SOAS University of London

Overview

SOAS University of London UK was established in 1916 and has established a good reputation in teaching and research based on Asia, Africa and Middle East. It is situated in the central part of London and provides an intellectual environment that is appealing to students worldwide.

The university is particularly respected for its critical thinking approach, interdisciplinary teaching model, and socially engaged research.

For international students looking to study in the UK, SOAS offers small class sizes, expert faculty, and a diverse campus community representing over 130 nationalities.

Highlights

Acceptance Rate: 44%

Total International Students: 5,500+ (from 135+ countries)

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1

Placement Percentage: 90%

SOAS University of London Rankings

When exploring universities to study in the UK, rankings play an important role in understanding academic reputation and global recognition.

SOAS University of London rankings consistently highlight its strength as a specialist institution, particularly in social sciences, humanities, and regional studies focused on Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

Here are the updated SOAS University of London rankings across various agencies:

Ranking Agency	Rank
U.S. News & World Report	1667 in Best Global Universities 541 in Best Global Universities in Europe 89 in Best Global Universities in the United Kingdom
QS World University	=511 in Top Global Universities
Times Higher Education (THE) World University	401 – 500 in World University Ranking =82 for Arts & Humanities 126 – 150 for Law 101 – 125 for Social Sciences 201 – 250 for Business & Economics

SOAS University of London Intakes

As an international student planning to study a Bachelor’s or Master’s in the UK, it is important to know the academic intakes. SOAS University of London mainly has one main annual entry, and other entry points are few and dependent on the course and degree level.

Students interested in how to apply to SOAS University of London should prepare academic documents, English test scores, and personal statements well in advance.

International students are encouraged to apply early, as SOAS University of London application deadlines can vary by course and fill up quickly due to limited seats.

Fall Intake: The September intake aka Fall, is the primary and most popular entry point for students enrolling in undergraduate programs at SOAS University of London. For postgraduate applicants, this intake offers the largest selection of programs.
Spring Intake: The January intake aka Spring, is available for a small number of postgraduate programs at SOAS University of London, mainly at the master’s level. Undergraduate availability during this intake is extremely limited, so students aiming for UG programs, are strongly encouraged to apply for the September intake.
Summer Intake: A few short courses and part-time postgraduate options may offer alternative start dates depending on the department.

SOAS University of London Courses

For international students exploring courses to study in the UK, SOAS University of London offers a distinctive academic portfolio focused on global regions, cultures, languages, and critical social sciences.

The popular programs at SOAS University of London include degrees in International Relations, Development Studies, Economics, Law, Politics, and a wide range of Asian, African, and Middle Eastern language programs.

Tuition fees at SOAS University of London vary by program and level of study, with international undergraduate and postgraduate fees differing based on course structure and duration.

Some of the top courses at SOAS University of London are as follows:

Program	Duration	Total Tuition Fees
MSc Politics and International Relations	1 Year	£25,320
MSc Global Development	1 Year	£25,320
MSc Economics	1 Year	£25,320
MA Religion, Politics and Society	1 Year	£25,320
MA History of Art and Archaeology	1 Year	£25,320
MA Global Media and Digital Communications	1 Year	£25,320
LLM International Law	1 Year (2 – 3 Years Part-time)	£27,840

Cost of Studying at SOAS University of London

The cost of studying includes tuition, accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses. As London is a major global city, living costs are higher than in other UK regions.

Understanding the overall cost of education in the UK helps international students plan finances realistically while benefiting from world-class education and career exposure.

Below is the estimated cost of studying at SOAS University of London:

Expense Type	Estimated Cost
UG Tuition Fees	£18,000 – £23,000/year
PG Tuition Fees	£19,000 – £26,000/year
Accommodation	£8,000 – £12,000/year
Food	£200 – £300/month
Travel	£120 – £160/month
General Expenses	£150 – £250/month

SOAS University of London Scholarships

SOAS University of London scholarships are designed to support talented students from diverse backgrounds, including several options for international applicants.

Students may also explore SOAS University of London merit-based scholarships and external funding options as part of broader opportunities for a scholarship to study in the UK.

Some of the top scholarships at the SOAS University of London for international students are as follows:

Scholarship	Value	Details
SOAS Master’s Scholarship	£8,000 (Fee waiver)	Awarded to international students pursuing PG degree at university
Undergraduate International Academic Excellence Scholarship	£5,000	Awarded to international students pursuing UG degree at university
The University of London Scholars Programme	£10,000	Awarded to international students pursuing degree at university

SOAS University of London Admission

Understanding the eligibility to study at SOAS University of London is an important step for international students planning to pursue higher education in the UK.

English proficiency for SOAS University of London is mandatory for all international applicants whose first language is not English.

The admission requirements for SOAS University of London are as follows:

Masters

Admission Requirements:

To get admission to Master’s program, students must have a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 60% or equivalent to a UK 2:2 honours degree.

English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:

TOEFL iBT – 95
IELTS – 6.5
PTE – 65
Duolingo – 120

Additional Requirements:

You will also be needed to provide academic transcripts, reference, personal statement, CV, work experience (if required), and English language proficiency scores.

Bachelors

Admission Requirements:

For admission to Bachelor’s in UK, students are required to have a high school diploma or equivalent.

English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:

TOEFL iBT – 95
IELTS – 6.5
PTE – 65
Duolingo – 120

Additional Requirements:

You will also be needed to provide academic transcripts, reference, personal statement, CV, and English language proficiency scores.

Accommodation at SOAS University of London

Housing at SOAS University of London includes access to University of London halls of residence and private accommodation options across London, giving students flexibility based on budget and lifestyle.

On-Campus: On-campus accommodation for SOAS students is offered through University of London intercollegiate halls rather than a single SOAS-owned residence. Popular halls include Dinwiddy House, Paul Robeson House, Garden Halls, and International Hall, all located within reasonable travel distance of the Bloomsbury campus.
Off-Campus: Off-campus accommodation is a common choice for students. Many students rent private apartments or shared housing in areas such as Camden, Islington, King’s Cross, and East London, which offer good transport links to campus.

SOAS University of London Placements

Although SOAS is not based on a classical campus placement model, the SOAS University of London placement rate shows high graduate employability in global areas of policy, development, law, finance, education and research.

Career support at SOAS University of London includes career counseling, employability workshops, internships guidance, and networking events tailored to international career paths.

The alumni network at SOAS University of London spans over 100,000 graduates across more than 190 countries. Students benefit from professional connections across international organizations, governments, and research institutions worldwide.

Some of the top recruiters at SOAS University of London are as follows:

United Nations (UN)
British Council
World Bank
Oxfam
Amnesty International
PwC
Deloitte
HSBC
BBC
UK Civil Service

Student Essential Services

Student life at SOAS University of London is culturally rich and intellectually engaging, with numerous student societies, language clubs, and academic events reflecting its global focus.

The university provides dedicated international student support at SOAS University of London, helping students adjust to academic life, cultural transitions, and visa-related matters.

SOAS Student Services Centre: The main hub of help when it comes to enrolment, the UK student visa advice, letters of attendance and other academic inquiries, particularly pertinent when international students are struggling with UK regulations.
SOAS Library: One of the most significant libraries in the world in the field of Asia, Africa and Middle East with wide digital resources, rare archives, and specialized research assistance.
Wellbeing and Counselling Services: Provides confidential mental health support, wellbeing workshops, and short-term counselling, with experience supporting international and postgraduate students.
SOAS Students’ Union (SU): Governing body of students, organises cultural societies, language groups and regional associations as the university has a global academic emphasis.

Location of SOAS University of London

Frequently Asked Questions

Does SOAS support international students before arrival?

Yes. After an offer is received, SOAS has pre-arrival advice on visas, enrolment processes, accommodation reservations and travel arrangements. Special messages are also sent to the international students to prepare them to live and study in London.

Can international students work part-time while studying at SOAS?

Most international students on a UK Student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations. SOAS Careers Service also shares part-time job listings and advises students on working legally in the UK.

How diverse is the student community at SOAS?

SOAS has one of the most diverse student populations in the UK, with students from over 135 countries. This diversity is reflected in classrooms, societies, events, and everyday campus life, creating a truly global learning environment.

Does SOAS help with adapting to UK academic culture?

Yes, SOAS offers academic skills workshops, writing support, and study guidance tailored to international students who may be new to the UK education system.

Does SOAS feel like a small or large university?

SOAS feels like a small, close-knit academic community despite being in central London. Students often recognize classmates and lecturers, which helps build strong academic relationships.

What makes SOAS different from other UK universities?

This focus of SOAS on global regions, languages, and international issues is what distinguishes it among generalist universities and provides niche expertise that can be difficult to find elsewhere.

What is a typical day like for a SOAS student?

A typical day may include 1-3 lectures or seminars, library study time, group discussions, and independent reading. Many students spend significant time at the SOAS Library or nearby British Library due to research-heavy coursework.

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