London is home to 70 FTSE 100-listed companies and some 400 Fortune 500 companies, making it the perfect location for international business students. All London business school campuses are a stone’s throw from key London business hubs. Being so close to the heart of London’s financial might means that many schools host regular public lectures with industry leaders worldwide. The prospect of studying in London doesn’t need to be daunting either, with friendly and supportive communities of staff ensuring you are supported throughout your journey.
Learn more about the top 10 business schools in London (Financial Times European Business School Rankings 2025) below and arrange a free consultation with StudyIn to learn more about how we can help you submit a successful application to study in London.
London’s 10 Best Business Schools 2026
London Business School (LBS) is consistently ranked among the world’s leading business schools by the Financial Times and welcomes over 2,000 students from more than 100 countries each year. Its diverse programmes cover accounting, economics, finance, management, marketing, organisational behaviour, strategy, and entrepreneurship at both postgraduate and executive levels.
The LBS full-time Master’s in Finance has been ranked the world’s number one post-experience programme by the Financial Times in seven of the last eight years, highlighting its global reputation and strong graduate outcomes.
- Suggested course: Master’s in Management
- Entry requirements: A recognised bachelor’s degree, competitive GMAT/GRE score (typically 600+), and proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL).
- Learn more about London Business School Courses
Founded in 1819, ESCP Business School operates six campuses across Europe, including London, Paris, Berlin, Madrid, Turin, and Warsaw. It has been recognised by Times Higher Education as one of the UK’s best business schools and is among the 1% of institutions worldwide to hold triple accreditation (AMBA, EQUIS, AACSB). ESCP’s international outlook and strong academic alliances make it a popular choice for students seeking a multicultural business education.
With 130 academic partnerships in Europe and 47 globally, ESCP provides students with extensive opportunities for exchange, internships, and industry collaboration. Its programmes emphasise international mobility and career readiness, preparing graduates for leadership roles in diverse sectors.
- Suggested course: Master’s in Management
- Entry requirements: A recognised bachelor’s degree in any discipline, strong academic performance, and English language proficiency (minimum B2 level or IELTS/TOEFL equivalent).
- Learn more about ESCP Business School Courses
Bayes Business School, part of City, University of London, holds triple-crown accreditation (AMBA, EQUIS, AACSB) and is recognised globally for its strong ties to financial institutions and international businesses. Bayes offers a wide range of programmes in finance, investment, management, entrepreneurship, insurance, and risk management, providing students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
The Bayes one-year MBA has been ranked by the Financial Times as the best value-for-money MBA in London, reflecting its strong return on investment and career outcomes.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Business Management
- Entry requirements: A recognised secondary school qualification (such as IB Diploma or equivalent international qualification), strong academic grades, and English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL).
- Learn more about Bayes Business School Courses
Imperial College Business School is a core part of Imperial College London, a globally recognised institution renowned for its excellence in science, technology, and business. The Business School consistently achieves top placements in international league tables, reflecting its strong focus on digital innovation, data science, and analytical rigour.
Imperial’s community is highly international, with over 90% of faculty from outside the UK and an alumni network spanning 125 countries. Its programmes combine academic rigour with practical application, preparing students for careers in finance, consulting, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven industries.
- Suggested course: MSc Finance
- Entry requirements: A recognised bachelor’s degree with strong academic performance (equivalent to First Class Honours), and proof of English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL).
- Learn more about Imperial Business School Courses
Hult Business School is one of the world’s largest graduate business schools, known for its practical, global approach to business education. Its vision of experiential learning attracts students from around the world, offering a truly international classroom environment.
Hult’s Global Campus Rotation allows students to study across multiple campuses worldwide, including London, Boston, San Francisco, Dubai, and Shanghai. This unique model provides exposure to different markets and cultures, enhancing students’ adaptability and global career prospects.
- Suggested course: Master’s in International Business
- Entry requirements: A recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent, English language proficiency (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL), and typically less than three years of professional work experience for master’s programmes.
- Learn more about Hult Business School Courses
King’s Business School conducts research that shapes responsible, high-impact business practice and works with partners worldwide to generate societal value. Established as King’s ninth faculty in 2017, the School has grown from its long-standing management education roots to become a prominent institution in London’s business landscape, recognised for strength in management, finance, and analytics.
With a diverse community representing 80+ countries, King’s offers a supportive environment, strong employer connections, and opportunities across London’s startup and corporate ecosystems. Students benefit from research-led teaching, interdisciplinary projects, and access to central London facilities and networks that enhance learning and employability.
- Suggested course: Economics & Finance MSc
- Entry requirements: A recognised bachelor’s degree with strong grades (equivalent to UK 2:1), evidence of quantitative skills for finance/economics routes, and English proficiency (e.g., IELTS 7.0 overall or TOEFL equivalent).
- Learn more about King’s Business School Courses
The UCL School of Management, part of University College London, is based at Canary Wharf and Bloomsbury—placing students at the heart of London’s finance and innovation districts. Programmes span undergraduate, postgraduate, executive, and PhD levels, with academic strengths in innovation, technology management, analytics, entrepreneurship, strategy, and organisational behaviour.
Teaching is informed by research excellence and industry collaboration, connecting students to London’s tech scale-ups, consultancies, and investment firms. The School’s focus on data-driven decision-making and digital transformation equips graduates for roles across product, strategy, consulting, and analytics in global markets.
- Suggested course: Information Management for Business BSc
- Entry requirements: A recognised upper secondary qualification (international equivalent) with strong grades, evidence of quantitative ability, and English proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall or TOEFL equivalent). Foundation or preparatory pathways may be available for some applicants.
- Learn more about UCL Business School Courses
Brunel Business School, part of Brunel University London, is known for practical learning, global industry engagement, and programmes designed to build career-ready skills. The School offers specialised master’s programmes and undergraduate routes in management and related fields, with focus areas including marketing, branding, technology and innovation, entrepreneurship, and creative industries.
Students benefit from professional accreditation links, applied projects, and career support aligned with London’s diverse employer base. Teaching combines case studies, live briefs, and research-informed content to help students develop strategic thinking, analytical skills, and commercial awareness.
- Suggested course: Business and Management BSc
- Entry requirements: An internationally recognised upper secondary qualification (or equivalent foundation/year 1 entry route), strong academic performance, and English proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall or TOEFL equivalent). Postgraduate applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree.
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Queen Mary University of London’s School of Business and Management is AACSB-accredited and recognised for impactful research and inclusive education. The School offers a broad portfolio across international business, management, accounting and finance, and related disciplines, with strengths in social justice, sustainability, and responsible leadership.
Students gain practical exposure through projects, placements, and partnerships with London-based organisations. The School’s commitment to community and research-led teaching supports graduates aiming for careers in consulting, finance, public policy, and socially responsible enterprise.
- Suggested course: International Business MSc
- Entry requirements: A recognised bachelor’s degree with strong grades (equivalent to UK 2:1), evidence of quantitative or analytical study for finance-related routes, and English proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall or TOEFL equivalent).
- Learn more about Queen Mary Business School Courses
Middlesex Business School has a long history of practice-focused education and industry collaboration, connecting students with corporations, SMEs, and professional bodies. Research at Middlesex is widely recognised, and programmes emphasise employability, applied learning, and real-world problem-solving.
With partnerships spanning CIPD, ICAEW, CMI, and others, students can pursue accredited pathways and develop professional credentials alongside their degrees. The School’s community ethos and London location offer strong networking and internship opportunities in a global business environment.
- Suggested course: Business Accounting BSc (Honours)
- Entry requirements: An internationally recognised upper secondary qualification for undergraduate entry (foundation options available), or a bachelor’s degree for postgraduate study; English proficiency typically required (e.g., IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall or TOEFL equivalent). Some programmes may request evidence of quantitative skills.
- Learn more about Middlesex Business School Courses
Study Business in London
If you want to learn more about the above schools or are interested in any aspect of studying in the UK, arrange a free consultation today. Our international education advisors can help guide you through your UCAS application, ensuring it is submitted without error.
FAQs
How much does it cost for international students to study business in the UK?
On average, undergraduate degrees range from £13,000 to £38,000 per year, while postgraduate courses may cost between £12,000 and £45,000 annually.
Is London a good place for international students to study?
Yes, London is a popular destination for international students. It offers high-quality education, a diverse cultural experience, and a chance to improve English language skills. Renowned universities, historic cities, and personal and professional growth opportunities make London attractive.
Which city in the UK is best for international students?
London is a top choice due to its world-class universities and vibrant cultural scene. Other cities like Edinburgh, Manchester, and Birmingham offer great academic environments and unique experiences.
What are the admission requirements for studying business in London?
Admission requirements vary by university and programme. Generally, international students must provide academic transcripts, English language proficiency scores (such as IELTS or Pearson PTE), letters of recommendation, personal statements, and sometimes standardised test scores (like the SAT or GRE).
