Why People Should Consider Studying in London

Many people aspire to live in London, the capital city where possibilities for academics and professionals are located. This city, which is rich in history, has changed significantly since it was formerly affectionately referred to as "The Big Smoke" or "The Old Smoke."

Today, the city is home to some of the most prestigious educational institutions, from colleges and universities to grammar and preparatory schools. These educational institutions have received high praise from academics, researchers, and learned professionals for their significant contributions to the sciences, the arts, literature, theatre, and other disciplines.

Both domestic and foreign students have chosen London's universities because of the academic options it provides for those seeking to pursue higher education. In fact, it was once again named the best student city in the world by QS in 2022.

London is a great destination to start your academic and/or professional career because of the bustling city life, simple access to London's famous landmarks, a thriving art and cultural scene, as well as the many outstanding universities, incredible work prospects, and financial centres.

You should think about studying in London if you intend to leave your hometown or nation to pursue graduate, post-graduate, or doctoral-level education.

Facts About Higher Education in London

• In 40 higher education institutions, London welcomed more than 400,000 students (16% of the total UK enrollment) for the academic year 2020–2021;
• There are more than 30,000 courses available to local, EU, and non-EU students who come from 200 different nations;
• The same academic year, the city was home to 114,555+ international students with 32% of students hailing from EU countries and 68% coming from non-EU counties;
• London has the largest student population compared to other British cities;
• Most higher education institutes, five of which are members of the Russell Group, offer scholastic and research opportunities under the supervision of experienced instructors from around the world;
• The city is a financial and corporate hub, providing fresh graduates with an opportunity to launch their professional career without needing to leave the city;
• London is also rich in terms of diversity, providing international students with the opportunity to find food, clothing, and cultural activities from their hometown.

Why Consider Studying in London

Universities in London

London is deemed as one of the leading educational hubs centres in the UK and the world. 17 of the 45 universities or higher education institutes in London are ranked among the top 100 in QS World University Rankings in 2021.

These universities offer both academic and research opportunities for undergraduate and post-graduate students. From arts and humanities to medical and polytechnic institutes, these are world-class universities that continue being recognized by well-known bodies.

In fact, 5 of the 45 universities in London are members of the Russell Group. This includes Imperial College London, King’s College London, London School of Economics, Queen Mary University of London, and University College London.

The University of London is a federal institute and host to 120,000 students. It comprises of over 19 universities and 12 institutes, all of which are self-governing and recognised locally and internationally. These universities and colleges include some popular names such The Institute of Education, Imperial College London, University College London, King’s College London, and others.

Alongside these, there are other universities that are not part of the University of London that offer courses in business, economics, management, medicine, sciences, languages, and more.

What London lacks in terms of a truly “historic” or ancient university in city limits, it makes up in the quality of education and thriving location.

Fortune 500 Companies have Regional Offices in London

London boasts a growing corporate culture that offers graduates an opportunity to find occupation in their respective fields, from theatre, opera and musical opportunities on the West End to technology, digital media, legal and financial firms.

You remain right in the heart of one of the most thriving cities in the world, having the chance to find employment in 75% of the Fortune 500 companies that have offices in London. Furthermore, graduates get to enjoy higher starting salaries when compared to other cities in England.

For international students that can’t make it back home for summer break, they can apply for internships and training positions in the city. There are also several incubators in London where student entrepreneurs can explore their chances of success.

It’s a Multicultural Hub

One of the most attractive facts about London is its multicultural population. From food to diversity of nationalities and ethnicities you come across in the city, you can find a wide range of cultures thriving in different areas within London.

Southall, a suburban district in west London, is home to a growing Indian and Pakistani population. In fact, over the years, the district has been dubbed as “little Punjab” due to its large Sikh and Indian-Punjabi population.

A melting pot of different cultures, cuisines, and languages, international students can find a little piece of their home away from home with ease.

Bookworm Heaven

If you’re a reader and love being around books, there are plenty of libraries in the city to find your favourite spot. In addition to the British Library, the National Art Library and Senate House have incredible collections of books, recordings, and other publications.

These libraries come as additional perks as higher education institutes or universities have their own library setups as well. In addition to libraries, there are plenty of museums around London to indulge your academic curiosity. The Natural History Museum along with the National Gallery and British Museum are popular.

Active Social Life

Since student life goes beyond universities and classroom education, London comes out as a great location to study in. If you’re using university education, you’ll be located in halls around the city and not the central campus – this is quite normal for first-year students.

This works out in the students’ favour as they can experience a lively social life. You can meet students from other universities around London’s pub scene. Additionally, there are societies, club, and both campus and non-campus events students can participate in to meet new people and find extra-curricular activities.

Furthermore, there are famous sights and attractions peppered within the city and in locations just outside it. While we’ve covered museums, there are shows, clubs, modern and historic architecture, and other landmarks you can go sight-seeing.

There are also plenty of grassy knolls, parks, and open spaces that you can stroll in. In fact, over 50% of the city is green with plenty of places for a Sunday picnic, lacrosse or rugby match, or rowboat at Regent’s Lake.

While London is considerably large and sprawling, you can still enjoy a lively social life without worrying too much about transportation. It’s well connected through the tube, a network of buses, taxis and ride-sharing applications services like Uber. Students can also avail special discounts and offers for public transport during certain times of the day.

Conclusively, London is a city that is not only great for those seeking academic and/or research pursuits, but it is a place that offers something for everyone. Home to internationally-acclaimed universities, respected organizations, cultural diversity and booming social life, it’s worth considering to study in London.