London School of Economics & Political Science (LSE): Ranking, Fees, Courses, Eligibility & Student Accommodation

The London School of Economics and Political Science sits at the top of the list for people who study how societies work. Set up back in 1895, the school can proudly claim to have taught more billionaires than any other campus around. 

London itself hosts a crowd of other fine universities - Imperial College London, University College London (UCL), King’s College London, and Queen Mary University of London, so the capital has earned its nickname as a world-class education playground. In the pages that follow, we walk you through all the vital facts, tips and insider stories you need before you apply, move in and start life at LSE.

Alongside academic insights, this guide also explores Student Accommodation in London, covering everything from premium PBSAs near the Holborn campus to budget-friendly private housing options, so you can find the right place to live while studying at one of the world’s top universities.

Key Facts

• London School of Economics ranks #50 globally (QS 2025) with a 12% acceptance rate.
• International fees: £26,000-£45,000/year.
• Top subjects: Economics (#4), Politics (#5), Sociology (#4).
• Requirements: High 2:1 degree, IELTS 7.0+.
• Premium PBSA available near Holborn campus.

LSE Rankings 2025

Global Performance Rankings

LSE ranks #50 in QS World University Rankings 2025. The school maintains #46 in Times Higher Education rankings and ranks #3 in the Complete University Guide UK rankings.

Subject Excellence Rankings

LSE excels in social sciences with remarkable subject-specific rankings. The school ranks #6 globally for Social Sciences and Management in the QS rankings 2025.

Top Subject Rankings:

• Economics & Econometrics: #4 worldwide
• Politics: #5 globally
• Sociology: #4 internationally
• Geography: Top 5 globally
• Development Studies: Top 5 worldwide
• Law: #6 globally (QS 2025)

LSE came in the top five in five subjects, including Geography, Philosophy, Development Studies, Sociology, and Politics and International Studies according to QS Subject Rankings 2025.

LSE Fees 2025

UK/Home Student Fees

UK students benefit from government-regulated tuition rates:

• Undergraduate: £9,250 per year
• Postgraduate: £12,000 - £28,000 annually

International Student Fees

International students face significantly higher costs. Medical and specialised programs command premium pricing.

Additional Costs:

• UCAS application: £26 (undergraduate)
• LSE application: £80 (postgraduate)
• Living expenses: £18,000 - £25,000 annually in London

Popular Courses at LSE

Undergraduate Programs

LSE offers 40+ undergraduate programs focused exclusively on social sciences. Economics remains the most competitive course.

Most Popular Undergraduate Degrees:

1. BSc Economics - Over 4,000 applications for 200 places
2. LLB Laws - 2,600 applications for 170 places
3. BSc Government and Politics - Highly competitive
4. BSc International Relations - Strong global reputation
5. BSc Management - Business-focused program

Postgraduate Programs

With 160+ taught postgraduate programs, LSE offers the world's largest social science graduate school.

Leading Postgraduate Courses:

• MSc Economics (various specialisations)
• LLM Master of Laws
• MSc International Relations
• MSc Finance and Economics
• MSc Management and Strategy
• MPA Public Administration

Research Programs

PhD and MPhil Options:

• Economics doctorate programs
• Political Science research degrees
• Sociology and social policy PhDs
• International relations research

Admission Requirements and Eligibility

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

LSE maintains extremely high academic standards. Competition remains fierce across all programs.

Academic Requirements:

• A-Levels: A*AA-AAB (subject-dependent)
• IB Diploma: 38-42 points
• International Qualifications: Equivalent to UK standards

English Language Requirements:

• IELTS: 7.0 overall, minimum 7.0 in each component
• TOEFL: 107+ iBT
• C1 Advanced: Grade A or B

Postgraduate Requirements

Graduate programs demand exceptional undergraduate performance plus relevant experience.

Academic Standards:

• First or Upper Second Class UK honours degree (2:1)
• International equivalent: Minimum 3.3/4.0 GPA
• Work Experience: Required for some programs
• GMAT/GRE: Needed for select courses

English Requirements:

• IELTS: 7.0-7.5 overall (program-dependent)
• Higher scores are required for competitive programs

LSE Acceptance Rate

LSE has approximately a 12% overall acceptance rate, making it one of the world's most selective universities. The school receives 28,000 applications for roughly 1,850 undergraduate places.

Program-Specific Acceptance Rates:

• Economics: ~5% (most competitive)
• Law: ~6-8%
• Politics: ~8-10%
• International Relations: ~10-12%
• Management: ~12-15%

Why LSE Is So Competitive

1. Limited Places: Small cohorts maintain teaching quality
2. Global Reputation: Attracts top international talent
3. London Location: Prime capital city positioning
4. Career Prospects: Exceptional graduate outcomes
5. Research Excellence: World-leading faculty

Documents Required for LSE Application

Essential Application Documents

Academic Records:

• Official transcripts from all institutions
• Degree certificates (postgraduates)
• English translations were required

Personal Documents:

• Compelling personal statement
• Two academic references
• CV highlighting relevant experience
• Portfolio (where applicable)

Identity and Legal:

• Valid passport
• Student visa documentation
• Financial proof statements

Test Scores:

• English language certificates
• GMAT/GRE scores (if required)
• Professional qualifications

LSE Campus and Location

Central London Campus

LSE operates from a single campus in Westminster, Central London. The school occupies 30+ buildings around Holborn and Covent Garden.

Campus Features:

• Historic and modern buildings blend
• State-of-the-art lecture facilities
• World-renowned library (largest social science collection)
• Modern student centre
• Sports facilities and gym

Read Also: Top 10 Libraries in London for Students to Study

Location Benefits:

• Heart of London's legal and financial districts
• Walking distance to West End theatres
• Excellent transport connections
• Cultural attractions nearby
• Professional networking opportunities

Transport Links

Nearby Stations:

• Holborn (Central, Piccadilly lines)
• Temple (Circle, District lines)
• Covent Garden (Piccadilly line)
• Chancery Lane (Central line)

Student Accommodation Near LSE

LSE University Halls

LSE provides various accommodation options for students. Competition for places remains high.

Hall Types:

• En-suite rooms
• Self-catered studios
• Traditional shared facilities
• Graduate-only residences

Popular LSE Halls:

• Passfield Hall
• Carr-Saunders Hall
• Northumberland House
• Rosebery Hall
• Bankside House

Weekly Costs: £200 - £400+ depending on location and facilities.

Looking to save on rent? Explore our tips and listings for Affordable Student Accommodation in London.

Read Also: Luxury Student Accommodation in London: Stylish & Comfortable Living.

Premium PBSA Near LSE

Purpose-built student accommodation offers excellent alternatives to university halls. These modern facilities provide superior amenities.

PBSA Benefits:

• Modern facilities and furniture
• All-inclusive bills
• 24/7 security and support
• Study spaces and social areas
• Flexible contract terms

Not sure what type of housing suits you? This guide explains the Types of Student Accommodation in London in detail.

Read Also: Can I get student accommodation in London for the short term?

Top PBSA Areas:

1. Holborn/Bloomsbury - Walking distance to campus
2. King's Cross - Excellent transport links
3. Shoreditch - Trendy East London location
4. Waterloo/South Bank - River location, good connections

Learn more about the Best Student Neighbourhoods in London to help you decide where to live.

Recommended PBSA Properties Near LSE

• Depot Point, London
• Therese House, London
• iQ Bankside, London
• iQ Paris Gardens, London
• iQ City, London

Still deciding where to stay? Check out our handpicked list of  Student Accommodation Options in London.

Best Student Halls provides comprehensive PBSA marketplace services specifically for LSE students. Their platform helps students find premium accommodation near the Holborn campus with modern amenities and competitive pricing.

Student Life at LSE

Academic Environment

LSE offers an intensive academic experience with world-class faculty. Small class sizes ensure personalised attention.

Academic Features:

• Seminar-based teaching
• Research-led instruction
• Industry guest speakers
• Extensive library resources
• Career development support

Student Organizations

LSE Students' Union:

• 200+ societies and clubs
• Political and debating societies
• Cultural and international groups
• Sports clubs and teams
• Professional development societies

London Advantages

City Benefits:

• Financial district internships
• Government and policy opportunities
• Cultural experiences
• International business connections
• Graduate job market

Balancing work and study? Our guide to Part-Time Jobs in London for Students can help you find flexible roles.

Read Also: 

• Must-Visit Sightseeing Places in London for Students
• Exploring the Best Restaurants in London
• Top 10 Best Aesthetic Cafes in London

Career Prospects and Alumni

Employment Statistics

LSE graduates achieve exceptional career outcomes. The school boasts a 93% graduate employment rate within three months.

Top Graduate Employers:

• Goldman Sachs
• McKinsey & Company
• Deloitte
• JP Morgan
• Google
• UK Government departments
• International organizations

Average Graduate Salaries: £67,500 - £95,460 annually across various sectors

Notable Alumni

Business Leaders:

• George Soros (investor)
• David Rockefeller (banker)

Political Figures:

• 18 Nobel Prize winners
• 50+ heads of state
• Numerous government ministers

Other Notable Alumni:

• Mick Jagger (musician)
• David Attenborough (broadcaster)

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Merit-Based Scholarships

LSE offers 74 different scholarship types supporting international and domestic students.

Available Funding:

• LSE Undergraduate Support Scheme
• Graduate Support Scheme: Up to £15,000
• Country-specific scholarships
• Subject-specific awards
• Need-based bursaries

External Funding

Additional Sources:

• Government scholarships
• Corporate sponsorship programs
• International development funds
• Professional body awards

Application Process

Undergraduate Applications

UCAS Application Steps:

1. Submit UCAS Application (January 31 deadline)
2. Personal Statement - Critical for admission
3. Academic References - Two required
4. Interview Process - For some programs
5. Final Decision - May through July

Postgraduate Applications

Direct LSE Application:

1. Online Application Portal
2. Supporting Documents Upload
3. Reference Submission
4. Application Review Process
5. Offer Decision

Application Deadlines:

• Main round: Various deadlines by program
• Final deadlines: Usually June-July

Living Costs in London

Budget Planning

Studying at LSE requires careful financial planning due to London's high living costs.

Monthly Expenses:

• Accommodation: £850 - £3400
• Food: £300 - £500
• Transport: £150 - £200
• Entertainment: £200 - £400
• Books/Supplies: £50 - £100

For a detailed breakdown of everyday expenses, read our full guide on the Cost of Living in London for Students. 

Also, always keep track of your spending, use our Cost of Living Calculator and spend more efficiently. 

Money-Saving Tips

Cost Management:

• Early accommodation booking
• Student discounts utilisation
• Part-time work opportunities
• Shared accommodation options
• Free cultural activities

Why Choose LSE?

Academic Excellence

• The world's leading social science institution
• Research-intensive environment
• Distinguished faculty
• Small class sizes
• Prestigious global reputation

Location Advantages

• Central London positioning
• Financial and political hub access
• Cultural opportunities
• Networking possibilities
• Career advancement prospects

Career Outcomes

• Exceptional employment rates
• High starting salaries
• Global alumni network
• Industry connections
• Leadership development

Conclusion

The London School of Economics still stands as the leading place in the world for studying the social sciences. Thanks to its constant top-ten ranking, a world-class faculty, and a location right in the heart of the capital, the school gives students a chance to learn in a truly life-changing way.

Its demanding admissions process shows how serious LSE is about keeping those high standards. Strong links to industry and excellent job results for graduates make the fees feel worthwhile. Living in lively central London also keeps daily life exciting outside the lecture hall.

Anyone thinking of applying should prepare well because the competition is fierce. Booking accommodation early can spare nerves later and give you somewhere comfortable to land. Carrying the school's name on your CV often opens doors in firms and offices around the planet.

The combination of academic rigour, prime location, and career prospects makes LSE an excellent choice for ambitious students seeking social science education at the highest level.

Timing is everything. Find out the Best Time to Book Student Accommodation in London to get the best deals.