Kingston University London is a public university based in the historic town of Kingston upon Thames in South West London. It is one of the UK’s most internationally diverse and career-focused universities. This guide is for anyone considering studying here and is here to answer all your questions, from the admission process for UK home students and international students, when to apply for each intake, the tuition fees, how much it costs to live in Kingston as a student and a real honest comparison of living on campus vs. off campus. By the time you finish this article you’ll have a clear and realistic picture of what you can expect before, during and after you apply to Kingston University.
About Kingston University London
Kingston University was originally founded in 1899 as Kingston Technical Institute and gained full university status in 1992. Today it is home to just over 18,800 students, including around 14,800 undergraduates and 4,000 postgraduate students enrolled across the 2025/2026 academic year. The university is genuinely multicultural, welcoming students from over 140 countries, with approximately 1,500 new international students joining each year.
The university operates across four main campuses: Penrhyn Road Campus, Knights Park Campus, Kingston Hill Campus, and Roehampton Vale Campus. Each campus serves different faculties, and the university provides a free inter-site bus service to make travel between them easy for students.
Kingston University is particularly well regarded for its Kingston School of Art, which holds one of the top reputations in the world for fashion and design. Other strong subject areas include business and management, engineering, computing, nursing and health sciences, law, and social sciences. In the QS World University Rankings 2026, Kingston University is placed at number 660 globally, and it sits in the 801 to 1,000 band in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings.
The university's motto, "Through Learning We Progress," reflects its commitment to providing students with practical knowledge, industry connections, and the skills needed to build successful careers after graduation.
Kingston University Admission Process for Local (UK Home) Students
Undergraduate Applications
UK home students applying to Kingston University for an undergraduate degree must apply through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service, which is known as UCAS. This is the standard centralised application platform used by almost all UK universities. The UCAS institution code for Kingston University is K84. There is an application fee of £28.50 when applying through UCAS, which covers your application to multiple universities at once.
Through your UCAS application, you will need to provide details of your educational history, your predicted or achieved grades, a personal statement of around 4,000 characters explaining why you are applying for your chosen subject, and a reference from a teacher or academic who knows your work. Applications for undergraduate entry in September are assessed against the UCAS equal consideration deadline, which is typically in mid-January each year.
Academic entry requirements for undergraduate programmes at Kingston University vary by course. In general, home students need A-level qualifications (or equivalent qualifications such as BTEC, Access to Higher Education diplomas, or T-levels) with grades ranging from CCC to ABB depending on the specific programme. The university takes a holistic approach to admissions and also considers contextual factors and widening participation criteria.
UK undergraduate students are not required to pay tuition fees upfront. Instead, they can apply for a government-backed Tuition Fee Loan through Student Finance England (or equivalent bodies in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland). Repayments only begin after graduation and only when earnings exceed the relevant income threshold.
Postgraduate Applications for Home Students
Home students applying for postgraduate taught (master's) programmes at Kingston University apply directly through the university's online application portal, not through UCAS. Applications for most postgraduate courses are free of charge. Postgraduate admissions are largely rolling, meaning applications are reviewed and decisions are made on an ongoing basis rather than against a single annual deadline.
The typical academic entry requirement for most postgraduate programmes is an undergraduate degree with a minimum classification of 2:2 (Lower Second Class Honours) from a recognised UK university. Some programmes, particularly those in health, law, education, and research-focused disciplines, may require a 2:1. Relevant work experience may also be considered as part of the application, particularly for professionally oriented courses such as the MBA.
Kingston University Admission Process for International Students
Kingston University has a well-established and supportive process for international applicants. The university offers three intake periods each year, which is more than many other UK universities and provides greater flexibility for students who cannot meet a single annual deadline.
Intake Dates and Application Deadlines
The three annual intakes and their key deadlines for international students are as follows:
- September (Autumn) intake: This is the main and most popular intake for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Most courses are available in this intake. International applicants are strongly advised to apply at least three to four months before the September start date to allow adequate time for visa processing.
- January (Spring) intake: Selected postgraduate programmes offer a January start. The application deadline for the January 2026 intake was 12 December 2025. Late applications after this date are not accepted for this intake.
- March (Summer) intake: A smaller number of courses offer a March start date. The application deadline for the March 2026 intake was 30 January 2026.
How to Apply as an International Undergraduate Student
International students applying for undergraduate programmes at Kingston University apply through UCAS, following the same application process as home students. The application will ask for your academic qualifications, a personal statement, and a reference. International applicants should ensure that their qualifications are clearly described on the application so that the admissions team can evaluate them against the UK equivalent.
Once you receive a conditional or unconditional offer, you will need to meet any outstanding entry conditions, and for international students, this includes paying the required deposit before the university can issue your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). The CAS number is what you use to apply for your UK Student Visa.
How to Apply as an International Postgraduate Student
International students applying for master's programmes at Kingston University apply directly through the university's online postgraduate application system. Postgraduate taught applicants from outside the UK who require a Student Visa must pay a non-refundable deposit of £5,000 before their CAS is issued. You are exempt from this deposit only if you can provide evidence that an official financial sponsor, scholarship, or student loan fully covers your first-year tuition fees and living expenses of at least £13,761.
International students must pay a minimum of 50% of their tuition fee in advance before they can complete enrolment at Kingston University.
Academic Entry Requirements for International Students
Kingston University assesses international qualifications against their UK equivalent. The general academic requirements are:
- For undergraduate programmes: international students need qualifications equivalent to UK A-levels, typically achieving 60 to 65 percent or above in prior secondary or higher secondary education.
- For postgraduate programmes: international students need a bachelor's degree from a recognised university, typically with a score of at least 57 to 65 percent (which is broadly equivalent to a UK 2:2). Some programmes require a higher score equivalent to a UK 2:1.
English Language Requirements
All international applicants from countries where English is not the primary language of instruction must provide proof of English language proficiency. Kingston University accepts the following test scores:
| English Language Test | Minimum Score (Most Courses) | Minimum Score (Health/Law/Education) |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | 6.0 overall | 6.5 to 7.0 overall |
| TOEFL iBT | 80 | 90 to 100 |
| PTE Academic | 59 | 65 to 76 |
| Duolingo English Test | Check individual course page | Check individual course page |
Required Documents for International Applicants
When submitting your application to Kingston University as an international student, you will typically need to provide the following documents:
- Completed application form (via UCAS for undergraduate, or the Kingston University portal for postgraduate)
- Official academic transcripts and certificates for all previous qualifications
- Valid English language test score (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or accepted equivalent)
- A clear personal statement explaining your motivation and suitability for the programme
- At least two academic or professional references
- A copy of your valid passport
- Curriculum vitae or resume (required for some postgraduate programmes)
- Research proposal (for MPhil and PhD applicants)
- Financial evidence showing you can fund your tuition and living costs
Kingston University Tuition Fees 2025/2026
Tuition fees at Kingston University vary depending on your level of study, your fee status (home or international), and the specific course you choose. Below is a clear breakdown of what to expect.
Tuition Fees by Programme Level and Student Status
| Programme Level | UK Home Students (per year) | International Students (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (BA, BSc, BEng) | £9,250 | £16,200 to £19,900 |
| Postgraduate Taught (MSc, MA, MBA) | Varies by course | £17,000 to £25,000 |
| PhD / Research Degrees (MPhil) | Varies by department | Varies by department |
It is important to note that international fees at Kingston University are subject to an annual increase, and the university publishes fees in advance for the full duration of the programme so that students can plan their budgets ahead of time. Home fees may also increase slightly each year in line with regulatory caps set by the Office for Students.
In addition to tuition fees, international students applying for a UK Student Visa should budget for a visa application fee of £524 and an Immigration Health Surcharge of £776 per year of study (after the 25% student discount). These are one-off and annual costs charged by the UK government, not by the university.
Popular Programmes at Kingston University and Their Fees
| Programme | Level | Duration | International Fee (per year) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Management | Undergraduate (BA) | 3 years | approx. £16,200 |
| Computer Science | Undergraduate (BSc) | 3 years | approx. £17,200 |
| Nursing (Adult) | Undergraduate (BSc) | 3 years | approx. £17,000 |
| Mechanical Engineering | Undergraduate (BEng) | 3 years | approx. £17,200 |
| Graphic Design | Undergraduate (BA) | 3 years | approx. £19,900 |
| Data Science | Postgraduate (MSc) | 1 year | approx. £17,000 |
| Software Engineering | Postgraduate (MSc) | 1 year | approx. £17,000 |
| International Business | Postgraduate (MSc) | 1 year | approx. £18,000 |
| MBA (Full-time) | Postgraduate (MBA) | 1 year | approx. £25,000 |
| Biomedical Science | Undergraduate (BSc) | 3 years | approx. £17,000 |
Always verify the exact fee for your specific course on the Kingston University fees and funding page, as fees are course-specific and subject to annual revision.
On-Campus Life at Kingston University: Halls of Residence
Kingston University offers just over 2,300 rooms across five halls of residence, and first-year undergraduate students receive priority access to these rooms. The halls are all self-catered, meaning students cook their own meals in shared kitchens. All university halls include free Wi-Fi, on-site launderette facilities, on-site security, and communal social spaces.
The five halls of residence are:
- Seething Wells: Kingston University's largest hall, with 886 rooms that have been recently renovated. Located in Surbiton, it is a popular choice for students studying at the Penrhyn Road and Knights Park campuses. It features a basketball court, a large indoor common area, and green outdoor spaces.
- Clayhill: Located in leafy Surbiton close to the Penrhyn Road and Knights Park campuses, Clayhill offers over 700 en-suite rooms and has a common room on site.
- Chancellors Hall: A modern, eco-friendly hall located at Kingston Hill campus with 284 stylish en-suite rooms. Ideal for students studying at Kingston Hill and Roehampton Vale campuses. Richmond Park is just a 30-minute walk away.
- Walkden Hall: Also located at Kingston Hill campus, Walkden Hall offers modern en-suite rooms just minutes from lectures at that campus.
- Middle Mill: Located at Knights Park campus, Middle Mill is particularly convenient for Kingston School of Art students and those at Penrhyn Road. Rooms are priced at around £169 per week.
To reserve a room in university halls, students pay a £250 advance fee. Payment is then made in instalments through the university portal, typically split as 40% in October, 40% in January, and 20% in May for a standard 40-week undergraduate licence.
Cost of University Halls of Residence
| Hall Name | Room Type | Weekly Cost | Bills Included? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seething Wells | Micro en-suite | £120 | Yes |
| Seething Wells | Standard en-suite | £194 | Yes |
| Seething Wells | Premium en-suite | £216 | Yes |
| Middle Mill | Standard room (with hand basin) | £169 | Yes |
| Chancellors Hall | En-suite | From £150 | Yes |
| Walkden Hall | En-suite | From £145 | Yes |
An average semester of on-campus accommodation at Kingston University costs approximately £5,830, based on standard room types across the halls. Since all bills are included, this figure is comprehensive and easy to plan around.
Pros of Living On Campus at Kingston University
- All utility bills (heating, lighting, hot water) are included in the weekly price.
- Wi-Fi is provided across all halls at no additional cost.
- You are close to campus, reducing travel time and transport costs.
- First-year students benefit from built-in community and social life in halls, which makes settling into university easier.
- Security is on-site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- The university's free inter-site bus is available to residents needing to travel between campuses.
- Applications for accommodation can be made as soon as you receive an offer, and booking early gives you more room choice.
Cons of Living On Campus at Kingston University
- University halls are primarily available to first-year undergraduate students. Returning students must typically arrange private accommodation from their second year.
- Spaces are limited and allocated on a self-selection basis, so applying early is essential.
- All halls are self-catered, meaning you must buy and cook your own food. There is no catered dining hall option available.
- Some halls, such as Seething Wells and Clayhill, are a 20 to 30-minute walk from certain campuses, though the free bus makes this manageable.
- Room sizes and layouts vary across the halls, and premium rooms come at a notably higher weekly cost.
Off-Campus Life Near Kingston University
From the second year of study onwards, the majority of Kingston University students move into private accommodation. Kingston upon Thames and the surrounding areas of Surbiton, New Malden, Tolworth, and Kingston town centre all offer a range of rental options suitable for students. While the area is more expensive than cities in the North of England, it is considerably more affordable than central London.
Popular off-campus private halls near Kingston University include developments such as One Penrhyn Road and ViBe Student Living, both of which are located close to the Penrhyn Road campus and are regularly recommended by current students. For those willing to be a short bus or train ride away, options such as The Paragon offer solid value with reliable transport links back into Kingston town centre.
Types of Off-Campus Accommodation
- Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA): These are private halls developed specifically for students. They typically include en-suite rooms or studio apartments with bills included, communal social spaces, on-site gyms, and 24-hour security. Prices generally range from £150 to £250 per week depending on the provider and room type.
- Shared private houses or flats: The most popular option for second and third-year students. Sharing a house or flat with two to five other students typically costs between £500 and £800 per month per person in the Kingston area. Utility bills are usually charged separately, adding an estimated £80 to £150 per month.
- Private studio or one-bedroom apartments: The most expensive off-campus option, with rents starting at around £1,200 to £1,525 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in or near Kingston town centre. These suit students who want privacy and independence but come at a significant premium.
Cost of Off-Campus Accommodation Near Kingston University
| Accommodation Type | Monthly Cost | Bills Included? |
|---|---|---|
| Shared house or flat (per person) | £500 to £800 | Usually separate |
| Private PBSA en-suite room | £650 to £900 | Usually yes |
| Private studio apartment | £1,000 to £1,400 | Varies |
| One-bedroom apartment (city centre) | £1,413 to £1,525 | Usually separate |
Pros of Living Off Campus Near Kingston University
- Greater independence and freedom compared to university halls.
- Shared houses are often more spacious than halls rooms for a similar or lower price per person.
- Students can choose who they live with from the second year onward.
- Longer and more flexible tenancy agreements compared to university halls, which typically only cover the academic year.
- Access to a wider range of neighbourhoods, some of which may suit your personal lifestyle and social preferences better than the campus area.
Cons of Living Off Campus Near Kingston University
- Utility bills are almost always separate in private rentals, adding £80 to £200 per month to your rent.
- You are responsible for setting up and managing your broadband, gas, electricity, and council tax exemption (which students are entitled to apply for).
- Commuting costs may rise if you are living further from campus. A monthly public transport pass in the Kingston area typically costs around £32 or more depending on zones.
- Private rental contracts are legally binding and require more careful reading and financial commitment upfront, including holding deposits and references.
- Finding suitable accommodation can be competitive, especially during peak periods between January and May each year.
On Campus vs Off Campus: Summary Comparison
| Factor | On Campus (University Halls) | Off Campus (Private Accommodation) |
|---|---|---|
| Weekly / Monthly Cost | £120 to £216 per week | £500 to £1,525 per month |
| Bills Included | Yes (all included) | Usually no (add £80 to £200/month) |
| Distance to Campus | On campus or very close | Varies; may need bus or train |
| Social Life | Strong built-in community | More independent, self-managed |
| Contract Length | Academic year (approx. 40 weeks) | Flexible (42 to 52 weeks typical) |
| Availability | Priority for first-year students | Open to all year groups |
| Privacy | Shared common areas and kitchens | Greater privacy, especially in studios |
| Security | 24/7 on-site security | Varies by property |
Cost of Living in Kingston upon Thames for Students
Kingston upon Thames sits in South West London and strikes a balance between the convenience of London life and lower costs compared to central London zones. Students here have direct access to London's transport network, employment opportunities, and cultural life, but with rents and daily expenses that are noticeably more manageable than Zone 1 or Zone 2.
The overall monthly cost of living in Kingston upon Thames for a student ranges from approximately £1,300 to £2,432, including accommodation. Without accommodation, day-to-day living expenses for a single person are estimated at around £917 per month, covering food, transport, personal care, and entertainment.
Monthly Living Cost Breakdown for Kingston Students
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (on campus, mid-range) | £600 to £870 |
| Food and Groceries | £250 to £360 |
| Transport (local buses, trams, Oyster) | £32 to £150 |
| Mobile Phone and Internet | £20 to £45 |
| Books and Study Materials | £30 to £60 |
| Personal Care and Clothing | £50 to £100 |
| Entertainment and Social Life | £100 to £200 |
| Total (Budget Lifestyle) | approx. £1,300 per month |
| Total (Comfortable Lifestyle) | approx. £1,800 to £2,432 per month |
Students in Kingston upon Thames benefit from the 18+ Student Oyster photocard, which provides a 30% discount on Tube, bus, and DLR travel across London, making commuting significantly cheaper. A one-way ticket on local transport costs approximately £2, and a monthly travel pass is typically around £32 for local bus travel. Commuting further into central London adds to this figure depending on the zones you travel through.
The UK Home Office requires international students applying for a Student Visa to show they have access to at least £1,334 per month for each month of study when the course is based in London. This figure is the minimum required for visa purposes and does not include tuition fees.
Scholarships and Financial Support at Kingston University
Kingston University recognises that studying in London can be financially demanding and offers several scholarships and bursaries to help reduce costs for eligible students. International students can receive up to £5,000 off their tuition fees through the university's international scholarships. Country-specific scholarships are also available for students from particular regions, and details are available on the university's website.
Beyond university-funded awards, international students are also encouraged to research external funding sources such as Chevening Scholarships (for postgraduate study), Commonwealth Scholarships, and scholarships offered by their own national governments or professional bodies. Kingston University's Careers and Employability Service and the International Student Support team provide guidance on finding and applying for these awards.
To explore all available funding options, visit the Kingston University international fees and funding page.
Tips for a Successful Application to Kingston University
- Research your chosen programme thoroughly. Read the course specification carefully and make sure your personal statement directly addresses why you are suited to that specific subject area at Kingston University.
- Apply early, especially for the September intake. International students should aim to have their application complete no later than May or June to allow adequate time for their Student Visa to be processed.
- Prepare all your documents before you start your application so that it is complete from day one. An incomplete application can cause significant delays.
- If you are from Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, or Sri Lanka, Kingston University strongly encourages you to complete the Pre-CAS interview by the dates specified in your intake timeline. This interview is part of the CAS Shield process designed to ensure your CAS is issued promptly.
- Apply for university accommodation as soon as you accept your offer, particularly if you are a first-year student. Spaces are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis and good rooms fill up quickly.
- Check whether your English language test score meets the specific requirement for your chosen course rather than relying on the general minimum. Health, law, and education programmes often have higher language requirements.
- Explore all available scholarships before you enrol. Some awards require applications to be submitted before or shortly after your admissions application, so do not leave this too late.
How to Apply to Kingston University
Here is how to take the next step and submit your application:
- For undergraduate programmes: apply through the UCAS undergraduate application system using institution code K84.
- For postgraduate and research programmes: apply directly through the Kingston University postgraduate online application portal.
- For information about specific admission timelines and CAS requirements as an international student, visit the Kingston University international admissions timeline page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Kingston University Admissions
What is the acceptance rate at Kingston University?
Kingston University London has an acceptance rate estimated between 20 and 30 percent. The university welcomes approximately 1,500 new international students every year from over 140 countries, making it a genuinely global institution that values diversity in its student community.
When should international students apply to Kingston University?
Kingston University offers three intakes per year: September, January, and March. For the January 2026 intake, the application deadline was 12 December 2025, and for March 2026, it was 30 January 2026. For the September intake, international students are advised to apply at least three to four months in advance to allow time for their UK Student Visa to be processed and approved.
How much are tuition fees at Kingston University for international students?
International undergraduate students pay approximately £16,200 to £19,900 per year depending on the course. Postgraduate taught programmes cost between £17,000 and £25,000 per year. The MBA at the higher end is priced at approximately £25,000. Fees are published in advance for the full duration of programmes to help students plan their finances.
How much does it cost to live in Kingston upon Thames as a student?
The monthly cost of living in Kingston upon Thames for a student typically ranges between £1,300 and £2,432, including accommodation. Without rent, basic day-to-day living costs are around £917 per month. The UK Home Office requires international students to show funds of at least £1,334 per month for visa purposes when studying in London.
Is it cheaper to live on campus or off campus at Kingston University?
University halls cost between £120 and £216 per week with all bills included. Off-campus shared houses typically cost between £500 and £800 per month per person, with bills usually separate. For first-year students, on-campus living often works out more cost-effective once bills are included. From second year, sharing a private house tends to be the most budget-friendly option for most students.
What English language test score do I need for Kingston University?
Most courses require a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 overall, a TOEFL iBT score of 80, or a PTE Academic score of 59. Some postgraduate programmes, particularly those in health sciences, law, and education, require a higher IELTS score of 6.5 or 7.0. Always check the individual course page for the exact requirement.
Does Kingston University offer scholarships for international students?
Yes. Kingston University offers scholarships worth up to £5,000 off tuition fees for eligible international students. The university also has country-specific bursaries and partnerships with external funding bodies. Students can get support from the university's International Student Support team to identify and apply for suitable awards.
Final Thoughts
Kingston University London provides a full university experience with a strong emphasis on preparing for a career in one of the world’s most exciting cities. It has a flexible intake calendar, accessible entry requirements, strong support for international students and location only 30 minutes from central London, making it a genuinely attractive proposition for students from the UK and from all over the world.
Living in Kingston upon Thames, students have the opportunities of London without the full cost of living in the city centre. Academically, Kingston University provides a rewarding experience, and financially, is manageable with proper preparations, early application and smart budgeting between on-campus and off-campus living.nly academically rewarding but financially manageable.
If you are ready to take the next step, visit the Kingston University international students page to find everything you need to start your application today.