London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
Overview
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) in London, UK, is a global top university in social sciences. It was established in 1895 and is internationally rated as a school of excellence in economics, politics, law, sociology and management.
With students from more than 150 nations, choosing to study at LSE in UK means joining a diverse and highly international academic community.
Known for its research-driven teaching, LSE offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs that prepare students for impactful careers in government, finance, law, and international organizations. It is located centrally in London, which offers excellent real-life learning and career networking.
LSE is one of the best places to be in case one wants to undertake a Bachelor or a Master’s in UK, with strict academics, international reputation, and excellent career guidance.
Highlights
Acceptance Rate: 8% – 10%
Total International Students: 70% (from 140+ countries)
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Placement Percentage: 91%
London School of Economics and Political Science Rankings
Students looking into LSE rankings will find that the university is regularly placed among the top institutions worldwide in its specialist fields.
Choosing to study at LSE in UK offers the advantage of being part of a university recognized globally for shaping leaders, policymakers, and professionals, making its position in the rankings a key reason why it stands out among other universities to study in UK.
Here are the updated LSE rankings across various agencies:
| Ranking Agency | Rank |
|---|---|
| U.S. News & World Report |
|
| QS World University | 56 in Top Global Universities |
| Times Higher Education (THE) World University |
|
London School of Economics and Political Science Intakes
The LSE intakes are meant to be flexible to students, especially international students who are planning their studies.
Having the primary intake in September and the few choices in January depending on the courses available, students are able to select the schedule that fits their objectives and preparation.
These intakes ensure that students have the opportunity to start their studies at a time that works best for their academic and personal plans.
- September Intake: This is the largest intake at the LSE, covering nearly all undergraduate programs at LSE and the majority of postgraduate programs.
- January Intake: A smaller intake option is available for a few selected postgraduate programs at LSE, especially in areas where flexible entry is offered.
Tip: Submitting your application before the LSE application deadlines significantly increases the chances of securing scholarships, on-campus housing, and ensuring timely visa approvals.
London School of Economics and Political Science Courses
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) offers a wide range of programs in economics, politics, law, sociology, and finance, making it one of the top destinations to study in UK.
Choosing one of the popular programs at LSE not only provides academic excellence but also strong career outcomes, making the investment worthwhile.
Some of the top courses at the London School of Economics and Political Science are as follows:
| Program | Duration | Total Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|
| MSc Economics | 10 Months | £39,000 |
| MSc International Relations | 1 Year | £30,900 |
| Master of Laws LLM | 1 Year | £38,000 |
| MSc Data Science | 1 Year | £38,000 |
| MSc Accounting and Finance | 10 Months | £38,000 |
| MA Modern History | 1 Year | £28,900 |
| Master of Public Policy | 9 Months | £43,100 |
Cost of Studying at London School of Economics and Political Science
The overall cost of studying at LSE in London includes tuition plus living expenses. The cost of education in UK is higher in London compared to other cities, but the opportunities outweigh the costs.
Students should budget around £1,200 – £1,600 per month for accommodation, food, travel, and study materials. Here is an overview of the estimated expenses for international students at LSE:
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| UG Tuition Fees | £27,500 – £34,000/year |
| PG Tuition Fees | £28,900 – £48,500/year |
| Accommodation | £10,730 – £14,443/year |
| Food | £100 – £300/month |
| Travel | £100 – £150/month |
| General Expenses | £1,300 – £1,500/month |
London School of Economics and Political Science Scholarships
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) provides a wide range of financial support to help students manage the overall cost of education in UK.
Several scholarships at LSE for international students are available. LSE participates in external funding options like the Chevening Scholarship, giving students multiple pathways while pursuing a Bachelor’s in UK or a Master’s.
Some of the top LSE scholarships are as follows:
| Scholarship | Value | Details |
|---|---|---|
| LSE Undergraduate Support Scheme | Between £15,000 and £25,000 per year | Awarded to students pursuing a UG program at LSE |
| Rajeeb Mukherjee Memorial Scholarship | £9,000 towards tuition fees | Awarded to students from Bangladesh, Canada, or India |
| Taught Master’s Scholarship for International Students | £41,666 towards the tuition fees and living costs | Awarded to students from India, Europe, and Latin America |
| LSE Graduate Support Scheme (GSS) | £5,000 to £15,000 | Awarded to students pursuing a PG program at LSE |
London School of Economics and Political Science Admission
The admission requirements for LSE are among the most competitive in the UK, reflecting the university’s global reputation for excellence.
When considering LSE application deadlines, it is important to note that all undergraduate programs at LSE must be applied to through UCAS. For postgraduate programs at LSE, applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but places fill quickly, so applying early is strongly recommended.
Meeting the eligibility to study at LSE often requires A-levels, IB, or equivalent qualifications with top grades. The admission requirements are as follows:
Admission Requirements:
For admission to the Master’s program, students must have a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 3.3 CGPA or equivalent to a UK Bachelor’s degree.
English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:
- TOEFL iBT – 100 – 109
- IELTS – 7.0 – 7.5
- PTE – 70 – 78
- Cambridge C1 – 185 – 191
Additional Requirements:
You are also required to submit academic transcripts, statement of academic purpose, references, CV, and English language proficiency scores.
Admission Requirements:
For admission to a Bachelor’s program, students are required to have a high school diploma or equivalent with a minimum of 80% or above.
English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:
- TOEFL iBT – 100
- IELTS – 7.0
- PTE – 70
- Cambridge C1 – 185
Additional Requirements:
You will also be required to submit academic transcripts, personal statement, teacher’s reference, and English language proficiency scores.
Accommodation at London School of Economics and Political Science
The housing at LSE offers students a variety of choices, including university-managed halls of residence and privately rented options across central London.
Living in London also enhances the overall student life at LSE, with easy access to cultural attractions, student societies, and networking opportunities.
The university provides strong international student support at LSE, ensuring that students find suitable housing while settling into a new city.
- On-Campus: LSE offers a range of halls of residence in central London, including LSE Rosebery Hall, Bankside House, Robeson House, Sidney Webb House, and High Holborn Residence with costs range from £200 – £380 per week
- Off-Campus: Many students choose private rentals across London, often in areas like Bloomsbury, Clerkenwell, and Camden, which are close to the university. Off-campus housing at LSE offers more independence, though average rents range between £700 – £1,200 per month, depending on location and amenities.
London School of Economics and Political Science Placements
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) placement rate is among the strongest in the UK, with a large majority of graduates employed or pursuing further study within six months of graduation.
The dedicated career support at LSE includes tailored career advice, skills workshops, employer networking events, and internship opportunities with leading global organizations.
The larger alumni network at LSE that counts Nobel laureates, businesspeople and policymakers offers students with great mentorship and international career networks.
- Goldman Sachs
- J.P. Morgan
- McKinsey & Company
- Deloitte
- PwC
- Bank of England
- United Nations
- EY
- Barclays
Student Essential Services
The LSE student life is supplemented by a vast array of valuable services that are intended to aid students in achieving academic, social, and personal success.
With specialized international student support services to wellbeing provision and academic advising, the university guarantees that all students feel supported during their process in LSE.
- Student Wellbeing Service: LSE offers counselling, disability support, and mental health resources to the students. One-to-one appointment is also available to students.
- LSE Students’ Union: The LSE Students’ Union hosts over 250 clubs and societies, from academic societies, sports teams to cultural and professional groups.
- International Student Support at LSE: Dedicated teams assist with visas, banking, healthcare, and cultural adjustment.
- Academic Support at LSE: Elite facilities are provided through libraries, writing workshops and research support centres. There are also academic advisors and tutors who will give guidance.
Location of London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
Frequently Asked Questions
International students require a UK Student visa (formerly Tier 4) to study at LSE. You can apply once you receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the university. The visa requires proof of tuition fee payment, financial stability to cover living expenses, and evidence of English proficiency for LSE.
London offers a wide range of student discounts on travel, shopping, and entertainment:
- 18+ Oyster Card (travel discount)
- UNiDAYS (shopping & food offers)
- ISIC Card (international discounts)
Yes, students on a UK Student visa can usually work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. Many LSE students take up part-time jobs in retail, hospitality, or on-campus roles. However, it’s important to prioritize academics, as UG and PG programs at LSE are academically demanding.
LSE has one of the highest proportions of international students in the UK, with more than 70% of its student population coming from outside the UK. Students represent over 140 nationalities, making it an ideal place to study in UK while experiencing a truly global environment.
Yes, LSE has a dedicated platform for student entrepreneurs called LSE Generate. They offer:
- Funding competitions for start-ups
- Mentoring programs
- Networking with investors and alumni
Yes, the housing at LSE guarantees accommodation for all first-year undergraduate students who apply before the deadline. Options include catered and self-catered halls across central London. For postgraduates, places are allocated on a first-come-first-served basis, though many also choose private rentals nearby.
London is generally safe for students, though, like any big city, it’s important to be mindful of personal safety. LSE is located in central London, with campus security and 24/7 assistance. Students also receive safety briefings during orientation.
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