SOAS University of London

Introduction

Located in the heart of Bloomsbury, central London, SOAS University of London (School of Oriental and African Studies) is a world-leading institution specializing in the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Established in 1916, SOAS has built a global reputation for academic excellence, critical scholarship, and cultural understanding — making it one of the UK’s most distinctive and internationally engaged universities.

With a student body representing over 135 nationalities, SOAS offers an unparalleled multicultural experience that fosters global awareness and cross-cultural collaboration. Known for its focus on international development, languages, law, and global politics, SOAS equips students to tackle complex global challenges through interdisciplinary learning and research.

For international students, studying at SOAS means gaining a world-class education in one of the world’s most diverse cities, surrounded by major cultural, legal, and financial institutions.

To learn more about studying at SOAS University of London, book a free consultation with LCI Group today!

Key Statistics

• International Students: Over 5,000
• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
• Acceptance Rate: Approximately 63%

Accreditation and Affiliations

• Accredited by the UK Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA).
• Member institution of the University of London.
• Academic partnerships and collaborations with leading global universities and organizations including:
• UNESCO, World Bank, British Council, and United Nations agencies.
• Courses accredited and recognized by several professional bodies such as:
• Chartered Institute of Linguists (CIOL)
• Bar Standards Board (BSB) for Law programs
• Association of MBAs (AMBA) for management degrees
• Recognized for cutting-edge research in politics, development, languages, culture, and law — contributing to international policy and social change.

Campuses and Academic Highlights

• SOAS operates from its central Russell Square campus in London’s academic district, just a short walk from the British Museum and University College London.
• Main Campus (Russell Square): Houses teaching and administrative facilities, the world-renowned SOAS Library, and specialized language and research centers.
• Research Centers: Include the Centre for African Studies, Centre for Gender Studies, and the London Asia Pacific Centre for Social Science.
• The campus environment reflects SOAS’s cosmopolitan character — with lively student life, debates, cultural events, and a commitment to social justice and sustainability. Its strong ties to embassies, NGOs, think tanks, and international organizations offer students direct exposure to global networks.

Academic Information

Programs Offered

• SOAS offers more than 350 undergraduate and postgraduate programs across diverse areas:
• Politics, International Relations, and Development Studies
• Law and Human Rights
• Economics and Finance
• Languages, Cultures, and Linguistics
• Anthropology and Sociology
• History, Religion, and Philosophy
• Arts, Media, and Music

Notable Strengths

• Top 50 globally for Politics, Development, and Anthropology (QS Subject Rankings 2025).
• Leading UK institution for Middle Eastern, African, and Asian Studies.
• Home to one of Europe’s largest language portfolios, offering over 40 global languages.
• Over 80% of SOAS research is rated world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021).
• Alumni include heads of state, diplomats, ambassadors, and international NGO leaders.

Tuition Fees (Approximate Annual Cost)

• Undergraduate: £21,000–£24,000 per year
• Postgraduate: £23,000–£26,000 per year

Admission Requirements

Undergraduate Admission

• Completion of high school equivalent to UK A-Levels (CBSE, ISC, or State Board accepted).
• Minimum 75–80% overall average, depending on the program.
• English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0) / TOEFL iBT 88 / PTE 62.

Postgraduate Admission

• Recognized bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 55–60% (second-class division).
• Work experience beneficial for programs in Development, Law, or International Management.
• English Proficiency: IELTS 7.0 (no band below 6.5) / TOEFL iBT 95 / PTE 68.

Rankings and Recognition

• QS World University Rankings 2026: 511–520
• THE World University Rankings 2026: 401–500

Campus Facilities

• SOAS Library: One of the world’s foremost libraries for Asian, African, and Middle Eastern studies.
• Modern lecture theatres and digital learning spaces.
• Language labs, media suites, and archives.
• Student Union (SU): Over 200 clubs, societies, and activism groups.
• Cafés, global cuisine outlets, and relaxation spaces in Russell Square.
• Access to University of London facilities — including sports centres, health services, and student housing across London.

Student Support Services

International Student Support

• Pre-departure and visa support from the International Student Advice team.
• Orientation and induction week tailored for global students.
• Academic writing, English enhancement, and study skills workshops.
• 24/7 wellbeing, mental health, and personal counselling support.

Career and Employability Support

• Dedicated SOAS Careers Service offering one-on-one coaching, internships, and volunteering opportunities.
• Connections with NGOs, the UN, global think tanks, and London law firms.
• Career-focused events with international employers and alumni professionals.
• Eligible graduates can apply for the UK Graduate Route Visa (2 years) post-study work.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

SOAS offers a wide range of scholarships and bursaries for international students:

• SOAS Global Impact Scholarship: Up to £5,000 based on academic merit.
• International Postgraduate Scholarship: £3,000–£5,000 for high-achieving applicants.
• SOAS Research Studentships for doctoral candidates.
• Subject-specific awards in Development Studies, Law, and Languages.
• Eligible for Chevening, Commonwealth, and Inlaks Scholarships.

Study at SOAS University of London

SOAS University of London offers a transformative academic experience that challenges conventional thinking and encourages critical engagement with global issues. Its distinctive focus on non-Western perspectives, social justice, and intercultural understanding sets it apart from other UK universities.

Studying at SOAS means joining a tight-knit intellectual community in central London — a hub of political, cultural, and economic activity. From renowned professors to vibrant student societies, every part of SOAS life promotes global citizenship and leadership.

Whether your ambitions lie in diplomacy, law, academia, or humanitarian work, SOAS provides the academic excellence, research expertise, and global perspective to make it possible.

Start your journey to SOAS today with LCI Group. Book a free consultation to explore your options and apply for upcoming intakes.