University of Leicester
Leicester, United Kingdom
University of Leicester
Leicester, United Kingdom
Founded
1921
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
20,000+
Acceptance Rate
~72%
Discover the University of Leicester: A Living Memorial Turned Research Powerhouse
Discover the University of Leicester: A Living Memorial Turned Research Powerhouse
Founded in 1921 as Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland University College, the University of Leicester was established as a living memorial to those who lost their lives in the First World War. Its motto, Ut Vitam Habeant — 'so that they may have life' — reflects the founding vision that education should serve as a beacon of hope for future generations. The university received its Royal Charter in 1957, granting it the power to award its own degrees.
Today, the University of Leicester is recognised as one of the UK's leading research-intensive universities. It is renowned for landmark discoveries including the invention of genetic fingerprinting by Professor Sir Alec Jeffreys in 1984 and the identification of the remains of King Richard III. The university received an overall Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023, placing it among a select group of institutions nationally.
With over 20,000 students from more than 140 countries and approximately 4,000 staff, Leicester offers a diverse and inclusive academic community. The university delivers over 350 degree programmes across three academic colleges, emphasising a cross-disciplinary approach, innovation, and collaboration that prepares graduates for global careers.
Key Milestones
- 1921: Founded as Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland University College with 11 students and three lecturers.
- 1957: Granted Royal Charter, gaining full university status and the right to award its own degrees.
- 1984: Professor Sir Alec Jeffreys invented genetic fingerprinting in the Adrian Building, revolutionising forensic science.
- 2012: University archaeologists discovered and identified the remains of King Richard III beneath a Leicester car park.
Academic Structure and Colleges
Academic Structure and Colleges
The University of Leicester organises its academic schools and departments into three main colleges, offering over 350 degree programmes at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels. This structure encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration and supports the university's mission of delivering impactful research alongside outstanding teaching.
College of Life Sciences
Encompasses the Leicester Medical School, biological sciences, psychology, and health sciences. This college is home to pioneering research in genetics, cardiovascular sciences, and respiratory medicine.
- Medicine (MBChB)
- Biological Sciences (BSc/MSc)
- Psychology (BSc/MSc)
College of Science and Engineering
Covers physics, astronomy, chemistry, mathematics, computing, engineering, geography, geology, and the environment. Leicester has a strong legacy in space science and is a founding partner of the National Space Centre.
- Aerospace Engineering (MEng/BEng)
- Computer Science (BSc/MSc)
- Chemistry (BSc/MChem)
College of Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities
Brings together law, business, history, politics, international relations, archaeology, English, media, education, criminology, and sociology. The School of Archaeology and Ancient History is ranked among the top 40 globally.
- Law (LLB/LLM)
- Archaeology and Ancient History (BA/MA)
- Business and Management (BSc/MBA)
Leicester Medical School
Established in 1971, the Medical School is based in the modern George Davies Centre and trains future doctors and healthcare professionals. It is recognised for excellence in clinical medicine research and teaching.
- Medicine (MBChB, 5-year programme)
- Medical Sciences (BSc)
- Health Sciences (MSc)
School of Business
Founded in 2016 by merging the School of Management and the Department of Economics, the School of Business is accredited by AMBA and offers programmes in management, accounting, finance, and economics.
- Accounting and Finance (BSc)
- International Business (MSc)
- Marketing (MSc)
School of Engineering
Housed in the iconic James Stirling-designed Engineering Building, the school offers programmes in aerospace, electrical, electronic, and mechanical engineering with strong links to industry and interdisciplinary research centres.
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering (BEng/MEng)
- Mechanical Engineering (BEng/MEng)
- Communications and Electronic Engineering (MSc)
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admissions
- Application PlatformUCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service)
- English Language (IELTS)Minimum 6.0–7.5 overall (varies by course)
- A-Levels (Typical Offer)ABB–AAA depending on the programme
- International Baccalaureate30–36 points depending on the programme
- Foundation PathwayAvailable via the International Study Centre for students who do not meet direct entry requirements
Postgraduate Admissions
- Minimum DegreeA good bachelor's degree (typically 2:1 or equivalent) from a recognised institution
- English Language (IELTS)Minimum 6.5 overall (varies by programme; some require 7.0+)
- Application MethodApply directly through the University of Leicester website
- Deposit RequirementGBP 3,000 deposit for self-financed international students
- Supporting DocumentsAcademic transcripts, personal statement, references, and CV (for some programmes)
Undergraduate applications submitted by this date receive equal consideration for most courses.
Last date to submit undergraduate applications through UCAS for the autumn intake.
Rolling admissions for most postgraduate programmes; early application is recommended to secure a place and scholarships.
Students who firmly accept an offer and apply for accommodation by September are guaranteed a place in university housing.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
The University of Leicester offers competitive tuition fees and is recognised as one of the most affordable university destinations in the UK. Leicester provides a range of scholarships, bursaries, and discounts to help international students fund their education.
| Fee Category | Home (UK) Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition (per year) | GBP 9,535 | GBP 22,200 – 26,550 |
| Postgraduate Taught (per year) | Contact university for details | GBP 18,650 – 23,650 |
| Foundation Year | GBP 5,760 – 9,790 | GBP 17,750 – 20,750 |
| Estimated Living Costs (per year) | GBP 12,000 – 15,000 | GBP 12,000 – 15,000 |
| Total | Varies by programme | GBP 34,200 – 41,550 (tuition + living) |
Citizens of Change Scholarship
A scholarship awarding GBP 2,000 to 150 students who demonstrate a commitment to making a positive difference in their community and beyond.
- Award Amount: GBP 2,000
- Eligibility: New undergraduate students demonstrating community impact
- Number of Awards: 150 per year
International Postgraduate Scholarship
Merit-based scholarships for international postgraduate students, offering a reduction on tuition fees. Leicester alumni also benefit from a 20% alumni discount on postgraduate fees.
- Award Amount: Up to GBP 5,000 tuition fee reduction
- Eligibility: International students with strong academic records
- Alumni Discount: 20% off postgraduate fees for Leicester graduates
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
The University of Leicester's main campus is located about one mile south of Leicester city centre, adjacent to the beautiful Victoria Park. The campus blends historic architecture, including the Georgian Fielding Johnson Building dating from 1837, with award-winning modern facilities such as the David Wilson Library and the George Davies Centre.
Opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 2008 following a GBP 32 million refurbishment, the library provides over 1,500 study spaces, group study rooms, and comprehensive digital resources.
Completed in 2016, this state-of-the-art facility is the hub of medical education and research at Leicester, housing the Leicester Medical School.
Designed by Sir James Stirling and completed in 1963, this Grade II* listed building is considered a masterpiece of modern British architecture and houses workshops, laboratories, and lecture theatres.
Housing and Dining
Accommodation Options
The university guarantees accommodation for new students who firmly accept their offer and apply by the September deadline. Options include the Oadby Student Village and City Living residences.
- Oadby Student Village with self-catered and en-suite rooms
- City Living residences near the main campus
- Free shuttle bus service between the Village and campus
Dining and Campus Amenities
The campus features multiple food outlets, cafes, and shops. The Percy Gee Building houses the Students' Union, and the O2 Academy Leicester provides live music and entertainment on campus.
- Multiple cafes and food outlets across campus
- O2 Academy Leicester with three music venues
- Danielle Brown Sports Centre and Roger Bettles Sports Centre
Student Life at Leicester
Student Life at Leicester
Student life at the University of Leicester is vibrant, inclusive, and full of opportunities. The Students' Union, based in the Percy Gee Building, hosts events, provides support services, and helps students make the most of their university experience through clubs, societies, and volunteering.
Leicester: A Vibrant and Affordable Student City
Leicester: A Vibrant and Affordable Student City
Life in Leicester
Leicester is one of the oldest and most diverse cities in England, with a population of approximately 330,000. Located in the heart of the East Midlands, it offers excellent transport links — London is just 70 minutes away by train, and Birmingham under an hour. Ranked as the cheapest city in the UK for students, Leicester combines affordability with a rich cultural scene, vibrant nightlife, and welcoming atmosphere.
Excellent Transport Links
Direct trains to London St Pancras in around 70 minutes, with Eurostar connections to Paris and Brussels. East Midlands Airport and Birmingham International Airport are both easily accessible.
Rich Cultural Heritage
Home to the King Richard III Visitor Centre, the National Space Centre, and one of the UK's largest Diwali celebrations outside India, Leicester celebrates its multicultural identity year-round.
Affordable Cost of Living
Leicester is consistently ranked among the most affordable student cities in the UK, with average monthly living costs estimated between GBP 1,000 and GBP 1,300.
Green Spaces and Recreation
The campus borders Victoria Park, and the surrounding Leicestershire countryside offers beautiful scenery. The university also maintains its own Botanic Garden in nearby Oadby.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Top Employers of Leicester Graduates
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
All new international students are encouraged to attend the International Welcome Week before the academic year begins. It provides an excellent opportunity to settle in, meet other students, and learn about university services.
The university provides dedicated visa guidance for Student Visa applicants. International students must demonstrate funds for course fees plus GBP 1,023 per month for living costs as part of the visa process.
Leicester offers lifelong careers support including one-to-one coaching, mock interviews, employer events, and a dedicated service for international graduates seeking UK sponsorship opportunities.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Leicester: Worldwide Rankings
University of Leicester: Worldwide Rankings
The University of Leicester is consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK and globally, recognised for its research excellence and teaching quality. It is placed within the top 1% of universities worldwide and holds a TEF Gold rating for teaching.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Archaeology | QS World Rankings by Subject | #40 |
| Clinical Medicine | Shanghai Ranking (ARWU) | #27 |
| Medical and Health Sciences | Times Higher Education (THE) | #101–125 |
| Business and Administration | Shanghai Ranking (ARWU) | #51–75 |
Features
The International Office at Leicester can provide support on issues such as visas, employment, finance and cultural adjustment. In-sessional and pre-sessional English classes are available for all international students who want or need to improve their English level before or during their degree. There are also a variety of student-led groups and activities for a range of nationalities as well as opportunities to make new friends through common interests.
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 - June
Location
University Rd, Leicester LE1 7RH, United Kingdom
Map not found.
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