engineering

-

15

20

The Complete University Guide - Mechanical Engineering

-

12

11

The Complete University Guide - Chemical Engineering

-

14

15

The Complete University Guide - Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering

-

8

9

The Complete University Guide - Civil Engineering

-

15

19

The Complete University Guide - Computer Science

-

22

24

The Guardian - Chemical Engineering

10

7

11

 

B.J.M.C.

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Media and Film Studies

4

7

2

The Complete University Guide - Communication and Media Studies

-

4

1

 

Learn More About: Loughborough University’s Courses

B.Sc.

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Complete University Guide - Biological Sciences

-

-

20

The Complete University Guide - Psychology

-

18

19

The Complete University Guide - Physics and Astronomy

-

31

32

The Guardian - Physics

22

15

11

 

BBA

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Business and Management

5

4

6

The Guardian - Accounting and Finance

2

2

5

The Complete University Guide - Accounting and Finance

-

7

9

The Complete University Guide - Business and Management Studies UK

-

4

5

The Guardian - Economics

17

21

14

 

M.A.

Ranked by

2018

2019

2020

QS - Sociology

-

151-200

151-200

QS - Communication and Media Studies

-

49

51-100

QS - Art and Design

-

28

24

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Political Sciences

201-300

301-400

201-300

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Sociology

76-100

101-150

151-200

THE (Times Higher Education) - Arts and Humanities

-

201-250

126-150

 

M.Arch

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

QS - Architecture and Built Environment

51-100

51-100

51-100

 

MBA/PGDM

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

QS - Global MBA

201-250

151-200

151-200

 

MIM

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

QS - Accounting and Finance

151-200

151-200

201-250

QS - Masters in Business Analytics

51-60

51-60

51-60

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics

201-250

201-250

151-175

 

MS

Ranked by

2018

2019

2020

QS - Physics and Astronomy

-

351-400

351-400

QS - Mechanical Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering

-

51-100

51-100

QS - Mathematics

-

201-250

201-250

QS - Engineering and Technology

-

210

185

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Mathematics

401-500

401-500

401-500

THE (Times Higher Education) - Life Sciences

-

301-400

251-300

THE (Times Higher Education) - Engineering

-

251-300

301-400

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Computer Science

-

401-500

251-300

 

Others PG

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology

201-250

201-250

251-300

 

Accounting & Commerce

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

QS - Accounting and Finance

151-200

151-200

201-250

The Guardian - Accounting and Finance

2

2

5

The Complete University Guide - Accounting and Finance

-

7

9

 

Architecture & Planning

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

QS - Architecture and Built Environment

51-100

51-100

51-100

The Guardian - Architecture

-

-

20

The Complete University Guide - Architecture

-

9

8

 

Arts ( Fine / Visual / Performing )

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

QS - Art and Design

28

24

31

THE (Times Higher Education) - Arts and Humanities

201-250

126-150

151-175

The Complete University Guide - Art and Design

-

4

3

 

Business & Management Studies

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

QS - Masters in Business Analytics

51-60

51-60

51-60

The Guardian - Business and Management

5

4

6

The Complete University Guide - Business and Management Studies UK

-

4

5

The Guardian - Economics

17

21

14

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics

201-250

201-250

151-175

QS - Global MBA

201-250

151-200

151-200

 

Engineering

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

QS - Mechanical Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering

51-100

51-100

51-100

QS - Engineering and Technology

210

185

188

THE (Times Higher Education) - Engineering

251-300

301-400

251-300

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Computer Science

401-500

251-300

251-300

The Guardian - Civil Engineering

6

12

10

The Guardian - Electronic and Electrical Engineering

9

3

14

The Guardian - Mechanical Engineering

5

5

5

The Complete University Guide - Electrical and Electronic Engineering

-

15

20

The Complete University Guide - Mechanical Engineering

-

12

11

The Complete University Guide - Chemical Engineering

-

14

15

The Complete University Guide - Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering

-

8

9

The Complete University Guide - Civil Engineering

-

15

19

The Guardian - Chemical Engineering

10

7

11

 

Humanities & Social Sciences

Ranked by

2018

2019

2020

QS - Sociology

-

151-200

151-200

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Political Sciences

201-300

301-400

201-300

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Sociology

76-100

101-150

151-200

The Complete University Guide - Psychology

-

-

18

THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology

-

201-250

201-250

The Guardian - Sociology and Social Policy

-

9

11

The Guardian - Politics

-

5

6

The Complete University Guide - Sociology

-

-

9

 

Mass Communication & Media

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

QS - Communication and Media Studies

49

51-100

51-100

The Guardian - Media and Film Studies

4

7

2

The Complete University Guide - Communication and Media Studies

-

4

1

 

Science

Ranked by

2018

2019

2020

QS - Physics and Astronomy

-

351-400

351-400

QS - Mathematics

-

201-250

201-250

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Mathematics

401-500

401-500

401-500

The Complete University Guide - Physics and Astronomy

-

-

31

The Guardian - Physics

-

22

15

THE (Times Higher Education) - Life Sciences

-

301-400

251-300

The Complete University Guide - Computer Science

-

-

22

 

Aeronautical Engineering

Ranked by

2020

2021

2022

The Complete University Guide - Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering

8

9

8

 

Biology

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Complete University Guide - Biological Sciences

-

-

20

THE (Times Higher Education) - Life Sciences

301-400

251-300

251-300

 

Business Analytics

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

QS - Masters in Business Analytics

51-60

51-60

51-60

 

Business Economics

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Economics

17

21

14

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics

201-250

201-250

151-175

 

Chemical Engineering

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Complete University Guide - Chemical Engineering

-

14

15

The Guardian - Chemical Engineering

10

7

11

 

Civil Engineering

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Civil Engineering

6

12

10

The Complete University Guide - Civil Engineering

-

15

19

 

Computer Science

Ranked by

2020

2021

2022

The Complete University Guide - Computer Science

22

24

24

 

Computer Science Engineering

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Computer Science

401-500

251-300

251-300

 

Electrical Engineering

Ranked by

2020

2021

2022

The Complete University Guide - Electrical and Electronic Engineering

15

20

21

 

Electronics Engineering

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Electronic and Electrical Engineering

9

3

14

 

Mathematics

Ranked by

2018

2019

2020

QS - Mathematics

-

201-250

201-250

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Mathematics

401-500

401-500

401-500

 

Mechanical Engineering

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

QS - Mechanical Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering

51-100

51-100

51-100

The Guardian - Mechanical Engineering

5

5

5

The Complete University Guide - Mechanical Engineering

-

12

11

 

Physics

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

QS - Physics and Astronomy

351-400

351-400

351-400

The Complete University Guide - Physics and Astronomy

-

31

32

The Guardian - Physics

22

15

11

 

Politics

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Guardian - Politics

5

6

21

 

Supply Chain

Ranked by

2022

2023

QS - Masters in Supply Chain Management

36

40

 

Accounting

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

QS - Accounting and Finance

151-200

151-200

201-250

The Guardian - Accounting and Finance

2

2

5

The Complete University Guide - Accounting and Finance

-

7

9

 

Political Science

Ranked by

2018

2019

2020

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Political Sciences

201-300

301-400

201-300

The Guardian - Politics

-

5

6

 

Psychology

Ranked by

2019

2020

2021

The Complete University Guide - Psychology

-

18

19

THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology

201-250

201-250

251-300

 

Sociology

Ranked by

2018

2019

2020

QS - Sociology

-

151-200

151-200

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Sociology

76-100

101-150

151-200

The Guardian - Sociology and Social Policy

-

9

11

The Complete University Guide - Sociology

-

-

9

Year

QS Ranks

US News Ranks

2025

#212

-

2024

#224

#527

2023

#256

#526

2022

#231

#526

2021

#231

#556

Facilities

Lboro has a lively campus that is accredited to the widely used environmental management system and covers a substantial area of beautiful, green terrain. The university offers a student village with recreation and exercise facilities for the residents of 600 students who are studying in the UK. The student village is home to a top-notch Elite Athlete Center and Hotel with 44 four-star rooms and a number of other amenities. The university's vibrant campus with more than 170 clubs and organisations provides students with countless chances for personal development. Here are some of Loughborough University's facilities -

 

Sports Facilities:

A 50-meter swimming pool, squash, badminton, and netball courts, an indoor tennis centre and outdoor courts, a sports hall and an outdoor stadium are just a few of the facilities. They also have modern gyms and facilities such as -

  • Athletics Centre
  • Swimming Pool
  • Elite Athlete Centre and Hotel
  • Cricket Centre
  • University Stadium
  • Tennis and Squash Centre
  • Sports Hall 
  • Studies
  • Artificial Pitches
  • Grass Pitches
  • Squash and Table Tennis

 

Students Union:

In the northeastern area of the campus, the Union building houses a variety of amenities for clubs and societies, shopping, entertainment, and other activities. The five rooms of the Union each have a different theme. The National Union of Students (NUS) presented the 2011 International Experience Award to Loughborough Students' Union (LSU). 

 

The Union has five main sections for students: the athletic union with 56 different sporting clubs, the Societies Federation with over 80 societies, Action as the volunteering section offering a range of opportunities for students, along with 45 regular projects working with young people, the elderly, special needs, and the homeless. In addition to representing the student body through Union Council and providing academic support through Loughborough Students' Voice.

Notable Alumni

Nira Chamberlain
Nira Chamberlain
British mathematician
Emma Hatton
Emma Hatton
British actress
Tanni Grey
Tanni Grey
Welsh Politician

Courses

Admission

Acceptance Rate

Loughborough University acceptance rate stands at 33%, indicating that out of every 100 applicants, approximately 68 are granted admission to the university. This means that while Loughborough University maintains high academic standards, it also values diversity and seeks to provide opportunities for a broad range of talented individuals to join its academic community. Loughborough University welcomes a diverse cohort of over 4540 international students representing more than 130 countries, with a notable presence of over 230 students from India. With an acceptance rate of 68%, the university maintains a moderate level of competitiveness in its admissions process.

 

Learn More About: Loughborough University Acceptance Rate

 

Entry Requirements

Undergraduate applications can be submitted through the Universities and Colleges Admission (UCAS) and postgraduate applications through the University’s Online Application system. Take a look at the list of Loughborough University entry requirements that need to be submitted below -

 

General Requirements:

  • Official academic transcripts
  • Official degree completion certificate
  • Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
  • Birth certificate
  • Passport copy
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Essay
  • Research proposal (for research programmes)

 

English Language Proficiency:

Loughborough University requires prospective students to demonstrate proficiency in English through recognised language tests. The university accepts several English language qualifications, each with specific score requirements for admission.Here's a table summarising the language proficiency requirements for Loughborough University based on different English language tests: 

 

English Language Test

Minimum Overall Score

Minimum Sub-section Score

IELTS

6.5

6.5 in all sub-sections

TOEFL iBT

92

22 in each test

Language Cert

C1 Expert Pass

C1 Expert Pass in oral and written test

Duolingo English Test

110

 

 

Fees

At both the undergraduate and graduate levels, Lboro offers a variety of programmes for international students. The institution is split into four colleges, each of which has ten schools, twenty academic departments, and one hundred research units. Along with a variety of Master's degrees including the MSc, MA, and MBA programmes, undergrad degrees like the BA, BSc, BArch, and Bachelor's in engineering are also available. The institution also offers quick courses including postgraduate certificates (PGCert) and postgraduate diplomas. Here are some of Loughborough University fees for each field of study -

 

  • Accounting & Finance: £20,750 - £28,500
  • Animation & Design: £20,750 - £26,500
  • Medical & Pure Sciences: £24,100 - £28,500
  • Business Management & Entrepreneurship: £27,600
  • Computer Science & Technology: £22,800 - £26,500

 

Placements


Large international corporations have collaborated with the university for students to get job opportunities through Loughborough University placements. The Career Network provides a range of talks, workshops, and skill sessions. At career fairs like the Spring fair week and similar events, students also have the ability to network with companies. In a poll of students at more than 200 universities worldwide, the Career Network at Lboro received the top score for Career Services. A highly active network cell that strives to advise and mentor students, help them build marketable skills, and effectively network for opportunities. All undergraduate degrees give students the option to complete a placement year, which consists of 45 weeks of professional-level work experience with one or more organisations. Approximately 1,700 Loughborough students complete a placement each year, typically during their second to last year of studies. Every year, 150 students complete their placements overseas.

Scholarship

Given below are a few Loughborough University Scholarships you should consider applying: 

 

Scholarship Name

Eligibility

Benefits

Excellence Scholarship 

For all international postgraduate students. 

20% of fees

International scholarships

Only for international undergraduate students 

Varies

Sport Scholarship 

For undergraduate and postgraduate students. 

Up to £5,000 per year

Alumni Bursary 

International postgraduate students. 

10% of tuition fees covered. 

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 Loughborough University . For Indian students, UniCreds is the ideal abroad education loan marketplace if you’re looking for low-interest rates and free consultation services!

Accommodation

There are several student accommodations in Loughborough near Loughborough University that are fully equipped for your needs. Student accommodation near Loughborough 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

Many students move to Loughborough due to the excellent student life. In addition to offering a wide range of universities, and many other aspects such as dining options, entertainment options, and shopping, the bustling market town are everything a student could ask for and more. To enjoy this beautiful city, there are many things a student must consider while moving abroad like living expenses. Here is a breakdown of the cost of living in Loughborough for students to have an estimate of how much it will cost then per month while living in Loughborough -

 

 

Particulars

Cost (Monthly)

Off-Campus Accommodation 

£ 531

On-Campus Accommodation

£ 720

Transportation

£ 64

Food Cost

£ 420

Entertainment

£ 40

Groceries

£ 108

Clothes

£ 70

Total Cost of Living with Off Campus Accommodation 

£ 1,233

Total Cost of Living with On Campus Accommodation 

£ 1,422

Annual Cost of Living

£ 14,796

FAQs