Best Engineering Universities in London 2025
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London is one of the best cities in the world to study engineering, offering a mix of world-class universities, innovative research, and hands-on industry experience. Whether you’re aiming to work with excellent technology or design the cities of the future, London has it all. From the global prestige of Imperial College London to the practical focus at Brunel University, these top engineering schools offer strong career support, high graduate employability, and programs designed to help you thrive in the modern world.
Best Engineering Universities in London
Imperial College London
When it comes to engineering, Imperial College London is not just a UK leader—it’s a world powerhouse. Founded in 1907, Imperial is located in South Kensington. Imperial consistently ranks among the top 10 universities globally, and in 2025, it was ranked 2nd in the world, just behind MIT.
With around 19,000 students and a student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1, students benefit from small classes and personal attention. Admission is competitive with a 14% acceptance rate, but graduates are rewarded with a 95% employment rate within six months of finishing their degree. Below are the key details of Imperial College London:
| Aspect | Details |
| Founded | 1907 |
| Location | South Kensington, London, UK |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | Approximately 8:1 |
| Enrollment | Around 19,000 students |
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 14% |
| Programs Offered | Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, and Chemical Engineering |
| Tuition Fees (2025) | £9,250/year (UK); £31,000/year (International) |
| Employment Rate | 95% employed or in further study within six months |
| Notable Alumni | Sir Alexander Fleming, Brian May |
| Website | Imperial College London |
University College London (UCL)
Founded in 1826, University College London (UCL) is one of the oldest and most innovative universities in the UK. Its Faculty of Engineering Sciences is known for an interdisciplinary approach. Located in Bloomsbury, UCL is in the heart of London, offering direct access to tech startups, world-leading research labs, and industry connections.
With over 41,500 students, a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio, and an acceptance rate of around 16%, UCL provides a vibrant, competitive, and supportive learning environment. Below are the key details of University College London:
| Aspect | Details |
| Founded | 1826 |
| Location | Bloomsbury, London, UK |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | Approximately 10:1 |
| Enrollment | Over 41,500 students |
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 16% |
| Programs Offered | Biomedical, Chemical, Civil, Mechanical Engineering |
| Tuition Fees (2025) | £9,250/year (UK); £28,500/year (International) |
| Employment Rate | 94% employed or in further study within six months |
| Notable Alumni | Alexander Graham Bell, Christopher Nolan |
| Website | UCL Engineering |
King’s College London
Founded in 1829, King’s College London is one of London’s most historic institutions, with a modern engineering focus on emerging technologies and global impact. Located in the Strand, the university has over 31,000 students and a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1. It’s slightly more selective, with a 13% acceptance rate, and 93% of graduates find jobs or move on to further study within six months.
King’s engineering programs specialize in areas like General Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, and Telecommunications, making it a fantastic option for those who want to be at the forefront of tech and healthcare innovation. Below are the key details of King’s College London:
| Aspect | Details |
| Founded | 1829 |
| Location | Strand, London, UK |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | Approximately 11:1 |
| Enrollment | Over 31,000 students |
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 13% |
| Programs Offered | General Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Telecommunications |
| Tuition Fees (2025) | £9,250/year (UK); £29,460/year (International) |
| Employment Rate | 93% employed or in further study within six months |
| Notable Alumni | Peter Higgs, Florence Nightingale |
| Website | King’s College London |
Queen Mary University of London
Founded in 1887, Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) has become a standout choice for engineering students seeking both academic excellence and a strong sense of community. Located in East London, the university has over 27,000 students and a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1.
The university’s School of Engineering and Materials Science is particularly well-regarded, offering programs in Mechanical, Aerospace, Materials, and Robotics Engineering. Below are the key details of Queen Mary University of London (QMUL):
| Aspect | Details |
| Founded | 1887 |
| Location | Mile End, London, UK |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | Approximately 12:1 |
| Enrollment | Over 27,000 students |
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 18% |
| Programs Offered | Mechanical, Aerospace, Materials, and Robotics Engineering |
| Tuition Fees (2025) | £9,250/year (UK); £23,650/year (International) |
| Employment Rate | 92% employed or in further study within six months |
| Notable Alumni | Bruce Dickinson, Sir Peter Mansfield |
| Website | Queen Mary University of London |
City, University of London
Founded in 1894, City, University of London has built a strong name for itself in engineering education. Located in Northampton Square, the city has over 20,000 students, with a 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio. With an acceptance rate of around 20%, City is competitive but accessible, attracting students from across the globe. Graduates are well-prepared for the workforce, with 91% securing jobs or further education within six months. Below are the key details of City, University of London:
| Aspect | Details |
| Founded | 1894 |
| Location | Northampton Square, London, UK |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | Approximately 15:1 |
| Enrollment | Over 20,000 students |
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 20% |
| Programs Offered | Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Aeronautical Engineering |
| Tuition Fees (2025) | £9,250/year (UK); £19,500/year (International) |
| Employment Rate | 91% employed or in further study within six months |
| Notable Alumni | Sadiq Khan, Stelios Haji-Ioannou |
| Website | City, University of London |
Brunel University London
Named after legendary engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, Brunel University London, is founded in 1966. Located in Uxbridge, Brunel is home to around 16,152 students, with a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio. With a 54% acceptance rate, Brunel is a great choice for those seeking a balance of quality education and opportunity. Graduates enjoy excellent outcomes, with 93% employed or in further study within six months. The university offers top programs in Aerospace, Civil, Mechanical, and Electronic Engineering, blending theory with real-world applications. Below are the key details of Brunel University London:
| Aspect | Details |
| Founded | 1966 |
| Location | Uxbridge, London, UK |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | Approximately 12:1 |
| Enrollment | Approximately 16,152 students (2020/2021) |
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 54% |
| Programs Offered | Aerospace, Civil, Mechanical, Electronic Engineering |
| Tuition Fees (2025) | £9,250/year (UK); £16,200 – £18,700/year (International) |
| Employment Rate | 93% employed or in further study within six months |
| Notable Alumni | Greg Davies, Archie Panjabi |
| Website | Brunel University London |
Conclusion
Choosing the right engineering university is the first step to an exciting and successful career. With leading institutions like Imperial, UCL, King’s, and City, London provides opportunities to learn from experts, work on real-world projects, and graduate with excellent job prospects. Each university brings its own strengths, whether in research, industry partnerships, or innovative teaching. No matter which path you choose, studying engineering in London means joining a global network of future leaders and problem-solvers ready to shape the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best engineering university in London?
London is home to several top-ranked engineering universities. Imperial College London often takes the top spot globally, while universities like UCL, King’s College London, and Brunel University London are also excellent choices depending on your field of interest and career goals.
How much does it cost to study engineering in London?
For UK students, most universities charge around £9,250 per year. For international students, fees can range from £16,000 to £31,000 per year, depending on the university and program.
What engineering programs are available in London?
You can study a wide range of engineering subjects, such as:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
- Robotics and Materials Science
Each university specializes in different areas, so it’s worth checking which programs match your career goals.
Which London engineering university is easiest to get into?
Based on acceptance rates:
- Brunel University London: 54% acceptance rate.
- City, University of London: 20% acceptance rate.
More competitive options like Imperial College London have a 14% acceptance rate, making them harder to enter.
Is studying engineering in London worth it?
Absolutely! London offers some of the best engineering programs in the world, excellent career prospects, a global network, and the chance to live and learn in one of the most exciting cities on the planet.
