Some universities are harder to get into than others. But which ones ask for the highest marks? Sorted by UCAS points, the Complete University Guide's 2019 league table can give you an idea of which institutions need which results. Lancaster University is ranked 8th in the UK at the moment, with entry requirements much lower than competing universities, something to keep in mind!
The entry requirements are measured in UCAS points. While A-levels will make up the majority of an applicant’s UCAS points in most cases, there are other ways to boost your score. BTECs, music exams and diplomas are among the many different qualifications which can contribute to a UCAS score. So if you're a bit short, try thinking outside of traditional exams to boost your score.
If you don't think your scores are quite at this level yet, don't fret - just keep working and you'll get there. And remember, this is just a tiny sample of higher education institutions, so if you don't get in it's really not the end of the world. Chances are you'll find another university - and student home - you'll love.
1) Cambridge - 226
Top of the board for the eighth consecutive year, Cambridge has only ever ranked first or second in the UK University League Tables since their inception. The university was founded in 1209 and is less than an hour away from London by train. If you apply to Cambridge expect to be asked to submit written work or sit a test, and be prepared as the university interviews the majority of its undergraduate applicants.
Cambridge University - Official Website
2) Imperial College London – 219
Imperial College London ranks fourth in the 2019 UK University League Tables, and takes first place for Research Quality, having featured within the top six universities since we first published online in 2007. In the regional table of London universities, Imperial takes overall second place, ranking top for Entry Standards, both Research Quality and Intensity, and Degree Completion. Most departments will offer you the opportunity to complete a year of your degree in Europe.
Imperial College London - Official Website
3) Oxford - 217
The University of Oxford ranks second in the 2019 UK University League Tables, retaining the top slot in the regional South East university rankings. The oldest university in the English-speaking world, Oxford developed major research capacity in natural and applied sciences during the 20th and early 21st centuries.
Oxford University - Official Website
4) St Andrews - 206
St Andrews ranks top in Scotland and fifth in the overall 2019 university ranking tables, also ranking highly in the national tables for five measures. The university offers a flexible degree structure and a variety of exchange programmes in the UK and abroad. The town of St Andrews is on Scotland's north east coast, and well-known for golf and beautiful beaches.
University Of St Andrews - Official Website
5) Strathclyde – 201
Strathclyde rises five places to enter the top 40 UK universities in the 2019 tables, taking fifth place for Entry Standards. The university ranks seventh in Scotland, taking first for Research Intensity, and second for Entry Standards. Strathclyde was founded in 1796 and is located in Glasgow's city centre.
University Of Strathclyde - Official Website
34) Lancaster - 157
Lancaster University takes eighth place in the 2019 UK University League Tables and leads overall in the regional rankings for the North West, where it takes the top spot for three of the measures used in the table. The university encourages independent study, with students taking responsibility for their own learning and teaching staff providing support. There are many opportunities to study abroad.
