Leicester is an exceptional choice for international students seeking high-quality education in the UK. The city is known for its welcoming and diverse atmosphere, making it easy for students worldwide to feel at home.
| Did You Know? Leicester is home to #3 of the UK's leading universities, the University of Leicester, De Montfort University and Loughborough University. Both are recognised for their strong academic programs and diverse student communities. |
The University of Leicester, Loughborough University and De Montfort University are renowned for their strong academic programs and innovative teaching methods. They offer a wide range of courses that cater to various interests and career goals.
Leicester’s central location in England provides easy access to major cities like London and Birmingham, making it a convenient base for students exploring the UK. Leicester’s affordability further enhances the value of education; with lower living costs compared to many other UK cities, students can enjoy a high standard of living without financial strain.
With excellent career opportunities and a supportive academic environment, Leicester stands out as a top destination for international students.
Key Highlights:
| Parameters | Details |
| No. of Universities in Leicester | 3 |
| Approximate Annual Study Cost in Leicester | INR 18,00,000 – 30,00,000 (GBP 17,000 – 28,000) |
| Approximate Monthly Cost of Living in Leicester | INR 1,00,000 (GBP 1000) |
| Minimum IELTS Score Required | 6.5 |
| Minimum TOEFL Score Required | 80 |
| Top 3 Universities |
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| Top 3 Study Fields |
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| Salary Range | INR 30,00,000 – 60,00,000 (GBP 28,000 – 56,000) |
Why Study in Leicester?
Leicester is a vibrant and culturally rich city that offers international students a unique and fulfilling study experience. Known for its academic excellence, Leicester is home to top universities providing world-class education in various fields.
The city's affordability, combined with its diverse student population and strong employment prospects, makes it an attractive destination for students from all over the globe.
Key Reasons to Study in Leicester:
- Academic Excellence: According to the QS World University Rankings 2024, the University of Leicester and Loughborough University are among the top 300 universities globally, renowned for their research output and teaching quality.
- Affordable Living Costs: According to the UK National Union of Students, Leicester offers one of the most affordable living costs in the UK. Students spend an average of INR 1,00,000 (GBP 1000) monthly on living expenses, including accommodation, food, and transportation.
- Diverse Student Community: According to Leicester City Council, Leicester is ranked as one of the most diverse cities in the UK. Over 50% of its population identifies as non-white, offering a multicultural environment that enriches the student experience.
- Strong Graduate Employability: According to HESA Graduate Outcomes 2023, De Montfort University is recognised for its high employability rates, with 97.3% of its graduates employed or pursuing further study within six months of graduation.
- Central Location: Leicester's strategic location in the heart of England provides easy access to major cities like London and Birmingham, making it a convenient base for exploring the UK.
Which are the Top Universities in Leicester?
| Did You Know? Leicester is home to some of the most historic and culturally rich universities in the UK, with the University of Leicester being a pioneer in the discovery of DNA fingerprinting, a breakthrough that revolutionised forensic science. |
Leicester offers a range of top-quality universities, each with its unique strengths in research, teaching, and student support.
Here’s a look at the top universities in Leicester for international students:
| University | QS Ranking 2025 | Tuition Fees Range |
| University of Leicester | #285 | INR 17.5L - INR 23.5L (GBP 17,450 - GBP 23,450) |
| De Montfort University | #711 - #720 | INR 14L - INR 15L (GBP 14,250 - GBP 15,100) |
| Loughborough University | #224 | INR 21L - INR 27L(GBP 20,000 - GBP 26,500) |
Note: The fees mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the course and currency exchange rates.
What are the Top Courses in Leicester?
Leicester is known for its vibrant academic environment, offering a range of in-demand courses, particularly in fields like:
- Business
- Life Sciences
- Engineering
Undergraduate (UG) courses typically last 3-4 years, while Postgraduate (PG) courses range from 1-2 years, depending on the field of study.
Here are the top courses available in Leicester:
| Top Courses | Average Duration | Top University |
| Bachelor of Business and Management | 3 years | University of Leicester |
| Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBChB) | 5 years | Leicester Medical School |
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | 1 year | University of Leicester |
| Master of Science in Data Analytics | 1 year | De Montfort University |
| Master of Engineering (MEng) | 1-2 years | University of Leicester |
What are the Admission Requirements in Leicester?
Studying in Leicester requires meeting specific admission criteria set by universities in the city. Both undergraduate and postgraduate programs have distinct requirements to ensure that applicants are well-prepared for their chosen courses.
Understanding these requirements is essential for a successful application process.
What are the General Requirements of Universities in Leicester?
- Academic Qualifications:
- Completion of secondary education with good grades.
- Specific A-levels or equivalent qualifications depending on the course.
- English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Minimum overall score of 6.0–6.5.
- TOEFL: Minimum score of 80–90.
If you want to score high in the IELTS exam, sign up and start preparing today!
What are the Documents Required for Universities in Leicester?
- Standardised Test Scores: Depending on the program, GRE or GMAT scores may be required.
- Essays or Personal Statements: Some programs may ask for additional essays or personal statements.
- Portfolio: For creative programs, a portfolio of work may be necessary.
- Passport Copy: A valid passport copy is required to process your application.
- Nationality.
What are the Visa Requirements for Universities in Leicester?
- Necessary Documentation: To apply for a student visa, you need an acceptance letter from the university, proof of financial means, and possibly a TB test, depending on your country of origin.
- Application Timeline: Start the visa application process as soon as you receive your acceptance letter, ideally 3-4 months before the program begins.
- Visa Interview Process: Some applicants may need to attend a visa interview at the nearest British consulate.
Work Permit:
- Eligibility Criteria: International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. Graduates may apply for the Graduate Route to stay and work in the UK for up to two years.
- Application Process: Apply for the Graduate Route visa before your student visa expires.
- Duration and Limitations: The Graduate Route allows up to two years of work; specific job roles and sectors may have different requirements.
What is the Cost of Studying in Leicester?
Studying in Leicester offers a blend of affordable tuition fees and reasonable living costs, making it an attractive destination for international students.
Here’s an overview of the costs associated with studying in this vibrant UK city.
| Program Type | Range of Annual Fees (INR) | Range of Annual Fees (GBP) |
| Undergraduate Programs | INR 20 Lakhs - INR 30 Lakhs | GBP 20,000 - GBP 30,000 |
| Postgraduate Programs | INR 15 Lakhs - INR 25 Lakhs | GBP 15,000 - GBP 25,000 |
| Doctoral Programs | INR 15 Lakhs - INR 30 Lakhs | GBP 15,000 - GBP 30,000 |
What is the Cost of Living in Leicester?
Living expenses in Leicester are relatively affordable compared to other major UK cities.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical monthly costs for international students:
| Expense | Approximate Cost (INR) | Approximate Cost (GBP) |
| Food | INR 20,000 - INR 35,000 | GBP 200 - GBP 350 |
| Rent | INR 80,000 - INR 1.5 Lakhs | GBP 800 - GBP 1,500 |
| Transport | INR 7,000 - INR 12,000 | GBP 70 - GBP 120 |
| Other Expenses | INR 15,000 - INR 25,000 | GBP 150 - GBP 250 |
| Total Cost | INR 1.22 Lakhs - INR 2.5 Lakhs | GBP 1,200 - GBP 2,250 |
Need more guidance regarding the cost of living in the UK?
Which are the Top Jobs in Leicester?
| Did You Know? According to Leicester City Council, Leicester's economy has seen significant growth in its technology and manufacturing sectors, contributing to a diverse job market in the city. |
Leicester, a vibrant city in the East Midlands of England, boasts a diverse job market with numerous opportunities across various industries. Known for its strong local economy and welcoming atmosphere, Leicester offers promising career prospects for both local and international graduates.
From healthcare to engineering, the city provides a range of high-paying job sectors, supported by its growing industries and educational institutions.
Here are the Top Job Fields in Leicester and their average salaries:
| Job Field | Average Salary (INR) | Average Salary (GBP) |
| Healthcare and Social Care | INR 30,00,000 - INR 55,00,000 | GBP 30,000 - GBP 55,000 |
| Information Technology | INR 40,00,000 - INR 65,00,000 | GBP 40,000 - GBP 65,000 |
| Engineering and Manufacturing | INR 45,00,000 - INR 70,00,000 | GBP 45,000 - GBP 70,000 |
| Education and Training | INR 30,00,000 - INR 50,00,000 | GBP 30,000 - GBP 50,000 |
| Finance and Accounting | INR 35,00,000 - INR 60,00,000 | GBP 35,000 - GBP 60,000 |
What are the Top Recruiters in Leicester?
Leicester's job market is supported by several key employers known for their strong presence in various sectors.
Here are some of the top recruiters in the city:
- University of Leicester: Education
- Rolls-Royce: Engineering and Manufacturing
- Bosch: Engineering and Technology
- Leicester City Council: Public Sector
- Centrica: Energy and Utilities
