Founding: Imperial College London was founded in 1907 through the merger of the Royal College of Science, the Royal School of Mines, and the City and Guilds College. It was part of the University of London until 2007, when it became fully independent.
Mission: Imperial’s motto is "Scientia imperii decus et tutamen," which translates to "Knowledge is the adornment and protection of the Empire." The university’s focus has always been on producing world-class scientists, engineers, and leaders who can make a difference globally.
Imperial College London is regularly ranked among the top 10 universities in the world by institutions like QS World University Rankings, Times Higher Education, and Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU).
Known for its STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) disciplines, Imperial often competes with institutions like MIT, Stanford, and Cambridge.
The university is also recognized for its research impact, particularly in areas such as climate science, medical advancements, artificial intelligence, and space science.
Imperial is organized into four main faculties:
Faculty of Engineering: Covering areas like civil, electrical, mechanical, chemical, and aeronautical engineering, Imperial’s engineering school is highly regarded globally.
Faculty of Medicine: One of the largest medical schools in the UK, offering cutting-edge programs and partnerships with major hospitals and healthcare facilities.
Faculty of Natural Sciences: Focused on physics, chemistry, life sciences, and mathematics, this faculty conducts pioneering research and offers rigorous academic programs.
Imperial College Business School: Known for its data-driven and technology-focused programs, the business school offers MBAs, Masters in Finance, and other postgraduate degrees, often integrating STEM knowledge.
Research Funding: Imperial is one of the UK’s top recipients of research funding from both public and private sectors. Its annual research income is among the highest of any UK university.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The college places a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research, often bringing together experts from engineering, medicine, and natural sciences to tackle complex global challenges.
Institutes and Centers: Imperial is home to several research centers, such as the Grantham Institute for Climate Change and the Environment, the Data Science Institute, and the Imperial Cancer Research UK Centre. These centers focus on addressing some of the world's most pressing issues.
South Kensington Campus: The main campus is in South Kensington, near the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. The area is known as "Albertopolis" due to its historical links with Prince Albert and the Great Exhibition.
Other Campuses: Imperial also has facilities at White City (for innovation and entrepreneurship), Charing Cross, Hammersmith, and Silwood Park (for ecology and environmental research).
Facilities: The university has state-of-the-art labs, teaching hospitals, and research facilities. The Imperial College Advanced Hackspace, for example, is a popular resource for students working on innovative projects.
Diverse Student Body: Imperial attracts students from over 140 countries, creating a diverse and international environment.
Clubs and Societies: Imperial has over 380 clubs and societies, one of the highest numbers of any UK university. These cover a wide range of interests, from cultural and sports clubs to academic societies.
Union: The Imperial College Union is very active and provides students with a range of services, social activities, and events throughout the year.
Student Support: With a rigorous academic environment, Imperial provides extensive support services to help students manage their workload and mental health.
Imperial boasts a long list of notable alumni and faculty, including:
Alexander Fleming – Discovered penicillin.
Sir Andrew Wiles – Mathematician who proved Fermat's Last Theorem.
Brian May – Guitarist of Queen and astrophysicist.
H. G. Wells – Renowned writer and alumnus of the Royal College of Science, which later became part of Imperial.
Imperial also has produced numerous Nobel laureates in fields like medicine, physics, and chemistry.
Enterprise Lab: Imperial has a dedicated lab for students interested in launching startups, providing mentoring, funding opportunities, and networking.
White City Innovation Campus: This is a hub for innovation and collaboration, connecting researchers, entrepreneurs, and businesses. It is designed to facilitate tech transfer and commercial applications of research.
Support for Startups: Imperial has a robust network of investors, accelerators, and alumni willing to support student and faculty-led startups. Many successful companies, particularly in the tech and biotech sectors, have been founded by Imperial alumni.
Imperial collaborates extensively with other leading universities and research institutions globally, including MIT, Caltech, NTU Singapore, and ETH Zurich.
The university also has industry partnerships with major companies such as Rolls-Royce, Shell, Pfizer, and Google, providing students with unique research opportunities and career prospects.
Competitive Admission: Gaining admission to Imperial is highly competitive, particularly for popular programs in fields like computer science, medicine, and engineering.
Entry Requirements: Imperial has rigorous entry requirements, generally expecting high A-Level results (or equivalent qualifications) in relevant subjects. For international students, standardized tests (such as the SAT/ACT for U.S. applicants) may be required.
Postgraduate Programs: Imperial offers a wide range of Master’s and PhD programs, which also have high entry standards, including prior academic performance, research experience, and sometimes specific skill sets.
High Employability: Imperial graduates are highly sought after, particularly in STEM fields. The university consistently ranks among the top for graduate employability.
Industry Connections: The university's strong ties to industry mean that students often
Imperial College London offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, primarily focused on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, along with Medicine and Business. Here’s a breakdown of the main course programs available:
Imperial College London offers a variety of undergraduate degrees, often structured as BEng, MEng, BSc, and MSci programs, with the option to extend many of them into integrated Master’s degrees.
Aeronautics:
BEng/MEng in Aeronautical Engineering
MEng in Aeronautics with Spacecraft Engineering
Bioengineering:
BEng/MEng in Biomedical Engineering
Chemical Engineering:
BEng/MEng in Chemical Engineering
Civil and Environmental Engineering:
BEng/MEng in Civil Engineering
MEng in Civil and Environmental Engineering
Computing (Computer Science):
BEng/MEng in Computing
MEng in Computing with Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
MEng in Computing (Software Engineering)
Design Engineering:
MEng in Design Engineering
Electrical and Electronic Engineering:
BEng/MEng in Electrical and Electronic Engineering
MEng in Electronic and Information Engineering
Materials Science:
BEng/MEng in Materials Science and Engineering
Mechanical Engineering:
BEng/MEng in Mechanical Engineering
Many of these engineering courses offer options to specialize in specific fields or to include an industrial placement year.
Chemistry:
BSc/MSci in Chemistry
MSci in Chemistry with Molecular Physics
Mathematics:
BSc/MSci in Mathematics
MSci in Mathematics with Statistics for Finance
MSci in Mathematics and Computer Science
Physics:
BSc/MSci in Physics
MSci in Physics with Theoretical Physics
MSci in Physics with a Year in Europe
Life Sciences:
BSc/MSci in Biological Sciences
BSc/MSci in Biochemistry
BSc in Ecology and Environmental Biology
BSc/MSci in Biotechnology
Medicine:
MBBS/BSc Medicine (6-year program that combines a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery with a BSc in a specialized area of medical science)
Biomedical Sciences:
BSc in Biomedical Sciences
Medical Biosciences:
BSc in Medical Biosciences
MSci in Medical Biosciences with Management
Medical students have access to clinical placements at some of the UK’s top hospitals and gain practical experience throughout their degree.
Joint Programs:
Some joint programs combine a STEM degree with management, such as BSc in Biotechnology with Management (offered through collaboration with the Faculty of Life Sciences).
BSc Economics, Finance and Data Science (new program focused on data-driven decision-making in finance and economics)
Imperial College offers an extensive selection of Master’s and PhD programs, many of which are tailored for students who wish to pursue advanced research or specialized career paths in industry.
Aeronautics:
MSc in Advanced Computational Methods for Aeronautics
MSc in Space Science and Engineering
Bioengineering:
MSc in Biomedical Engineering
MRes in Neurotechnology
Chemical Engineering:
MSc in Advanced Chemical Engineering
MSc in Chemical Engineering with Environmental Engineering
Civil and Environmental Engineering:
MSc in Civil Engineering
MSc in Environmental Engineering
MSc in Structural Engineering
Computing:
MSc in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
MSc in Computing (Software Engineering)
MSc in Data Science and Machine Learning
Electrical and Electronic Engineering:
MSc in Communications and Signal Processing
MSc in Control Systems
MSc in Analogue and Digital Integrated Circuit Design
Materials Science and Engineering:
MSc in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
MSc in Nanomaterials
Mechanical Engineering:
MSc in Advanced Mechanical Engineering
MSc in Advanced Materials for Sustainable Energy
Chemistry:
MSc in Chemistry
MRes in Green Chemistry
Mathematics:
MSc in Pure Mathematics
MSc in Statistics
MSc in Mathematical Finance
Physics:
MSc in Quantum Fields and Fundamental Forces
MSc in Optics and Photonics
MSc in Physics with Nanophotonics
Life Sciences:
MRes in Ecology, Evolution and Conservation
MSc in Applied Biosciences and Biotechnology
MSc in Conservation Science
MSc and MRes Programs in areas such as:
MSc in Genomic Medicine
MSc in Epidemiology
MSc in Translational Neuroscience
MRes in Cancer Biology
MSc in Health Policy
MSc in Patient Safety
Doctoral Programs (PhD) in various areas of biomedical sciences, public health, and clinical research.
MBA Programs:
Full-time MBA
Executive MBA
Global Online MBA
MSc Programs:
MSc in Finance
MSc in Investment and Wealth Management
MSc in Business Analytics
MSc in Climate Change, Management and Finance
MSc in International Health Management
MSc in Economics & Strategy for Business
MSc in Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Management
Doctoral Programs:
PhD in Management
PhD in Finance
Imperial offers several interdisciplinary postgraduate programs that bridge different faculties, such as:
MSc in Sustainable Energy Futures (Engineering and Natural Sciences)
MRes in Plastic Electronics (Engineering and Physical Sciences)
MSc in Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Management (Business and Engineering)
Imperial is a leading research institution, and many of its departments offer PhD programs in various specializations:
Doctoral Training Centres (DTCs): Imperial is home to several Doctoral Training Centres in fields such as AI for Healthcare, Sustainable Energy, Synthetic Biology, and Mathematics of Planet Earth. These DTCs offer structured PhD programs with interdisciplinary coursework, collaboration opportunities, and industry partnerships.
Standard PhD Programs: Offered in nearly every department, Imperial’s PhD programs allow students to conduct cutting-edge research and often involve collaboration with industry or global academic partners.
Course Program |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Aeronautical Engineering (BEng/MEng) |
3 / 4 years |
~$51,200 - $54,700 |
|
Biomedical Engineering (BEng/MEng) |
3 / 4 years |
~$51,200 - $54,700 |
|
Chemical Engineering (BEng/MEng) |
3 / 4 years |
~$51,200 - $54,700 |
|
Civil Engineering (BEng/MEng) |
3 / 4 years |
~$51,200 - $54,700 |
|
Computing (Computer Science) (BEng/MEng) |
3 / 4 years |
~$51,200 - $54,700 |
|
Design Engineering (MEng) |
4 years |
~$54,700 |
|
Electrical and Electronic Engineering (BEng/MEng) |
3 / 4 years |
~$51,200 - $54,700 |
|
Mechanical Engineering (BEng/MEng) |
3 / 4 years |
~$51,200 - $54,700 |
|
Materials Science and Engineering (BEng/MEng) |
3 / 4 years |
~$51,200 - $54,700 |
|
Physics (BSc/MSci) |
3 / 4 years |
~$51,200 - $54,700 |
|
Mathematics (BSc/MSci) |
3 / 4 years |
~$51,200 - $54,700 |
|
Chemistry (BSc/MSci) |
3 / 4 years |
~$51,200 - $54,700 |
|
Biochemistry (BSc/MSci) |
3 / 4 years |
~$51,200 - $54,700 |
|
Biological Sciences (BSc/MSci) |
3 / 4 years |
~$51,200 - $54,700 |
|
Ecology and Environmental Biology (BSc) |
3 years |
~$51,200 |
|
Medical Biosciences (BSc/MSci) |
3 / 4 years |
~$51,200 - $54,700 |
|
Biomedical Sciences (BSc) |
3 years |
~$51,200 |
|
Economics, Finance, and Data Science (BSc) |
3 years |
~$51,200 |
|
Medicine (MBBS/BSc) |
6 years |
~$58,000 |
Course Program |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
MSc Advanced Aeronautical Engineering |
1 year |
~$51,200 |
|
MSc Biomedical Engineering |
1 year |
~$51,200 |
|
MSc Advanced Chemical Engineering |
1 year |
~$51,200 |
|
MSc Civil Engineering |
1 year |
~$51,200 |
|
MSc Computing (Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning) |
1 year |
~$51,200 |
|
MSc Computing (Software Engineering) |
1 year |
~$51,200 |
|
MSc Design Engineering |
1 year |
~$51,200 |
|
MSc Electrical Engineering (Analogue and Digital Integrated Circuit Design) |
1 year |
~$51,200 |
|
MSc Mechanical Engineering |
1 year |
~$51,200 |
|
MSc Physics (Quantum Fields and Fundamental Forces) |
1 year |
~$51,200 |
|
MSc Mathematics (Statistics) |
1 year |
~$51,200 |
|
MSc Applied Biosciences and Biotechnology |
1 year |
~$51,200 |
|
MSc Environmental Technology |
1 year |
~$51,200 |
|
MSc Genomic Medicine |
1 year |
~$51,200 |
|
MSc Epidemiology |
1 year |
~$51,200 |
|
MSc International Health Management |
1 year |
~$51,200 |
|
MSc Finance |
1 year |
~$64,500 |
|
MSc Business Analytics (On-Campus) |
1 year |
~$64,500 |
|
MSc Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Management |
1 year |
~$64,500 |
|
MSc Climate Change, Management & Finance |
1 year |
~$64,500 |
|
MSc Strategic Marketing |
1 year |
~$64,500 |
|
MSc Investment & Wealth Management |
1 year |
~$64,500 |
|
MSc Economics & Strategy for Business |
1 year |
~$64,500 |
|
Global Online MBA |
2 years (part-time) |
~$48,800 per year |
|
Full-Time MBA |
1 year |
~$68,200 |
|
Executive MBA |
2 years (part-time) |
~$61,500 per year |
PhD Program |
Typical Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Aeronautics |
3-4 years |
~$33,500 - $51,200 |
|
PhD in Biomedical Engineering |
3-4 years |
~$33,500 - $51,200 |
|
PhD in Chemical Engineering |
3-4 years |
~$33,500 - $51,200 |
|
PhD in Civil Engineering |
3-4 years |
~$33,500 - $51,200 |
|
PhD in Computing (Computer Science) |
3-4 years |
~$33,500 - $51,200 |
|
PhD in Electrical and Electronic Engineering |
3-4 years |
~$33,500 - $51,200 |
|
PhD in Mechanical Engineering |
3-4 years |
~$33,500 - $51,200 |
|
PhD in Materials Science and Engineering |
3-4 years |
~$33,500 - $51,200 |
|
PhD in Physics |
3-4 years |
~$33,500 - $51,200 |
|
PhD in Mathematics |
3-4 years |
~$33,500 - $51,200 |
|
PhD in Chemistry |
3-4 years |
~$33,500 - $51,200 |
|
PhD in Life Sciences |
3-4 years |
~$33,500 - $51,200 |
|
PhD in Ecology and Environmental Biology |
3-4 years |
~$33,500 - $51,200 |
|
PhD in Medical Biosciences |
3-4 years |
~$33,500 - $51,200 |
|
PhD in Genomics and Bioinformatics |
3-4 years |
~$33,500 - $51,200 |
|
PhD in Epidemiology and Public Health |
3-4 years |
~$33,500 - $51,200 |
|
PhD in Business (Finance, Strategy, etc.) |
3-4 years |
~$35,300 |
Imperial College London generally has one main intake per year for most of its undergraduate and postgraduate programs, which is the Autumn (October) intake. Here are the details:
Undergraduate Programs:
Intake: October
Application Deadline: The primary application deadline for undergraduate programs is January 15 each year via UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). However, for medicine programs, the deadline is October 15 of the previous year.
Postgraduate Programs:
Intake: October
Application Deadlines: Application deadlines for postgraduate programs vary by department and course. Many programs accept applications on a rolling basis until they are full, but it’s advised to apply as early as possible (usually between November and February for the following October intake).
Some competitive programs (especially in the Business School) may have multiple rounds with specific deadlines. For example, MBA programs have multiple rounds from November to June.
Note: Imperial doesn’t have a January intake for the majority of its programs, although some specific courses (especially short courses or part-time professional courses) may have multiple start dates.
Eligibility criteria at Imperial College London can be competitive, especially for international students. Here’s an overview of the typical requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate programs:
Academic Qualifications:
A-Levels (UK system): Typical offers range from AAA to A*AA depending on the course.
International Baccalaureate (IB): A score of 38-42 points overall, including high-level subjects relevant to the chosen course (with at least 6 or 7 in Higher Level subjects).
Other Qualifications:
US Students: Minimum of 3-4 AP (Advanced Placement) scores with grades of 5 in relevant subjects. SAT scores may also be required in addition to AP scores, with competitive scores around 1500+.
Indian Students: Higher Secondary Certificate (Class 12) with very high marks (90%+), along with any other standardized test scores (e.g., SAT) depending on the course requirements.
Other International Qualifications: Imperial accepts a wide range of qualifications, but they generally require scores equivalent to A-levels in relevant subjects. Each country’s requirements are detailed on Imperial’s official website.
English Language Proficiency:
IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 - 7.0 with no less than 6.0 or 6.5 in each section (depending on the course).
TOEFL iBT: Score of 92 - 100 overall with minimum section scores, depending on the program.
Other Accepted Tests: Pearson PTE Academic (with scores typically between 62 - 69), or other equivalent tests as accepted by the university.
Additional Requirements:
Interviews: Certain programs, particularly Medicine, Engineering, and Computing, may require an interview as part of the admissions process.
Admissions Tests: For specific programs like Medicine, applicants must take the BMAT (Biomedical Admissions Test). Some departments, like Mathematics, may require the STEP (Sixth Term Examination Paper) or the MAT (Mathematics Admissions Test).
Academic Qualifications:
Master’s Programs: Applicants typically need a Bachelor’s degree with First Class or Upper Second Class Honours (2:1) or the international equivalent.
US System: A GPA of 3.5 or above on a 4.0 scale is generally required.
Indian System: A minimum of 60-70% or above from a recognized institution.
PhD Programs: Applicants generally need a Master’s degree with a strong academic record. In some cases, outstanding applicants with a Bachelor’s degree and relevant research experience may also be considered.
English Language Proficiency:
IELTS: Typically, a score of 6.5 - 7.0 overall with no less than 6.0 or 6.5 in each section, depending on the program.
TOEFL iBT: Score of 92 - 100 overall with minimum section scores.
Other Tests: Imperial also accepts Pearson PTE Academic and other equivalent tests.
Additional Requirements:
Relevant Background: For STEM or specialized programs, applicants are expected to have a relevant academic background in fields closely related to the course they’re applying to (e.g., engineering, biology, physics).
Research Proposal: For PhD applicants, a research proposal outlining the intended area of study may be required.
Work Experience: Certain professional programs, especially in Imperial College Business School (like the MBA), may require relevant work experience (typically 3+ years for MBA).
GMAT/GRE: Some postgraduate programs, particularly in the Business School, may require GMAT or GRE scores, with competitive scores around 600-700 for GMAT and equivalent for GRE.
Interviews:
For certain competitive programs, particularly in the Business School, an interview may be part of the admissions process.
PhD applicants are often invited for an interview (in person or virtual) as part of the selection process.
Ranking Agency |
Global Ranking |
Subject Area Rankings |
|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Top 10 - 15 |
Engineering & Technology: Top 10 |
|
Times Higher Education (THE) |
Top 10 - 15 |
Engineering & Technology: Top 10 |
|
US News & World Report |
Top 15 - 20 |
Engineering: Top 10 |
|
Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) |
Top 20 - 25 |
Engineering: Top 15 |
Scholarship Name |
Eligible Programs |
Amount/Benefit |
Eligibility Criteria |
Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
President’s Undergraduate Scholarships |
Undergraduate |
£1,000 per year (~$1,240) |
Academic excellence, open to all international undergraduates |
Automatic consideration upon application |
|
Beit Trust Scholarship |
Master’s (MSc) |
Full tuition + living expenses |
Citizens of Zambia, Zimbabwe, or Malawi; strong academic record |
Apply directly to the Beit Trust |
|
Chevening Scholarships |
Master’s (any subject) |
Full tuition + living stipend |
Outstanding scholars with leadership potential from eligible countries |
Apply through Chevening website |
|
Commonwealth Scholarships |
Master’s and PhD |
Full tuition + living expenses |
Citizens of Commonwealth countries; strong academic record |
Apply through Commonwealth website |
|
Imperial College PhD Scholarships |
PhD (any field) |
Full tuition + £22,900 stipend (~$28,400) |
Academic excellence, available to all PhD applicants |
Automatic consideration upon application (limited awards) |
|
Great Scholarship |
Master’s (selected subjects) |
£10,000 (~$12,400) |
Citizens of selected countries, varies by year |
Apply through Imperial’s online application |
|
Future Leaders Scholarship (MBA) |
MBA |
Up to £52,000 (~$64,500) |
Exceptional leadership potential; strong academic and professional record |
Apply through Business School application |
|
Faculty of Engineering Dean's Master's Scholarships |
Master’s in Engineering |
£10,000 (~$12,400) |
Strong academic record in engineering or related fields |
Automatic consideration for eligible applicants |
|
Faculty of Medicine Master’s Scholarships |
Master’s in Medicine |
£10,000 (~$12,400) |
Academic excellence in relevant medical fields |
Automatic consideration for eligible applicants |
|
Women in STEM Scholarship |
Master’s (STEM fields) |
£10,000 (~$12,400) |
Open to female applicants in STEM fields; strong academic record |
Apply through Imperial’s online application |
|
South East Asia Undergraduate Excellence Award |
Undergraduate |
£5,000 (~$6,200) for first year |
High academic achievement; citizens of South East Asian countries |
Automatic consideration based on application |
|
Imperial Marshall Scholarships |
Master’s and PhD |
Full tuition + living expenses |
US citizens with academic excellence and leadership potential |
Apply through Marshall Scholarship website |
|
The Dr. Jean Alero Thomas Scholarship |
Undergraduate and Postgraduate |
£5,000 (~$6,200) per year |
Students from Africa with financial need and academic merit |
Apply through Imperial’s scholarship portal |
|
Rotary Foundation Global Grant |
Master’s (selected subjects) |
(can cover tuition + living) |
Focus on sustainable development and leadership potential |
Apply through Rotary Foundation |
|
Said Foundation Scholarships |
Master’s (any subject) |
Partial or full tuition |
Citizens of Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, and Palestine; financial need |
Apply through Said Foundation website |
Campus Location |
Description |
Accommodation Type |
Approximate Cost per Week (USD) |
Facilities Included |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
South Kensington |
Main campus, located in central London near Hyde Park, Natural History Museum, and Royal Albert Hall. Houses the Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Natural Sciences, and Business School. |
Undergraduate Halls (first-year) |
$225 - $470 |
Private/shared rooms, Wi-Fi, common areas, laundry |
|
|
|
Postgraduate Residences (limited) |
$325 - $620 |
Private rooms/studios, Wi-Fi, communal kitchen |
|
White City Campus |
Located west of South Kensington, this is a hub for research and innovation, including life sciences and business incubation facilities. Limited on-campus accommodation. |
GradPad (Wood Lane Studios) |
$370 - $560 |
Private studio apartments, Wi-Fi, study rooms, gym |
|
Hammersmith Campus |
Focused on medical research and healthcare training. Primarily used by medical and postgraduate students. No direct accommodation on campus; students often live nearby. |
Off-Campus Housing (private rental) |
$300 - $500 |
N/A (off-campus housing varies by landlord) |
|
Silwood Park Campus |
Located in Berkshire, this campus is dedicated to ecological and environmental research. Accommodation available for students studying on this campus. |
Silwood Park Halls |
$185 - $300 |
Private rooms, shared kitchens, Wi-Fi, study areas |
|
Beit Hall (South Kensington) |
Historic residence hall located on the South Kensington campus, close to main facilities. Popular for undergraduates. |
Single & Twin Rooms |
$225 - $300 |
Shared bathrooms, Wi-Fi, social spaces, cafeteria |
|
Eastside Halls (South Kensington) |
Modern accommodation building, ideal for first-year undergraduates, offering en-suite rooms and modern facilities. |
En-suite Rooms |
$390 - $470 |
Private bathrooms, Wi-Fi, shared kitchens, lounge |
|
Southside Halls (South Kensington) |
Another modern residence located on campus, close to Eastside Halls, with en-suite rooms. |
En-suite Rooms |
$390 - $470 |
Private bathrooms, Wi-Fi, shared kitchens, social spaces |
|
Xenia (Waterloo) |
Located near central London’s Waterloo area, a short commute from South Kensington, suitable for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. |
Standard Rooms |
$270 - $350 |
Wi-Fi, shared bathrooms, common areas, laundry |
|
Pembridge Hall (Notting Hill) |
Off-campus residence hall in the Notting Hill area, a short commute to South Kensington. Ideal for undergraduates. |
Single Rooms |
$250 - $330 |
Shared bathrooms, Wi-Fi, common rooms, study areas |
|
Wilson House (Paddington) |
Located in Paddington, about 20 minutes from South Kensington by public transport. Suitable for first-year undergraduates. |
Single & Shared Rooms |
$250 - $350 |
Shared kitchens, Wi-Fi, common areas, laundry |
Imperial College London is home to one of the largest student union clubs and societies networks in the UK, with over 380 clubs and societies covering a broad range of interests:
Academic and Professional Societies: Each department has dedicated societies, such as the Engineering Society, Bioengineering Society, and Maths Society, where students can connect, network, and participate in academic events and industry talks.
Cultural and International Societies: There are numerous cultural societies like the Indian Society, Chinese Society, African Caribbean Society, and many others that celebrate the diverse international student body. These societies hold events, festivals, and cultural nights throughout the year.
Sports Clubs: Imperial College has a thriving sports culture, with over 50 sports clubs including football, basketball, rugby, swimming, martial arts, and rowing. The university offers competitive and recreational sports, so students at any skill level can participate.
Arts and Music Societies: Students interested in the arts can join societies such as the Dramatic Society, Choir, Orchestra, Film Society, and Dance Society. Imperial students regularly perform, host exhibitions, and even collaborate with other London universities.
Hobbies and Special Interests: From gaming and chess to robotics and entrepreneurship, there are clubs for nearly every interest. The Hackspace and Imperial Enterprise Lab are popular with students interested in technology and startups.
The Imperial College Union manages all clubs and societies, and they regularly organize events, activities, and competitions for students. The Union also supports students in starting their own societies if they have a unique interest not already represented.
While Imperial College London is known for its rigorous academics, students enjoy a lively social scene:
Freshers’ Week: At the start of each academic year, Freshers' Week introduces new students to campus life, including social events, tours, and activities organized by the Student Union.
Union Bars and Pubs: The Union has several bars, including Metric, FiveSixEight, and h-bar (for postgraduate students), where students can relax, socialize, and attend themed parties and events. These are popular spots on campus for affordable drinks and meeting other students.
Annual Events and Festivals: Imperial hosts several major events throughout the year, such as the Summer Ball, Winter Carnival, and international food festivals. These events are a chance for students to dress up, unwind, and enjoy live music, entertainment, and food.
Nearby Social Scene: Being in South Kensington, students have easy access to London’s vast cultural and nightlife scene, including museums, theaters, restaurants, and music venues. Popular nightlife areas like Soho, Camden, and Shoreditch are only a short tube ride away.
Imperial offers extensive support services to ensure students’ mental, physical, and emotional well-being:
Student Counselling and Mental Health Services: Imperial has a dedicated counseling service, including one-on-one counseling, group therapy sessions, and mental health workshops. The university understands the high-pressure academic environment and provides resources to help students manage stress.
Disability Advisory Service: For students with disabilities or learning differences, the Disability Advisory Service offers tailored support, including exam adjustments, learning support, and assistive technology.
Health Services: The Imperial College Health Centre, located on campus, provides medical care to students, including GP appointments, vaccinations, and sexual health services.
Academic Support: Imperial’s Academic Skills Centre offers workshops and one-on-one support for skills like time management, exam preparation, academic writing, and research skills.
Peer Support Programs: The university runs peer mentoring programs where experienced students help new students adjust to university life. Many departments also offer study groups and mentorship programs.
Imperial provides state-of-the-art facilities for both academic and leisure activities:
Libraries and Study Spaces: The main Central Library in South Kensington is open 24/7 during term time, offering students quiet study areas, computer labs, group workrooms, and a wide range of academic resources. Additional study spaces are available throughout campus.
Imperial College Advanced Hackspace (ICAH): This is a unique space for students who are interested in innovation, prototyping, and creating. With resources like 3D printers, laser cutters, and electronics labs, students can work on personal or academic projects.
Imperial Enterprise Lab: For students interested in entrepreneurship and startups, the Enterprise Lab offers workshops, events, mentorship, and funding opportunities. It’s a hub for budding entrepreneurs to collaborate and grow their ideas.
Sports Facilities: Imperial’s Ethos Sports Centre offers a gym, swimming pool, climbing wall, sports halls, and fitness classes. Students also have access to Imperial’s sports grounds and playing fields at Harlington and other locations.
Imperial provides a range of accommodation options for students, especially for first-year undergraduates:
On-Campus Halls: The South Kensington campus has several halls like Beit Hall, Eastside, and Southside Halls. These are convenient for students who want to live close to their classes and other campus facilities.
Off-Campus Accommodation: Imperial also offers student residences in nearby areas like Notting Hill and Paddington. Some postgraduate students opt for private rental options in London, which can be more affordable when shared with other students.
Living in London: London offers a dynamic lifestyle with access to diverse neighborhoods, cultural attractions, restaurants, and public transport. However, the cost of living is high, so students are advised to budget carefully for rent, transportation, and personal expenses.
Imperial places a strong emphasis on employability and career support:
Careers Service: The Imperial Careers Service offers career counseling, CV and interview workshops, internship opportunities, and job search support. They have strong connections with major employers, particularly in fields like engineering, finance, consulting, and technology.
Industry Partnerships: Imperial has partnerships with companies like Google, Rolls-Royce, Shell, and Goldman Sachs, providing students with unique opportunities for networking, internships, and job placements.
Career Fairs: Imperial hosts several career fairs throughout the year, including sector-specific events for engineering, technology, finance, and healthcare. These fairs allow students to meet recruiters, explore opportunities, and even apply for internships or graduate roles.
Internship and Placement Programs: Many programs at Imperial have options for industry placements or summer internships, especially within engineering, computing, and business disciplines. The Business School, for example, connects MBA students with internships in top companies worldwide.
Imperial College London has a diverse student body, with students from over 140 countries. The university actively promotes an inclusive environment:
Equality and Diversity Initiatives: Imperial has various initiatives to promote equality, such as the Women in STEM programs, support for LGBTQ+ students, and cultural awareness events.
International Student Support: The International Office offers orientation sessions, visa guidance, and other resources to help international students settle in. The Union’s international societies also organize cultural festivals, international nights, and food fairs.
Religious Support: Imperial has a multi-faith chaplaincy and prayer rooms for students of different faiths. The chaplaincy organizes events and provides support to students of all religious backgrounds.
High Employability Rate: Imperial College consistently ranks in the Top 10 globally for graduate employability. According to recent surveys, more than 90% of Imperial graduates find employment or pursue further study within six months of graduating.
Competitive Starting Salaries: Graduates from Imperial typically secure high starting salaries, particularly in fields like engineering, technology, finance, and consulting. The average starting salary for Imperial graduates is approximately £35,000 - £45,000 (~$43,400 - $55,800 USD), though salaries can be significantly higher for certain fields, such as Computer Science, Medicine, and Finance.
Imperial College London has strong links with leading global companies, which helps students secure internships, placements, and graduate job offers. Here are some highlights:
Engineering and Technology: Imperial’s engineering departments have partnerships with companies like Rolls-Royce, BP, Shell, Siemens, and Airbus. Students often get placement opportunities, summer internships, and graduate roles in these companies.
Business and Finance: The Imperial College Business School works closely with Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, McKinsey, PwC, and Deloitte. MBA and finance students have access to consulting projects, internships, and networking events with these firms.
Technology and Computing: Tech giants like Google, Facebook, Microsoft, IBM, and Amazon recruit Imperial graduates regularly. The Department of Computing has a high placement rate, with students working in software engineering, data science, AI, and cybersecurity roles.
Medicine and Healthcare: Through Imperial’s partnerships with hospitals and research institutions, medical students and healthcare-related students get hands-on experience and training. Many go on to work with the NHS, private healthcare providers, or pursue research roles in pharmaceuticals and biotech companies like GSK and AstraZeneca.
These partnerships also provide students with opportunities to work on real-world projects, industry placements, and collaborative research, giving them valuable experience and making them highly attractive to employers.
Summer Internships: Many departments, especially in Engineering, Computing, Business, and Natural Sciences, encourage students to undertake summer internships to gain industry experience. These internships usually last 8-12 weeks and are a great way for students to build networks and apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings.
Placement Year: Some undergraduate programs offer an optional placement year (also known as a "year in industry") where students spend an additional year working full-time with a company. This is common in fields like Engineering, Chemistry, and Business, and helps students gain substantial work experience before they graduate.
Business School Internships: The Imperial College Business School has structured internship opportunities for its MBA and MSc students, helping them gain experience in sectors like finance, consulting, and technology.
Research Internships for PhD Students: PhD students often have opportunities to collaborate with industry partners, particularly in fields like materials science, biomedical engineering, and environmental technology. These research partnerships can lead to industry placements or research roles post-PhD.
The Imperial Careers Service is dedicated to helping students with career planning, job applications, and skill development. Some of the key services they provide include:
One-on-One Career Counseling: Students can book sessions with career advisors to get personalized advice on career planning, job search strategies, and interview preparation.
CV and Cover Letter Workshops: The Careers Service offers workshops to help students create strong CVs, cover letters, and LinkedIn profiles that appeal to employers.
Mock Interviews and Assessment Centers: Students can practice for real job interviews and assessment centers, which are common in the recruitment processes of consulting, finance, and tech companies.
Job and Internship Listings: The Careers Service regularly posts job and internship opportunities on JobsLive, the university’s online portal, where students can apply directly for positions in leading companies.
Career Fairs: Imperial hosts several career fairs throughout the academic year, including industry-specific fairs for Engineering, Technology, Finance, Healthcare, and Consulting. These fairs allow students to meet recruiters, explore career opportunities, and even apply for roles directly.
Employer-Led Events and Networking Sessions: Employers frequently visit campus to give presentations, conduct skills workshops, and network with students. These events are excellent opportunities for students to learn about specific companies, make contacts, and showcase their skills.
Imperial Enterprise Lab: For students interested in entrepreneurship and startups, the Enterprise Lab provides resources, mentoring, and funding opportunities. It organizes events like the WE Innovate program (for female entrepreneurs) and the Venture Catalyst Challenge, where students pitch business ideas and receive seed funding.
Professional Skills Development: The Careers Service offers several skill-building workshops on topics like negotiation, leadership, coding, public speaking, and time management. These are valuable for students preparing for careers in leadership roles or technical fields.
Global Imperial Alumni Network: Imperial’s alumni network is strong, with graduates working in leading companies and research institutions worldwide. Alumni often participate in networking events and mentorship programs, providing valuable guidance and industry connections to current students.
Here’s a snapshot of employment outcomes for some popular departments at Imperial:
Department |
Employers |
Typical Roles |
|---|---|---|
|
Computing |
Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Facebook |
Software Engineer, Data Scientist, AI Specialist |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
Rolls-Royce, Airbus, Jaguar Land Rover |
Mechanical Engineer, Design Engineer, Project Manager |
|
Business School |
Goldman Sachs, McKinsey, PwC |
Investment Analyst, Consultant, Marketing Manager |
|
Medicine |
NHS, GSK, AstraZeneca |
Medical Doctor, Research Scientist, Clinical Data Analyst |
|
Chemical Engineering |
Shell, BP, Unilever, Pfizer |
Process Engineer, Chemical Engineer, Environmental Consultant |
|
Physics |
CERN, NASA, Intel |
Research Scientist, Data Analyst, Accelerator Physicist |
|
Mathematics |
JP Morgan, Barclays, Deloitte |
Quantitative Analyst, Actuary, Financial Analyst |
Many Imperial graduates have gone
Imperial College London is one of the most competitive universities in the United Kingdom, particularly for its STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and Medicine programs. Although exact acceptance rates can vary by program and year, here’s a general overview of the acceptance rate and what it typically takes to be admitted to Imperial as an international or domestic student:
Overall Acceptance Rate: Imperial College London’s overall acceptance rate is approximately 10-15%. This means that out of every 100 applicants, only about 10 to 15 are offered a place. This makes it one of the most selective universities in the UK and globally.
The acceptance rate at Imperial varies significantly depending on the department and program. Here’s an approximate breakdown of acceptance rates by some of the popular faculties:
Faculty / Program |
Approximate Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
|
Medicine |
5-8% |
|
Engineering |
10-15% |
|
Computing (Computer Science) |
10-15% |
|
Natural Sciences |
12-18% |
|
Business School (MSc, MBA) |
15-20% |
|
Mathematics |
10-15% |
|
Physics |
12-18% |
|
Life Sciences |
15-20% |
Location: South Kensington, Central London
Address: Imperial College Road, London SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
Key Features:
The South Kensington campus is Imperial’s main campus, home to the Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Imperial College Business School, and several research centers.
Located near famous cultural landmarks like the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum, and Royal Albert Hall.
Houses the Central Library, Imperial College Union, Ethos Sports Centre, and numerous labs, lecture theatres, and student facilities.
The campus is close to Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, providing green spaces for students to relax.
The South Kensington area is well-connected, with South Kensington and Gloucester Road Tube stations nearby, providing easy access to the rest of London.
Location: White City, West London
Address: Wood Lane, London W12 0BZ, United Kingdom
Key Features:
The White City campus is a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and research. It’s home to Imperial’s Translation and Innovation Hub (I-HUB), Molecular Sciences Research Hub, and Invention Rooms.
Focused on science, technology, and business innovation, with state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities designed to foster collaboration between researchers, startups, and industry partners.
The GradPad Wood Lane Studios (Imperial's postgraduate accommodation) is located nearby, offering modern studio apartments for postgraduate students.
This campus promotes Imperial’s entrepreneurial culture through spaces like the Imperial Enterprise Lab and Incubator Spaces.
White City is also close to Wood Lane and White City Tube stations, making it accessible from other parts of London.
Location: Hammersmith, West London
Address: St. Dunstan’s Road, London W6 8RP, United Kingdom
Key Features:
Primarily a medical campus, Charing Cross is one of Imperial’s teaching hospitals and a base for clinical research and training in collaboration with the NHS.
Houses the Imperial College School of Medicine departments focused on clinical training and biomedical research.
Facilities include specialized clinical laboratories, lecture theatres, and medical simulation facilities for healthcare students.
Located near Hammersmith and Barons Court Tube stations, providing easy access to other campuses and central London.
Location: East Acton, West London
Address: Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, United Kingdom
Key Features:
Another key campus for medical research and training, Hammersmith campus includes the Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, and the MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences.
Known for its work in clinical and translational research, especially in fields like cardiovascular science, cancer research, and metabolic medicine.
Facilities include advanced laboratories, research centers, and the Wolfson Education Centre for medical students.
The nearest station is East Acton, making it accessible for students and staff traveling from various parts of London.
Location: Paddington, Central London
Address: Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, United Kingdom
Key Features:
St Mary’s campus is a historic campus that focuses on medical education and research, housing departments of medicine and infectious diseases.
The campus includes St Mary’s Hospital, which is part of the Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust and is famous for its work in medical research.
Research at St Mary’s includes key areas such as immunology, microbiology, and infectious diseases.
The campus is located near Paddington Station, providing excellent transport links across London and to other UK cities.
Location: Chelsea, Central London
Address: Sydney Street, London SW3 6NP, United Kingdom
Key Features:
The Royal Brompton campus is dedicated to cardiovascular and respiratory medicine and is associated with the Royal Brompton Hospital.
Known for world-leading research in heart and lung diseases, including asthma, cystic fibrosis, and pulmonary conditions.
It hosts specialized research centers and provides clinical training in collaboration with the Imperial College School of Medicine.
Located near South Kensington and Sloane Square Tube stations.
Location: Ascot, Berkshire, outside London
Address: Buckhurst Road, Ascot SL5 7PY, United Kingdom
Key Features:
Silwood Park is Imperial’s ecology and environmental research campus. Located about 25 miles west of central London, it provides a peaceful, rural setting ideal for field research and ecological studies.
Home to the Department of Life Sciences’ research on ecology, evolutionary biology, and conservation.
Facilities include laboratories, greenhouses, and extensive research grounds, allowing for in-depth environmental and ecological studies.
Accommodation is available on campus for students studying at Silwood Park, making it convenient for those who need to conduct long-term research projects.
