Double win for London as city tops global university rankings and overseas student rules are reversed

Last night, the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings revealed that four universities in London are listed in the top 40 – more than any other city in the world. 

The news comes as the government introduces a two-year post-study work visa for international students, allowing overseas graduates a significantly longer period of time to find work after their studies.  

Study London, the Mayor’s official university guide has hailed London’s performance in the rankings and the announcement of the new visa rules as a ‘tremendous boost’ for London’s higher education sector.  

Lalage Clay, Director, Education and Talent at London & Partners, the Mayor of London’s official promotional agency and home of Study London said: “On behalf of the world-leading institutions of our city, we are delighted to be performing so highly once again at such a pivotal moment for higher education in the UK. 

“This announcement from government is a tremendous boost for the UK capital, which will further enrich London’s post-study offer for international students and provide exciting opportunities for employers here. Our institutions are committed to attracting and nurturing bright young minds from all over the world, who will go on to become global ambassadors for our city.”  

The UK capital has five universities in the global top 200, cementing London’s reputation as one of the best cities in the world for higher education. These are: 

• Imperial College London (10) 
• University College London (15) 
• London School of Economics and Political Science (27) 
• King’s College London (36) 
• Queen Mary University of London (110) 

Phil Baty, Times Higher Education Chief Knowledge Officer, said: “This new data analysis, based on a study of literally millions of data points, demonstrates powerfully that London is a world leading centre for outstanding teaching and research. It has an extraordinary concentration of world-class research universities, creating an ecosystem that draws in diverse talent from all over the world that is greater than the sum of its parts.” 

In July of this year, London was named as the world’s best city for students, according to the QS Best Student Cities Ranking, by global education consultancy QS Quacquarelli Symonds. London beat international cities Tokyo (2nd) and Melbourne (3rd) to first place for the second consecutive year.  

For further information on studying in London visit www.studylondon.ac.uk or www.studylondon.cn