Overview

The University of Leeds, founded in 1904, is a member of the elite Russell Group of research-intensive universities and enjoys a worldwide reputation for academic brilliance. There are approximately 38,000 students registered at Leeds University, representing more than 170 different nations. The university’s single campus is spread over 98 acres and is located within a mile of the heart of the bustling city. There is a state-of-the-art swimming pool and fitness centre on campus called The Edge.

From English Language and International Foundation Year to hundreds of undergraduate and postgraduate degree options and PhD chances, the University of Leeds has one of the biggest selections of programmes accessible among all UK universities. Graduates from the University of Leeds are highly sought after by institutions of higher education and employers worldwide, and its alums hold influential positions in governments, businesses, and nonprofit organisations on every continent.

There are more than 300 different student organisations to get involved with, and the university’s Student Union has won two gold standards from the Student Union Assessment Initiative. Manchester and Leeds Bradford airports provide service to the University of Leeds, and it takes a little over two hours to go to London by train.

The University of Leeds has an acceptance rate of 64%, and it is ranked #86 in the QS Global University Rankings 2023 and #9 in the UK. In 2009, 2011, and 2021, it was awarded the Queen’s Anniversary Prize, the country’s highest honour for an educational institution. Studying at the University of Leeds will give you an edge in the job market after graduation, numerous internship and placement options available.

History

The Leeds School of Medicine was established in 1831, meaning the University of Leeds can trace its roots back to the early 19th century. Established in 1874, Yorkshire College of Science became a part of Victoria University in 1884. The Yorkshire College, Leeds School of Medicine, and Leeds School of Law all amalgamated in 1904 to become what is currently known as the University of Leeds. In 1904, the new university received a Royal Charter, marking its transformation into Leeds University.

Early on, the institution expanded swiftly, adding various new programmes and faculties to its core medical, legal, and scientific offerings. An important part of the university’s mission during World War I was to serve the military by teaching and researching various topics relevant to the conflict. New buildings and facilities were constructed in the years following World War II, and academic programmes in fields as diverse as engineering, teaching, and the arts were introduced.

The University of Leeds has developed into a world-class research university, regularly placing in the top five in both the UK and the world university rankings. The institution has a long history of breaking new ground in various disciplines, from the hard sciences like medicine and engineering to the more humanistic ones like the social sciences and the arts, thanks to its dedication to interdisciplinary study and cooperation.

Ranking & Achievements

  • 23rd in the Times University Guide 2023
  • 20th in the Guardian University Guide 2023
  • 86th in the QS World University Rankings 2023
  • 128th in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023
  • 101st-150th in the Academic Ranking of World Universities 2021

According to the findings of the Research Excellence Framework 2021, 90% of the research conducted at the University of Leeds gets either a “world-leading” or “internationally excellent” classification. Because of its high ranking in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021, Leeds is now considered to be among the best institutions in the UK.

Courses

Faculties

Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Cultures

  • School of Design
  • School of English
  • School of Fine Art, History of Art and Cultural Studies
  • School of History
  • School of Languages, Cultures and Societies
  • School of Media and Communication
  • School of Music
  • School of Performance and Cultural Industries
  • School of Philosophy, Religion and History of Science
  • Institute for Medieval Studies
  • Inter-disciplinary Ethics Applied

Faculty of Biological Sciences

  • School of Biology
  • School of Biomedical Sciences 
  • School of Molecular and Cellular Biology

Faculty of Business

  • Leeds University Business School

Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences

  • Chemical and Process Engineering
  • Chemistry
  • Civil Engineering
  • Computing
  • Electronic and Electrical Engineering
  • Mathematics
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Physics and Astronomy

Faculty of Environment

  • School of Earth and Environment
  • School of Food Science and Nutrition
  • School of Geography
  • Institute for Transport Studies

Faculty of Medicine and Health

  • School of Dentistry
  • School of Healthcare
  • School of Medicine
  • School of Psychology

Faculty of Social Sciences

  • School of Education
  • School of Law
  • School of Politics and International Studies
  • School of Sociology and Social Policy

Fees & Scholarship

£20,000-25,000 per year for international students.

Scholarship

  • Business School International Excellence Scholarship- 50% fee reduction for any international students.

Facilities and Services

Almost 12,000 students from more than 170 different countries make the University of Leeds a genuinely global institution. You can find resources to help you settle in at the University of Leeds and in the city of Leeds at the International Student Office. Leeds’ Global Community, led by a variety of international ambassadors, will help you interact with new people and cultures from all over the world, and there are regular events where students may get to know other students in similar situations.

The University of Leeds offers a wide variety of resources for international students, such as personal tutors in each department, a Student Advice Centre, and a medical centre staffed by doctors, nurses, and dentists.

Accommodation

The University of Leeds is one of the largest in the United Kingdom, and as such, it offers a wide variety of living options, from brand-new, purpose-built apartments to historic manor houses. There are various housing options for students at the University of Leeds, including studio apartments and dorms with private bathrooms.

Undergraduate and graduate students from outside of Leeds who apply by the deadline will be assured University housing for the duration of their studies.

Location

Leeds, a large English city in the county of Yorkshire, is located a little over two hours by rail from London. The city’s cultural institutions, like as its museums, nightlife, and shopping, are just as well-known as its sports teams and musical acts. Independent surveys consistently rank it among the top three shopping destinations in the UK, and its wide variety of stores means there’s something for everyone.

The breathtaking Yorkshire Dales are only a short drive from the city, and they provide a wide variety of outdoor recreation opportunities.

Transportation

The University of Leeds offers a comprehensive transportation system for students, providing convenient and affordable options to help you get around the city. With excellent bus and train links, you can easily travel to and from the university campus, as well as explore the wider Leeds area.

The university also has a bike rental programme for students, making it easy and affordable to cycle around the city. Whatever your transportation needs are, the University of Leeds has got you covered!

Conclusion

Studying at the University of Leeds offers an exceptional academic experience, with world-class facilities and a diverse community of students and staff. With a wide range of degree programmes and a commitment to research excellence, the University of Leeds is a top choice for students seeking to advance their education and career prospects.

Whether you’re an international or domestic student, you can expect a welcoming and inclusive learning environment that will inspire and challenge you to reach your full potential.

FAQ

What GPA is required for Leeds?

The University of Leeds has specific entry requirements for each of its programmes. For undergraduate programmes, the typical requirement is a minimum 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) or equivalent, although this can vary depending on the programme and the country of origin of the applicant. For postgraduate programmes, the required GPA will depend on the specific programme and level of study. Generally, a minimum GPA of 2.1 (on a 4.0 scale) or equivalent is required for most master’s programmes.

Is University of Leeds prestigious?

Being one of the best universities in the United Kingdom, the University of Leeds is ranked highly internationally.

Is Leeds good for international students?

Students from all over the world want to study here because of our stellar teaching and research reputation. More than 14,400 international students from 137 countries enrich Leeds’ already diverse student body.

Is IELTS required for Leeds University?

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic score of 6.0 is required, with no less than 5.5 required for any individual component.

What ranking is Leeds University in UK?

  • 23rd in the Times University Guide 2023
  • 20th in the Guardian University Guide 2023

Is Leeds an affordable place to live?

Leeds has some of the most costly housing costs in Northern England, however it is still cheaper than cities like London and Edinburgh.

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