What is the University of London?

At UCL (University College London) we are often asked about our relationship to the University of London. Here’s a short explainer to help you understand the differences between the two. 

What is the University of London? 

The University of London is a federation of 17 higher education institutions. Each institution is independent and operates autonomously, with its own set of admissions criteria and degree-awarding powers. Students apply directly to the individual university (eg, UCL), not the University of London. Constituent institutions are listed individually in rankings and league tables, distinct from the University of London. The federation is made up of:  

1. Birkbeck, University of London 

2. City, University of London  

3. Courtauld Institute of Art 

4. Goldsmiths, University of London 

5. King’s College London 

6. London Business School 

7. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) 

8. London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine  

9. Queen Mary University of London  

10. Royal Academy of Music  

11. Royal Holloway, University of London  

12. SOAS University of London  

13. St George’s, University of London  

14. The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR), London 

15. Royal Central School of Speech and Drama  

16. Royal Veterinary College (RVC) 

17. University College London (UCL) 

The University of London also offers digital and distance education options, from short courses to research degrees.  

What’s the difference between UCL and the University of London? 

UCL is a member of the University of London system, just like King’s College London, LSE and the other member institutions listed above. Although part of the University of London federation, UCL is a distinct entity that administers its own degree programmes and research, and awards its own degrees. Students who wish to study a UCL degree apply directly to UCL, not the University of London.  

What are the benefits of studying at a university that is part of the University of London?  

Students at a University of London institution enjoy a range of benefits in addition to those provided by their home institution. This includes additional academic resources, careers support, accommodation options, social connections and networking opportunities.  

• Additional study spaces and academic resources: Students have access to Senate House, one of the UK’s largest and best academic libraries for arts, humanities and social sciences. As well as extensive library collections, Senate House provides additional space for students to study and socialise in historic and iconic surroundings – they might recognise the building from the Batman film franchise, among other Hollywood movies. Students can also register to use all libraries across the University of London federation. 

• Accommodation and housing support: Intercollegiate halls bring together students from across the University of London institutions, offering catered and self-catered options. The University of London Housing Service supports students looking for private accommodation in the city, provides free housing advice, offers a contract checking service and runs an annual housing fair.  

• Intercollegiate study: Students at any University of London institution can apply to study an academic module at another member institution – this is known as intercollegiate study. While some restrictions apply, this can be a great way for students to experience academic teaching beyond their home institution.  

• Career benefits: The Careers Group is the largest higher education careers and employability service in Europe, providing services to students and recent graduates at each of the constituent colleges. Students have access to additional events, job listings and resources, and benefit from career guidance informed by up-to-date research into employability issues and policy developments.   

• Enhanced social network: Being part of the University of London expands a student’s community, allowing them to build networks and friendships with people studying at universities across the city. There are clubs and societies open to students across all University of London institutions, including a chamber choir, rowing club and St John Ambulance First Aid Society. The University of London also runs a variety of social events, exhibitions and talks that bring together students from across the member institutions.  

The University of London enables its members to become part of something bigger – a collective community of more than 195,000 students studying at universities across the city. Studying at a University of London institution enables students to collaborate, socialise and make new connections in one of the the best student cities in the world.