University of Leeds

The University of Leeds, established in 1874, is a prestigious public research university in West Yorkshire, England. As a member of the esteemed Russell Group, it is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and pioneering research that addresses global challenges. With a vibrant student community and a diverse range of programmes, the university attracts over 67,000 undergraduate applications annually, making it one of the most famous institutions in the UK. The University of Leeds boasts a rich history and a forward-thinking approach, preparing students to make impactful contributions to society.

Gaining admission at this esteemed university requires detailed documentation showcasing your academic and extracurricular achievements, which UniScholars can help you deliver. Our free assistance includes counselling and helping you find the perfect accommodation. 

 

Things To Consider Before Applying

The starting point to applying to your favourable university is understanding the finances and the documents required for admission, qualification for the course of your choice, eligibility and selection criteria. Read more about this below:

 

Entry Requirements

The University of Leeds entry requirements for international students are specific and vary depending on the level of study and the chosen programme. However, they are usually similar to most universities and courses worldwide. 

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

• A-Levels: AAA-ABB, depending on the programme. Some courses may require specific subjects.
• International Baccalaureate: 36-32 points overall, with 16-14 points at higher level.
• BTEC Extended Diploma: D*DD-DDM, depending on the programme. Some courses may require specific units.

For Indian Students

• Standard XII: 85-90% overall from CBSE/ICSE boards. State board requirements vary.
• English Language: IELTS 6.0 overall with 5.5 in each component or equivalent.

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree: 2:1 (60-69%) or 2:2 (50-59%) depending on the programme. Some courses may require a specific degree subject.
• English Language: IELTS 6.5 overall with 6.0 in each component or equivalent.

English Language Requirements

• IELTS: 6.0-6.5 overall, with 5.5-6.0 in each component, depending on the programme.
• TOEFL iBT: 80-100 overall with specified minimum scores in each section.
• PTE Academic: 55-60 overall, with 51-54 in each component.
• CAE/CPE: 169-176 overall, with 162 in each component.

Additional Requirements

• Personal Statement: Required for all applications.
• References: One academic reference is required for most programmes.
• Interviews: May be required for some courses.

The university also offers foundation and pre-sessional English programmes for students who don't meet the direct entry requirements. Advanced entry may be possible with some international qualifications. 

 

Documents

Applicants must submit several vital documents to apply to the University of Leeds as part of their application process. These include an original transcript of records in English or a certified English translation, which is essential for all students. Additionally, a description of the grading system at the applicant's home university is required to help the university understand the academic context of the transcript. Proof of meeting the English language requirements is also necessary; this can include IELTS scores or equivalent qualifications. 

Applicants must provide a copy of the information page of their passport or identity card, especially for international students, to assist with UK immigration guidance. A portfolio of work may also be required for those applying to specific programmes, such as music or fine arts. Furthermore, postgraduate applicants may need to submit their degree certificates, academic transcripts from previous studies, and potentially a personal statement and references. 

 

Eligibility

The University of Leeds's eligibility criteria for all applicants is that they must meet specific academic and English language requirements based on their level of study.

Undergraduate Eligibility Requirements

• Academic Qualifications: Applicants typically need A-Level grades ranging from AAA to ABB, depending on the programme. International Baccalaureate students should aim for 36-32 points, with specific subject requirements. For Indian students, a minimum of 85-90% in Class XII is generally required.
• English Language Proficiency: For undergraduate programmes, a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 is required, with no component lower than 5.5. Alternative qualifications, such as TOEFL or PTE, are also accepted.

Postgraduate Eligibility Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree: A recognised undergraduate degree with a classification of 2:1 (60-69%) or 2:2 (50-59%), depending on the programme. Specific courses may require a related degree subject.
• English Language Proficiency: For postgraduate programmes, a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 is required, with no component lower than 6.0. Other accepted tests include the TOEFL and PTE.

Additional Considerations

• Personal Statement: A well-crafted personal statement is essential for undergraduate and postgraduate applications to demonstrate motivation and suitability for the chosen course.
• References: Applicants must provide references, typically one for undergraduate and two for postgraduate applications.
• Portfolio or Interview: Certain programmes, especially in creative fields, may require a portfolio of work or an interview.

The University of Leeds aims to attract a diverse range of students and encourages applicants to check specific course requirements for any additional eligibility criteria.

 

How To Apply At University Of Leeds?

When it comes to executing the first step of achieving your dreams, you must apply to the University of Leeds. The process may vary based on your programme and intake, but the general process remains consistent. Follow the below steps for a successful application.

Category	Steps
Undergraduate Applicants	- Apply through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service)
	- Complete the UCAS application form accurately
	- Include all required information in the application
	- Note that additional documents cannot be submitted with the UCAS application
	- Provide a copy of the UCAS application along with relevant academic certificates and extracurricular achievements
Postgraduate Applicants	- Apply directly through the University of Leeds online application portal
	- No application fee is required
	- Prepare to upload supporting documents:
	- Academic transcripts
	- English language proficiency evidence
	- Personal statement
	- References
	- Additional materials such as a CV or portfolio may be required depending on the course
General Application Process	- Applications are typically processed within six to eight weeks, though this may vary
	- Notifications regarding application outcomes will be sent via email and through the applicant portal

 

Deadlines

It is essential to follow the admission procedure as instructed by the university. Similarly, the University Of Leeds deadlines are crucial and particular. Refer to the following pointers to find the critical events and their respective dates for undergraduate applicants in the fall and spring semesters.

Undergraduate Deadlines

• UCAS Application Deadline: January 31 for most courses
• October 16: UCAS application deadline for all medicine, dentistry and veterinary medicine/science programmes

Postgraduate Deadlines

• Staged Admissions Process: The university operates a staged admissions process for postgraduate courses with selection deadlines throughout the year

Stage	Application Deadline
1	December 14
2	March 1
3	April 19
4 (Final international deadline)	June 27
5 (Final UK deadline)	August 16

• Deadline for meeting offer conditions: August 9, 23:59 UK time

Accommodation Deadlines

• Application Deadline: July 1  (July 31 for postgraduate students) for accommodation in September
• Unconditional offer deadline: July 11 for allocation of accommodation

 

Decision Dates

The University of Leeds’ decision dates are six to eight weeks after receiving all required documents. However, processing times may vary due to the volume of applications. Decision dates are organised into rounds based on the department for specific graduate programmes. Here are some key decision dates for various schools:

Decision Dates by School/Department

1. Business School:

• Round 2: April 10
• Round 3: May 17
• Round 4: July 12

2. School of Civil Engineering/Computing/Electrical Engineering/Mathematics:

• Round 2: May 3
• Round 3: May 31
• Round 4: July 26

3. School of Law:

• Round 3: April 12
• Round 4: May 17
• Round 5: July 12

4. School of Media and Communication/Design:

• Round 2: April 26
• Round 3: July 12

 

University Of Leeds Selection Criteria

The selection criteria for the University of Leeds focus on a comprehensive evaluation of applicants based on several key factors:
 

• Academic Qualifications: Applicants must provide evidence of their academic achievements, including high school diplomas or undergraduate degrees. For postgraduate programmes, a minimum of 55-65% aggregate is typically required for honours degrees.
• Test Scores: Depending on the programme, standardised test scores such as ACT, SAT, or GMAT may be required, particularly for competitive courses like the MBA.
• English Language Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through tests such as IELTS or TOEFL, with specific score requirements varying by programme.
• Personal Statement: A personal statement is required. It allows applicants to articulate their motivations, experiences, and how the programme aligns with their career aspirations.
• References: At least two letters of recommendation (LORs) are required for postgraduate applications, typically from academic or professional referees who can speak to the applicant's abilities.
• Interviews: Some programmes may require interviews, which can be conducted in various formats, including in-person, online, or via telephone.
• Work Experience: Relevant work experience may enhance an applicant's profile, particularly for professional courses.

 

The University Of Leeds Acceptance Rate

The University of Leeds has an acceptance rate of around 77%, which means it maintains a moderately selective admission process. This indicates that while strong academic credentials are essential, a well-rounded application can significantly improve chances of admission.

 

Fees

The tuition fees at the University of Leeds vary depending on the level of study and the programme chosen. International students can expect to pay between £24,000 and £30,000 per year for undergraduate courses. Postgraduate tuition fees range from £30,000 to £37,000 annually. Additionally, on-campus accommodation costs vary, with self-catered options priced between £107 and £238 per week and catered options between £187 and £254 per week.

Students should also budget for living expenses, estimated at around £1,023 per month. This budget covers accommodation, food, utilities, and other miscellaneous costs. The university offers several scholarships, including the International Excellence Scholarship, which can provide up to a 50% tuition fee reduction for eligible students.