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SOAS University of London

London, 🇬🇧 United Kingdom Public
#62 National #511 QS World #401 THE
SOAS University of London campus
Founded 1916 5,257 students 43% international Urban £29.9k - £39.5k/yr

About SOAS University of London

SOAS University of London is a world leading institution specializing in the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Located in the heart of London, it offers a unique global perspective that challenges conventional Western academic narratives. The university provides a transformative environment for students who are passionate about international issues and social justice.

Academics


The university is organized into several key departments focusing on arts, humanities, languages, and social sciences. Its teaching approach emphasizes deep regional expertise combined with rigorous disciplinary training in subjects like international relations, development studies, and law. SOAS is particularly renowned for its multidisciplinary strengths and its status as a premier center for the study of non-Western languages. Students benefit from small class sizes and access to one of the world's most important academic libraries for Asian and African studies.

International Students


With students from over 130 countries, SOAS boasts one of the most diverse international student populations in the United Kingdom. The university provides comprehensive support services including dedicated immigration advice, academic English workshops, and a specialized international orientation program. Students can join over 150 societies through the Students' Union, which foster cultural integration and political engagement. All undergraduate and postgraduate programs are taught in English, though many students choose to add a regional language to their degree.

Campus & Location


The campus is situated in Bloomsbury, a historic intellectual district in central London known for its beautiful squares and literary history. Students are within walking distance of the British Museum and the British Library, providing unparalleled access to research materials and cultural heritage. The central location offers excellent transportation links via the London Underground, making it easy to explore the city's diverse neighborhoods. Campus life centers around the iconic North Block and the world famous SOAS Library, which serves as a hub for global scholarship.

Career Outcomes


Graduates are highly sought after by international organizations, government agencies, and global non-governmental organizations due to their specialized regional knowledge. The SOAS Careers Service provides tailored support including networking events, internship placements, and workshops on navigating the global job market. Notable employers of alumni include the United Nations, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, and major international media outlets. The university also fosters a strong culture of social entrepreneurship, encouraging students to launch ventures that address global challenges.

Highlights

  • Specialist in Asia, Africa and Middle East
  • Global leader in non-Western languages
  • Diverse students from over 130 countries
  • Premier library for Asian and African studies
  • Historic campus in central London Bloomsbury
  • Expertise in international relations and development

Student Life & Support

Visa Support Campus Housing Work on Campus Work Placements Sports Facilities Disability Support Scholarships Available

Photos

SOAS University of London photo 1SOAS University of London photo 2SOAS University of London photo 3SOAS University of London photo 4SOAS University of London photo 5SOAS University of London photo 6SOAS University of London photo 7SOAS University of London photo 8SOAS University of London photo 9

Programs Offered at SOAS University of London (20)

Offers programs in:

Arts & Design Business & Management Humanities Law Linguistics & Literature Physics & Chemistry Social Sciences

Bachelor Programs (8)

BA Social Anthropology

Anthropology

Anthropology
anthropologybaba social anthropologybachelorbeng
36 months English Full-time

£21,990/yr

BA Development Studies

Development Studies

Development Studies
development studies Londoninternational students Development StudiesEnglish-taught Development StudiesDevelopment Studies bachelorstudy Development Studies in England
36 months English Full-time

£21,990/yr

BSc Economics

STEM

Economics

Economics
bachelorbachelor economicsbsc economicseconomicseconomics program
36 months English Full-time

£21,990/yr

BA History

History

History
ba historybachelorhistory
36 months English Full-time

£21,990/yr

Bachelor of Arts Chinese Studies

BA Chinese Studies

Languages

Languages & Linguistics
babachelorbsbscchinese
48 months English Full-time

£21,990/yr

BA Arabic and Islamic Studies

Languages

Languages
bachelor in languagesbachelor languagesbachelors languagesbachelor's in languagesstudy languages in england
48 months English Full-time

£21,990/yr

LLB Law

Law

Law
bachelor in lawbachelors in lawstudy law in englandbachelor in law in englandbachelors law
36 months English Full-time

£21,990/yr

BA International Relations

Politics

Politics
study politics in englandbachelor's politicspoliticsuniversity politics englandbachelor politics
36 months English Full-time

£21,990/yr

Master Programs (9)

MA History of Art and Archaeology

Art History

Art History
archaeologyartgraduatehistoryma
12 months English Full-time

£24,350/yr

MSc Climate Change and Development

STEM

Environmental Studies

Environmental Studies
master of environmental studiesSOAS University of London environmental studiesclimate change and developmentMSc in environmental studiesmasters in climate change and development
12 months English Full-time

£26,350/yr

MSc Finance and Financial Law

STEM

Finance

Finance
masters in financemasters finance degreestudy financestudy finance in englandmasters in finance in england
12 months English Full-time

£26,350/yr

MA Postcolonial Studies

Humanities

Humanities
graduatehumanitiesmamastermasters
12 months English Full-time

£24,350/yr

MSc Global Corporations and Policy

Management

Management
MSc in managementmasters in global corporations and policyglobal corporations and policymasters in managementmanagement degree
12 months English Full-time

£26,350/yr

MA Global Media and Communications

Media Studies

Media Studies
media studies program in londonmasters media studiesenglish taught masters media studiesmaster media studiesstudy media studies in england
12 months English Full-time

£24,350/yr

MA Music

Music

Music
master in musicmaster ma musicma musicstudy music in englandmusic degree in england
12 months English Full-time

£24,350/yr

MA International Studies and Diplomacy

Politics

Politics
politics programmasters politics abroadpolitics careerstudy politicsstudy politics in england
12 months English Full-time

£26,350/yr

MA South Asian Studies

Regional Studies

Regional Studies
english-taught masters regional studies in englandmasters in regional studiesstudy regional studiesmasters regional studiesstudy regional studies in england
12 months English Full-time

£24,350/yr

PhD Programs (3)

PhD in Development Studies

Development Studies

Development Studies
developmentdevelopment studiesphdphd in development studiesstudies
48 months English Full-time

£20,500/yr

PhD in Gender Studies

Gender Studies

Gender Studies
englandgendergender studieslondonphd
48 months English Full-time

£20,500/yr

PhD in Law

Law

Law
doctoraldoctoratejurisprudencelawlegal
48 months English Full-time

£20,500/yr

SOAS University of London Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate

6.5+ IELTS
95+ TOEFL
120+ Duolingo
3+ GPA
Acceptance Rate Moderate (40-60%)
Intakes September, January
Application Deadline July 31
Tuition (per year) £29.9k - £39.5k/yr
Housing (monthly) ~$1100
Application Fee $90
Teaching Language English
Student : Faculty 11:1
Accreditation
Privy CouncilOffice for Students (OfS)

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Frequently Asked Questions About SOAS University of London

Common questions from international students considering SOAS University of London.

What is the acceptance rate at SOAS University of London?

SOAS University of London is classified as "Moderate (40-60%)" by admissions selectivity. Acceptance rates vary by program — competitive programs and graduate degrees typically have lower acceptance rates than undergraduate programs.

How much does SOAS University of London cost for international students?

Tuition at SOAS University of London ranges from £29.9k - £39.5k/yr per year. Costs vary by degree level and program. International students may also need to budget for housing (approximately $1100/month), books, and living expenses.

What is SOAS University of London ranked globally?

SOAS University of London holds the following rankings: QS World #511, Times Higher Education #401, #62 in United Kingdom. Rankings vary by methodology and subject area — for the most accurate picture, check the specific subject rankings for your intended field of study.

What English language requirements does SOAS University of London have?

SOAS University of London typically requires IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 95+ for international students. Specific programs may set higher minimums — verify requirements for your target program directly. Some applicants may qualify for an English requirement waiver if their previous education was English-medium.

Are scholarships available at SOAS University of London?

Yes, SOAS University of London offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. Available aid varies by program, nationality, and academic merit. We recommend checking each program's funding page and applying early — many scholarships have separate deadlines from the main admission application.

When does SOAS University of London start its semesters?

SOAS University of London has intakes starting in September, January. Application deadlines typically fall 3-6 months before the semester start date. International students should apply earlier due to visa processing times — we recommend submitting applications 6-9 months ahead of the intended start date.

How many English-taught programs does SOAS University of London offer?

SOAS University of London offers 20+ programs taught in English, accessible to international students without local language proficiency. These span Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels across multiple disciplines.

Where is SOAS University of London located?

SOAS University of London is located in London, United Kingdom 🇬🇧. The city offers an international student-friendly environment with access to academic facilities, accommodation, and cultural amenities.

What are the admission requirements for SOAS University of London?

For specific details about SOAS University of London, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

What programs does SOAS University of London offer?

For specific details about SOAS University of London, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

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