What is a Russell Group university? Check the List of Russell Group Universities

The Russell Group is an association of 24 leading UK universities known for their research intensity and significant contributions to public research.

Originally established in 1994, the Russell Group universities in UK have a strong historical foundation. What began as an informal meeting of vice-chancellors from 17 prominent universities at the Russell Hotel has grown into the most influential educational collaboration in the country's history. The group was formalised in 2007, expanding to 24 member universities.

Each year, the Russell Group contributes over £87 billion to the UK economy and employs over a million people. These universities teach 25% of the UK’s undergraduate students.

The stellar reputation of the group attracts a large number of foreign applicants each year. Up to 30% of the UG student body and 60% of the PG student body are composed of international students. The group has a very selective admissions process due to the magnitude of applicants.

History of Russell Group Universities

The Russell group began as an informal meeting of the Vice Chancellors of 17 UK universities in the Russell Hotel (hence the name) in 1994. By 2007, it became a registered company that represented the shared interests of its members and lobbied for greater research funding and better policies from the UK government. 

Over time, the Russell Group expanded to 24 universities, thus increasing its inter-member strategic collaborations, innovations, and research opportunities. This has strengthened each member’s growth, reputation, and alumni network significantly. 

As of now, the Russell group receives 75% of all research funding in the UK, producing a large number of PhDs annually. Through its numerous international students and faculty, the Russell Group generates a huge amount of revenue for the UK’s economy.

The Russell Group started in 1994 with 17 research-intensive universities in the UK. Over time, it added more universities and now includes 24 research-intensive universities. The Russell Group receives over GBP 1 billion in research grants each year, giving students the best education and research opportunities.

Here’s a list of all the universities included in the Russell Group in the UK:

• University of Birmingham, England
• University of Bristol, England
• University of Cambridge, England
• Cardiff University, Wales
• Durham University, England
• University of Edinburgh, Scotland
• University of Exeter, England
• University of Glasgow, Scotland
• Imperial College London, England
• King's College London, England
• University of Leeds, England
• University of Liverpool, England
• London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), England
• University of Manchester, England
• Newcastle University, England
• University of Nottingham, England
• University of Oxford, England
• Queen Mary University of London, England
• Queen's University Belfast, Northern Ireland
• University of Sheffield, England
• University of Southampton, England
• UCL, England
• University of Warwick, England
• University of York, England

If you’re planning to study in the UK, understanding the rankings of Russell Group universities is important. These rankings help you compare top research universities and make a better choice.

For example, Imperial College London ranks 2nd in the QS 2025 rankings, while the University of Oxford holds the 3rd spot. Cambridge also ranks highly at 5th. Other universities like UCL, Edinburgh, and Manchester maintain strong positions, reflecting their academic excellence and research output.

Rankings affect financial aid, job placements, visa benefits, and graduate success. Higher-ranked Russell Group institutions attract more resources and industry connections, giving their students an advantage.

Let's look at the QS and THE rankings for the Russell Group of universities

Notable Changes in Russell Group Universities Rankings Between 2024 and 2025

• The Imperial College London rose to 2nd place in the QS rankings, overtaking Oxford and Cambridge.
• The University of Cambridge dropped from 2nd to 5th rank in QS.
• Oxford University retained its 3rd place in QS and remained 1st in THE rankings. The  University of Sheffield entered the top 100 in the THE rankings.
• The University of Edinburgh slightly declined in QS, from 22nd to 27th place. 

The following section provides a comprehensive analysis of the most popular courses and their fees for each Russell group University.

1. Imperial College London

Imperial College London (1907), a flagship public research institution in the UK, is one of the oldest Russell Group Universities. It boasts a diverse student body, with nearly 50% international students. Let’s look at some important information about Imperial College below:

Cost of Studying

The cost of studying at Imperial College, London is around GBP 93,000 (INR 10 lakhs) per year. This is relatively low compared to the average cost of studying in London.

Eligibility Criteria

For UG courses at the Imperial College, London, you need 90–95% in Class XII from CBSE/ICSE or state boards, with high marks in relevant subjects (e.g., Mathematics and Physics for Engineering, Biology and Chemistry for Biomed). 

For graduate courses, you need a First Class degree (usually 75 %+ from a prestigious Indian university), 70% may be accepted from IITs, NITs, or DU, depending on the course.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of the Imperial College include Alexander Fleming,  Abdus Salam, and William Crookes. 

Popular Programs

Popular programs at Imperial include Engineering (Mechanical/Electrical), Computing, and Biomedical Sciences. The cost of studying at Imperial College, London is around GBP 93,000 (INR 10 lakhs) per year.

The most popular courses at Imperial College London and their fees are listed below.

2. University of Oxford (OU)

Established in 1096,  the University of Oxford, a world-renowned centre of learning, teaching, and research, is the oldest in the world. One of the oldest universities in the world, Oxford continues to uphold its legacy of excellence. 

Cost of Studying

The cost of studying at Oxford can be around GBP 35,000 to GBP 60,000 (INR 40 lakhs to 70 lakhs).

Eligibility Criteria 

• For undergraduate programs like PPE or Engineering at the University of Oxford, students should have completed Class XII with 90–95% overall from CBSE, ISC, or state boards. 
• For postgraduate education at Oxford, you pretty much need to be at the top of your class. You need high GMAT/ GRE scores depending on your program (320+/ 720+), and excellent essays.

Notable Alumni 

Oxford University's notable alumni include Stephen Hawking, Indira Gandhi, T.S. Elliot, Malala Yousufzai and the list continues!

Popular Programs 

Popular programs include PPE- Philosophy, Politics and Economics, which is a multidisciplinary program attracting students interested in public policy. Law (Jurisprudence) and Medicine (BM BCh), with a strong research component, are also highly sought after. 

The most popular courses at University of Oxford  and their fees are listed below.

3. University of Cambridge

The world's 4th-oldest university, Cambridge University, was founded in 1209 and is a public research university. Similar to Oxford, it continues to maintain its legacy of excellence and has been a top university in the UK for over a thousand years. Among the Russell Group universities, Cambridge stands out for its rigorous academic standards, influential research contributions, and strong focus on innovation. Its reputation attracts students and scholars worldwide, offering a unique environment for intellectual growth and career development.

Cost of Studying 

The cost of studying at Cambridge University is around GBP 9600 (INR 11 lakhs) per year.

Eligibility Criteria 

• For undergraduate admission, Cambridge requires completion of Class XII with high marks—typically 95% or higher in relevant subjects from CBSE, ISC, or state boards. Specifically in advanced subjects such as Mathematics and Physics for STEM programs. 
• For postgraduate programs, a First Class degree (75 %+) from a recognised Indian university is essential, along with strong references and often GRE scores for technical subjects.

Notable Alumni 

Notable alumni of the University of Cambridge are Stephen Hawking,  George VI, Robert Oppenheimer, and Isaac Newton.

Popular Programs 

Popular programs here are Engineering and the Natural Sciences (broad range and flexibility), and the theoretical and practical aspects of computing in Computer Science.

The most popular courses at University of Cambridge  and their fees are listed below.

4. University College London (UCL)

Known for its resilient stance on equality and other political issues, the University College London (1826) was the first university to allow admissions to women. It is a public institution and offers 197 courses at the UG level for 4 years. 

Cost of Studying 

The cost of studying at the University College, London is GBP 9600 (INR 11 lakhs) per year.

Eligibility Criteria 

• For undergraduate programs, UCL requires you to have completed Class XII from a recognised board, with at least 90–95% overall. Subjects relevant to the chosen program must also have high scores. 
• For postgraduate study, UCL typically expects a First Class degree (minimum 75%) from a recognised Indian university.

Notable Alumni 

Some of the notable alumni at UCL include Rabindranath Tagore, David Attenborough, and Mahatma Gandhi.

Popular Programs 

The most popular programs at this university are BSc Architecture, Economics, and Medicine with clinical training in central London.

The most popular courses at University College London  and their fees are listed below.. 

5. University of Edinburgh (ED)

The University of Edinburgh is one of the best public universities in Scotland, and goes back as old as 1582. It’s a leading research-intensive university, and renowned for its global excellence.

Cost of Studying 

The cost of studying at the University of Edinburgh is GBP 30,000 (INR 40 lakhs).

Eligibility Criteria 

For undergraduate programs at the University of Edinburgh, you need to complete Class XII with at least 85–90%, with relevant subjects (like Math, Physics, Biology, or Economics) scored at 90% or higher, depending on the program. 

For postgraduate education, you must hold a First Class Bachelor’s degree (typically 70–75%) from a recognised Indian university.

Notable Alumni 

Notable alumni of the University of Edinburgh include Charles Darwin, Edward VII, Alexander Graham Bell, Robert Brown, and Sir Walter Scott.

Popular Programs 

Popular programs here include Artificial Intelligence and Informatics, Business and Management, and Biomedical Science, with a strong focus on research. 

The most popular courses at the University of Edinburgh and their fees are listed below.

6. University of Manchester

Established in 1881, the University of Manchester is a public research university located in Manchester, UK.

Cost of Studying 

The cost of studying in the University of Manchester is GBP 12,000 (INR 13.5 lakhs) per year. 

Eligibility Criteria 

• For an undergraduate program at the University of Manchester, you must have completed Class XII with at least 85–90%, especially in key subjects like Mathematics, Physics, or Economics, depending on the program. 
• For postgraduate programs, you need a First Class degree (minimum 60–75%) from a well-ranked Indian institution, with more competitive programs expecting higher percentages.

Notable Alumni 

Among its notable alumni are Nobel Prize winners like James Chadwick, James Lovelock, and Arthur Eddington. 

Popular Programs 

Popular programs here include Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, International Business, and Management.

The most popular courses at the University of Manchester and their fees are listed below.

7. King's College London (KCL)

Founded by King George, King’s College London (1829) is the fourth oldest British university. It has a total of 5 campuses - for psychiatry & neuroscience, for medicine & dentistry, another campus for dental and medical teaching near the Waterloo campus, and more!

Cost of Studying

The cost of studying at King’s College, London is around INR 9500 (INR 10.8 lakhs) per year.

Eligibility Criteria 

• For UG programs at King’s College, London, you should have 90–95% in Class XII, especially in subjects relevant to the course. 
• For PG programs, you need a First Class Bachelor's (75% or above) for top-tier programs. IELTS 7.0 overall (minimum 6.5 in all bands) or TOEFL iBT 100.

Notable Alumni 

Notable alumni include Arthur C. Clarke, John Keats, and Thomas Hardy. Popular programs include Law, Medicine, Biomedical Sciences, and International Relations.

Popular Programs 

Popular programs at King’s College, London include Law, Medicine, Psychology, and International Relations.

The most popular courses at King's College London and their fees are listed below.

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

One of the world’s most reputed colleges for Economics, The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), founded in 1875, is an open research university. It is a key member of the Russell Group universities, known for its strong focus on social sciences. LSE consistently ranks among the top institutions globally and attracts students from over 140 countries. Its graduates often go on to leadership roles in government, business, and international organisations.

Cost of Studying 

The cost of studying at the London School of Economics is around GBP 28,000 (INR 31 lakhs).

Eligibility Criteria 

• For UG programs, you must have 95% or higher in Class XII from CBSE/ISC boards, particularly high marks in Mathematics and Economics for quantitative programs. 
• For PG programs, you need a First Class degree (75% or higher), preferably from a top-tier Indian institution. 

Notable Alumni 

Notable alumni include political figures like B.R. Ambedkar, Kwame Nkrumah, and Ursula von der Leyen.

Popular Programs 

Top programs include Accounting, Economics, International Relations, and Finance. 

The most popular courses at London School of Economics and Political Science  and their fees are listed below.

9. University of Bristol

Famous for its courses in Engineering and Health Sciences, Bristol University(1876) has a rich history of groundbreaking research in Medicine. 

Cost of Studying

The cost of studying at the University of Bristol is GBP 38,000 (INR 40 lakhs).

Eligibility Criteria 

• At the University of Bristol, the undergraduate courses require you to have 85–90 % in class 12.
• For Postgraduate programs, you should hold a first-class undergraduate degree (60–75%), depending on program competitiveness.

Notable Alumni 

Notable alumni of the University of Bristol are Simon Pegg,  Albert II, Prince of Monaco and Jason Isaacs. 

Popular Programs 

Popular programs here include Aerospace Engineering, Law, and Computer Science.

The most popular courses at University of Bristol  and their fees are listed below.

10. University of Warwick

Founded in 1964, the University of Warwick is a public research university with over 9,500 international students from 147 countries. As a Russell Group university, Warwick is known for its strong academic reputation, innovative research, and industry-focused programs. It ranks among the top UK universities for graduate employability and partnerships with global employers.

Cost of Studying 

The cost of studying at the University of Warwick is GBP 36,000 (INR 40 lakhs).

Eligibility Criteria 

For undergraduate courses, you must have Class XII scores of 85–95%, depending on the program and subject combination. Postgraduate admissions expect a First Class degree (typically 70–75%), especially for technical or finance-related fields.

Notable Alumni 

Its notable alumni include Anil Ambani, the Nobel Laureate Oliver Hart, and Stephen Merchant. 

Popular Programs 

Warwick's most popular programs include Economics, Mathematics, and Engineering. 

The most popular courses at the University of Warwick and their fees are listed below. 

11. University of Glasgow

The University of Glasgow is as old as 1451, with a stellar academic record that has withstood the test of time.

Cost of Studying 

The cost of studying at the University of Glasgow is GBP 23,000 (INR 26 lakhs).

Eligibility Criteria 

• Undergraduate applicants at the University of Glasgow need 85–90% in Class XII, with subject-specific requirements—e.g., high marks in Biology and Chemistry for Life Sciences. 
• For postgraduate programs, a First Class degree (minimum 60–75%) from a recognised Indian university is expected.

Notable Alumni 

Notable alumni of the University of Glasgow include Gerard Butler, Adam Smith, and  James Watt. 

Popular Programs 

Popular programs include Life Sciences, Computing Science, and Business Analytics. 

The most popular courses at the University of Glasgow and their fees are listed below.

12. University of Birmingham

Located in Edgbaston, Birmingham, in the UK, the University of Birmingham (1900) is home to the famous Barber Institute of Fine Arts, which includes artworks by Van Gogh and Monet, the Cadbury Research Library, and the Shakespeare Institute. 

Cost of Studying

The cost of studying at the University of Birmingham is GBP 46,000 (INR 52 lakhs).

Eligibility Criteria 

• For undergraduate education at the University of Birmingham, students must have Class XII scores of 80–90%, depending on the board and course. Specific subject requirements apply; e.g., Maths and Physics for Engineering. 
• For postgraduate entry, a First Class degree (typically 60–75%) is needed from a recognised university in India.

Notable Alumni 

Notable alumni of the University of Birmingham are Tim Curry,  Matthew Goode, and Christine McVie. 

Popular Programs 

Popular courses here include Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, and Public Health. 

The most popular courses at the University of Birmingham and their fees are listed below.

13. University of Southampton

Widely known for its innovative learning system, the University of Southampton (1952) is one of the top research universities in the U.K.

Cost of Studying 

The cost of studying at the University of Southampton is GBP 25,000 per year.

Eligibility Criteria

Some Engineering courses may require evidence of practical experience or additional assessments. For a Master’s, a First Class Bachelor’s degree (60–75%) is required, depending on course competitiveness.

Notable Alumni 

Notable alumni are Brian Eno, Ricky Whittle, and John Nettles. 

Popular Programs 

Popular programs include Ocean and Marine Engineering, Data Science, and Aeronautics and Astronautics. 

The most popular courses at the University of Southampton and their fees are listed below. 

14. University of Leeds

One of the largest higher education institutes in the UK, with 39000+ students, the University of Leeds (1904) is the top 40 most international universities in the world.

Cost of Studying

The cost of studying at Leeds is GBP 49,500 (INR 55 lakhs). 

Eligibility Criteria 

For UG programs, you need 85–90% in Class XII, with subject-specific minimums for core programs. For Master’s programs, a First Division (60–75%) in a Bachelor’s from a recognised university is necessary. 

Notable Alumni 

The University of Edinburgh boasts 6 Nobel laureates. Notable alumni of the University of Leeds are Chris Pine, Keir Starmer, and Mark Knopfler. Leeds, as a Russell Group university, has a strong reputation for academic and research excellence.

Popular Programs 

Leeds is popular for Business and Management, Civil Engineering, and Media and Communication Programs that focus on strong industry links.

The most popular courses at the University of Leeds and their fees are listed below.

15. Durham University

One of the oldest Russell Group universities in the UK, with a rich history of over 180 years, the University of Durham (1832) is a public research university located in Durham in North East England. 

Cost of Studying

The cost of studying at the University of Durham is GBP 9600 (INR 11 lakhs) per year.

Eligibility Criteria

For undergraduate programs, they typically require a combination of a GPA of 3.5, English language proficiency tests, and an application through UCAS. 

Postgraduate programs at Durham University require a First Class Bachelor’s degree (70–75%), excellent essays, and LORs.

Notable Alumni 

Notable alumni from Durham University include Charlotte Riley, Timothy Laurence, and Graham Hancock.

Popular Programs

Durham is known for its Law, History and Politics, and Finance programs. 

The most popular courses at Durham University and their fees are listed below.

16. University of Sheffield

The University of Sheffield, a Russell Group institution, was established in 1897 and is a public research university. With a strong focus on technical fields and science, it is also one of the six red brick universities built in England’s industrial region.

Cost of Studying

The cost of studying at the University of Sheffield is GBP 30,500 (INR 35 lakhs). 

Eligibility Criteria

For undergraduate entry at the University of Sheffield, you need Class XII marks of 80–90%, depending on the board and program. For Master’s programs, a First Class degree (60–75%) is expected, depending on the program’s competitiveness.

Notable Alumni

The University of Sheffield’s notable alumni include Lord David Blunkett, Lee Child, and Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe.

Popular Programs

Popular programs here include Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, and Molecular Biology.

The most popular courses at the University of Sheffield and their fees are listed below. 

17. University of Nottingham

Established in 1881, the University of Nottingham began as a Civic College. It has hosted several illustrious people such as Mahatma Gandhi, Einstein, and HG Wells as guest lecturers. 

Cost of Studying

The cost of studying at the University of Nottingham is GBP 24,500 (INR 27 lakhs). 

Eligibility Criteria

For UG courses, you need 85 - 90% in Class XII, with higher scores in relevant subjects like Chemistry for Pharmacy, or Maths for Engineering. Postgraduate entry generally requires a First Class degree (60–75%) from a recognised Indian university.

Notable Alumni 

Notable alumni include David Pearson CBE, Darryl Morgan, and David Lewis.

Popular Programs 

Top programs here include Pharmacy, Chemical Engineering, and Business and Finance.

The most popular courses at the University of Nottingham and their fees are listed below.

18. Queen Mary University of London (QMUL)

Established in 1887, Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) is part of the prestigious Russell Group Universities and is known for delivering world-class education and research. It is a public research institution located in London.

Cost of Studying 

The cost of studying at QUML is GBP 43,500 (INR 60 lakhs).

Eligibility Criteria 

Undergraduate entry at the Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) requires 85–90% in Class XII, with key subjects like Biology for Dentistry and Math for Computer Science. For master’s programs, a First Class degree (60–75%) from a recognised Indian university is standard.

Notable Alumni 

Its notable alumni include Bruce Dickinson, Pete Doherty, and Graham Chapman.

Popular Programs 

QMUL is known for Dentistry, Computer Science, and Law programs.

The most popular courses at Queen Mary University of London and their fees are listed below.

19. Newcastle University

Founded in 1963, Newcastle University focuses on student experience, excellence in teaching, and research. 

Cost of Studying

The cost of studying at Newcastle University is GBP 46,560 (INR 53 lakhs). 

Eligibility Criteria

• For UG programs in Newcastle University, you need a GPA of 2.0/4.0, and you should’ve completed at least one year of studying at a university.
• For postgraduate programs, you need a first-class degree (60–75%) from a recognised Indian university.

Notable Alumni 

The notable alumni at Newcastle University include Rowan Atkinson, Princess Eugenie of York, and Bryan Ferry. 

Popular Programs 

The University boasts faculty for the Social Sciences and Humanities, Science, Agriculture, Engineering, and Medicine. The most popular courses here are Medicine, Marine Technology, and Biomedical Sciences.

The most popular courses at Newcastle University and their fees are listed below.

20. University of Liverpool (UOL)

Offering diverse UG, PG, and Research programs, the University of Liverpool (1881) is one of the most sought-after universities in the UK. It is also known for its innovative teaching methods. 

Cost of Studying

The cost of studying at the University of Liverpool is GBP 51,000 (INR 58 lakhs). 

Eligibility Criteria

• For undergraduate courses, you should have 85–90% in Class XII, particularly in relevant subjects such as Biology for Veterinary Science or Physics for Engineering.
• For postgraduate courses at the University of Liverpool, a First Class undergraduate degree (60–75%) from India is required.

Notable Alumni 

Notable alumni of the University of Liverpool are Edward Snowden, Clive Barker, and Patricia Routledge.

Popular Programs 

Popular programs here are Veterinary Science, Engineering, and Public Health.

The most popular courses at the University of Liverpool and their fees are listed below.

21. University of Exeter

A research-focused public university, the University of Exeter (1851) was originally formed as the Schools of Science and Art. 

Cost of Studying

The cost of studying at the University of Exeter is GBP 24,700 (INR 28 lakhs). 

Eligibility Criteria

• For UG courses, you must have 85–90% in Class XII, with subject-specific strengths (e.g., Biology for Environmental Science or Maths for Business). 
• Postgraduate admission at the University of Exeter requires a First Class degree (60–75%) from a recognised Indian university, with higher scores for competitive programs.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of the University of Exeter are J. K. Rowling, Vanessa Kirby, and  Zara Tindall. 

Popular Programs

The University of Exeter offers several programs to its students, including Environmental Science, Business and Management, and Psychology.

The most popular courses at the University of Exeter and their fees are listed below.

22. University of York

The University of York (1963) is home to 30+ research centres and academic departments.

Cost of Studying

The cost of studying at the University of York is GBP 37,500 (INR 42 lakhs).

Eligibility Criteria 

• For UG admissions, you need 85–90%, depending on the board and course; Maths is essential for Computer Science.
• Postgraduate applicants require a First Class Bachelor's (minimum 60–75%), with higher expectations for top-tier programs.

Notable Alumni 

Its notable alumni include Peter Hitchens, Peter Lord, and Andrea Barber. 

Popular Programs 

The University of York offers programs in Economics, English, Education, History, Politics, and Mathematics in great depth. York is also popular for its programs in Computer Science, Politics and International Relations, and English Literature. 

The most popular courses at the University of York and their fees are listed below.

23. Cardiff University

Cardiff University (1883) began as the University College of South Wales and Monmouthshire, till it merged with the University of Wales Institute of Science and Technology.

Cost of Studying

The cost of studying at Cardiff University is GBP 36,000 (INR 40 lakhs). 

Eligibility Criteria

For a UG course at Cardiff University, you need 80–90% in Class XII, with specific subject requirements depending on the program. The postgraduate programs at Cardiff University require a First Class degree (60–75%), depending on the Indian university and course applied for.

Notable Alumni 

Notable alumni at Cardiff University include Professor Alice Roberts, Susanna Reid, and Elis James.

Popular Programs

It has 26 academic schools classified into 3 categories (colleges): College of Physical Sciences and Engineering, College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, and the College of Biomedical and Life Sciences. Popular programs include Dentistry, Communication & Media Studies.

The most popular courses at Cardiff University and their fees are listed below.

24. Queen's University Belfast (QUB)

Founded in 1845, Queen's University Belfast continues to shape the world with innovative minds. It offers a wide range of courses across disciplines at the UG and PG levels.

Cost of Studying

The cost of studying at QUB is GBP 25,000 (INR 28 lakhs). 

Eligibility Criteria

• For UG courses at Queen’s University Belfast, you need 80–90% in Class XII, particularly in science or mathematics-based subjects. 
• For postgraduate programs, you need a  First Class Bachelor's (60–75%).

Notable Alumni 

The alumni of this prestigious university include Nobel Laureates such as Seamus Heaney and David Trimble.

Popular Programs 

Top programs at Queen's University Belfast include Pharmaceutical Sciences, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, and Politics and Conflict Studies.

The most popular courses at Queen’s University Belfast and their fees are listed below.

Choosing a Russell Group university is like choosing the UK’s version of the Ivy League. These universities offer strong academics, global recognition, and career growth.

Diverse Student Community

Around 32% of students are international. High-quality education and strong research attract talent from across the world.

Research Excellence

Russell Group institutions produce over two-thirds of the UK’s leading research. They focus heavily on innovation and academic contribution.

Strong Career Outcomes

Graduates from these universities benefit from high employability and industry connections. Employers value their degrees.

Financial Support

Most universities in the group offer scholarships, bursaries, and loans to international students.

Global Partnerships

These institutions work with top universities and global organisations, giving students valuable international exposure.

You’re eligible for a Russell Group university if you have an excellent academic record, a GPA above 3.5 out of 4.0, extracurriculars, a good GRE/ GMAT score, depending on your program, and English proficiency test scores.

Additionally, the criteria can broadly be further classified into 3 parts- Academic Qualifications, English Language Requirements, and Additional (Course Specific) Entry tests. 

Academic Qualifications

• At the Undergraduate level, the candidate must have graduated from high school    (Class 12) through a recognised board (CBSE/ ICSE/ State Boards). 
• Most top Universities require 85–95 %+ in key subjects (varies by course and university)
• If the Indian Board qualifications are not met, then standardised foundation programs are considered. 
• At the Postgraduate Level, a Bachelor's degree (3 or 4 years) from a recognised   Indian university, with a score of 60-70%+ (First Class) is needed.

English Language Requirements

• The accepted tests are IELTS Academic-usually 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0), TOEFL iBT with a score of 90–100+, and PTE Academic with a score of 62+.
• Higher requirements apply for law, medicine, or literature programs.

Additional Entry Tests (Course-Specific)

Some courses require standardised tests such as the UCAT or BMAT for Medicine and Dentistry, the GMAT for Management, the STEP or TMUA for Math/Economics in universities like Cambridge, and the LNAT for Law.

If you’re applying to Russell Group universities, make sure you are eligible and have all the required materials, like a UCAS score for UG, English test scores, and the essays. Once you have everything ready, follow these steps to apply for a Russell Group UK university:

Step 1: Choose a Course & University

• Use UCAS(Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) to select up to 5 undergraduate Universities/Courses.
• For postgraduate studies, apply directly through each university's portal, after researching course content, deadlines, etc., from official university websites thoroughly.

Step 2: Check Entry Requirements

• Make sure you have more than the Qualifying marks for Class 12 (UG) and Bachelor’s degree marks (PG) to meet the academic criteria.
• Confirm the necessity of a foundation year (as applicable according to your board)
• Review English language test requirements (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.).

Step 3: Prepare Application Materials

• A Personal Statement consisting of a 4000-character essay explaining why you’re applying.
• Letters of Recommendation, usually 1 (UG) or 2 (PG), from teachers or professors are necessary.
• Academic Transcripts, which are official mark sheets from Class 10 onwards (UG), or university transcripts (PG).
• Standardised Test Scores as applicable according to course (e.g., UCAT, LNAT, etc.).

Step 4: Submit Application

• Register and submit the Application fee of £27.50 for 2025 (one-time for all 5 choices), on UCAS for UG programs.
• For Postgraduate programs, apply directly through each university’s online admissions portal. Application fees can vary from £25–£100 depending on the university..

Step 5: Receive Offers

• Conditional Offers (based on final exams or documents).
• Unconditional Offers (if all criteria are already met).

Step 6: Accept Offer & Apply for UK Student Visa

• After accepting your firm offer, get your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) from the university.
• Apply for a UK Student Visa with documents such as a Passport, CAS, Financial proof, English test result, and TB test result.

Step 7: Prepare for Arrival

• Arrange accommodation and book flights and health insurance well in time.
• Attend pre-departure orientations (some universities and the British Council offer these).

Studying at one of the prestigious universities of the Russell Group gives you access to some of the most elite professions and powerful academic networks in the world. The Russell group of universities collaborates with governments and large corporations in real-time, but is the first to come up with high-impact, implementable solutions to real-world problems. The brand value of the Russell Group would instantly make your CV stand out in any professional setting. 

Here is why the Russell group of universities is super important:

Leading Research Facilities

With more than 1 billion rupees invested in research, the Russell group is at the forefront of innovation. Studying here allows you to be a part of that and contribute to it.

Global outlook and impact

The Russell group of universities allows you to have a global perspective, helps in your development as an individual, and opens a myriad of career opportunities.

Lowest dropout rate

The Russell group of universities has the lowest dropout rate, at 3%. With a very high student satisfaction rate, the Russell Group offers some of the best educational experiences to students. 

The universities of the Russell Group are the Ivies of the UK. Their stellar reputations, steeped in tradition, add weight to their outstanding teaching and research facilities. To gain admission to a Russell Group University, you have to stand out with a stellar SOP, Letters of Recommendation and unmatched academic scores. Scholarships and financial aid are also available for international students to study in the UK, making it the prime destination for you. 

The entire process of course and university selection, procurement of loans, visa application, etc., can feel very daunting. That is exactly why Yocket exists- We are here to help you. Reach out to us today if you want to make your applications stand out, write unforgettable SOP’s and get into your dream college!