Is UCL hard to get into? A guide to UCL tuition fees and full scholarship academic requirements.

University College London (UCL) is a globally renowned top-tier university, known for its high level of selectivity. While UCL's tuition fees are steep, the university also offers numerous scholarship opportunities, including full scholarships, to assist outstanding students in achieving their dreams.

Introduction to University College London (UCL)

As a comprehensive university consistently ranked among the top ten globally, University College London (UCL) boasts a diverse and comprehensive range of disciplines. It excels in various fields, with numerous departments often securing positions within the top ten of the QS World University Rankings. According to the QS World University Rankings 2023, UCL stands out remarkably, holding the 9th position in the world rankings for the year 2024.

UCL campus
UCL campus

Source: UCL

Within UCL, the Institute of Education holds the distinction of being the UK's largest education institute. It stands as one of the earliest institutions to train teachers, encompassing comprehensive research in teaching across various age groups, fields, and diverse special needs. This institute has consistently secured the top position in the education field of the QS World University Rankings. The Barlett School of Architecture at UCL has also consistently ranked among the top three globally in the QS architecture field, earning recognition as one of Europe's premier architecture schools. As a prestigious UK university, strategic subject selection and diligent preparation can make UCL's admission process less challenging.

UCL Tuition Fees

To start, UCL tuition fees vary based on the course and the student's status (UK/EU or international). For undergraduate students enrolling in 2023, tuition fees for UK and EU students are typically £9,250 per year, with certain specific courses potentially having higher fees. For non-EU international students, tuition fees range approximately from £20,310 to £34,660 per year, with some courses such as medicine and engineering possibly having higher fees. UCL extends UCL full scholarships to exceptional applicants in need, assisting them in covering both tuition and living expenses.

UCL Full Scholarships

UCL offers a variety of scholarships to support students with outstanding academic achievements and potential. UCL full scholarships are typically highly competitive, requiring applicants to showcase exceptional academic abilities. Generally, full scholarship applicants need to exhibit outstanding academic performance or demonstrate financial need. Furthermore, recommendation letters, personal statements, and other supporting documents play a crucial role in the scholarship application process.

Filling in scholarship application form on wooden table with a calculator
Filling in scholarship application form on wooden table with a calculator

Source: Freepik

For international students with excellent grades or financial difficulties, consider applying for the following scholarships:

  • Denys Holland Scholarship
  • UCL Undergraduate Scholarships
  • UCL Access Opportunity Scholarship
  • UCL Hong Kong Alumni Scholarships

Applicants who have received a bachelor's offer or are current undergraduate students need to submit a personal statement explaining why they are suitable for a UCL full scholarship. Additionally, applicants must provide recommendation letters and other supporting materials to showcase their academic and professional achievements, as well as their commitment and plans for future career development and contributions.

Moreover, UCL offers dedicated scholarships for different categories such as undergraduates, postgraduates, students in teacher training and education programs, and those pursuing preparatory courses. There are also scholarships specific to fields like architecture and medical studies.

Therefore, the fact that UCL is difficult to get into is undeniable, especially considering the high UCL tuition fees and the intense competition for UCL full scholarships. Aspiring applicants should possess excellent academic records and outstanding achievements, carefully think about how to present their future academic plans during the preparation phase and strategize on how to capture the attention of the selection committee.


Grove Education Editor

Offers parents and students comprehensive information on education, including overviews of local and overseas education systems, academic pathways, institutions, and programmes, with the aim of helping students make informed decisions and explore a wider range of opportunities.