UCL is well known for both the quantity and excellence of its research output, supported by world-leading research groups and academics.
Overview
UCL is a campus-based university, mainly located in Bloomsbury, central London. Additionally, a new campus, UCL East, is set to open in September 2022. The uni prides itself on its multi-national nature, with an international student make-up of 48% and ex-students in 190 countries.
Being in central London, UCL is surrounded by great transport links, as well as plenty of culture, excitement and nightlife. Bars, restaurants, nightclubs, museums, theatres, music and comedy venues are readily available and close by, making up a big part of student life.
UCL was founded in 1826, making it the oldest university in London and one of the oldest in the whole of the UK. 30 Nobel prize winners previously studied at UCL and it’s famously where Coldplay met and formed. It’s also the largest of London’s unis, with 11 faculties and 100 departments.
UCL focuses on research and is associated with several hospitals in the capital. It prides itself on inclusivity and it became the first university in England to admit women students, as well as to welcome students from any religion or background. As well as this, its buildings have been used in blockbuster films, such as Gladiator and Batman Begins.
Courses and lecturers
3.8Course rating
4.1Course content rating
3.8Lecturers and Teaching quality rating
There are over 400 undergraduate degree programmes on offer at UCL, all of which are taught in person during the daytime, as there are no online-only courses. Most courses are studied on a full-time basis, however, the Greek and Latin, Hebrew and Jewish Studies, and Mathematics departments all offer some part-time options. To apply to study part-time, you need to contact UCL directly.
Typically, undergraduate degrees at UCL take three years to study, but a number of courses include placement years, study abroad options or an integrated master’s year. These courses usually take four or five years to complete. Most degrees include optional modules, as well as core modules, meaning you can study the degree topics you’re most interested in.
It's also possible to combine two or three subjects within an undergraduate degree in what’s called a combined honours degree. For example, it’s fairly common to study a humanities course, like history, alongside a language, such as French or Spanish.
Entry requirements
UCL is a popular university and places are highly competitive. Therefore, applicants need to meet their course’s minimum grade requirements. In general, UCL’s entrance requirements are based on three A-levels, usually ranging from A*A*A*–ABB (or equivalent).
UCL doesn’t accept A-levels in general studies or critical thinking, so these subjects won’t count towards entry requirements. It should be noted that the university also accepts other qualifications of an equivalent level.
Each course’s specific entry requirements can be found on UCL’s website and we recommend that you check this before applying. In general though, to get onto an engineering, business or science-based course, you’ll need A-levels of A*AA–AAB, or equivalent grades in another qualification.
To study a humanities course, you’ll likely be asked for A-levels ranging from AAA–ABB (or equivalent) and to be accepted onto a degree in the arts, UCL requires A-levels ranging from AAB–ABB.
You will also likely need to have studied at least two subjects that appear on UCL’s list of preferred A-level subjects, which can be found on their website.
It should be noted that entry requirements can change so you should always confirm these with the university before applying.
Accommodation & facilities
3.5Halls rating
4.0Facilities rating
UCL has 26 halls of residence on offer which provide around 7,000 beds for students. The halls cater for most people’s requirements as they vary in size, facilities and price. A dedicated accommodation team is on-hand to help students.
The halls are mainly situated in and around central London, giving students good access to all that the capital has to offer. UCL guarantees an accommodation place for all full-time, single, first-year undergrads (subject to eligibility criteria), as well as alternative accommodation options for those who don’t meet the required criteria.
Applications for accommodation are submitted through the UCL accommodation portal, which can be found online. Rent fees include all utility charges, such as gas, electricity, water and the internet.
Each residence has a hall committee, which is chaired by a hall representative. It’s their job to organise and run hall events and activities.
The accommodation rates for 2022/23 range from £130 to £396 per week, per person.
UCL has a team of experienced career professionals who are on hand to support students and graduates in finding success in their future working life. You can use this resource for free to get help in a number of areas.
For instance, you can get guidance on career choices and industry sector information, to help you decide what career path to take. Online modular e-learning courses give information and tutorials, as well as set out actions.
The service also has an extensive careers library with a range of resources to help with career planning, sector guidance and ways to build your professional network. It is also possible for students to book one-to-one appointments with careers advisors for additional help and support.
When applying for jobs, you can also use a range of resources and services that aim to support you through the entire recruitment process. For example, the online career library has guides explaining how to write a CV and cover letter, how to complete a job application form and how to succeed in an interview.
Regular events, such as careers fairs, also provide great opportunities to learn more about possible employers and to network.
Scholarships and funding
UCL offers several bursaries and scholarships to provide funding help for students who meet the relevant criteria. These don’t have to be repaid, unlike the maintenance and tuition fee loans that most students can get.
For example, the UCL Undergraduate Bursary provides support for UK undergraduates with a household income below £42,875. Also, the Estranged Student Bursary offers £1,000 per year to any student who meets the definition of estrangement from their family.
UCL’s website has a scholarship search tool that will help you find out if there are any scholarships available that you may be eligible for. These could be for students who are studying specific subjects or for those who excel in certain areas, like sport, music, academia or the arts.
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You'll be shocked by the number of clubs and societies on offer at UCL (University College London). There's something for everyone! As well as being able to pick different clubs and societies, most courses let you choose modules at different points through your degree.
As well as personalising your course through optional modules, you may have the chance to do a work placement during your studies. Developing your professional skills through work placements is a great way to add to your CV and boost your employability.
What can you do with a degree from UCL (University College London)?
If you want a job you love (and who doesn't?), getting a job in a field you're passionate about is a great place to start. By studying a subject you really enjoy, you'll be qualified for a range of jobs relating to that subject, which you'll hopefully love.
For those who aren't ready to give up on education after an undergraduate degree, you'll have the opportunity to progress to postgraduate study such as a master's or even a PhD.
What accommodation does UCL (University College London) offer?
UCL (University College London)'s accommodation is designed to be as straightforward and stress-free as possible. All your bills are included in your rent, you'll have free WiFi and your rent also includes security and maintenance.
You'll have access to communal areas like kitchen and dining facilities, where you can socialise with other students you're living with. Disabled students will find several rooms adapted in accessible halls to suit a range of access requirements.