The UK has some of the world's most popular universities, known for their academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and diverse student communities. If you're looking to study in one of the best institutions globally, this blog covers the top 10 universities in UK based on the latest QS World University Ranking and THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking. Check out the institutions leading the way in education and innovation, and why applying to these universities could be your first step toward a successful future!
Top 10 universities in UK according to the QS World University Ranking
Here are the best universities in the UK according to the QS World University Ranking 2025, including some which rank among the very best in the world.
2025 ranking is the largest ever, featuring over 1,500 universities across 105 higher education systems. The United States is the most represented country or territory, with 197 ranked institutions, followed by the United Kingdom with 90 and mainland China with 71.
For the 13th consecutive year, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) maintains its reign at the top. Imperial College London jumps four places to take second and the University of Oxford and Harvard University are in third and fourth place respectively. The University of Cambridge rounds out the top five.
Rank | University | Location |
|---|---|---|
2 | Imperial College London | London, United Kingdom |
3 | University of Oxford | Oxford, United Kingdom |
5 | University of Cambridge | Cambridge, United Kingdom |
9 | UCL (University College London) | London, United Kingdom |
27 | The University of Edinburgh | Edinburgh, United Kingdom |
=34 | The University of Manchester | Manchester, United Kingdom |
=40 | King's College London | London, United Kingdom |
=50 | The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) | London, United Kingdom |
54 | University of Bristol | Bristol, United Kingdom |
=69 | The University of Warwick | Coventry, United Kingdom |
Top 10 universities in UK according to THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking
This list of UK universities reveals the best universities and colleges in the UK, according to the trusted Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025.
The University of Oxford takes the first-place position, with the University of Cambridge following in second place, while two of London’s best universities and a Scottish university complete the top five.
Three universities in Scotland appear in the top 25 – the University of Edinburgh, the University of Glasgow and the University of St Andrews. Cardiff University is the top-ranked Welsh university, sitting in joint 26th place.
2025 | University | City/Town |
|---|---|---|
1 | University of Oxford | Oxford |
2 | University of Cambridge | Cambridge |
3 | Imperial College London | London |
4 | UCL | London |
5 | University of Edinburgh | Edinburgh |
6 | King’s College London | London |
7 | London School of Economics and Political Science | London |
8 | University of Manchester | Manchester |
9 | University of Bristol | Bristol |
10 | University of Glasgow | Glasgow |
How IELTS can help get in to the top universities in UK?
IELTS is your first step to studying at the top universities in the UK, as it is widely recognised as a reliable indicator of English language proficiency by leading institutions. A high IELTS score can strengthen your application, meeting the language requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. It showcases your ability to communicate effectively in an academic setting, which is crucial for excelling in coursework and engaging in discussions. Additionally, achieving a strong score can enhance your chances of receiving scholarships or funding opportunities, making IELTS an essential step toward realising your dream of studying at top UK universities.
Hope this blog helps you choose the best university in the UK. Remember your journey starts with IELTS and if you are planning to take the same and have any related questions, then you can get in touch with your nearest IDP IELTS test centre. Our team of IELTS experts will clear all your doubts.