Trying to decide between University College London (UCL) and King’s College London (KCL)?
These two universities, both nestled in the heart of London, boast rich histories, renowned faculties and top-notch research facilities.
But when it comes down to the nitty-gritty of degree courses, entrance requirements, rankings and campus culture, which comes out on top? And for that matter, which university is the best fit for you?
In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll shed light on UCL and KCL’s strengths, specialties and what makes each university unique. So whether you’re pondering a degree in maths, sciences, humanities, or anything in between, join us as we navigate the UCL vs KCL debate – and make informed decisions for your academic journey.
Table of Contents
UCL vs KCL: A University Comparison
Is UCL or KCL better?
The question of whether UCL or KCL is “better” depends on your individual preferences and academic goals. These universities both enjoy central London locations, a reputation for research excellence and dynamic teaching across a variety of disciplines and subjects. But in terms of league tables alone, UCL outshines KCL.
Here’s how they compare.
- UCL: 9th
- KCL: 24th
- UCL: 8th
- KCL: 23rd
The Times Higher Education Guide
- UCL: 4th
- KCL: 6th
- UCL: 9th
- KCL: 40th
UCL’s strengths lie in its robust research infrastructure and diverse range of programs spanning various disciplines. Indeed, the university currently offers over 430 undergraduate courses. What’s more, UCL’s central London location offers unparalleled access to cultural institutions, industry partners and career opportunities.
On the other hand, KCL distinguishes itself with its interdisciplinary approach to education and strong emphasis on healthcare, humanities and social sciences. In fact, KCL boasts the largest medical centre in Europe. The university’s close-knit community fosters collaboration and intellectual exploration, creating a supportive environment for students to thrive academically and personally.
Is UCL or King’s harder to get into?
Both UCL and KCL have rigorous admission standards reflecting their esteemed reputations and high demand for places.
UCL typically receives more applications due to its global standing and extensive course offerings, resulting in a slightly more competitive admissions process.
As ranked by the Complete University Guide, KCL is 19th in the country for entry standards (i.e. the grades accepted students achieve). UCL is 9th. This means that overall, UCL students have higher grades.
As reported in the latest UCAS admissions data, UCL has an offer rate of 29.5%. They also have an applications/accepted ratio of 10.08 (meaning that for every 10 applications, they’ll accept one student). KCL has a higher offer rate of 39.3% and an applications/accepted ratio of 9.6.
So for entry standards, offer rates and acceptance ratios, UCL is harder to get into.
While admission to both UCL and KCL is undoubtedly competitive, successful applicants are rewarded with a world-class education and unparalleled opportunities for personal and professional growth.
So, is there much competition between them?
Are KCL and UCL rivals?
While there may be a sense of friendly competition between UCL and KCL, particularly during sporting events or academic debates, both universities maintain a mutual respect for each other’s contributions to higher education.
Collaborations between faculty members, joint research projects and shared resources underscore the spirit of cooperation that exists between these esteemed universities. They’re both members of the University of London (a federation of 17 higher education institutions), underpinning their mutual ties and shared mission to provide world-class education.
For more London university comparisons, don’t miss our guides to Imperial vs LSE, UCL vs Imperial and LSE vs UCL. We’ve also compiled a complete list of London universities, with more information on fees, reputations and rankings.
Focus on: KCL
Is KCL a top 10 uni?
King’s College London occasionally ranks among the top ten universities in the UK.
It currently ranks 6th in the Times Higher Education Guide. KCL ranks 24th and 23rd in the Complete University Guide and Guardian rankings respectively.
KCL’s reputation for excellent teaching, research output and global impact all contribute to its standing as a leading institution of higher learning.
Why is KCL ranked so high?
KCL’s consistently high rankings are down to many factors. Just some reasons are its world-class faculty, cutting-edge research initiatives and strategic partnerships with leading institutions worldwide.
Indeed, in the Complete University Guide, KCL scores particularly highly for research impact (ranked 8th). In the latest Research Excellence Framework results, its Chemistry research ranked 5th in the UK (with 100% “world-leading” impact) while Engineering research ranked 12th (with 75% “world-leading” impact). For KCL’s Physics, Maths and Informatics departments, more than half of their research outputs were classed as world-leading.
Aside from just rankings though, KCL’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse learning environment, coupled with its central London location, attracts top-tier students and scholars from across the globe.
Is KCL prestigious?
Absolutely! King’s College London is regarded as one of the most prestigious universities in the world.
Just like UCL, it boasts an illustrious history dating back nearly two centuries. KCL traces its roots back to 1829 and boasts a strong tradition of academic excellence, particularly in the Humanities, Law, Medicine and Social Sciences. Indeed, it ranks number one in the country for Health Studies, and top five for Business and Management, Social Policy, Law and Anthropology (ranked by the Complete University Guide).
With campus locations ideally positioned in central London and along the River Thames, KCL’s historic campuses provide a picturesque backdrop for scholarly pursuits. What’s more, its renowned faculty members and alumni network (including literary greats like Thomas Hardy and Virginia Woolf, the renowned physicist Peter Higgs and nursing pioneer Florence Nightingale), further solidifies its reputation as a world-class university.
What are the hardest courses to get into at KCL?
Courses such as Medicine, Law and Economics are highly competitive at KCL, with admission rates reflective of the rigorous academic standards and limited availability of places. In fact, King’s receives more applications per place for Medicine than any other university.
If you’re interested in these courses, you’ll need to demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, relevant experience and a genuine passion for your chosen field.
Here are the KCL grade requirements for popular courses:
- Medicine: A*AA
- Law: A*AA
- Economics: A*AA
- Business Management: A*AA
- Sociology, Politics and Religion: AAB
Deciding between degree options? Explore our guides to BA Hons and BSc Hons degrees, and how the two compare.
Focus on: UCL
Is UCL an elite University?
In short, yes! UCL is an elite university.
University College London is considered one of the most elite global universities, renowned for its pioneering research, exceptional faculty and innovative approach to education. It not only ranks in the top ten for all UK league tables, but it also ranks 9th in the QS World University Rankings.
UCL’s status as a member of the prestigious Russell Group further underscores its position as a leading institution of higher learning.
Why is UCL so prestigious?
UCL’s prestige stems from its illustrious history as the first university institution in London (founded in 1826), coupled with its relentless pursuit of academic excellence and innovation. From groundbreaking research in medicine and science to its contributions to the arts and humanities, UCL continues to push the boundaries of knowledge and shape the future of education.
The university’s illustrious alumni include figures such as the inventor and engineer Alexander Graham Bell, surgeon Joseph Lister and DNA-pioneer Francis Crick, as well as current film and TV personalities like Ricky Gervais, Christopher Nolan and David Attenborough.
What’s more, UCL’s reputation as a research powerhouse is evidenced by its numerous Nobel laureates, making it a magnet for scholars and researchers worldwide. Indeed, in the latest Research Excellence Framework, UCL ranked second in the UK for “research power”.
Overall, 93% of UCL’s research is “world-leading” or “internationally excellent” and it ranks top in the UK for research in Medicine, Health and Life Sciences as well as Social Sciences, Law, Philosophy and American Studies. Impressive stuff.
Is UCL as good as Oxbridge?
While Oxford and Cambridge hold a unique place in the academic world, UCL is often regarded as their equal in terms of academic excellence, research output and global impact. Its central London location and diverse student body also contribute to its appeal as a top destination for ambitious students seeking a dynamic, global education.
UCL outranks Cambridge for “research power”, coming just behind Oxford. In terms of specific subjects, it ranks number one in the country (beating both Cambridge and Oxford) for American Studies. It ranks 2nd (usually only behind either Oxford or Cambridge) for Art and Design, Town and Country Planning, Biological Sciences, Medical Technology.
So if you’re studying any of these subjects or looking to pursue postgraduate research, then yes, UCL is just as good (if not better!) than Oxford and Cambridge.
What are the hardest courses to get into at UCL?
Programs such as Medicine, Engineering and Economics are highly competitive at UCL, attracting top-tier students from around the globe. With limited places and rigorous admission requirements, applicants must demonstrate exceptional academic ability, relevant experience and a genuine passion for their subject.
Here are UCL grade requirements for popular courses:
- Medicine: A*AA
- Law: A*AA
- Economics: A*AA
- History and Politics of the Americas: AAB
- Biochemical Engineering: AAA
For more information on entry to UCL, read our in-depth guide to UCL acceptance rates and admissions.
Are you applying to university in London?
If you’re thinking about university, get in touch with our expert team at Academic Coaching. With a proven track record of securing places at the UK’s most prestigious universities (including UCL, KCL, LSE, Imperial and Oxbridge to name just a few), we provide bespoke study skills and exam strategies, help with UCAS applications and personal statements and academic life coaching.
