Russell Group Universities UK: Full List, Rankings, Eligibility

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 the 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.

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:

1. University of Birmingham, England
2. University of Bristol, England
3. University of Cambridge, England
4. Cardiff University, Wales
5. Durham University, England
6. University of Edinburgh, Scotland
7. University of Exeter, England
8. University of Glasgow, Scotland
9. Imperial College London, England
10. King's College London, England
11. University of Leeds, England
12. University of Liverpool, England
13. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), England
14. University of Manchester, England
15. Newcastle University, England
16. University of Nottingham, England
17. University of Oxford, England
18. Queen Mary University of London, England
19. Queen's University Belfast, Northern Ireland
20. University of Sheffield, England
21. University of Southampton, England
22. UCL, England
23. University of Warwick, England
24. University of York, England

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:

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 10 lakhs (GBP 93,000) per year (lower than London’s average).
• Eligibility Criteria
  • UG: 90–95% in Class XII (Maths/Physics for Engg., Bio/Chem for Biomed).
  • PG: First Class (75%+), or 70% from IITs/NITs/DU, depending on course.
• Notable Alumni: Notable alumni of the Imperial College include Alexander Fleming,  Abdus Salam, and William Crookes. 
• Popular Programs: Engineering (Mechanical/Electrical), Computing, and Biomedical Sciences.

#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. 

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 40–70 lakhs (GBP 35,000–60,000) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: 90–95% in Class XII (CBSE/ISC/State boards, subject-specific)
  • PG: Top of class, GRE 320+ / GMAT 720+, strong essays
• Notable Alumni: Stephen Hawking, Indira Gandhi, Malala Yousafzai, T.S. Eliot
• Popular Programs: PPE (Philosophy, Politics & Economics), Law, Medicine, Engineering

#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.

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 11 lakhs (GBP 9,600) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: 95%+ in Class XII, esp. Maths/Physics for STEM
  • PG: First Class (75%+), GRE often required
• Notable Alumni: Isaac Newton, Stephen Hawking, Robert Oppenheimer, George VI
• Popular Programs: Engineering, Natural Sciences, Computer Science

#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. 

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 11 lakhs (GBP 9,600) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: 90–95% in Class XII with subject strength
  • PG: First Class (75%+) from recognised Indian universities
• Notable Alumni: Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, David Attenborough
• Popular Programs: Architecture, Economics, Medicine

#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 is renowned for its global excellence.

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 40 lakhs (GBP 30,000) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: 85–90% in Class XII; key subjects 90%+
  • PG: First Class (70–75%) from Indian universities
• Notable Alumni: Charles Darwin, Alexander Graham Bell, Sir Walter Scott
• Popular Programs: Artificial Intelligence, Business & Management, Biomedical Science

#6 University of Manchester

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

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 13.5 lakhs (GBP 12,000) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: 85–90% in Class XII (Maths/Physics/Economics as required)
  • PG: First Class (60–75%), higher for competitive courses
• Notable Alumni: James Chadwick, Arthur Eddington, James Lovelock
• Popular Programs: Data Science, AI, International Business, Management

#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!

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 10.8 lakhs (GBP 9,500) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: 90–95% in Class XII
  • PG: First Class (75%+), IELTS 7.0 / TOEFL 100
• Notable Alumni: Arthur C. Clarke, John Keats, Thomas Hardy
• Popular Programs: Law, Medicine, Psychology, International Relations

#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.

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 31 lakhs (GBP 28,000) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: 95%+ in Class XII, esp. Maths & Economics
  • PG: First Class (75%+), preferably from top Indian universities
• Notable Alumni: B.R. Ambedkar, Ursula von der Leyen, Kwame Nkrumah
• Popular Programs: Economics, Accounting, Finance, International Relations

#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. 

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 40 lakhs (GBP 38,000) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: 85–90% in Class XII
  • PG: First Class (60–75%)
• Notable Alumni: Simon Pegg, Prince Albert II of Monaco, Jason Isaacs
• Popular Programs: Aerospace Engineering, Law, Computer Science

#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.

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 40 lakhs (GBP 36,000) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: 85–95% in Class XII
  • PG: First Class (70–75%), esp. for technical/finance courses
• Notable Alumni: Anil Ambani, Oliver Hart, Stephen Merchant
• Popular Programs: Economics, Mathematics, Engineering

#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.

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 26 lakhs (GBP 23,000) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: 85–90% in Class XII (subject-specific, e.g. Bio & Chem for Life Sciences)
  • PG: First Class (60–75%)
• Notable Alumni: Adam Smith, James Watt, Gerard Butler
• Popular Programs: Life Sciences, Computing Science, Business Analytics

#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. 

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 52 lakhs (GBP 46,000) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: 80–90% in Class XII, subject requirements (Maths/Physics for Engg.)
  • PG: First Class (60–75%)
• Notable Alumni: Tim Curry, Matthew Goode, Christine McVie
• Popular Programs: Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Public Health

#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.

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 25 lakhs (GBP 25,000) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: High Class XII marks, practical experience may be required
  • PG: First Class Bachelor’s (60–75%)
• Notable Alumni: Brian Eno, Ricky Whittle, John Nettles
• Popular Programs: Ocean & Marine Engineering, Data Science, Aeronautics & Astronautics

#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.

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 55 lakhs (GBP 49,500) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: 85–90% in Class XII
  • PG: First Division (60–75%)
• Notable Alumni: Chris Pine, Keir Starmer, Mark Knopfler
• Popular Programs: Business & Management, Civil Engineering, Media & Communication

#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. 

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 11 lakhs (GBP 9,600) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: GPA 3.5, UCAS application, English proficiency tests
  • PG: First Class (70–75%), strong essays & LORs
• Notable Alumni: Charlotte Riley, Timothy Laurence, Graham Hancock
• Popular Programs: Law, History & Politics, Finance

#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.

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 35 lakhs (GBP 30,500) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: 80–90% in Class XII
  • PG: First Class (60–75%)
• Notable Alumni: Lee Child, Lord David Blunkett, Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe
• Popular Programs: Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, Molecular Biology

#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. 

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 27 lakhs (GBP 24,500) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: 85–90% in Class XII (Chemistry for Pharmacy, Maths for Engg.)
  • PG: First Class (60–75%)
• Notable Alumni: Mahatma Gandhi (guest lecturer), David Pearson CBE, Darryl Morgan
• Popular Programs: Pharmacy, Chemical Engineering, Business & Finance

#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.

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 60 lakhs (GBP 43,500) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: 85–90% in Class XII (Bio for Dentistry, Maths for CS)
  • PG: First Class (60–75%)
• Notable Alumni: Bruce Dickinson, Graham Chapman, Pete Doherty
• Popular Programs: Dentistry, Computer Science, Law

#19 Newcastle University

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

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 53 lakhs (GBP 46,560) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: GPA 2.0/4.0 + 1 year of university study
  • PG: First Class (60–75%)
• Notable Alumni: Rowan Atkinson, Princess Eugenie, Bryan Ferry
• Popular Programs: Medicine, Marine Technology, Biomedical Sciences

#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. 

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 58 lakhs (GBP 51,000) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: 85–90% in Class XII (Bio for Vet Science, Physics for Engg.)
  • PG: First Class (60–75%)
• Notable Alumni: Edward Snowden, Clive Barker, Patricia Routledge
• Popular Programs: Veterinary Science, Engineering, Public Health

#21 University of Exeter

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

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 28 lakhs (GBP 24,700) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: 85–90% in Class XII (Bio for Env. Science, Maths for Business)
  • PG: First Class (60–75%)
• Notable Alumni: J.K. Rowling, Vanessa Kirby, Zara Tindall
• Popular Programs: Environmental Science, Business, Psychology

#22 University of York

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

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 42 lakhs (GBP 37,500) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: 85–90% in Class XII (Maths essential for CS)
  • PG: First Class (60–75%)
• Notable Alumni: Peter Hitchens, Andrea Barber, Peter Lord
• Popular Programs: Computer Science, Politics & IR, English Literature

#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.

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 40 lakhs (GBP 36,000) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: 80–90% in Class XII
  • PG: First Class (60–75%)
• Notable Alumni: Alice Roberts, Susanna Reid, Elis James
• Popular Programs: Dentistry, Communication & Media Studies, Biomedical Sciences

#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.

• Average Cost of Studying: INR 28 lakhs (GBP 25,000) per year
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • UG: 80–90% in Class XII (Maths/Science for core subjects)
  • PG: First Class (60–75%)
• Notable Alumni: Seamus Heaney, David Trimble (Nobel Laureates)
• Popular Programs: Pharmaceutical Sciences, Electrical Engineering, Politics

You’re eligible for a Russell Group university if you have an excellent academic record, a GPA above 3.5 out of 4.0, extracurricular activities, 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 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!