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Lancaster University

Lancaster, England

  • TEF Gold
  • #164 QS World
  • #24 UK
#164QS World Ranking
#24UK Ranking
GoldTEF Rating
85%Satisfaction
79.1%Employment
£28,500Avg. Salary

About Lancaster University

A top-15 UK university with a collegiate system, set on a self-contained campus overlooking the Lake District. Lancaster University is a university based in Lancaster, holding a Gold Teaching Excellence Framework rating. Lancaster combines academic excellence with an intimate, supportive environment. Its management school holds the triple crown of international accreditations — only 1% of business schools worldwide achieve this.

In the latest rankings, Lancaster University is positioned #157 in the QS World Rankings 2026; #184 in the THE World Rankings 2026; #10 in the Guardian University Guide (UK).

The university has approximately 18,620 students, with a diverse international community representing 83 nationalities. The largest international cohorts come from China, India, and Hong Kong.

Lancaster University currently lists 165 courses on CourseOptions, spanning 72 undergraduate and 93 postgraduate programmes. There are 12 scholarships available for international students.

Graduate outcomes are excellent: 91% of graduates go into employment or further study within 15 months, and the median graduate salary is £28,500, rising to £35,400 after five years.

Student satisfaction is strong, with an NSS teaching satisfaction score of 89% and a continuation rate of 94%.

Green campus, strong community, stunning natural surroundings. The Lake District is 20 minutes away.

Founded1964
Total Students18,620+
Campus TypeSuburban

What is Lancaster University's Ranking in 2026?

Lancaster University is ranked #164 in the world by QS World University Rankings 2026 and #24 in the UK by the Complete University Guide.

Ranking SystemPosition
QS World University Rankings 2026#164
Times Higher Education 2026#184
Guardian University Guide (UK)#10
The Complete University Guide (UK)#24

Source: QS, THE, CUG, Guardian — Updated January 2026

What Percentage of Graduates Get Jobs?

79.1% of graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation.

79.1%Employed
11.2%Further Study
12.6%Studying & Working
5%Unemployed

Salary Progression

Time After GraduationMedian SalaryUK AverageDifference
15 months£28,500£26,220+9%
3 years£28,500£26,220+9%
5 years£35,400£32,568+9%

Source: HESA Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) 2025

Official Data

These figures represent institution-wide averages across all subject areas and study modes. Actual graduate outcomes vary by course and cohort. For course-specific data, visit Discover Uni at Discover Uni.

How Satisfied Are Students?

Has an 85% overall satisfaction rate according to the National Student Survey (NSS) 2025.

85%Overall
Teaching Quality88.5%
Learning Resources91.6%
Academic Support90.2%
Assessment77.6%
Organisation84.6%
Student Voice78.1%

Source: National Student Survey (NSS) 2025.

Official Data

These figures represent institution-wide averages across all courses and may not reflect satisfaction for a specific course. For course-level data, visit Discover Uni at Discover Uni.

How Many International Students Study Here?

22.4% of students are international, representing 83+ countries. Total international students: 4,165.

4,165International Students
22.4%of Student Body
83+Countries
CountriesStudentsPercentage
China1,71041.1%
India4109.8%
Hong Kong2455.9%
Spain1603.8%
Malaysia1303.1%
Saudi Arabia1202.9%
Pakistan1102.6%
United Arab Emirates801.9%
Taiwan751.8%
Thailand601.4%

Source: HESA official data.

Courses at Lancaster University

View All 526+ Courses →

Scholarships for International Students

We found 11 scholarships you may be eligible for based on your location.

Showing 5 of 11 scholarships

View all 11 scholarships at Lancaster University →

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick Facts

TypeUniversity
Founded1964
Total Students18,620+
International Students22.4%

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