Founded in 1907, Imperial College of London stands as a beacon of academic excellence in the heart of one of the world's most vibrant cities, London, England. Specialising in the fields of science, technology, and business, Imperial College of London has garnered a stellar reputation for pioneering research and innovation.
To get into Imperial College of London from India, you generally need a CGPA of 8+ (UG), IELTS 6.5-7, TOEFL 92-100, GMAT 650+ for Business, and GRE 320+ for STEM courses.
The acceptance rate of Imperial College of London is around 15% overall.
The tuition fee for UG and PG programs ranges from GBP 18,500/INR 21.8 L to GBP 55,800/INR 65.8 L.
What Does Imperial College of London Look for in Students?
Imperial College of London looks for students who have strong academics, a real interest in their subject, and the right qualities to succeed in a demanding environment. It is not only about high marks but also about your passion and fit for the course.
Academic Excellence
Good grades are the first step. Most students apply with subjects like Maths, Chemistry, Biology, or Physics. But high marks alone are not enough. Some students with perfect grades are still rejected if they cannot show a real interest in their subject.
Passion for the Subject
Having true passion is very important. One student shared that their research project on shape-shifting alloys became a key point in their interview for material science. Imperial wants to see if your mind is really focused on the subject you want to study.
Personal Qualities
Imperial values honesty and motivation. Do not apply just because someone told you to. Show that you really enjoy your subject. In your personal statement, even small examples or projects can prove your interest.
Extracurriculars and Experience
Activities outside the classroom can make you stand out. For example, one student applying for biochemistry wrote about her internship at a research hospital and her participation in a science contest. This showed her dedication to the subject.
Imperial College London Acceptance Rate 2025
The acceptance rate of Imperial College of London is 15%.
The table below shows the exact number of students enrolled and accepted, as well as the composition of students:
|
Metric |
Value |
|---|---|
|
Undergraduate Applications (2024/25) |
32,990 |
|
Undergraduate Acceptances (2024/25) |
3,255 |
|
Offer Rate (UG, 2024/25) |
32.8% |
|
Total Students (2024/25) |
22,420 (UG: 12,150; PG: 10,265) |
|
Student Composition |
UK - 50%, EU - 16%, Non-EU - 34% |
|
Gender Ratio |
Female - 39%, Male - 61% |
How to Get into Imperial College of London from India?
Getting into Imperial College of London requires an amazing academic record, fulfilling course prerequisites, and many other requirements. Below are some ways to get into ICL:
Academic Excellence & Prerequisites
Imperial is highly competitive, so aim for top marks in your current studies. Make sure you have completed the required courses for your chosen degree, such as mathematics and sciences for STEM programs, and meet international qualification requirements like A-Levels, AP tests, or Indian board equivalents.
Entrance Exams
Certain courses require admissions tests like the UCAT (Medicine), ESAT (Engineering/Science), or STEP (Mathematics). Preparing well for these exams is crucial as they play a key role in the shortlisting and admissions process.
Application Components
Write a strong personal statement highlighting your academic achievements, passion for your field, and future goals. Obtain letters of recommendation from teachers or professors who can attest to your abilities, and demonstrate English language proficiency via IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo.
Extracurriculars & Work Experience
Participate in relevant societies, clubs, or leadership roles to show enthusiasm and aptitude. Gain work experience or internships in your field to develop skills and demonstrate commitment to your chosen area of study.
ICL Admission Requirements for 2026-27
Admission requirements for undergraduates are examined mainly on the basis of school qualifications and entrance tests, while postgraduates focus more on prior degrees and research/work experience.
|
Category |
UG Requirements |
PG Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
Academic Qualification |
Equivalent to UK A-Levels (Indian boards, IB, AP); strong grades in Maths & Sciences |
|
|
Course Prerequisites |
Subject-specific requirements; some courses require admissions tests (ESAT, TMUA, UCAT, GAMSAT) |
Program-specific prerequisites; some programs require work experience or academic references |
|
IELTS 6.5 - 7.0, TOEFL iBT 92 - 100, Duolingo 115 - 125, PTE 62 - 69 |
Same as UG; Pre-sessional English available if requirement not met; exemptions for prior study in English-speaking countries; doctoral students must meet DACR |
|
|
Application Process |
Apply via UCAS with predicted grades; final results after offer |
Apply via the Imperial portal with expected/final grades; additional assessments/tests may be required |
|
Admissions / Standardised Tests |
ESAT, TMUA, UCAT, GAMSAT, depending on the course |
GMAT/GRE scores for MBA and some programs; ATAS certificate for sensitive research areas; other tests as required |
|
Documents Required |
UCAS form, personal statement, transcripts (Class 10 & 12), 2 academic references, English test scores, a valid passport, and financial proof if required |
Imperial application form, transcripts, bachelor’s degree certificate, SOP, 2 academic/professional references, English test scores, valid passport, financial proof, GMAT/GRE/ATAS if required |
|
Visa / Other Notes |
|
Same; doctoral students need DACR; financial proof required for tuition and living costs |
Interview Tips to Get into ICL from India
Interviews are a crucial step because they help admissions tutors assess your potential beyond grades and test scores. Below, we have discussed in detail how you can excel in your Imperial interview.
- Revisit Your Personal Statement: Admissions tutors often ask follow-up questions based on what you’ve written. Review your statement thoroughly so you can discuss your experiences and motivations with confidence.
- Practise Mock Interviews: Make use of mock interview sessions if your school or university offers them. They help you refine your body language, eye contact, and ability to answer questions clearly.
- Be Aware of the Interview Format: Imperial uses different formats: some departments conduct panel interviews, while others hold recruitment days with group tasks or tests. The Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) format is used for medicine, so check your course’s process in advance.
- Prepare Questions to Ask: The interview is not only for Imperial to evaluate you, but also for you to decide if the course fits your goals. Having thoughtful questions ready shows genuine interest and helps you make an informed choice.
- Stay Relaxed and Comfortable: There is no formal dress code. Wear what makes you feel at ease. Arrive early (or log in on time for virtual interviews) so you’re calm and focused during the session.
Imperial College of London Application Deadlines 2026-27
The application deadline for UG and PG varies, and it goes as per the UCAS timeline. Below, we have divided it into two sections for your understanding:
Undergraduate Application Deadlines
Below are the key undergraduate application deadlines for Imperial College of London (2026 entry):
|
Date |
Event |
|---|---|
|
29 April 2025 |
UCAS’ search tool opens |
|
13 May 2025 |
|
|
2 September 2025 |
Applications can be submitted |
|
14 January 2026 |
Equal consideration deadline (except MBBS Medicine & Graduate Entry Medicine) |
|
March 2026 |
Application decisions released |
|
August 2026 (TBC) |
A-level results released |
Postgraduate Application Deadlines
Below are the important postgraduate application deadlines for Imperial College of London (2025-26):
|
Deadline |
Details |
|---|---|
|
January 2026 onwards |
Many popular postgraduate courses begin closing early |
|
30 June 2026 |
Suggested deadline for students requiring a visa (for courses starting in autumn 2026) |
|
1 August 2026 |
Recommended deadline for students who do not require a visa |
|
Varies by department |
Some faculties (Business School, Engineering, Medicine, Natural Sciences) follow fixed application rounds. Dates are listed on course pages |
Cost of Studying at Imperial College of London
For international students, undergraduate engineering courses cost around GBP 43,300 (INR 50.96 L) per year, postgraduate taught Computing programmes are about GBP 47,400 (INR 55.78 L), and MRes research in Bioengineering is GBP 42,900 (INR 50.49 L) per year.
Below is a breakdown of fees in GBP and INR for different programmes:
Undergraduate Program at ICL
The average tuition fee is GBP 43,300 (INR 50.96 L) for undergraduate courses. Check the table below for the costs of different UG programmes at Imperial College of London:
|
Course or Department |
Fee per Year (GBP) |
Fee per Year (INR) |
Duration (Years) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Aeronautics |
GBP 43,300 |
INR 50.96 L |
3 |
|
Bioengineering |
GBP 43,300 |
INR 50.96 L |
3 |
|
Chemical Engineering |
GBP 43,300 |
INR 50.96 L |
3 |
|
Civil & Environmental Engineering |
GBP 43,300 |
INR 50.96 L |
3 |
|
Computing |
GBP 43,300 |
INR 50.96 L |
3 |
|
Earth Science & Engineering |
GBP 43,300 |
INR 50.96 L |
3 |
|
Electrical Engineering |
GBP 43,300 |
INR 50.96 L |
3 |
|
Materials |
GBP 43,300 |
INR 50.96 L |
3 |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
GBP 43,300 |
INR 50.96 L |
3 |
|
Dyson School of Design Engineering |
GBP 43,300 |
INR 50.96 L |
3 |
|
Medical (MBBS / Clinical) |
GBP 55,800 |
INR 65.8 L |
6 |
|
Medical Biosciences |
GBP 43,300 |
INR 50.96 L |
3 |
|
Chemistry |
GBP 43,300 |
INR 50.96 L |
3 |
|
Life Sciences |
GBP 43,300 |
INR 50.96 L |
3 |
|
Mathematics |
GBP 40,700 |
INR 51.43 L |
3 |
|
Physics |
GBP 43,300 |
INR 50.96 L |
3 |
|
Imperial Business School UG |
GBP 40,700 |
INR 51.43 L |
3 |
Postgraduate Programs at ICL
The lowest fee for PG taught programmes is GBP 18,500 (INR 21.8 L) at Imperial Business School. Check the table below for details on fees for different full-time programmes:
|
Course or Department |
Fee per Year (GBP) |
Fee per Year (INR) |
Duration (Years) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Department of Computing - FT |
47,400 |
₹55.8 L |
1 |
|
Department of Bioengineering - FT |
42,900 |
₹50.5 L |
1 |
|
Dyson School of Design Engineering - FT |
42,900 |
₹50.5 L |
1 |
|
Department of Materials - FT |
42,900 |
₹50.5 L |
1 |
|
Institute for Molecular Science and Engineering - FT |
42,500 |
₹50.0 L |
1 |
|
Department of Chemistry - FT |
41,300 |
₹48.6 L |
1 |
|
Department of Life Sciences - FT (MRes Molecular and Cellular Biosciences) |
38,600 |
₹45.4 L |
1 |
|
Department of Life Sciences - FT (MRes Biosystematics) |
31,800 |
₹37.4 L |
1 |
|
Department of Physics - FT (MRes Photonics) |
37,000 |
₹43.5 L |
1 |
|
Faculty of Medicine - FT (MRes Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine & Intensive Care) |
45,000 |
₹52.9 L |
1 |
|
Faculty of Medicine - FT (MRes Cancer Biology) |
45,000 |
₹52.9 L |
1 |
|
Faculty of Medicine - FT (MRes Data Science) |
45,000 |
₹52.9 L |
1 |
|
Faculty of Medicine - FT (MRes Molecular Basis of Human Disease) |
45,000 |
₹52.9 L |
1 |
|
Faculty of Medicine - FT (MRes Microbiome in Health and Disease) |
45,000 |
₹52.9 L |
1 |
|
Imperial Business School - FT |
18,500 |
₹21.8 L |
1 |
Scholarships to Study at the Imperial College of London
Imperial College of London offers a range of scholarships, like President’s or Commonwealth, with benefits such as full tuition coverage, generous stipends, travel allowances, and others.
Below is a table highlighting 10 prominent scholarships in the UK, detailing their eligibility criteria and the awards or benefits they offer:
|
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Awards/Benefits |
|---|---|---|
|
President’s PhD Scholarship |
High-performing students with a strong desire to undertake a PhD programme at Imperial College of London. |
|
|
COLFUTURO & Imperial College of London Joint Graduate Loan-Scholarship |
Overseas students applying for postgraduate taught or Master's research programmes. |
|
|
Commonwealth Shared Scholarship |
Students from developing Commonwealth countries applying for postgraduate doctoral programmes. |
|
|
Commonwealth Split-Site Scholarships |
Students from developing Commonwealth countries applying for postgraduate doctoral programmes. |
|
|
Dean’s Impact Scholarship |
Home and overseas students applying for postgraduate taught or Master's research programmes. |
|
ICL Admission Challenges for Indian Applicants
Indian students applying to Imperial often face challenges like cultural differences or the visa process. These challenges can be managed smoothly with the right preparation:
Cultural Differences
Moving from India to the UK can feel overwhelming at first. Teaching styles at Imperial are research-driven and discussion-based, which may be different from what students are used to.
Tip: Take part in online pre-departure sessions. Connect with Indian student societies at Imperial, and prepare to adapt to group discussions and independent study.
Visa Process
Applying for a UK student visa can be stressful and time-consuming. Delays, document errors, or financial proof issues are common concerns.
Tip: Start the visa process early, double-check all documents, and keep updated with the UKVI website for the latest requirements.
Documentation Issues
Students often find the documentation process confusing. Missing even one document can delay your application, be it transcripts to references, or English test scores.
Tip: Create a checklist of required documents before you start your application. Keep both soft copies and attested hard copies ready.
Financial Planning
The cost of studying in the UK can be high for Indian families, and currency exchange adds extra pressure.
Tip: Research scholarships, apply for financial aid if eligible, and plan a clear budget for tuition and living expenses.
Admission Tips to Get into Imperial College London
Here are some expert tips to enhance your chances of gaining admission to Imperial College of London:
- Showcase Academic Excellence: Imperial values academic excellence. Aim for top grades in your undergraduate or previous studies. Highlight any relevant coursework, research projects, or academic achievements.
- Craft a Stellar Personal Statement: Your statement is a crucial part of your application. Use it to showcase your passion for your chosen field, relevant experiences, and career aspirations. Tailor it to Imperial's values and the specific program you're applying to.
- Strong Letters of Recommendation: Secure letters of recommendation from professors, supervisors, or professionals who know you well and can speak to your skills and potential. Ensure they highlight your academic abilities, work ethic, and suitability for the program.
- Research Your Program: Demonstrate a deep understanding of the program you're applying for. Show how it aligns with your academic and career goals. Mention specific courses, professors, or research areas that interest you.
- Gain Relevant Experience: Imperial values practical experience. Participate in internships, research projects, or relevant work in your field. This hands-on experience can strengthen your application and demonstrate your commitment to the field.
From the Desk of Yocket
Applying to Imperial College of London can be stressful, especially managing documents, tests, and deadlines. Start early and focus on showing your strengths in academics and extracurriculars. Also, connect with current students or alumni to get real insights and tips on the application process.
Yocket Premium can make this easier with personalized guidance, sample SOPs, and deadline tracking. It also helps find scholarships and visa info, giving you a smoother, more confident application experience.




