Loughborough University : Rankings, Fees & Courses Details | Top Universities
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Location

Loughborough University, Loughborough United Kingdom

Ranking

# 225QS World University Rankings

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348Undergrad. & Postgrad. Programmes

International

26 % International students

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About Loughborough University

Loughborough University has a vibrant international community with around 19,000 students from over 130 different countries/regions.   

The University’s two distinctive campuses, in the East Midlands and London, offer different takes on the same rich, dynamic and rewarding student experience.

Known for its strong sense of community and peerless sporting heritage, Loughborough’s East Midlands campus is a superb 523-acre single-site campus that offers undergraduate, postgraduate taught and postgraduate research courses. Students can access some of the world’s most impressive academic and recreational facilities in the peaceful setting of a historic market town with convenient transport links to the rest of the UK.

Loughborough University London was established exclusively for postgraduate study and research and is building on the UK capital’s Olympic legacy by providing students with unrivalled access to influential thought leaders, researchers and innovators in one of the UK’s most dynamic creative and business hubs in a phenomenal global city.

Reliably holding an overall top ten position in the top ten major UK rankings, Loughborough is consistently recognised for its outstanding student experience, ranking 6th in the UK in the Complete University Guide 2025. Students benefit from world-class teaching, extensive placement opportunities, and strong industry links that support career development.

The university is also a global leader in sport, ranked #1 in the world for sports-related subjects for nine consecutive years by the QS World University Rankings by Subject (2017–2025), and named Sports University of the Year in the Times and Sunday Times Complete University Guide. It also excels in engineering, business, art and design, and media studies, with top national and international rankings.

The University has been awarded seven Queen’s Anniversary Prizes and 90% of its research output was rated ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally-excellent’ in the UK’s 2021 Research Excellence Framework.

Follow Loughborough University on FacebookTwitterInstagramTikTokYouTube and LinkedIn to stay connected

About Loughborough University

Loughborough University has a vibrant international community with around 19,000 students from over 130 different countries/regions.   

The University’s two distinctive campuses, in the East Midlands and London, offer different takes on the same rich, dynamic and rewarding student experience.

Known for its strong sense of community and peerless sporting heritage, Loughborough’s East Midlands campus is a superb 523-acre single-site campus that offers undergraduate, postgraduate taught and postgraduate research courses. Students can access some of the world’s most impressive academic and recreational facilities in the peaceful setting of a historic market town with convenient transport links to the rest of the UK.

Loughborough University London was established exclusively for postgraduate study and research and is building on the UK capital’s Olympic legacy by providing students with unrivalled access to influential thought leaders, researchers and innovators in one of the UK’s most dynamic creative and business hubs in a phenomenal global city.

Reliably holding an overall top ten position in the top ten major UK rankings, Loughborough is consistently recognised for its outstanding student experience, ranking 6th in the UK in the Complete University Guide 2025. Students benefit from world-class teaching, extensive placement opportunities, and strong industry links that support career development.

The university is also a global leader in sport, ranked #1 in the world for sports-related subjects for nine consecutive years by the QS World University Rankings by Subject (2017–2025), and named Sports University of the Year in the Times and Sunday Times Complete University Guide. It also excels in engineering, business, art and design, and media studies, with top national and international rankings.

The University has been awarded seven Queen’s Anniversary Prizes and 90% of its research output was rated ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally-excellent’ in the UK’s 2021 Research Excellence Framework.

Follow Loughborough University on FacebookTwitterInstagramTikTokYouTube and LinkedIn to stay connected

Available programmes

University information

Loughborough accepts a wide range of qualifications for entry. You can find out about the entry requirements for foundationundergraduate and postgraduate study on the University website, or visit its international website for application information, including details about English language requirements.

The University’s visa and immigration advice webpage has details on how to apply for your visa.

General

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Loughborough University offers an exceptional campus experience, with world-class facilities that support every aspect of student life—from academic excellence to personal wellbeing and social engagement.

Set on a stunning 523-acre single-site, the Loughborough campus continues to evolve through major investments in cutting-edge learning environments. A standout recent development is the DigiLabs initiative—state-of-the-art digital learning hubs designed to equip students with future-ready skills in areas such as extended reality, robotics, AI, and 3D data visualisation. Spread across multiple locations on campus, DigiLabs include: VR labs, motion capture systems, and immersive 3D environments, GPU workstations, robotics labs, and virtual bioreactors as well as a dedicated high-performance computing service for undergraduates.

These facilities are integrated into teaching across disciplines, ensuring students graduate with hands-on experience using the latest technologies.

The £17 million STEMLab, part of a wider £25 million Student Learning Zone, continues to provide advanced laboratories and workshops for science and engineering students, fostering innovation and collaboration.

Loughborough is home to the UK’s largest concentration of elite sports facilities, including an indoor athletics centre, Olympic-standard swimming pool, and a 3,000-seat stadium. Powerbase Gym, one of the world’s largest strength and conditioning environments, gives all students, regardless of ability, affordable access to a genuinely world-leading fitness centre.

The London campus is a hub for postgraduate innovation, surrounded by digital, media, and tech industries. With over 9,000 square metres of collaborative learning space, students benefit from industry-led teaching, entrepreneurial support, and access to global networks and real-world projects

These continuous investments reflect Loughborough’s commitment to delivering a transformative student experience, where academic excellence meets real-world readiness.

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Student life

Loughborough University’s stunning 523-acre single-site East Midlands campus offers everything you need for a convenient, enriching, and inspiring student life. Whether you're heading to lectures, sports facilities, the Students’ Union, or your halls of residence, you’ll enjoy walking through beautifully maintained green spaces, gardens, and tree-lined paths.

The campus is packed with amenities to support both your academic journey and personal wellbeing. You’ll find bars, cafés, restaurants, dining halls, two gyms (including Powerbase, one of the world’s largest strength and conditioning facilities), a medical centre, pharmacy, optician, dental practice, hairdresser, launderettes, a taxi rank, and a large on-campus nightclub.

The nearby historic market town of Loughborough offers a welcoming, student-friendly and increasingly international atmosphere, with a wide range of shops, restaurants, entertainment venues, and essential services.

The Students’ Union (LSU) plays a vital role in promoting student wellbeing and community on both campuses, offering support services, events, and over 100 clubs and societies, including Rag fundraising, community action, LSU Media, and the Athletic Union.

At Loughborough University London, located in the vibrant Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, students benefit from a creative and entrepreneurial environment surrounded by world-class sports venues and digital industries. The campus is part of Here East, a hub for innovation and collaboration, and offers over 9,000 square metres of modern learning space.

With London ranked the best student city in the world (QS Best Student Cities 2023), students enjoy access to a rich mix of culture, career opportunities, and green spaces—all within one of the world’s most exciting capitals.

Across both campuses, Loughborough is committed to supporting your health, wellbeing, and academic success, with dedicated services to help you thrive throughout your university journey. Dedicated support for neurodiverse students, LGBTQ+ students, students with disabilities, and students requiring additional financial or other support are readily available, and the University takes pride in its commitment to equity and inclusivity.

Loughborough University’s mission is to prepare students for every aspect of life and career success. Employers consistently praise Loughborough graduates for their energy, adaptability, and real-world readiness—qualities developed through our hands-on, career-focused approach to education.

Every undergraduate course at Loughborough offers the opportunity to undertake a placement year, giving students the chance to gain 45 weeks of professional experience with one or more employers. These placements are formally assessed and lead to the award of a Diploma in Industrial, Professional, or International Studies, depending on the experience. Students can also combine placements with study abroad, further enhancing their global employability.

To support international career ambitions, students can take optional language modules alongside their main degree. These 10-credit modules are available in most semesters and are designed to build practical communication skills and cultural awareness.

Loughborough’s commitment to employability is reflected in its strong graduate outcomes. According to the latest Graduate Outcomes Survey, a high proportion of our graduates progress into professional-level employment or further study shortly after graduation. The Careers Network offers tailored support, including CV workshops, interview coaching, employer events, and international student guidance.

With campuses in both Loughborough and London, the University provides a launchpad for students to thrive in a competitive global job market—backed by industry connections, real-world experience, and a supportive learning environment.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Loughborough is generally more affordable than in many major UK cities. Rent is significantly lower than national averages, and many students live in university halls or shared houses close to campus, reducing transport costs.

Day-to-day expenses such as groceries, gym memberships, and social activities are also relatively budget-friendly. Loughborough’s compact size means students can walk or cycle almost everywhere. Subsidised services and student discounts across campus facilities, including the world-class Powerbase Gym and dining outlets are an added bonus.

Loughborough University London’s location inevitably means higher costs beyond tuition, particularly rent and transportation, however access to world-class networking opportunities, industry connections, and internships in one of the world’s most dynamic cities cannot be overlooked. For many Loughborough London students, the career advantages and cultural experiences of studying in London outweigh the higher living costs.

Tuition fees

The University offers a range of scholarships and bursaries for both undergraduate and postgraduate study, including specific opportunities for international applicants, such as the Global Impact Scholarship.

More details can be found on the University’s website.

Scholarships

Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.

To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:

Employability

Loughborough University’s mission is to prepare students for every aspect of life and career success. Employers consistently praise Loughborough graduates for their energy, adaptability, and real-world readiness—qualities developed through our hands-on, career-focused approach to education.

Every undergraduate course at Loughborough offers the opportunity to undertake a placement year, giving students the chance to gain 45 weeks of professional experience with one or more employers. These placements are formally assessed and lead to the award of a Diploma in Industrial, Professional, or International Studies, depending on the experience. Students can also combine placements with study abroad, further enhancing their global employability.

To support international career ambitions, students can take optional language modules alongside their main degree. These 10-credit modules are available in most semesters and are designed to build practical communication skills and cultural awareness.

Loughborough’s commitment to employability is reflected in its strong graduate outcomes. According to the latest Graduate Outcomes Survey, a high proportion of our graduates progress into professional-level employment or further study shortly after graduation. The Careers Network offers tailored support, including CV workshops, interview coaching, employer events, and international student guidance.

With campuses in both Loughborough and London, the University provides a launchpad for students to thrive in a competitive global job market—backed by industry connections, real-world experience, and a supportive learning environment.

Rankings & Ratings

Loughborough University is one of the top public universities in Loughborough, United Kingdom. It is ranked #225 in QS World University Rankings 2026.

QS World University Rankings

  • 2012
    #242
  • 2014
    #=244
  • 2015
    #=265
  • 2016
    #228
  • 2017
    #237
  • 2018
    #234
  • 2019
    #=218
  • 2020
    #222
  • 2021
    #226
  • 2022
    #231
  • 2023
    #=256
  • 2024
    #212
  • 2025
    #=224
  • 2026
    #225

QS World University Rankings

  • 2012
    #242
  • 2014
    #=244
  • 2015
    #=265
  • 2016
    #228
  • 2017
    #237
  • 2018
    #234
  • 2019
    #=218
  • 2020
    #222
  • 2021
    #226
  • 2022
    #231
  • 2023
    #=256
  • 2024
    #212
  • 2025
    #=224
  • 2026
    #225

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Frequently Asked Questions

The process depends on whether you're applying for an undergraduate or postgraduate course, and whether you're a UK or international student.


Undergraduate applications (UK & International) need to be made via UCAS using the institution code: L79. Postgraduate applicants should go directly via Loughborough’s website. International students may also need a student visa (Tier 4). Loughborough offers pre-sessional English courses and foundation programs if needed.

Choosing the right course at Loughborough University depends on your interests, career goals, academic strengths, and preferred learning style.


Ask yourself: What subjects do I enjoy most? What kind of work do I see myself doing in the future? Do I prefer creative, technical, analytical, or practical learning?


Then browse Loughborough’s course offerings using the University’s course finder to explore undergraduate and postgraduate courses, course content, structure, and assessment methods and placement and study abroad opportunities.


Match your academic strengths and background to the skills you want to develop. Consider your career ambitions. Look at graduate employment rates, industry links and placement options, alumni success stories.


But perhaps the best way is to talk to us! Book onto one of our popular Open Days, join a virtual tour, reach out by email or telephone or chat directly with current students or alumni. 

Loughborough University offers an exceptional student experience—consistently ranked among the best in the UK.


Both its East Midlands and London campuses are vibrant, close-knit communities. Students often describe them as safe, walkable “homes away from home.”


Whether you're an elite athlete or just enjoy staying active, Loughborough’s Powerbase Gym, Olympic-standard facilities, and sports science expertise are unmatched. It’s the UK’s top sports university and a global leader in sports education.


Loughborough places a strong emphasis on employability, with placement years, industry links, and career support embedded into many courses. It ranks highly for graduate prospects in national league tables.


The Loughborough Students’ Union (LSU) is one of the most active in the UK, offering hundreds of clubs, societies, and volunteering opportunities. Students have a real say in shaping their university experience.

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