Universities in the UK are globally renowned for their international outlook and have a strong international community of students and teachers from all over the world. UK universities offer a diverse learning environment and are famous for providing outstanding student experiences. An ever-increasing number of international students apply to study bachelor's or master's degree programmes at the UK's most international universities each year.
The Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025, one of the most acclaimed university league tables in the UK and the world, releases its 'Most International ' ranking each year. Learn more about the top 10 most international UK universities below, and if you wish to begin your application to study in the UK, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK India today.
Most International Universities in the UK | Top 10
The Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025, one of the most acclaimed university league tables in the UK and the world, releases its Most International University Rankings each year. These rankings provide information on international student scores, international staff scores, international co-authorship scores, and international reputation metrics.
1. University of Oxford
The University of Oxford is not only one of the best universities to study in the UK but is considered the best university in the world (THE 2025). It is also the world's oldest English university. Oxford comprises 44 colleges and over 100 libraries. Over one-third of Oxford’s student body is international, with 10,000 students from 150 countries and territories.
The university offers various degree programmes in humanities, mathematics, physical and life sciences, medical sciences, and social sciences for bachelor's and master’s level study in the UK. With a distinct reputation for cutting-edge research, Oxford University has a strong international profile and significant international impact through international research collaborations and global partnerships. Oxford students enjoy substantial support for international internships, study abroad exchange programmes and independent research.
- THE Global Ranking: 1st
2. University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge offers many courses and has a reputation for intellectual achievement and groundbreaking research. Each year, the university attracts thousands of international students worldwide for courses in Arts and Humanities, Biological Sciences, Clinical Medicine, Humanities and Social Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Technology. Cambridge is a global community, with 25% of undergraduates from outside the UK.
- THE Global Ranking: 5th
3. Imperial College London
Imperial College London is a public research university in the UK ranked in the world's top 10 universities and as the most international university in the UK. Established in 1907 by royal charter, Imperial College exclusively focuses on science, technology, medicine, and business courses.
Imperial has a strong international community, with more than 59% of its students from outside of the UK representing over 140 different countries. It has several affiliations and international partnerships with reputable global institutions such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology to provide its students with global education and excellent exchange programmes for students and academic staff with the world’s best institutions.
- THE Global Ranking: 9th
4. University College London
University College London is an innovative place to study, attracting talented students and staff from over 150 different countries. Founded in 1826, it was the first university in England to admit women on equal terms as men. UCL is ranked in the global top 10 (QS World University Rankings) and is highly acclaimed for its research strength. Situated in the heart of London, UCL comprises 11 faculties across various disciplines with state-of-the-art facilities.
Around 53% of its student population is international, and it is also the first British university to open a campus in Doha, Qatar. UCL also has a presence in Adelaide, South Australia and is a truly global university with courses focussed on internationally relevant topics.
- THE Global Ranking: 22nd
5. University of Edinburgh
Established in 1583, the University of Edinburgh (UoE) is the sixth oldest English-speaking university. It comprises three colleges and 20 academic schools. With around 35,000 students, it excels in the arts, humanities, social sciences, science, engineering, medicine, and veterinary medicine. The College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine is globally renowned.
Edinburgh is a global hub for international students, with a diverse community, notably China and the United States. It promotes global experiences through the Go Abroad Fund, encouraging students to study or work abroad. With a robust research budget exceeding £200 million, UoE boasts affiliations with 20 Nobel laureates, including Darwin, Hume, Bell, and Conan Doyle, making it a prestigious and inclusive institution for learning and exploration.
- THE Global Ranking: 29th
6. King’s College London
King’s College London is a leading UK university in the heart of London known for its large variety of undergraduate and postgraduate study level programmes. KCL is the most central university with five campuses in the capital city of London and is home to a diverse community of 30,000 students from 150 countries.
KCL is one of the top UK universities for graduate employability. Students benefit from its global connections and reputation with employers, universities and organisations from different sectors, including government, business, industry, sports and culture. The University’s international partnerships provide a stimulating learning environment.
- THE Global Ranking: 36th
7. London School of Economics and Political Science
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) is a leading global university focusing on social sciences such as economics, politics, law, and sociology. Founded in the late 1800s, it originated with a mission to address societal issues and analyse inequalities. With a rich history and central London location, LSE has ties to 16 Nobel Prize winners and 37 world leaders among its alumni, fostering a legacy of academic excellence.
Boasting a diverse student body of 9,600 from 140 countries, LSE is a hub for international collaboration, with partnerships worldwide, making it an exceptional choice for students seeking a global perspective in the heart of one of the world's most vibrant cities.
- THE Global Ranking: 50th
8. University of Manchester
The University of Manchester, a global education leader, excels in research and social responsibility. Pioneering social responsibility integration, it topped the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, ranking first in Europe and second globally among 1,705 universities in 2023. A historic institution with 25 Nobel laureates, including graphene pioneers Novoselov and Geim, Manchester's research spans computers, economics, and healthcare.
Recognised in the Research Excellence Framework, 93% of its research is 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent.' With a diverse student body of 44,000 from 190 countries, the university invests in inclusive, global education, reflected in its four global centres. Manchester, a celebrated city, fosters an enriching academic environment at its city-centre campus.
- THE Global Ranking: 53rd
9. University of Bristol
The University of Bristol is a dynamic institution recognised globally for its academic excellence and commitment to sustainability. Over 27% of its students come from outside the UK, representing more than 150 countries. Bristol supports its international community with initiatives like the Think Big Scholarship programme, investing up to £6 million annually in scholarships for talented students.
The university excels in research, with particular strengths in environmental studies, engineering, and health sciences. It was the first UK university to declare a climate emergency, highlighting its dedication to addressing global challenges. Located in one of Europe’s most vibrant cities, the university offers a supportive student environment with over 350 clubs and societies, fostering cultural exchange and a rich campus life.
- THE Global Ranking: 78th
10. University of Glasgow
The University of Glasgow is a world-renowned institution with a diverse student body hailing from over 140 countries. It is celebrated for its research output, with particular strengths in engineering, medicine, and social sciences. The university has an international outlook, fostering collaborations with institutions worldwide, and supports its global students through scholarships like the International Leadership Scholarships.
Glasgow’s commitment to sustainability and innovation is evident in its Green Gown Award-winning initiatives. Set in Scotland’s largest city, the university combines a historic campus with modern facilities, providing an enriching experience for its students. Its vibrant city life and strong global connections make it an attractive destination for international students.
- THE Global Ranking: 87th
Study at a UK University
The UK is home to the world’s best global universities with innovative and internationally relevant degree programmes and a vibrant community of students and staff worldwide. Arrange a free consultation today with SI-UK India if you wish to learn more or begin your application.
I sincerely thank SI-UK for getting me accepted to UCL. The MSc in Urban Development and Planning is extremely competitive, but the right guidance provided by SI-UK made my dream of studying at University College London a reality. The services were exceptional from beginning to end. 
