Key highlights:
- Top Universities in the UK for MS
- Eligibility Criteria for Studying at Top Universities in the UK
- Cost of Living in the UK
The UK has some of the most prestigious universities in the world. It is one of the most sought-after destinations among students who are aiming to pursue a Master of Science (MS/MSc). Famous for excellence in education, innovative research, and industry connections, universities in the UK have various courses to offer. Studying in the UK can be a prudent option as it helps students gain international exposure along with quality education. Here’s what you must know about the top universities in the UK for MS.
Top Universities in the UK for MS
UK universities provide multiple specialisations that lead to personal and professional development. An MS from one of the top-ranked UK universities will provide access to global opportunities with enhanced employability.
University of Oxford
The University of Oxford, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the UK for MS, offers world-class graduate education with a strong emphasis on research excellence, personalised academic support, and outstanding career development opportunities. Graduate students join a diverse intellectual community, benefit from cutting-edge resources, extensive libraries, and a powerful global alumni network, all of which can enhance academic growth and employability after MS.
Key Insights
| Aspects | Interesting information |
|---|---|
| Year of establishment | 1096 |
| International students | 6,770 |
| Tuition fees | ~INR 30 lakhs - ~INR 75 lakhs |
| Popular courses |
|
| Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings 2026: Top global universities |
|
| Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026 |
|
University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge is an internationally reputed institution that prides itself on its intellectual excellence, world-class research, and employer reputation, making it one of the best universities in the UK for MS. Boasting a strong legacy of innovation and intellectual excellence, Cambridge has programmes for postgraduate students with more than 300 courses available to help students expand their intellectual depth.
Key Insights
| Aspects | Interesting information |
|---|---|
| Year of establishment | 1209 |
| International students | ~9,310 |
| Tuition fees | ~INR 29 lakhs to ~INR 68 lakhs |
| Popular courses |
|
| QS World University Rankings 2026: Top global universities |
|
| THE World University Rankings 2026 |
|
Imperial College London
Imperial College London is one of the top MS universities in the UK for science, engineering, medicine, and business. It is known for its attractive ethos of research culture, industry links, and high graduate employability. From rigorous academic programmes and world-class facilities to dedicated career services, you can attain deep knowledge, gain access to internships, and receive career support. You can choose from courses across domains such as science, engineering, medicine, and business. Approximately 23,000 students study at this university.
Key Insights
| Aspects | Interesting information |
|---|---|
| Year of establishment | 1907 |
| International students | ~6,135 |
| Tuition fees | Upto ~INR 61 lakhs |
| Popular courses |
|
| QS World University Rankings 2026: Top global universities |
|
| THE World University Rankings 2026 |
|
University College London
University College London (UCL) is a multidisciplinary research university located in the centre of London and home to more than 51,000 students, making it one of the best colleges for an MS in the UK for pursuing academic excellence and securing job placement. The university is ranked among the top 10 institutions globally, and its impressive research capabilities combined with its comprehensive range of job placement and other career-aiding facilities give students every opportunity in building their professional attributes and accessing global platforms, and at the same time, benefit from its dynamic environment.
Key Insights
| Aspects | Interesting information |
|---|---|
| Year of establishment | 1826 |
| International students | ~23,000 |
| Tuition fees | ~INR 19 lakhs - ~INR 84 lakhs |
| Popular courses |
|
| QS World University Rankings 2026: Top global universities |
|
| THE World University Rankings 2026 |
|
The University of Manchester
The University of Manchester is an internationally respected research-intensive institution with an impressive array of academic programmes and outstanding post-studies development opportunities. It is ranked second in the UK for graduate employer interest. This makes it an excellent option for MS aspirants looking for academic and development excellence. The university has an extensive international student population with varied learning outlooks, and the institution is highly respected by employers as well. It is home to ~44,000 students.
Key Insights
| Aspects | Interesting information |
|---|---|
| Founded in | 1824 |
| International students | ~ 10,000 |
| Tuition fees | ~INR 9.50 lakhs - ~INR 72 lakhs |
| Popular courses |
|
| QS World University Rankings 2026: Top global universities |
|
| THE World University Rankings 2026 |
|
The University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh is an established research-intensive university providing a world-class postgraduate education experience, thus making it a great choice for MS students in search of academic excellence and development. It has an international reputation for delivering high-quality education and research. Approximately 90% of the University of Edinburgh’s research is world-leading and internationally recognised.
Key Insights
| Aspects | Interesting information |
|---|---|
| Year of establishment | 1583 |
| International students | ~12,000 |
| Tuition fees | ~INR 12 lakhs - ~INR 50 lakhs |
| Popular courses |
|
| QS World University Rankings 2026: Top global universities |
|
| THE World University Rankings 2026 |
|
Eligibility Criteria for Studying at Top Universities in the UK
- You should complete your bachelor’s degree in a relevant stream with preferably percentage above 55%
- To get accepted into this program, it is important to ensure that you obtain academic scores to meet the requirements of your chosen university.
- For English proficiency exams, you need to appear for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). For IELTS the scores should be above 6.0 and for TOEFL the score should be above 80.
- You also need to appear for standardised tests such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT).
- Previous Work Experiences
- Statement of Purpose
- Letter of Recommendation
- CV
Cost of Living in the UK
You can expect to pay between ~£1,300 and ~£1,400 a month if you are living in London, and between ~£900 and ~£1,300 a month if living elsewhere in the UK, with respect to covering accommodation, utilities, food, and other expenses.
Also Read: Top 10 Benefits of Studying in the UK for Indian Students
Intakes in UK
Intakes available in the UK are fall (September/October), winter (January/February) and spring (May/June). The application timelines will be specific to the university you choose.
There is no denying the fact that studying at top universities in the UK will involve significant tuition, accommodation costs, living expenses, and other education-related expenses. Therefore, many students opt for student loans. At Avanse Financial Services, we offer an abroad study loan with 100% finance, quick loan sanctions and flexible repayment options.
If you want to achieve your academic aspirations by studying at the top university in the UK, you can opt for student loans. To know more about education loans or student loan interest rates, please connect with us.
