Loughborough University
Loughborough, United Kingdom
Loughborough University
Loughborough, United Kingdom
Founded
1909
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
19,400+
UK Ranking (CUG)
7th (2026)
Discover Loughborough University: A Legacy of Excellence
Discover Loughborough University: A Legacy of Excellence
Loughborough University is a public research university located in the market town of Loughborough, Leicestershire, England. Founded in 1909 as the Loughborough Technical Institute, it was granted a Royal Charter in 1966 and became Loughborough University of Technology, the country's first technological university, before adopting its current name in 1996.
Today, Loughborough is consistently ranked among the top ten universities in the UK and is the highest-ranked university in the Midlands. The university is organised into ten schools spanning engineering, science, social sciences, business, sport, design, and the arts, and it holds a prestigious Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework.
Loughborough operates two campuses: a 523-acre main campus in Loughborough and a postgraduate campus at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London. The university is globally renowned for sport, ranked number one in the world for sports-related subjects by QS for ten consecutive years, and maintains strong industry links that support outstanding graduate employability.
Key Milestones
- 1909: Loughborough Technical Institute founded, offering courses in technical subjects, science, and art.
- 1966: Granted Royal Charter and became Loughborough University of Technology, the UK's first technological university.
- 1996: Renamed to Loughborough University, broadening its academic scope beyond technology.
- 2015: Opened a second campus at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London for postgraduate study and research.
Academic Schools and Programmes
Academic Schools and Programmes
Loughborough University is organised into ten academic schools covering a broad range of disciplines. With over 250 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, the university combines rigorous academic study with practical industry experience through placement years and study abroad options.
School of Aeronautical, Automotive, Chemical and Materials Engineering
Encompasses three departments covering aeronautical, automotive, chemical, and materials engineering. Research and teaching focus on advanced manufacturing, sustainable transport, and materials innovation.
- Aeronautical Engineering (BEng/MEng)
- Chemical Engineering (BEng/MEng)
- Materials Science and Engineering (BSc/MSc)
School of Business and Economics
A leading business school with strong industry connections, offering programmes accredited by AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA. Known for its emphasis on employability and placement opportunities.
- BSc Business and Management
- MSc Finance and Management
- MBA
School of Design and Creative Arts
Combines design, fine art, textiles, and drama into a dynamic creative environment. The school is recognised nationally for its innovative approach to design education and research.
- BA Industrial Design and Technology
- BA Fine Art
- MA Design Innovation
School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences
Home to the world's number one ranked sport-related programmes according to QS. The school benefits from outstanding facilities and partnerships with elite sporting organisations.
- BSc Sport and Exercise Science
- MSc Sport Management
- BSc Sport Coaching
School of Science
Comprises five departments covering chemistry, computer science, mathematical sciences, mathematics education, and physics. The school delivers research-informed teaching with access to modern laboratory facilities.
- BSc Computer Science
- BSc Physics
- MMath Mathematics
School of Architecture, Building and Civil Engineering
One of the UK's leading schools for the built environment, offering programmes that combine architectural design, construction management, and civil engineering with sustainable development.
- BEng Civil Engineering
- BSc Architectural Engineering
- MSc Construction Management
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admissions
- Application MethodVia UCAS (Institution Code: L79)
- A-Level RequirementsTypically AAB–ABB depending on programme
- International BaccalaureateTypically 34–36 points overall
- IELTS (Academic)Overall 6.5, no element below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT92 overall (minimum component scores apply)
Postgraduate Admissions
- Application MethodDirect application via university portal
- Degree ClassificationMinimum 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent
- IELTS (Academic)Overall 6.5, no element below 6.0 (higher for some programmes)
- ReferencesTwo academic references typically required
- Supporting DocumentsPersonal statement, CV, and academic transcripts
Main deadline for undergraduate applications to be given equal consideration by the university.
Final date for undergraduate applications through UCAS, subject to course availability.
Most postgraduate taught programmes accept applications on a rolling basis. Early application is recommended.
Research degree applications are accepted year-round, though funded studentships have specific deadlines.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition fees at Loughborough University vary by programme and student fee status. The university reviews fees annually. Below are indicative annual figures for the current cycle. Contact the university directly for the most current data on specific programmes.
| Fee Category | UK Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition | GBP 9,250 | GBP 23,000 – GBP 28,600 |
| Postgraduate Taught | GBP 10,000 – GBP 14,000 | GBP 24,500 – GBP 32,000 |
| Placement/Study Abroad Year | 20% of full-time fee | 20% of full-time fee |
| Estimated Living Costs | GBP 9,000 – GBP 12,000 | GBP 9,000 – GBP 12,000 |
| Total | GBP 18,250 – GBP 26,250 | GBP 32,000 – GBP 40,600 |
International Excellence Awards
Merit-based scholarships for international students applying to undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Awards are based on outstanding academic achievement and potential.
- Value: Up to 25% of tuition fees for the first year
- Eligibility: International fee-paying students with strong academic records
- Application: Automatically considered upon receiving an offer
Elite Sports Scholarships
Financial support for students competing at an elite level in their sport. Includes access to world-class sports facilities, coaching, and training programmes.
- Value: Varies based on sport and competition level
- Eligibility: Students competing at national or international level
- Application: Separate application through the Sports Development Centre
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
Loughborough University's main campus is one of the largest single-site university campuses in the UK, spanning 523 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. The campus features modern academic buildings, 16 halls of residence, extensive sports facilities, and a vibrant Students' Union, all within a safe and walkable environment.
State-of-the-art teaching and research facilities including the landmark STEMLab, a GBP 17 million centre for science and engineering education.
Olympic-standard facilities including an indoor athletics centre, outdoor stadium, 50-metre swimming pool, and the Powerbase gym.
A four-floor library with over 1,375 study places, 500,000+ books, and access to around 30,000 electronic journals.
Housing and Dining
Accommodation
Loughborough offers 16 halls of residence with both catered and self-catered options. International undergraduate students are guaranteed university accommodation for up to two years.
- Catered and self-catered halls available
- 24/7 campus security and free Wi-Fi
- Shared kitchens, common areas, and laundry facilities
Dining
The campus features a variety of dining options including refectories in catered halls, cafes, restaurants, and a Students' Union bar and food outlets.
- Multiple cafes and food outlets across campus
- Catered hall meal plans available
- Students' Union shops and convenience stores
Student Life at Loughborough
Student Life at Loughborough
Loughborough University is renowned for its vibrant campus community and exceptional student experience. The Loughborough Students' Union (LSU) is one of the most active in the UK, offering hundreds of clubs, societies, and volunteering opportunities that help students build lifelong friendships and develop valuable skills.
Location: Loughborough and the East Midlands
Location: Loughborough and the East Midlands
Life in Loughborough
Loughborough is a friendly market town in Leicestershire, situated near the River Soar approximately 90 minutes north of London by train. The town offers an affordable cost of living, a welcoming community, and easy access to the cities of Leicester and Nottingham, both just a short journey away.
Transport Links
Loughborough has its own railway station with direct services to London St Pancras in around 90 minutes, and Nottingham and Leicester are reachable within 15-20 minutes by train.
Affordable Living
Compared to larger UK cities, Loughborough offers a significantly lower cost of living while still providing access to shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
Surrounding Countryside
The Leicestershire countryside offers beautiful landscapes for walking, cycling, and outdoor activities, including Charnwood Forest and Bradgate Park nearby.
Nearby Cities
Leicester and Nottingham provide vibrant nightlife, cultural attractions, shopping centres, and international airports for easy travel across the UK and Europe.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Top Graduate Employers
Practical Information for Students
Practical Information for Students
For International Students
The International Office provides comprehensive guidance on Student visa applications, CAS letters, and compliance with UK immigration regulations throughout your studies.
Loughborough offers a free coach service from London Heathrow Airport on designated arrival days, plus a dedicated induction programme to help you settle into UK university life.
Pre-sessional English courses are available for students who need to improve their language skills before starting their degree. In-sessional support is also offered throughout the academic year.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Worldwide University Rankings
Worldwide University Rankings
Loughborough University is consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK and holds a strong global reputation, particularly in sports-related subjects, engineering, business, and design. The university has been in the UK top ten for a decade in the Complete University Guide.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Sports-Related Subjects | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #1 in the World (10 consecutive years) |
| Engineering and Technology | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #189 |
| Business and Management | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #101 |
| Art and Design | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 30 Globally |
Features
The 2021 REF results show an 11% increase in Loughborough’s share of the UK’s best research since the REF was last undertaken in 2014, as the institution gained significant ground compared to others. The results particularly underline the wide-ranging positive impacts that Loughborough’s research has on the world.
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
Location
Epinal Way, Loughborough LE11 3TU, United Kingdom
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