# University College London (UCL)

> University College London (UCL) guide: campus culture, colleges and housing, international fees from £28,500, living costs, and UCAS admissions for UCL.

University College London (UCL) (Founded 1826, Bloomsbury, London) ranks #9 in the QS World University Rankings 2026. London's global university: huge course range, huge international community.

## Campus culture

UCL calls itself London's Global University and it shows: one of the most international student bodies in the world, a giant course catalog, and a Bloomsbury campus woven into central London. Less collegiate and traditional than Oxbridge, more urban and sprawling. Research powerhouse with a progressive streak; student life is London life, for better (everything) and worse (rent).

## Colleges and housing

No college system; first-year undergraduates who make UCL their firm choice are normally guaranteed halls accommodation. UCL's Bloomsbury location means hall rents are London-high; apply the day housing opens and consider intercollegiate halls (shared across University of London) for cheaper options.

## Costs

International fees from about £28,500 a year depending on the course. London living £1,400 to £2,000 a month. UCL offers some international scholarships, but most students pay full fees; factor in 3 to 4 years of London rent. Home fee capped (currently £9,535).

## Admissions

UCAS by the January deadline. Typical offers: AAA to AAB depending on course; the most competitive (economics, law, medicine) demand A*AA. UCL weighs predicted grades and the personal statement heavily, and interviews only for some courses. Apply early in the cycle for popular courses.

## Frequently asked questions
### What is UCL known for?

UCL calls itself London's Global University and it shows: one of the most international student bodies in the world, a giant course catalog, and a Bloomsbury campus woven into central London. Less collegiate and traditional than Oxbridge, more urban and sprawling. Research powerhouse with a progressive streak; student life is London life, for better (everything) and worse (rent).

### How much does UCL cost for international students?

International fees from about £28,500 a year depending on the course. London living £1,400 to £2,000 a month. UCL offers some international scholarships, but most students pay full fees; factor in 3 to 4 years of London rent. Home fee capped (currently £9,535).

### How do I apply to UCL?

UCAS by the January deadline. Typical offers: AAA to AAB depending on course; the most competitive (economics, law, medicine) demand A*AA. UCL weighs predicted grades and the personal statement heavily, and interviews only for some courses. Apply early in the cycle for popular courses.

### Is accommodation guaranteed at UCL?

No college system; first-year undergraduates who make UCL their firm choice are normally guaranteed halls accommodation. UCL's Bloomsbury location means hall rents are London-high; apply the day housing opens and consider intercollegiate halls (shared across University of London) for cheaper options.

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