The London School of Economics (LSE), a prestigious public research university in London, provides international students with opportunities to study and work in the UK. The school is one of the best among them, especially for students wishing to study social sciences and research-based programs. Because of its academic rigor, job opportunities, and international renown, LSE ought to be at the top of your selection if you intend to study in the UK.
It is well-known for its academic brilliance and international standing as a member of the Federal University of London. With an extremely competitive admittance rate of only 9%, LSE draws top talent from all over the world and provides outstanding undergraduate and graduate programs. In this guide, we shall discuss the LSE acceptance rate and the benefits it offers international students looking to study in the UK.
What is An Acceptance Rate?
Acceptance rate is the percentage or proportion of candidates accepted into a specific university, institution, or school. You can calculate it by multiplying by 100 and dividing the number of accepted students by the total number of applications.
For example:
If a university receives 15,000 applications and accepts 2000 students, the acceptance rate is (2000/15,000)×100=13.33%.
Important Details on Acceptance Rates:
- A more selective university is frequently indicated by a lower admission rate.
- Prices vary according to the reputation of the institution, the demand for the program, and the number of seats available.
- The acceptance percentage is only one indicator and does not represent the applicant’s prospects of success or the overall caliber of schooling.
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8 Reasons Why You Should Study at the London School of Economics (LSE)
#1. It offers quality education
At LSE, you get the opportunity to learn from some of the top scholars in their field thanks to the excellent education. Although it is challenging, the school will help you realize your potential.
Furthermore, LSE offers you the chance to acquire skills and abilities that position you for success in the future. Among the abilities, you will be able to improve your research skills, critical thinking, and public speaking.
#2. LSE offers quality research
Every five to seven years, the Higher Education Funding Councils conduct an evaluation of research excellence at institutions throughout the United Kingdom called the Research Excellence Framework. LSE’s standing as a world-leading research university was reaffirmed by the results of the 2021 REF, which showed the school at the top or very near the top of several rankings of research excellence.
#3. Special degree programs
A lot of LSE courses provide you the option to select modules outside of the course material. As a result, you will be able to customize your degree to fit your unique interests and acquire the knowledge and abilities that you value most.
#4. Increase your intellectual curiosity
LSE frequently hosts public speaker events featuring motivational speakers, allowing you to increase your intellectual curiosity about topics you may not have previously thought about.
#5. LSE offers connections that last a lifetime
In addition to making lifetime friends, LSE’s close-knit community will give you a chance to work together and gain knowledge from peers worldwide. You can extend your horizons beyond London and the UK by being a part of such a multicultural, international community.
Additionally, LSE provides you with a wealth of networking opportunities that allow you to establish a solid foundation of contacts for your future profession. They will allow you to learn about the variety of career options available to me with my degree.
#6. It is at the heart of London’s heart
Attending LSE will grant you the opportunity to live in the center of London and take advantage of all that it has to offer. With so many events and activities happening in London, from football games to musical concerts, it’s safe to say that it’s difficult to get bored.
#7. Flexible postgraduate applications & admissions
The admissions procedure for postgraduate LSE is made to be flexible and open to a variety of candidates. Candidates can apply at any time of the year instead of waiting for a specific deadline because applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Note that this gives candidates the time they need to thoroughly prepare and submit compelling applications.
#8. A competitive environment
Every year, LSE receives over 40,000 applications for its postgraduate programs. This is a reflection of the institution’s reputation and the demand for its programs around the world.
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London School of Economics (LSE) Acceptance Rate for Undergraduates
The London School of Economics is popular for its demanding coursework and selective admissions. With thousands of candidates vying for a few slots, the undergraduate admittance rate for the 2025 academic year is only 9%, underscoring its selectivity.
London School of Economics (LSE) Acceptance Rate for Postgraduates
The London School of Economics (LSE) is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and competitive admissions process, particularly for postgraduate programs. The school’s selectivity and dedication to excellence are demonstrated by the approximately 25% postgraduate acceptance rate for international students.
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LSE Acceptance Rate for Undergraduate Programs
Here is the LSE Acceptance Rate for Undergraduate Programs according to Admission Report
| Most Competitive Programs | Acceptance Rate |
| BSc International Social and Public Policy and Economics | 4.1% |
| BSc Government and History | 5.6% |
| BSc Government and Economics | 6.2% |
| BSc Politics and International Relations | 7.9% |
| BA Anthropology and Law | 8.9% |
| BSc Environment and Sustainable Development with Economics | 9.9% |
| BSc Economics | 10% |
| BSc Economics and Economic History | 11% |
| BSc Finance | 12% |
| BSc Data Science | 12% |
| Least Competitive Programs | Acceptance Rate |
| BSc Social Anthropology | 54% |
| BA Social Anthropology | 46% |
| BSc Social Policy and Criminology | 45% |
| BSc Social Policy | 43% |
| BA History | 41% |
| BSc Language, Culture and Society | 38% |
| BSc Politics and Data Science | 34% |
| BSc International Relations and History | 33% |
| BSc Actuarial Science | 32% |
| BSc International Relations and Chinese | 31% |
LSE Acceptance Rate for Postgraduate Taught Programs
| Most Competitive Programs | Acceptance Rate |
| MSc Economics and Management | 4.9% |
| MSc Economic Policy for International Development | 8.1% |
| MSc Finance and Private Equity | 8.3% |
| MSc Management and Regulation of Risk | 9.9% |
| MSc Management and Economics | 10% |
| MSc Inequalities and Social Science | 12% |
| MSc Real Estate Economics and Finance | 14% |
| MSc Media and Communications | 14% |
| MSc Finance and Economics | 15% |
| MSc Management and Strategy | 15% |
| Least Competitive Programs | Acceptance Rate |
| Executive MSc Cities | 95% |
| Executive MSc Health Economics, Outcomes and Management | 87% |
| MSc Health Policy, Planning and Financing | 85% |
| Executive Global MSc Management | 83% |
| Executive MSc Social Business and Entrepreneurship | 81% |
| Executive MPA Master of Public Administration | 80% |
| MBA (Global Executive Programme) | 76% |
| Executive MSc Health Economics, Policy and Management | 74% |
| MSc Social Anthropology | 67% |
| MSc International Migration and Public Policy | 67% |
LSE Eligibility Criteria and Entry Requirements
Eligibility Criteria for Undergraduate Programmes
| Criteria | Requirements |
| Academic Qualifications | – Completion of Higher Secondary School Certificate. – Minimum 90-95% overall GPA or 80-85% per subject (varies by programme). |
| English Language Proficiency | – IELTS: Minimum 7.0 – TOEFL iBT: Minimum 100 – PTE Academic: Minimum 70 |
| Application Components | – Applications must be submitted via UCAS. – Required documents: academic transcripts, personal statement, and two academic references. |
| Additional Requirements | – Some programmes have specific subject prerequisites (e.g., Mathematics for BSc Mathematics and Economics). |
Eligibility Criteria for Postgraduate Programmes
| Criteria | Requirements |
| Academic Qualifications | – A bachelor’s degree equivalent to a UK degree with a minimum GPA of 3.3-3.5. – Equivalent percentage: 88-90%. |
| English Language Proficiency | – IELTS: Minimum 7.0 (with no band below 6.5). – TOEFL iBT: Minimum 100. – PTE Academic and Cambridge English qualifications are also accepted. |
| Application Components | – Applications must be submitted via the LSE Online Application System. – Required documents: academic transcripts, statement of purpose (1,000-1,500 words), and two references. – CV or resume. |
| Standardized Tests | – GMAT/GRE required for certain programmes, especially for applicants without a strong quantitative background. |
| Work Experience | – Relevant professional experience is recommended for MBA and management programmes. |
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)—London School of Economics (LSE)
What is the acceptance rate for LSE?
LSE is highly competitive, with an overall acceptance rate of approximately 9% for undergraduate programmes and 25-30% for postgraduate programmes. However, acceptance rates vary by course.
Is the London School of Economics hard to get into?
Yes, LSE is one of the most selective universities in the world. Applicants need exceptional academic records, strong personal statements, and relevant extracurricular achievements to stand out.
What GPA is needed for LSE?
- Undergraduate: Typically requires a minimum 90-95% overall GPA or 80-85% per subject, depending on the programme.
- Postgraduate: Requires a minimum GPA of 3.3-3.5 (on a 4.0 scale) or 88-90% equivalent.
Can an average student get into the London School of Economics?
While LSE is competitive, strong academic performance combined with an outstanding personal statement, extracurricular activities, and relevant experience can improve an applicant’s chances.
What is the acceptance rate for LSE Master’s programmes?
The acceptance rate for LSE postgraduate (Master’s) programmes is around 25-30%, though some courses, such as MSc Economics and Management and MSc Finance and Private Equity, have much lower acceptance rates (below 10%).
What are the entry requirements for LSE?
- Undergraduate: High grades in A-Levels, IB, or equivalent qualifications, along with strong English proficiency.
- Postgraduate: A strong bachelor’s degree (minimum 3.3-3.5 GPA), relevant experience for certain programmes, and in some cases, GMAT/GRE scores.
What is the acceptance rate for LSE’s Summer Program?
The LSE Summer School is less competitive than degree programmes, but admission is still selective. Applicants must demonstrate strong academic ability and English proficiency.
What is the ranking of the London School of Economics?
LSE consistently ranks among the top 10 universities worldwide for social sciences and economics. It is ranked #45 in the QS World University Rankings 2024 and #1 in Europe for social sciences.
How much are the tuition fees at LSE?
- Undergraduate (2024/25): £26,592 per year for international students.
- Postgraduate (2024/25): Fees vary by programme but typically range from £25,000 to £40,000 per year.
- Living costs: Estimated at £1,400-£1,800 per month in London.
What is the acceptance rate for LSE’s Economics programme?
LSE’s BSc Economics is one of the most competitive courses, with an acceptance rate of approximately 10%.
What is the acceptance rate for LSE’s Accounting and Finance programme?
The BSc Accounting and Finance programme has an estimated acceptance rate of 8-10%, making it highly selective.
What is the acceptance rate for international undergraduate students at LSE?
LSE has a diverse student body, with around 60-70% of students being international. The acceptance rate for international undergraduates is similar to the overall rate (around 9%), though it varies by programme.
What percentage of LSE students are international?
Approximately 70% of LSE students are from outside the UK, making it one of the most international universities in the world.
Is an LSE degree worth it?
Yes. An LSE degree is highly prestigious and opens doors to top careers in finance, law, government, and academia. Graduates have high employability and competitive starting salaries, making the investment worthwhile.
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