Planning to study in the UK? With some of the world’s most prestigious universities located here, admission can be a real challenge. While many UK institutions are welcoming, others are highly selective, with acceptance rates as low as 8%. Knowing which universities are the hardest to get into will help you prepare a strong application and improve your chances of success.
In this guide, we have listed the top 10 hardest universities in the UK to get into in 2026, with their acceptance rates and admission insights.
List of Hardest UK Universities
| University Name | Acceptance Rate |
| The University of St. Andrews | 8.35% |
| University of Cambridge | 20.8% |
| London School of Economics | 21.9% |
| University of Oxford | 19.37% |
| Imperial College London | 36% |
| University of Edinburgh | 11.7% |
| King’s College London | 13% |
| University of the Arts London | 43.2% |
| University of Leeds | 47.3% |
| University of Strathclyde | 47.3% |
1. University of St. Andrews – 8.35%
Founded in 1413, the University of St. Andrews is the third-oldest in the UK and the hardest to get into, with an acceptance rate of just 8.35%. Known for its rich traditions, international community, and academic rigour, only about 8 out of 100 applicants secure admission. High UCAS points and a strong profile are essential.
2. University of Cambridge – 20.8%
With its founding in 1209, the University of Cambridge is a global icon of academic excellence. It has an acceptance rate of 20.8%, making it one of the most competitive institutions worldwide. Out of 22,000 annual applications only about 4,200 students make it through. Cambridge is particularly selective in sciences, engineering and humanities.
3. London School of Economics (LSE) – 21.9%
The London School of Economics was established in 1895. It is one of the world’s leading social science universities. With over 70% international students, its acceptance rate is just 21.9%. Out of 26,000 applicants, only around 1,700 are admitted. Strong academic scores and international outlook are must-haves for LSE hopefuls.
4. University of Oxford – 19.37%
Founded in 1096, the University of Oxford is the world’s second-oldest university and one of the most respected globally. Oxford admits just 19.37% of applicants, with fierce competition across all subjects. It is particularly renowned for humanities, sciences and politics. And attracts applicants from every corner of the globe.
5. Imperial College London – 36%
Established in 1907, Imperial College London is globally recognised for STEM and medical research. With an acceptance rate of 36%, it attracts the brightest minds in technology and innovation. Admission requires excellent academic records and strong performance in mathematics and sciences.
6. University of Edinburgh – 11.7%
Founded in 1583. The University of Edinburgh has a long standing history of research and innovation. With an acceptance rate of 11.7%, it is highly competitive, particularly for medicine, law and social sciences. Its location in Scotland’s historic capital makes it a favourite among international applicants.
7. King’s College London – 13%
Established in 1829 King’s College London (KCL) is one of the UK’s top universities. With an acceptance rate of 13%, gaining admission is difficult, especially in health sciences, law and business. KCL’s central London location and global partnerships make it an attractive but competitive choice.
8. University of the Arts London (UAL) – 43.2%
The University of the Arts London, formed in 1986, is the largest specialist arts and design university in Europe. With an acceptance rate of 43.2%, it is less competitive compared to Oxbridge but still selective. Applicants need strong creative portfolios and demonstrable talent in design, fashion, or visual arts.
9. University of Leeds – 47.3%
Founded in 1904, the University of Leeds is a Russell Group member and one of the largest universities in the UK. With an acceptance rate of 47.3%, it is moderately competitive. Leeds is especially recognised for business, engineering and research led teaching.
10. University of Strathclyde – 47.3%
The University of Strathclyde has a reputation for engineering, technology and innovation. Located in Glasgow. Its acceptance rate stands at 47.3%, making it one of the tougher Scottish universities to enter. With over 23,000 students from 100+ countries, it’s a global hub for research and education.
Other UK Universities with low acceptance rates
| University | Acceptance Rate |
| Durham University | 48% |
| University of Manchester | 51.5% |
| University of Bristol | 52.2% |
| University of Bath | 55.2% |
| London South Bank Univ. | 55.5% |
| City, University of London | 55.9% |
Conclusion
The UK is home to some of the most competitive universities in the world, led by the University of St. Andrews, Cambridge and Oxford. These universities require excellent academics, strong personal statements and well rounded applications with low acceptance rates. Understanding acceptance rates and requirements in advance helps students better prepare for success in the UK’s competitive higher education landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the hardest university to get into in the UK?
The University of St. Andrews is the hardest, with an acceptance rate of just 8.35%.
2. Is Oxford harder to get into than Cambridge?
Oxford’s acceptance rate is 19.37%, while Cambridge is 20.8%. Oxford is slightly harder, but both are very competitive.
3. What is the acceptance rate of the University of St. Andrews?
St. Andrews has an acceptance rate of 8.35%, the lowest among UK universities.
4. What is the acceptance rate of the University of Cambridge?
The University of Cambridge admits about 20.8% of applicants.
5. What is the acceptance rate of Oxford University?
Oxford University’s acceptance rate is 19.37%, making it one of the most selective globally.
6. Is LSE hard to get into?
Yes, the London School of Economics (LSE) has an acceptance rate of 21.9%, and strong academic records are essential.
7. How competitive is Imperial College London?
Imperial College London has an acceptance rate of 36%, with a strong focus on STEM and research excellence.
8. What is the acceptance rate of the University of Edinburgh?
The University of Edinburgh admits just 11.7% of applicants, making it highly selective.
9. Is King’s College London hard to get into?
Yes, with an acceptance rate of 13%, KCL is one of the hardest UK universities for admission.
10. What is the acceptance rate of University of the Arts London?
UAL’s acceptance rate is 43.2%, less competitive than Oxbridge but still selective for creative courses.
11. How hard is it to get into the University of Leeds?
The University of Leeds has an acceptance rate of 47.3%, making it moderately competitive.
12. What is the acceptance rate of the University of Strathclyde?
Strathclyde’s acceptance rate is 47.3%, selective but more accessible compared to Oxbridge.
13. Which UK universities are in the Russell Group and hard to get into?
Oxford, Cambridge, LSE, Imperial, Edinburgh, KCL, and Leeds are all Russell Group universities with low acceptance rates.
14. Do acceptance rates vary by course in UK universities?
Yes, courses like Medicine, Law, and Economics have lower acceptance rates than humanities or general sciences.
15. Is it easier for international students to get into UK universities?
Not always. For top universities, competition is tough for both domestic and international students.
16. Which UK universities have the lowest acceptance rates overall?
St. Andrews, Oxford, Cambridge, Edinburgh, and LSE have the lowest acceptance rates in the UK.
17. Is UCL among the hardest UK universities to get into?
Yes, University College London (UCL) is competitive, though its acceptance rate is slightly higher than Oxbridge.
18. How many students apply to Cambridge each year?
Cambridge receives about 22,000 applications annually, admitting around 4,200 students.
19. What GPA or grades do you need for UK’s hardest universities?
Applicants usually need AAA at A-levels or an equivalent high GPA to get into top UK universities.
20. How can students improve their chances of admission to top UK universities?
Strong academics, an outstanding personal statement, recommendation letters, and extracurricular achievements are key to admission success.