【英國名牌大學】Top 10 Prestigious Universities: Comprehensive Overview of 2025 Application Requirements and Tuition Fees
With the rapid development of global education standards, numerous prestigious universities in the UK continue to attract a large number of international students with their outstanding academic reputation and diverse campus life.
If you are considering studying in the UK in 2025, don’t miss this introduction. Ascent Prep will provide you with essential information on the top 10 prestigious universities in the UK (including members of the Russell Group and G5), covering application requirements, tuition fees, and more, to help you create a more comprehensive study abroad plan.
First, let's take a look at the QS University Rankings for the UK in 2025:
| UK Rankings | Universities |
| 1 | Imperial College London |
| 2 | University of Oxford |
| 3 | University of Cambridge |
| 4 | University College London (UCL) |
| 5 | University of Edinburgh |
| 6 | University of Manchester |
| 7 | King's College London |
| 8 | London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) |
| 9 | University of Bristol |
| 10 | University of Warwick |
Many are likely already familiar with prestigious universities in the UK, such as the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge (collectively known as Oxbridge).
These two universities are renowned not only for their long history and outstanding academic reputation but also as ideal institutions for students around the world.
However, in addition to these two famous higher education institutions, the UK is home to several other strong and promising universities.
Whether in the fields of science, business, literature, or social sciences, these universities stand out for their excellent teaching and research.
Next will introduce these prestigious UK universities one by one, helping you find the most suitable place to unleash personal potential among the many options available!
1. Imperial College London
Imperial College London is a public research university located in London, UK, and is a member of the elite G5 group of universities.
It is composed of four main faculties: the Faculty of Engineering, the Faculty of Medicine, the Faculty of Natural Sciences, and the Business School.
The university fosters collaboration among different disciplines by integrating business courses into the sciences and providing scientific education for business students, continually evolving, progressing, and innovating.
Application Requirements
The academic requirements for admission to Imperial College London vary by subject, and specific standards are typically based on the chosen program.
Generally, HKDSE candidates need to achieve grades of 5 to 5*, while A-Level candidates are required to obtain grades of AAA - A*A*A. Certain competitive programs, such as Medicine and Engineering, may demand higher academic standards.
For more details by subject, please refer to https://www.imperial.ac.uk/study/courses/.
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees at Imperial College London differ for various programs, with specific amounts depending on the selected subject and discipline.
Particularly in popular fields such as Medicine, Business, and Engineering, the tuition fees can be quite high, so it's important to pay close attention when planning your budget.
Details about tuition fees for each program can be found at https://www.imperial.ac.uk/students/fees-and-funding/tuition-fees/undergraduate-tuition-fees/2024-25/.
For a more detailed introduction, please click here - Introduction to Imperial College: 2025 Admission Guidelines and Popular Subjects
2. University of Oxford
The University of Oxford, located in Oxford, England, is a research university that has been teaching since 1096, making it the oldest university in the English-speaking world and the second oldest continuously operating university in the world.
The university currently offers around 250 undergraduate courses and over 300 postgraduate courses, attracting more than 202,000 students, with approximately 40% coming from around the globe.
Application Requirements
- HKDSE: Mathematics must be at level 4; English must be at level 5; three elective subjects must achieve grades of 555 or higher (depending on the chosen discipline). M1 or M2 can be counted as one of the elective subjects.
- OR IB: 38 to 40 points.
- OR A-Level: AAA - A*A*A.
- IELTS: A score of 7.0 or above, with no individual component below 6.5.
Most programs require additional entrance tests such as AHCAAT, BMSAT, CAT, HAT, MAT, MLAT, PAT, PhilAT, TSA, LNAT, or UCAT.
Tuition Fees
The average estimated annual tuition fees for courses at Oxford range from £26,770 to £46,730.
In addition to tuition fees, students also need to consider living expenses, accommodation fees, and other miscellaneous costs.
It is beneficial for students and their families to be aware of these expenses in advance to facilitate informed financial planning and targeted preparation.
For a more detailed introduction, please click here - Introduction to Oxford University: 2025 Admission Guidelines and Popular Subjects
3. University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge is a public research university located in Cambridge, England, founded in 1209. It is the third oldest university in continuous operation in the world.
As one of the most prestigious elite universities, Cambridge often ranks alongside the University of Oxford in various global rankings, collectively referred to as "Oxbridge," and leads other universities in the UK.
Application Requirements
- HKDSE: Students need to achieve a minimum of 5 in core subjects, with one or two elective subjects requiring a score of 5*.
- OR IB: 40 to 42 points.
- OR A-Level: A*AA or above.
- IELTS: A score of 7.5 or above, with no individual component below 7.0.
Most programs require additional entrance tests such as ESAT, CSAT, TMUA, LNAT, or UCAT.
Tuition Fees
For international students, tuition fees at the University of Cambridge range from approximately £25,734 to £67,194 per year, depending on the chosen subject.
When selecting a university and program, students should not only consider the tuition costs but also evaluate other expenses such as materials, accommodation, and daily living costs.
For more detailed information, please click here - Introduction to University of Cambridge: 2025 Admission Guidelines and Popular Subjects
Thinking of starting to prepare for your university application only when submitting it? That's too late! Laying a solid academic foundation in advance can help students stand out in their A-Level studies.
The A-Level tutoring courses offered by Ascent Prep can help students master key subject areas, with tutors hailing from world-renowned institutions such as Oxford and Cambridge, which are part of the G5 universities.
They can accurately assess students' knowledge gaps and impart the most valuable knowledge and study tips.
If your goal is to get into one of the prestigious Oxbridge universities, it's crucial not to miss the Oxbridge entrance exam preparation courses, as most subjects require additional entrance tests and interviews.
The tutors will conduct diagnostic tests to identify students' strengths and areas for improvement, thereby customizing the learning plan that best suits them.
By practicing past exam papers, students will become familiar with the format, question types, and difficulty levels, enabling them to encounter a variety of question types and enhance their performance in the entrance exams.
4. UCL
University College London (UCL) is a public research university and a member of the federal public research university system, ranking second in the G5 university alliance.
It is the second largest university in the UK by total enrollment and has the highest number of postgraduate enrollments.
UCL's main campus is located in Bloomsbury, central London, with several research institutes and teaching hospitals situated throughout the city, as well as a second campus—UCL East—located in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford, East London.
Admission Requirements
When students prepare to enter university, academic performance is exceptionally important. UCL has very high standards for applicants, requiring A-Level results to be between ABB and AAA, with specific requirements varying depending on the subject.
This not only tests academic ability but also reflects the student’s preparation in various areas, including their understanding of the chosen subject, concentration, and self-management skills.
For detailed academic requirements, students can refer to UCL's official admissions website: UCL Undergraduate Courses for comprehensive information on entry requirements and academic standards.
Tuition Fees
The tuition fees for international students at UCL vary by program, with some subjects outlined in the table below:
| Courses | 2025/2026 Tuition Fees for International Students |
| Law | £31,100 |
| Medicine | £34,400 |
| Engineering | £37,500 |
| Arts and Humanities | £29,800 - £33,000 |
| Mathematical and Physical Sciences | £36,500 - £39,800 |
For details on tuition fees for the 2025/2026 academic year, you can click on this link and select your desired subject to view the relevant costs.
For a more comprehensive introduction, please click here - Introduction to UCL: 2025 Admission Guidelines and Popular Subjects
5. University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh is a public research university located in Edinburgh, Scotland. It is one of the four ancient universities in Scotland and the sixth oldest university still in operation in the English-speaking world.
Edinburgh is the eighth largest university in the UK by enrollment, receiving over 69,000 undergraduate applications each year. The three major global university rankings (CUG, THE, and QS) consistently place the University of Edinburgh within the top 30.
In the Complete University Guide 2025, the university has successfully ranked in the top ten in 30 disciplines, renowned for its programs in Architecture, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Mathematics, Veterinary Medicine, and Medicine.
As a university with rigorous entry requirements, it has produced numerous influential figures across various fields, including James Gregory, who designed the first practical reflecting telescope; Peter D. Mitchell, who discovered the chemical mechanism of ATP synthesis; Ami Boué, who created the world's first geological map; and Doug Gurr, former global vice president at Amazon.
Admission Requirements
Except for Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, HKDSE candidates must achieve a score of 3 or above in four core subjects, or obtain a score of 3 or above in three core subjects along with a "pass" in the Citizenship and Social Development subject.
Additionally, candidates must achieve a score of 5 or above in three elective subjects to meet the university's academic requirements.
Tuition Fees
Overseas students planning to study a full year of courses will receive a £500 discount, making the 2025/26 annual tuition fee £24,000 after the reduction.
6. University of Manchester
The University of Manchester is a public research university renowned internationally for its groundbreaking research and innovation.
Its main campus is located south of the city center on Oxford Road. The university is the third largest in the UK by total enrollment, receiving over 92,000 undergraduate applications each year, making it one of the most popular universities in the UK.
It is a member of the Russell Group, the N8 Group, and the Association of American Universities.
According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, the University of Manchester is ranked 34th in the world and 6th in the UK.
Manchester is now the largest single-campus university in the UK and has strong capabilities in various fields including humanities, sciences, engineering, biology, medicine, and health, with 44 disciplines ranked in the top ten in the UK.
Additionally, the University of Manchester has consistently been one of the top choices among UK employers (as reported by High Fliers Research) and is placed within the top 50 globally for employability (QS Ranking), enjoying a strong reputation in this area.
The university boasts a total of 26 Nobel Prize winners among its past and present students and staff, ranking fourth among UK universities.
Notable alumni include John Dalton, who formulated modern atomic theory; Alan Turing, a founder of computer science and artificial intelligence; and Ludwig Wittgenstein, considered one of the most important philosophers of the 20th century.
The university is also known for its alumnus Benedict Cumberbatch, who portrayed Doctor Strange in the famous Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Admission Requirements
Different programs at the university have varying requirements for international students. Specific entry requirements can be found on the University of Manchester's official website.
IELTS scores also vary by program, typically ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. In addition to IELTS, the university also accepts IB Standard Level and IGCSE as English proficiency proof.
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees for international students vary depending on the program. You can refer to the university's course overview page or use the tuition fee search page for more information.
Additionally, the table below can be consulted for reference:
| Courses | 2025/2026 Tuition Fees for International Students |
| Accounting | £31,500 |
| Biomedicine | £34,500 |
| Dentistry | £36,500 |
| Medicine | £38,000 |
| Psychology | £32,500 |
| Aeronautical Engineering | £34,000 |
7. King's College London
King's College London (KCL) is a public research university located in London, United Kingdom. Established in 1829 by royal charter, KCL is a member of various academic organizations, including the Commonwealth Universities Association, the European University Association, and the Russell Group.
In terms of student numbers, KCL is the largest center for postgraduate medical education and biomedical research in Europe.
Ranked 40th in the QS World University Rankings 2025, KCL is renowned for its world-class teaching and cutting-edge research.
In the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF), KCL ranked ninth in the UK, which demonstrates the quantity and quality assurance of the university's research activities, thus attracting many overseas students.
KCL is particularly esteemed in the fields of humanities, law, sciences (including psychiatry, medicine, nursing, and dentistry, among various health domains), and social sciences (including international affairs).
The university has made significant contributions to many advancements that shape modern life, such as the exploration of DNA structure and research related to broadcasting, television, mobile phones, and radar.
Notable alumni from KCL include Nobel Prize winners Peter Higgs (Physics), Michael Houghton (Medicine), and Michael Levitt (Chemistry).
Other distinguished alumni include John Milne, who invented the seismograph; Desmond Tutu, Nobel Peace Prize laureate; and former Chief Rabbi of the Commonwealth, Jonathan Sacks.
In the political realm, as of the current parliament, there are 18 KCL graduates in the House of Commons and 17 in the House of Lords.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary by program, and students can search for their desired subjects using this link.
Generally, students need to achieve scores of 554 - 555 in HKDSE, or 35 points in IB, or AAB - AAA in A-levels to meet the university's academic criteria.
Tuition Fees
Similarly, tuition fees vary by program. Students can search for their desired subjects using this link and then scroll down on the course description page and click on "Fees & Funding" to find out the annual tuition fees for their chosen subject.
The table below can also be consulted for reference:
| Courses | 2025/2026 Tuition Fees for International Students |
| Engineering | £35,800 |
| Medicine | £53,000 |
| Computer Science | £35,800 |
| Economics | £35,800 |
| Social Science | £27,100 |
| Physiotherapy | £35,800 |
8. LSE
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) is a public research university located in London, UK, and is a member of the Russell Group, the Commonwealth Universities Association, and the European University Association.
Despite having "Economics" in its name, LSE is actually composed of 25 academic departments and research institutes covering a diverse range of subjects, and it is renowned for its focus on social sciences.
Additionally, the university's programs in law, politics, and economics are very popular among students.
What makes LSE's social sciences so appealing?
All teaching and research at LSE are approached from a social science perspective, meaning that students engage with new knowledge in unique ways while studying other common fields.
Furthermore, LSE's professors and scholars are at the forefront of social science development, and their expertise is sought after by governments, businesses, and media worldwide, leading students to learn in innovative ways.
LSE has produced many notable figures across various fields. Among the nine members of the Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of England, three are LSE alumni.
In the political arena, notable alumni include former Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso, the current President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen (the first female president), and Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam.
In the business sector, prominent alumni include Tony Fernandes, CEO of AirAsia; Michael S. Jeffries, CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch; and Maurice Saatchi, founder of the advertising agency Saatchi.
Admission Requirements
LSE has high expectations regarding applicants' academic backgrounds to ensure that its students possess a solid academic foundation and exceptional learning abilities.
These requirements not only reflect the quality of LSE's education but also lay the groundwork for students' future academic and professional development.
Students can refer to the following grade comparison:
| A*AA | At least 5*55 in elective subjects, and at least a 5 in English and Mathematics. |
| AAA, AAB | At least 555 in elective subjects, and at least a 5 in English and Mathematics. |
| Mathematics A* | Must achieve 5* in both compulsory Mathematics and Further Mathematics. |
| Mathematics A | Must achieve 5 in both compulsory Mathematics and Further Mathematics. |
Admission requirements vary by program. For the latest international student grade requirements for each undergraduate degree program, please refer to the following link: LSE Undergraduate Programs.
Tuition Fees
Understanding the tuition fee structure is crucial for students planning to apply. For the academic year 2025/2026, the first-year tuition fees for international students at LSE range from £27,500 to £34,000.
In addition to tuition fees, students should also consider living expenses and other related costs. Detailed information on tuition fees for each program can be found here: LSE Tuition Fees.
For a more detailed introduction, please click here - Introduction to LSE: 2025 Admission Guidelines and Popular Subjects
9. University of Bristol
The University of Bristol is a red brick, Russell Group research university, primarily divided into six academic groups and composed of multiple faculties and departments, offering over 200 undergraduate courses.
According to the latest Research Excellence Framework assessment, the University of Bristol ranks fifth in the UK for research quality.
Additionally, in the 2025 QS World University Rankings, it is placed at 16th, making it one of the universities many students aspire to attend.
The University of Bristol offers a range of undergraduate programs in the arts, law, social sciences, health and life sciences, as well as science and engineering.
Among these, popular fields include aerospace engineering, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, philosophy, pharmacology, law, and business management, all of which attract many students eager to gain admission.
The University of Bristol is considered a "cradle of elites," with notable alumni including one of the most important physicists of the 20th century, Paul Dirac, Prince Albert II of Monaco, BBC News Chief Political Correspondent James Landale (founder of the university's independent newspaper, Epigram), former Liberal Democrat MP Lembit Öpik, and acclaimed film director Mick Jackson, among others.
Application Requirements
The entry requirements vary for each course, so please check the course listings for specific information.
Generally, the university requires students to achieve scores of 444 - 555* in the HKDSE, or 31 - 38 points in the IB, or ABB - A*AA in A-Levels.
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees differ for each course. Please refer to the course listings for the costs of your desired programs, or you can refer to the table below:
| Courses | 2025/2026 Tuition Fees for International Students |
| Accounting and Finance | £27,400 |
| Veterinary | £40,700 |
| Data Science | £30,400 |
| Dentistry | £48,300 |
| Civil Engineering | £30,400 |
10. University of Warwick
The University of Warwick is a public research university that is not only a member of the Russell Group but also the sole European member of the Center for Urban Science and Progress in collaboration with New York University.
The university is divided into three academic divisions: the Faculty of Arts, the Faculty of Science and Engineering, and the Warwick Medical School, comprising a total of 32 departments.
In the Complete University Guide 2025, Warwick ranks 10th in the UK, with 17 subjects making it into the top 10 of their respective rankings.
Furthermore, it has received a Gold rating in all categories of the most recent Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF). Popular subjects among students include English Literature and Creative Writing,
Economic Studies and Global Sustainable Development, Accounting and Finance, Business and Management Studies, Computer Science, History of Art, and Mathematics.
Notable alumni active in politics include Mahmoud Mohieldin, Senior Vice President of the World Bank Group; George Chouliarakis, Deputy Minister of Finance of Greece; and Gus O'Donnell, former Cabinet Minister and Head of the UK Civil Service.
In academia, there are distinguished figures such as Fields Medalist Martin Hairer, neurologist Oliver Sacks, Nobel Prize in Chemistry laureate John Cornforth, and computer scientists Mike Cowlishaw and Leslie Valiant.
Application Requirements
Candidates applying to the University of Warwick from HKDSE need to achieve at least 5, 5, 4 in three elective subjects, as well as scores of 3, 3 in two additional subjects excluding Chinese and Citizenship and Social Development.
For the IB, a score of 36 - 38 is required, while A-Level results should be in the range of AAB - A*AA.
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees vary for each course. Please refer to the course listings for the costs of your desired programs, or you can consult the table below:
| Courses | 2025/2026 Tuition Fees for International Students |
| Biochemistry | £33,520 |
| Psychology | £33,520 |
| Society and Criminology | £26,290 |
| Mathematics and Statistics | £33,520 |
| Law | £26,290 |
Extended Readings
Get Ready for the UCAT 2025: A Step-by-Step Guide to Registration and Exam Schedule in Hong Kong
Introduction to UCL: 2025 Admission Guidelines and Popular Subjects
Introduction to Imperial College: 2025 Admission Guidelines and Popular Subjects
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Ready to Hear Success Stories? See Why Ascent Prep is a Student Favourite!
Michelle has excelled in academics since she was young and has been determined to apply to medical school since her third year of junior high school. She attends a local traditional girls' school that offers British A-Level courses. To lay a solid foundation for her dream of studying medicine, Michelle chose challenging subjects such as physics, chemistry, biology and mathematics. In the summer vacation after completing the IGCSE exam, Michelle interned in a cardiologist's clinic for five days through our arrangement. During her internship, she deeply realized the busy schedule of doctors and their sense of mission for the recovery of patients, which made her more determined to become a doctor.
Academically, Michelle took a UCAT preparation course during her first Christmas in the A-Level course, and learned various exam techniques under the guidance of the tutor, mastering how to quickly understand questions. She eventually scored an excellent 2830 in the UCAT exam and obtained a level 1 in the situational judgement test, which led to an interview invitation from the University of Nottingham Medical School. During the Easter period, she attended a personal statement guidance course. With the advice of her tutor, Michelle chose appropriate extracurricular activities and revised the content of her personal statement to make it more clearly express her passion and motivation for medicine. In addition, Michelle also took the BMAT exam (note that the BMAT has now been cancelled) and obtained a good score of 12.7, which exceeded the qualifying score and increased her chances of entering medical school.
To ensure that Michelle can fully express herself in the interview, we recommend arranging three targeted mock interviews to ensure that the areas that need improvement can be accurately improved. Finally, Michelle received an interview invitation from the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Hong Kong through the Non-JUPAS application. Her efforts finally paid off and she successfully received admission notices from the University of Nottingham and the University of Hong Kong.
After sharing Michelle's case, for students who aspire to enter the medical school, starting preparation one to two years in advance can indeed significantly increase the chances of success. Michelle's story not only inspires other students, but also proves that with planning and hard work, pursuing your dreams is achievable.
David attends a top secondary school in the UK and has excellent academic performance, with all 9s in GCSE and all A* predicted A-level grades. His dream has always been to become a doctor, and he has worked hard to achieve this goal. However, David unfortunately encountered a setback in the interview for a British medical school in January. The failure of the interview for his first application to a medical school made him depressed and anxious, and he began to doubt his abilities and future. At this time, his father contacted us at Ascent Prep for advice and suggestions.
We first comforted David and encouraged him not to give up his dream. Although he missed the chance to apply for medical school at a British university, the start date of medical school in Australia is half a year later than that in the UK, so he still has a chance to enroll. We suggested that he consider switching to medical school in Australia. In order to help David overcome the difficulties in the interview, we analyzed the reasons for his failure and found that although he was knowledgeable, he was flustered in the interview, especially lacking logic in judgment and problem-solving questions. We developed a personalized coaching program for him, including mock interview training and various coping skills, such as the STAR rule, responding to open-ended questions, and demonstrating passion for medicine and personal traits.
Through these intensive trainings, David's interview skills and confidence have been significantly improved. He also used the summer vacation when he returned to Hong Kong to retake the ISAT and UCAT exams and continued to practice under our guidance. At the same time, he continued to work as a research assistant at HKU, enhancing his medical experience and understanding of medical biology. Eventually, David successfully obtained admission notices from three Australian medical schools, including the University of New South Wales (UNSW). This proves that as long as you persevere, you can overcome challenges. His experience inspires other students pursuing their medical dreams, demonstrating to them the importance of persistence and hard work.
Brian is a student with a passion for medicine and his goal is to attend one of the top medical schools in the world. In order to realize this dream, he not only worked hard in his studies and achieved excellent results, but also actively participated in various extracurricular activities to comprehensively improve his abilities. Brian observed in the hospital’s cardiology department for a week and participated in the BSMS Virtual Work Experience, which allowed him to gain an in-depth understanding of the medical field through technological simulation. He not only learned the skills and qualities required to be a competent doctor, but also experienced the close relationship between doctors and patients.
After learning about Brian's goals, we encouraged him to set his sights on the University of Cambridge Medical School, whose outstanding reputation in medical research and teaching quality are impeccable. We also advised him to apply to other G5 medical schools such as Imperial, UCL and KCL. In order to improve his BMAT score and interview skills, we arranged a 15-hour BMAT preparation course ((Note that BMAT has been cancelled), which provided systematic training by experienced tutors, including problem-solving skills, test-taking strategies and time management. We also conducted several mock interviews for him, specifically targeting the interview style of Cambridge University, and designed relevant questions to help him prepare and better deal with academic and ethical issues.
Brian submitted his UCAS application in mid-October, took the BMAT in November, and received an interview invitation from Cambridge University in December. He was successfully accepted by Cambridge in January and also successfully obtained interview invitations from ICL and UCL. In order to reduce his financial burden, we encouraged him to apply for the Hong Kong Excellence Scholarship Scheme, which offers a scholarship of up to HK$300,000 and can support outstanding students to study in well-known overseas universities. In the end, Brian not only achieved high scores in the BMAT exam, but also was admitted to Cambridge University Medical School and KCL. He finally chose to go to Dowling College, Cambridge, England to pursue higher academic goals and realize his dream.
