London School of Economics
United Kingdom
London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
London, United Kingdom
Founded
1895
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
13,000+
Nobel Laureates
21
Discover the London School of Economics and Political Science
Discover the London School of Economics and Political Science
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) is a public research university located in central London and a member institution of the University of London. Founded in 1895 by Fabian Society members Sidney Webb, Beatrice Webb, Graham Wallas, and George Bernard Shaw, LSE specialises in the social sciences and has shaped global policy and thought for over 130 years.
LSE is home to a remarkably international student body, with nearly two-thirds of its students coming from outside the United Kingdom and representing over 160 countries. The university joined the University of London in 1900 and began awarding its own degrees in 2008, achieving full university status within the University of London in 2022.
With 21 Nobel Laureates among its alumni and staff, and over 40 past or present world leaders having studied or taught at the institution, LSE holds an extraordinary record of influence in economics, politics, law, and the broader social sciences. Its motto, Rerum Cognoscere Causas — To Know the Causes of Things — reflects the school's enduring commitment to rigorous inquiry and evidence-based understanding.
Key Milestones
- 1895: LSE founded by Fabian Society members with a bequest from Henry Hunt Hutchinson, opening its doors in October with 300 students
- 1900: Joined the University of London as the Faculty of Economics, establishing the first university degrees dedicated to the social sciences in 1901
- 1922: The Old Building on Houghton Street opened by King George V; the school's arms, motto, and beaver mascot adopted
- 2008: LSE began awarding degrees in its own name, later achieving full university status within the University of London in 2022
Academic Structure and Departments
Academic Structure and Departments
LSE organises its academic activity across approximately 24 departments and institutes, all focused on the social sciences and related disciplines. The university offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, masters, and doctoral programmes, with particular strengths in economics, political science, law, sociology, and international relations.
Department of Economics
One of the largest and most prestigious economics departments in the world, known for pioneering work in econometrics, macroeconomics, and development economics.
- BSc Economics
- MSc Economics
- MRes/PhD Economics
Department of Government
A leading centre for the study of political science, comparative politics, elections, governance, and political theory with a strong emphasis on empirical research.
- BSc Government
- MSc Political Science and Political Economy
- MSc Public Policy
Department of Law
Ranked among the top law departments globally, LSE Law is recognised for pioneering research in human rights, international law, corporate law, and legal theory.
- LLB Bachelor of Laws
- LLM Master of Laws
- MPhil/PhD in Law
Department of Management
A top-ranked department offering programmes in management, organisational behaviour, strategy, and entrepreneurship, attracting a highly international cohort of students.
- BSc Management
- MSc Management
- Global MSc in Management
Department of International Relations
One of the founding departments of the discipline globally, offering rigorous programmes in international relations, security studies, and global governance.
- BSc International Relations
- MSc International Relations
- MSc International Political Economy
Department of Sociology
A globally recognised department exploring social inequalities, culture, migration, and urban life, consistently ranked among the top sociology departments worldwide.
- BSc Sociology
- MSc Sociology
- MSc Human Rights
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admissions
- Application PlatformUCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service)
- A-Level RequirementsTypically AAA to A*AA depending on programme
- IB Diploma37-38 points with 6-7 in Higher Level subjects
- English ProficiencyIELTS 7.0 overall (with sub-score requirements) or equivalent TOEFL
- Personal StatementAcademic-focused statement demonstrating subject knowledge and motivation
Graduate Admissions
- Minimum DegreeUpper second-class honours (2:1) or equivalent from an accredited university
- GPA EquivalentTypically 3.5 on a 4.0 scale or equivalent
- English ProficiencyIELTS 7.0 overall (minimum 6.0-6.5 in each component) or equivalent
- ReferencesTwo academic or professional references required
- Supporting DocumentsStatement of academic purpose, CV, transcripts; some programmes require GRE/GMAT
The standard UCAS deadline for all undergraduate applications to LSE for entry the following autumn
Most taught masters programmes have rolling admissions; early application is strongly recommended due to high competition
Applicants seeking LSE scholarships and financial aid should apply by early January for priority consideration
Many graduate programmes close applications by late spring; check individual programme pages for exact dates
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
LSE sets tuition fees based on Home or Overseas fee status. Since 2021, EU students entering LSE are classified as Overseas unless they meet UK immigration criteria. Fees are reviewed annually and typically increase each year.
| Fee Category | Home (GBP) | Overseas (GBP) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition (per year) | GBP 9,535 | GBP 26,784 |
| Taught Masters (per year, typical) | GBP 15,000 - 18,500 | GBP 26,000 - 41,000 |
| Research Degree (per year) | Contact university | Contact university |
| Estimated Living Costs (per year) | GBP 16,800 - 19,200 | GBP 16,800 - 19,200 |
| Total | Contact LSE for programme-specific totals | Contact LSE for programme-specific totals |
LSE Graduate Support Scheme
LSE offers a range of scholarships and bursaries for graduate students, including awards covering full or partial tuition fees and living expenses for outstanding applicants.
- Coverage: Partial to full tuition fee awards
- Eligibility: Open to Home and Overseas students based on academic merit and financial need
- Application: Apply early; most require a separate scholarship application alongside programme application
Undergraduate Financial Support
LSE provides bursaries and fee reductions for undergraduate students from lower-income backgrounds, as well as merit-based scholarships for exceptional international applicants.
- Coverage: Bursaries up to several thousand pounds per year
- Eligibility: Based on household income and academic achievement
- Additional Funding: UK students may access government tuition fee and maintenance loans
Campus and Facilities in Central London
Campus and Facilities in Central London
LSE's campus is embedded in the heart of central London, stretching across several buildings near Aldwych and Holborn in the historic Clare Market area. The compact urban campus offers modern academic facilities, libraries, and social spaces within walking distance of Westminster, the City of London, and the West End.
The award-winning Centre Building features state-of-the-art lecture theatres, seminar rooms, and open study spaces with panoramic views across London
Founded in 1896, this is the largest social science library in the world, housing over 4 million items and providing extensive digital resources
This BREEAM-awarded building is home to the Students' Union, a gym, a café, event spaces, and the main hub for student social life
Housing and Dining
Student Accommodation
LSE guarantees accommodation for first-year undergraduate and new graduate students in its halls of residence across London, offering a mix of catered and self-catered options.
- Multiple halls of residence in zones 1 and 2
- Single en-suite and shared bathroom options
- Dedicated support for private renting in London
Dining and Food
The campus offers a variety of cafés, restaurants, and food outlets catering to diverse dietary needs, supplemented by the countless dining options in surrounding central London.
- Multiple on-campus cafés and food outlets
- The Garrick and Fourth Floor Restaurant
- Close proximity to Covent Garden and Holborn eateries
Student Life at LSE
Student Life at LSE
Student life at LSE is vibrant, intellectually stimulating, and deeply international. With students from over 160 countries, the campus buzzes with debate, cultural exchange, and professional networking opportunities enhanced by the school's central London location.
London: A Global Capital for Students
London: A Global Capital for Students
Living and Studying in London
London is one of the most exciting and diverse cities in the world, offering unparalleled access to culture, history, global industries, and career opportunities. LSE's location in the heart of central London places students within minutes of major government institutions, financial centres, international organisations, and world-renowned cultural landmarks.
Central London Location
LSE sits between Covent Garden and Holborn, with excellent transport links via the Tube, buses, and National Rail, making all of London easily accessible
Career and Networking Hub
Proximity to the City of London, Westminster, and Canary Wharf provides direct access to top employers in finance, consulting, government, and media
Cultural Richness
World-class museums, theatres, galleries, and music venues are within walking distance, including the British Museum, the National Theatre, and the West End
International Community
London is home to communities from every corner of the globe, offering international cuisine, cultural festivals, and a welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Top Employers Recruiting LSE Graduates
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
LSE's International Student Visa and Advice Team provides guidance on Student visa applications, Tier 4 compliance, and post-study work options including the Graduate Route visa.
The LSE Language Centre offers English language courses, academic writing support, and proofreading services to help international students succeed in their studies.
LSE provides a comprehensive Welcome programme at the start of each academic year, along with ongoing wellbeing services, counselling, and peer support networks.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
LSE Worldwide University Rankings
LSE Worldwide University Rankings
LSE is consistently ranked among the top universities globally, with particular distinction in the social sciences. While its specialised focus on social sciences can affect its position in broad-based rankings, LSE excels in subject-specific tables, ranking among the top 10 worldwide for economics, political science, law, and sociology.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Economics and Econometrics | QS World Rankings by Subject | #8 |
| Politics and International Studies | QS World Rankings by Subject | #5 |
| Law and Legal Studies | QS World Rankings by Subject | #6 |
| Sociology | QS World Rankings by Subject | #5 |
Features
The London School of Economics and Political Science was established in 1895. The institution currently hosts a diverse student body of over 13,000 individuals enrolled across various undergraduate and postgraduate programs. To support its academic and operational functions, the university employs approximately 3,300 staff members, comprising both academic experts and administrative personnel.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - January
8 week
Location
Houghton St, London WC2A 2AE, United Kingdom
Map not found.
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