Studying at the best universities in England can boost your career and provide a unique cultural immersion. Although the selection process for these institutions is rigorous, there are many spots for international students. Follow our article and discover the most renowned universities and how to apply.
Top 3 Best Universities in England
Every year, the Center for World University Rankings (CWUR) publishes a ranking of the best universities in England and the world. This tool is invaluable for students who want to evaluate their study options abroad.
The ranking is based on various evaluation criteria, which include the quality of education, the employability rate of alumni, and the research performance:
- Quality of education: Assesses the number of alumni who have received significant academic distinctions.
- Employment of alumni: Considers the rate of alumni who have secured high-ranking positions in major companies worldwide.
- Quality of faculty: Analyzes the number of faculty members with important academic distinctions.
- Research performance: Looks at the number of studies conducted, articles published in top-tier journals, and the number of citations.
England holds a strong presence in the 2020-2021 CWUR World University Rankings. The country remains one of the most popular study destinations globally due to its modern facilities, variety of study disciplines, and unique teaching methods.
1. University of Cambridge
Founded in 1209, the University of Cambridge is the second oldest university in the world. Notable alumni include Charles Darwin, Alan Turing, and Isaac Newton.
The university comprises 31 autonomous colleges, each with its own rules and statutes, but functioning as part of the larger institution.
Major Courses
The University of Cambridge is organized into six schools, each offering a specific group of courses:
- Technology
- Physical Sciences
- Clinical Medicine
- Arts and Humanities
- Biological Sciences
- Humanities and Social Sciences
How to Apply
To apply to the University of Cambridge, you need to achieve excellent results in high school and excel in subjects related to your chosen field. Follow the application process via UCAS, the unified admissions service for UK universities. The steps include:
- Fill out the SAQ: Supplementary Application Questionnaire with your personal and school details.
- Register with COPA: If you wish to apply for a scholarship or be interviewed abroad, submit the Cambridge Online Preliminary Application.
- Submit your school transcript: Include your high school transcript unless you have completed the equivalent in the UK.
- Take an English proficiency test: Prove your proficiency with tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge English.
- Attend an interview: If shortlisted, attend an in-person interview at the university.
- Take a written assessment: Most candidates undergo specific assessments related to their field of study.
- Meet the course-specific requirements: Demonstrate exemplary performance in certain subjects during high school.
2. University of Oxford
The University of Oxford, located in the city of the same name, is England’s oldest higher education institution. With excellent teaching quality, it attracts students from over 150 countries, making it a hub for cultural connections.
The institution comprises 38 colleges and offers more than 250 undergraduate courses. Oxford has produced 26 Nobel laureates and various celebrities, including Margaret Thatcher, Stephen Hawking, and Thomas Hobbes.
Major Courses
Oxford has approximately 100 departments, overseen by four academic divisions:
- Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Medical Sciences
- Mathematical, Physical, and Life Sciences
How to Apply
The application process for Oxford is the same for all candidates, but international students must go through additional steps, such as recognition of international educational qualifications and taking an English proficiency exam. The application period typically begins in October, earlier than most universities. The steps include:
- Apply through UCAS: Provide your personal and educational information.
- Write a personal statement: Explain your reasons for choosing the study area.
- Submit a reference letter: A letter from a teacher or advisor is required.
- Take admission tests: Some courses require admission tests.
- Prove international qualifications: Show qualifications equivalent to the UK’s A-Levels.
- English proficiency: Non-native speakers must take an English proficiency test.
- Attend an interview: Undergo an interview if shortlisted.
3. University College London (UCL)
Founded in 1826, University College London (UCL) is one of the best universities in England. With its main campus in London and 31 branches, it accommodates over 22,000 students in undergraduate and master’s courses.
Notable alumni and Nobel Prize winners, such as William Ramsay, Mahatma Gandhi, Alexander Graham Bell, and Kwame Nkrumah, highlight UCL’s prestigious history.
Major Courses
UCL offers over 3,700 courses annually in various fields of knowledge, including:
- Arts
- Law
- Music
- Science
- Theology
- Medicine
- Education
- Engineering
- Business Administration
- Dental Surgery
- Veterinary Medicine
- Commerce and Humanities
How to Apply
The requirements to apply to UCL vary by course. Brazilian students must complete high school with excellent grades to enroll in the Foundation Year, a preparatory course for undergraduates. Follow these steps:
- Apply through UCAS: Use the same process as other UK students.
- Submit academic records: Send your high school transcript and diploma.
- Write a motivation letter: Explain why you chose the course.
- Provide a recommendation letter: Submit a letter from a teacher or advisor.
- Prove English proficiency: Obtain a certificate of proficiency.
How to Study at the Best Universities in England?
Studying at the best universities in England is a dream for many students. To achieve this, follow a sequence of simple actions that require organization and planning:
- Choose up to five courses you want to study.
- Research the entry requirements of each university.
- Apply for undergraduate studies through the UCAS Hub.
- Learn about tuition fees, entry requirements, and scholarship opportunities.
- Find out when you can submit your application and the deadlines for your chosen course.
- Respond to offers on the UCAS website and enroll in the course.
Can You Use the ENEM?
Yes, several universities in England accept ENEM scores as one of the requirements for undergraduate admission. However, the ENEM score is not the only requirement. Other factors include:
- Overall high school average.
- Passing the university’s entrance exam.
- Proof of English proficiency.
- Completion of the Foundation Year.
Some universities that accept ENEM scores include:
- Loughborough University
- Kingston University London
- Birkbeck, University of London
- Queen Mary University of London
Necessary Documents for Application
To study at one of the best universities in England, you need the following documents:
- Copy of passport.
- Student visa.
- School transcript.
- High school graduation certificate (certified translation).
- English proficiency certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Test).
- Recommendations from teachers or advisors (in English).
- Personal statement (personal statement).
How Much Does It Cost to Study at the Best Universities in England?
Tuition fees vary by study level and university. Brazilians can expect to pay between £10,000 and £30,000 for a three-year undergraduate course. Medicine and longer courses may cost more. Below are the tuition fees for major courses:
| Institution | Law | Economics | Engineering | Medicine |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Cambridge | £22,227 | £22,227 | £33,825 | £58,038 |
| University of Oxford | £29,500 | £32,480 | £39,010 | £36,800 |
| University College London | £23,300 | £25,800 | £31,200 | £28,500 |
Living costs in England are high. Students typically pay between £800 and £1,300 per month for food, bills, and accommodation.
Is It Worth Studying at the Best Universities in England?
Yes, studying at the best universities in England is worth it. Although the process is bureaucratic and involves many steps, the quality of life, education, and job opportunities are excellent.
Student life abroad offers unique experiences that contribute to personal and professional growth. However, it is essential to focus and plan to study at a university in England.
Want to know more about living, challenges, and benefits of moving to another country? Check out the ebook “The Dream of Living in Europe” and see the experiences of other Brazilians who changed their lives and moved to Europe.
Travel Insurance: A Necessity for Studying in Europe
Did you know that travel insurance is mandatory to enter Europe? Whether for living or visiting, immigration can require this document. In partnership with Skaii, we offer our readers the best travel insurance prices.
Studying at the best universities in England requires planning and dedication, but the benefits are numerous. Prepare yourself, get organized, and embark on this journey of personal and professional growth.