Overview for International Students
Kingston University London is a vibrant, modern university known for its strong focus on career development, creativity, and innovation. Located in one of London’s most scenic riverside boroughs, Kingston offers students the perfect mix of urban energy and community comfort. As an agency helping students choose their dream university, we love recommending Kingston for its industry-linked teaching, work placement opportunities, and inclusive student environment.
The university is particularly recognised for Business, Design, Engineering, Architecture, and Health Sciences, with close ties to major London employers. Its approach to learning is practical and forward-thinking, preparing graduates for real-world success through projects, internships, and entrepreneurial initiatives.
With more than 16,000 students from over 140 countries, Kingston offers a truly international community. Students benefit from world-class facilities like the Town House building, which has won multiple architectural awards. For students who want a London education that combines affordability, creativity, and career focus, Kingston University stands out as a smart and inspiring choice.
Courses
| Course Name | Tuition Fee | Scholarship | Intake | IELTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | £25,000 | March 2026 | 6.5/6.0 |
History
Kingston University traces its roots back to 1899, when it began as the Kingston Technical Institute, offering practical courses in science, arts, and commerce. Its foundation reflected the growing need for technical education during London’s industrial expansion. Over the decades, the institution evolved through multiple mergers, expanding its academic offerings and infrastructure.
In 1970, it became Kingston Polytechnic, marking its recognition as a major centre for applied higher education. The 1980s and 1990s saw significant growth in research and academic diversity, leading to full university status in 1992, when it officially became Kingston University London.
Throughout its history, Kingston has maintained a commitment to hands-on, career-oriented education. The university continued to modernise with innovative facilities, such as the award-winning Town House, opened in 2020, symbolising Kingston’s blend of creativity and community spirit. Today, Kingston stands as one of the UK’s leading modern universities, celebrating over 120 years of academic progress and maintaining a proud tradition of innovation, inclusivity, and employability.
Ranking
In global and national rankings, Kingston University consistently performs as a strong modern institution recognised for its teaching quality, student satisfaction, and graduate outcomes. It ranks within the top 650 universities worldwide and maintains a steady position in the Guardian University Guide’s top 50 UK universities — a reflection of its commitment to student experience and employability.
While Kingston may not appear in the very top global tiers dominated by older research universities, it stands out for innovation-driven learning, creative arts excellence, and industry partnerships. Its strength lies in producing career-ready graduates, with high employability rates across design, engineering, business, and healthcare sectors.
These rankings highlight Kingston’s reputation as a modern, forward-thinking university that balances academic standards with real-world relevance. For international students seeking a London-based education with strong practical focus and supportive learning, Kingston offers an ideal balance between quality teaching, affordability, and career development opportunities.
