London School of Economics (LSE) is one of the best and most competitive universities in the world. It closely follows Oxford and Cambridge in UK league tables and sits in the top five of UK universities for the subjects it offers. Due to this outstanding reputation and LSE’s specialism in social sciences and humanities-based subjects, places are extremely competitive.
Despite this, very few students know how to write an undergraduate university application that targets LSE’s unique admissions criteria. Thankfully, with the right support and preparation, you’ll know just how to submit an application that stands out and maximises your chances of an offer. Read on for top tips, stats and insider information from our team of LSE admissions experts.
What is the LSE acceptance rate?
In 2021, the LSE acceptance rate was 6.6% (according to data by UCAS). Of the 25,845 applications London School of Economics received, it offered places to just 1,715 students. It’s worth noting that LSE and Imperial have particularly low acceptance rates due to offering a lesser variety of courses and thus having fewer spaces for applicants.
For its most competitive subjects, LSE’s acceptance rate is significantly lower than its average. For example, Economics with Economic History has an acceptance rate of just 4.9%. If you’re aiming high for a place on one of LSE’s competitive courses, contact the Profs’ admissions consultants for expert support.
What are the most competitive courses at LSE?
All of LSE’s courses are extremely competitive, however the most competitive courses are: Economics with Economic History, Government and History, Government and Economics, Social Policy and Economics, and Politics and International Relations. The Profs have expert tutors who can offer dedicated application support for each of these degree programmes and help you to reach the A level grades required for entry.
Is LSE a Russell Group university?
LSE is one of 24 Russell Group universities and has a worldwide reputation for its outstanding quality of research. The Complete University Guide ranks LSE as the third best Russell Group university behind only Oxford and Cambridge.
Though belonging to the Russell Group of universities isn’t the only mark of a top university (many leading universities are not Russell Group), it is a good indicator that LSE prioritises the quality of its research as well as the quantity. In fact, according to the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF), 58% of LSE’s research is assessed as ‘world-leading’ and 35% is rated as ‘internationally excellent’.
What are the LSE entry requirements?
LSE’s entry requirements vary depending on the course you’re applying to study and the country you’re applying from. The table below shows the A level grades required for entry as well as some of the most common international qualification requirements for courses in general. If your qualifications are not in this table, or you need more information on English language requirements, check LSE’s information for international students. You can also get in touch with the Profs for dedicated support from one of our international admissions experts.
| Qualification | Entry requirements |
| A Levels | Range from A*AA-AAB, depending on the course. |
| International Baccalaureate (IB) | Range from 37 points overall (with three Higher level subjects at grades 666) to 38 points overall (with three Higher level subjects at grades 766). |
| European Baccalaureate (EB) | 80-85% overall depending on the course. |
| Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) | 5*55-555 in your electives, depending on the course, and 4 in English and Mathematics, and 3 in Chinese and Liberal Studies. |
| AP (Advanced Placement) and High School Diploma (USA) | Five APs at grade 5, taken over a maximum of three years and a minimum High School Diploma GPA 3.7; Or three APs at grade 5, and two APs at grade 4, taken over a maximum of three years, and a minimum High School Diploma GPA of 3.7, depending on the course. |
| Other international qualifications | Check the full list of international qualifications accepted by LSE. |
Note that the entry requirements for LSE differ depending on your chosen course, so make sure you check on the relevant course page before applying. If you’re a UK student and need support in meeting the entry requirements, then our A level tutors can help you boost your grades.
Does LSE give contextual offers?
LSE does offer systematic contextual offers to students from disadvantaged backgrounds that meet its criteria. The majority of students won’t meet this criteria and will be made standard entry offers ranging from A*AA to AAB depending on the course, but it’s still worth checking if you are eligible for LSE’s contextual admissions.
6 tips for getting into LSE
1. Check the specific requirements of your course
Although LSE has generic requirements that apply to many courses, there are also additional requirements you need to meet for some courses. For example, if you want to study Data Science, you must achieve AAA and one of these subjects must be Mathematics, while for Econometrics and Mathematical Economics, you must achieve an A* in Mathematics. Our A level tutors have a proven track record of helping students achieve As and A*s in critical subjects, so if you’re in need of a boost, reach out to the Profs for support.
As well as specific subject requirements, some of LSE’s courses may require admissions tests for entry. For example, all applicants applying to study the LLB (Law) course are required to sit the Law National Admissions Test (LNAT), which you’ll need to register for and take before the UCAS application deadline. If you need help preparing for an admissions test, the Profs’ expert tutoring is the best way to level up your knowledge.
Insider tip: Being one of the most highly-sought-after universities in the world, LSE pays particular attention to your historic grades. Particularly when it comes to undergraduate students, LSE looks for a consistent track record of outstanding grades across GCSEs (or equivalent) as well as A levels.
(Video) Asking Students "How To Get Into LSE?" | (London School of Economics)If you have dropped a few grades in core subjects such as Maths, it is important to bolster your academic record in other ways during your application, such as skills you demonstrated during your work experience or additional achievements (such as Maths competitions). LSE particularly likes to see students with years of academic success, not just success in the most recent set of results.
2. Aim to get the best possible grades you can
LSE is among the highest ranking and most sought-after universities in the UK for social sciences. The entry requirements for its most popular courses, such as Economics and Economic History (requires AAB), are often lower than those of Oxbridge and UCL, but just as – if not more – competitive. Achieving the highest possible grades is valued highly by LSE and will help you to stand out among the thousands of applicants.
Our A level tutors have helped many students achieve top grades and get offers from their first and second choice universities, including LSE. Whether you’re falling behind in one subject or need more intensive, all-round support, reach out to our team and we’ll get you the help you need.
3. Think about the long-term plan
Getting into LSE is a great goal to have, but it’s also important to think about the long-term plan and how a degree in your chosen subject from LSE specifically will help you to achieve your future academic or career goals. You may want to go on to make the most of LSE’s fantastic research facilities by studying for a Master’s or PhD. Perhaps you want to make the most of LSE’s outstanding career prospects and land a graduate job at your dream company.
Whichever route you’re looking to take (and you don’t have to stick to it!), having these goals in mind will help you communicate your reasons for wanting to study your course in your personal statement and prove to LSE that you are motivated and committed to your academic future.
4. Get relevant work experience
One way you can make your application stand out from the thousands of other LSE applicants is to gain relevant work experience in your field. Whether paid or unpaid, having experience working in your desired field will provide you with invaluable real-life knowledge about the industry.
If you can’t secure work experience, try to engage in as many extracurricular activities related to your chosen subject area as you can. For instance, if you’re applying for a Social Policy or Politics course, you could take part in voluntary work, get involved in local social causes, or attend political conferences to demonstrate your interest outside of a strictly academic setting.
5. Invest plenty of time into writing your personal statement
For LSE’s many competitive subjects, lots of applicants will inevitably achieve the grades required for entry. LSE will therefore use applicants’ personal statements as a key factor in deciding who to offer places to. That’s why investing plenty of time and passion into writing your personal statement is so important in the application process.
Use your statement as a chance to express who you are and what makes you unique. As well as describing your ambitions, skills and experience, dedicate your personal statement to explaining why you would be an excellent candidate for your chosen course. The Profs’ personal statement tutors can provide further guidance and support on how to write a stand-out statement tailored to LSE.
Note that all students applying for university in 2023 for courses beginning in 2024 will be required to submit a UCAS personal statement as normal. However, from 2024/25 onwards, there will be changes to the UCAS application process and students will no longer be required to write a personal statement. Instead, all applicants will answer a series of shorter, more tailored questions provided by UCAS.
6. Read around your subject
When it comes to writing your personal statement, ensuring that you have a passionate and in-depth understanding of your subject goes a long way. Knowing where to start can be a challenge here, because what is considered best to read will be different for each individual applicant. It all depends on your existing knowledge of the subject area, which specific interests you have, and your chosen course modules.
Our tutors can help you to understand where the ‘sweet spots’ are and what to read in order to stand out in your application. Reading as extensively around your subject as possible will help to prove that you’re proactive and engaged and that, most importantly, you would make an outstanding LSE student.
How can we help?
At the Profs, we have many admissions consultants who can guide you through the process of applying to LSE, as well as Oxbridge, UCL and other top universities. In fact, over 90% of our applicants receive an offer from their first or second choice universities. We can even support you in your wider degree-level education, helping you with everything from writing your dissertation to applying for postgraduate courses. Get in touch with our friendly team today to access our dedicated support.
FAQs
Where is LSE?
LSE is located in central London, close to Holborn and Temple tube stations. The campus is next to the Royal Courts of Justice building, while the financial district, Westminster and the Houses of Parliament are also all within easy reach.
Does LSE do clearing?
LSE does not usually participate in Clearing and is one of just a handful of universities not to do so. Other universities that do not participate in Clearing include Oxford, Cambridge and UCL, as well as some other competitive and Russell Group universities that do not have free spaces to offer on their courses (this can change from year to year).
When do LSE give out offers?
LSE aims to make offers to applicants as soon as possible. LSE states that it makes offers from early October through to the 18th May 2023 (the UCAS deadline for final decisions), so the earlier you apply, the earlier you may receive an offer.
How hard is it to get into LSE?
LSE is one the most competitive universities in the UK. Its acceptance rate was just 6.6% in 2021, and you will need top A level grades (or equivalent) and outstanding academic performance in order to be considered. Nevertheless, if you have a strong track record of high academic achievement, a real passion for your chosen subject, and a strong personal statement, you will be in a strong position to be considered for a place.
Does LSE accept transfer students?
LSE does accept transfer students under certain conditions, however the competition for spaces is extremely high and so in reality, the number of transfer students tends to be very limited. If you have completed your first year of undergraduate study at another university, it is possible that you may be permitted direct entry to the second year of an LSE course if you meet LSE’s list of requirements. However, second year entry is extremely rare and many departments (including Economic History, Geography and Environment, Social Policy, Statistics, and others) do not allow it. Third year entry is not permitted under any circumstances.
Is LSE a good school?
LSE is one of the best and most competitive universities in the world. It closely follows Oxford and Cambridge in UK league tables and sits in the top five of UK universities for the subjects it offers.
Is LSE better than UCL?
LSE and UCL are both excellent universities. Generally, LSE is considered slightly more prestigious for the subjects it specialises in, such as Economics and Politics. LSE is also more competitive than UCL, with an acceptance rate of 6.6% compared to UCL’s 12%. However, UCL offers a far greater number of courses and specialises in a broader range of subjects, including Medicine and the Sciences, and is considered one of the best ‘all-rounder’ universities in the UK.
What is LSE famous for?
LSE is renowned for its specialised undergraduate and postgraduate courses, including BSc Economics, BSc Philosophy, Politics and Economics, Master’s in Management (MiM), and more. Its courses are designed to teach students theory as well as to study and apply their learnings to real world issues.
FAQs
How to Get Into LSE - The Profs? ›
Range from A*AA-AAB, depending on the course. Range from 37 points overall (with three Higher level subjects at grades 666) to 38 points overall (with three Higher level subjects at grades 766). 80-85% overall depending on the course.
What is the most competitive program at LSE? ›| Programme | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| BSc in Philosophy, Politics and Economics | 9.2% |
| BSc in Accounting and Finance | 9.2% |
| BSc in Intl. Social & Public Policy with Politics | 9.6% |
| BSc in Management | 9.7% |
A good first degree of a least at 2.1 or a GPA of 3.5 or above from an accredited university. At least 4 years of professional experience but preferably 10. If English is not your first language, you should possess an English language qualification such as IELTS or TOEFL.
How do I get into LSE business school? ›normally* be aged 18 or above by the 31 December in the year of registration and. have four GCSE/O levels at grades A–C and one GCE/A level at grades A–E, or six GCSE/O levels at grades A–C, or equivalent and. demonstrate competence in Mathematics at least equivalent to UK. GCSE/GCE O level at Grade C or above and.
How hard is it to get into LSE master's program? ›How hard is it to get into LSE Masters? LSE Masters programmes are very competitive. Across all of its postgraduate courses, LSE has an offer rate of approximately 25%, meaning around 1 in 4 applicants receive an offer.
Is LSE a Tier 1 university? ›LSE has again been ranked as one of the best universities in the world, according to the most recent Times Higher Education World University Rankings.
Is it harder to get into UCL or LSE? ›I chose UCL over LSE: I relied on the Times rankings, the courses on offer and the fact that several prominent lawyers and judges in my country went to UCL. UCL is higher in the rankings, and more strict as to admission standards.
Is it harder to get into LSE than Oxford? ›LSE is among the highest ranking and most sought-after universities in the UK for social sciences. The entry requirements for its most popular courses, such as Economics and Economic History (requires AAB), are often lower than those of Oxbridge and UCL, but just as – if not more – competitive.
Is LSE a prestigious university? ›The London School of Economics and Political Science, or LSE at it is more commonly known, is a member of the prestigious Russell Group of universities.
Is LSE better than Oxbridge? ›In what ways is LSE (London School of economics and Political Science) better than Oxbridge? LSE graduates, on average, are the highest earners on the long run in the UK. So, if your focus is to make money, LSE is potentially better than Oxbridge.
Which is better London Business School or LSE? ›
If you're looking at studying business or management in London, one of these two is the place for you, and we are here to help you choose the right one. LSE certainly has a stronger reputation and is more academically inclined, while LBS programs are more professionally designed to suit the commercial market needs.
How prestigious is London Business School? ›London Business School is one of the top public universities in London, United Kingdom. It is ranked #10 in QS WUR Ranking By Subject 2023.
Are LSE exams hard? ›The reading load is HEAVY and the exam system is far more strenuous and exhausting than my experience at my home university. At the same time, while demanding and exceptionally difficult, the academics at the LSE can be thoroughly rewarding and stimulating.
Is a masters from LSE prestigious? ›Many students studying a masters at LSE pursue a career change as one of their objectives. LSE is one of the most prestigious universities around the world, as we can see management department ranked #3 in the world for business and management (2022).
How much does a grad at LSE earn? ›For example, economics graduates from the London School of Economics (LSE) earn an average salary of £55,200 (~US$70,500) five years after graduating, with the top 25% earning more than £120,000 (~US$153,200).
What is the easiest course to get into at LSE? ›| Executive MSc Cities | 95% |
|---|---|
| Executive MSc Social Business and Entrepreneurship | 81% |
| Executive MPA Master of Public Administration | 80% |
| MBA (Global Executive Programme) | 76% |
| Executive MSc Health Economics, Policy and Managem... | 74% |
LSE isn't a better choice than Berkeley for students interested in business, economics or finance. Berkeley's business school, the Haas School of Business is highly respected and is generally considered as one of the top business schools in the world.
Is UCL or LSE more prestigious? ›The LSE is widely considered better than UCL for the following reasons: Higher ranked for the subjects it teaches. Arguably the best Economics department in the United Kingdom. Ranked 5th in the world for History, Law and Politics to name a few (QS Rankings, Times HE).
What are the elite universities in UK? ›- University of Oxford.
- University of Cambridge.
- University College London.
- Imperial College London.
- King's College London.
- University of Edinburgh.
- University of Manchester.
- University of Glasgow.
The United Kingdom's “Ivy League Class” is called the Russell Group of Institutions. The Russell Group encompasses 24 universities around the United Kingdom and are perceived as the 'best' universities in the country.
Is LSE harder than Cambridge? ›
Perhaps surprisingly, very few people realise that it is more difficult to get into LSE than it is to study at Oxford and Cambridge with, on average, 21,000 people applying for 1,600 places.
What is the hardest university to get into UK? ›The University of Oxford
Oxford University has high entry standards. It is among the hardest universities to get into in the UK, with an acceptance rate of 19.1% and an average of 571 UCAS points.
LSE has been ranked as the top university in London in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023. The 2023 rankings scored the School highly for research quality, teaching quality and student experience. LSE was ranked fourth nationally, rising from fifth place in 2022.
How prestigious is LSE for Economics? ›London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), established in 1895, is one of the most highly acclaimed universities in the world.
What major is LSE known for? ›LSE was founded in 1895 and joined the University of London in 1900. The School's academic profile spans a broad range of social sciences and is renowned for studying real world issues, from economics, politics and law to sociology, anthropology, accounting and finance.
Is a PhD from LSE prestigious? ›The PhD programmes at LSE are highly distinguished and esteemed because the scholar community lies at the heart of the university's research culture.
Who is the richest LSE alumni? ›George Soros
As of March 2021, he had a net worth of US$8.6 billion, having donated more than $32 billion to the Open Society Foundations, of which $15 billion have already been distributed, representing 64% of his original fortune. Forbes called him the "most generous giver" (in terms of percentage of net worth).
At the top of the list overall is Westminster School in London, which is right next to the Houses of Parliament (no biggie) and costs over £32,000 per year in sixth form fees. Its students got 79 offers from Oxford and Cambridge in 2021, with a 40 per cent success rate.
Is Columbia better than LSE? ›They're both superb, world-class schools known for their Economics departments (top ten in the Top Economics and Business Universities in the World ), so you can't go wrong with either one.
Where is LSE ranked in the world? ›LSE has been ranked second in the world for social sciences and management by the QS World University Rankings by Subject for 2021. The QS subject ranking is collated annually and covers a total of 51 disciplines which are grouped into five broad subject areas.
Is it harder to get into LSE or LBS? ›
London Business School is as difficult to get into as Oxford, Cambridge or LSE at postgraduate level. However, our students enjoy an 83% offer rate thanks to our experience preparing students over the years and expert knowledge of LBS's unique requirements.
What is the number 1 Business School in London? ›#1.
The London business school ranks as the number one(1) business school in both London and the whole of UK, the school is ranked no 3 in 2022 this is based on the QS World university ranking by subject and also ranked number 2 based on the World University Ranking.
Harvard Business School is consistently ranked as the top business school in the United States and one of the top in the world, while London Business School is ranked among the top 10 in Europe and the top 20 in the world.
Can a average student get into London Business School? ›With a strong emphasis on diversity and a global mindset (74 nationalities are represented in the Class of 2024), there is no “typical” LBS student, yet the average admitted student does tend to have 5 years of work experience and a 708 GMAT score.
Is London School of Business Ivy League? ›University of Pennsylvania (Wharton, USA) Harvard Business School (Massachusetts, USA) University of Cambridge (Cambridge, UK) London Business School (London, UK)
Is it hard to get accepted at London Business School? ›The acceptance rate of LBS MBA is highly competitive around 15%, making it one of the most prestigious MBA programs globally.
Can I get into LSE with a 3.3 GPA? ›For LSE and UCL, a 3.5 GPA is strongly recommended; students with a 3.3 GPA may be considered (except in cases where a higher GPA is required by the specific subject at LSE or UCL) but should be aware that LSE or UCL may not consider them a competitive candidate unless they can articulate a strong academic rationale ...
What percentage of people get a first at LSE? ›Data provided by LSE also suggests rising grade inflation at the School. In 2021, the proportion of undergraduate students who received first-class honours degrees rose to 52.4% from 36.2% in 2019.
What is the average IB grade for LSE? ›The International Baccalaureate is scored out of 45 points and the entry requirements for LSE range from 37 points overall (with three Higher level subjects at grades 6 6 6) to 38 points overall (with three Higher level subjects at grades 7 6 6).
Which master degree is most valuable in London? ›- Medicine and Dentistry. One of the most popular master's degrees in the UK, a degree in medicine and dentistry is also one of the most employable. ...
- Computer Science. ...
- Engineering. ...
- Education and Training. ...
- Business and Administration (MBA) ...
- Architecture. ...
- Mathematics. ...
- Psychology.
What is the highest acceptance rate for LSE masters? ›
LSE Masters Acceptance Rate
The LSE acceptance rate masters is 25%. LSE data science acceptance rate is 9%. Looking at LSE Masters Acceptance Rate, it is very clear that getting LSE admission 2021 is highly competitive.
I would highly recommend the LSE MBA Essentials course to anyone who is looking to challenge themselves and take their career to the next level.”
What is the GPA equivalent to LSE? ›Students applying from American universities should have a minimum GPA above 3.3 and preferably a 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale), or above 4.0 (on a 5.0 scale), or a minimum average of 80 per cent overall. We only accept the first year of a full bachelor's degree, an associate's degree is not acceptable for entry.
What is the average GPA at LSE? ›A good first degree of a least at 2.1 or a GPA of 3.5 or above from an accredited university.
Are LSE graduates employable? ›Most LSE graduates apply for 'graduate jobs'; a term used for entry-level roles open only to people with a degree. You'll find interesting opportunities in large companies, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups, in the public, private and not-for-profit sectors.
What are the most competitive LSE degrees? ›| Programme | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| BSc in Economics and Economic History | 5.6% |
| BSc in Politics and International Relations | 6.7% |
| BSc in Intl. Social and Public Policy & Economics | 6.8% |
| BSc in Economics | 7.3% |
| Rank | School / Program |
|---|---|
| 1 | 1. Real Estate Economics and Finance LSE - Department of Geography and Environment Real Estate / Wealth management |
| 2 | 2. MSc/MA Global Media and Communications LSE - Department of Media and Communications Corporate Communication |
| 2 | 2. MSc Economics LSE - Department of Economics Economics |
- Executive Global MSc Management.
- MSc Culture and Conflict in a Global Europe.
- MSc History of International Relations.
- MBA (Global Executive Management)
LSE is the world's foremost social science institution, and it is famous and leading in almost all the subjects it offers. The most famous ones are Government, International Relations, Sociology and Economics. The Accounting and Finance program is also arguably the best in the UK at the undergraduate level.
Which is more prestigious LSE or UCL? ›The LSE is widely considered better than UCL for the following reasons: Higher ranked for the subjects it teaches. Arguably the best Economics department in the United Kingdom. Ranked 5th in the world for History, Law and Politics to name a few (QS Rankings, Times HE).
Is LSE more competitive than Oxford? ›
LSE is among the highest ranking and most sought-after universities in the UK for social sciences. The entry requirements for its most popular courses, such as Economics and Economic History (requires AAB), are often lower than those of Oxbridge and UCL, but just as – if not more – competitive.
What type of students does LSE look for? ›Our preference is for a broad mix of traditional academic subjects. We expect applicants to offer at least two full A-levels or IBDP Higher Levels in these subjects, although typically applicants will apply with three or four. Students offering a narrow combination of subjects may be less competitively considered.
What is the US equivalent of LSE? ›LSE is a highly reputable university. It trails only Cambridge and Oxford in the UK. The only American universities comparable to LSE in international reputation are Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Stanford, and MIT. In the business community Wharton is considered highly prestigious and comparable to LSE.
What is the gender ratio in LSE? ›o Looking at the LSE workforce overall, a slight majority of staff are women. In 2017–18, 51.3% of staff were women, and 48.7% were men. In 2018–19, there was a slight increase in the proportion of women: 52.8% were women, and 47.2% were men. o By contrast, men are consistently the biggest percentage of academic staff.
Which famous people studied at LSE? ›- B R Ambedkar. Architect of the Indian constitution.
- Helen Mayelle. International UN volunteer.
- Kristalina Georgieva. Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund.
- Ruth Porat. ...
- George Soros. ...
- Ursula von der Leyen. ...
- We also have a number of famous fictional alumni!
LSE has again been recognised as one of the best universities in the world, according to the most recent Times Higher Education World University Rankings. Now in their 18th year, the THE World University Rankings compared data from over 1,600 institutions to place LSE 27th globally and 5th in the UK.