UK University · Ranked #28
Loughborough University: Acceptance Rate & Admission Requirements (2026)
Loughborough University is an accessible UK university in Loughborough, England with an acceptance rate of roughly 68%, meaning most qualified applicants are admitted. Ranked #28 in the UK in our dataset, it is a strong choice for a likely or safety school: meeting the published academic minimums and applying before the deadline puts most students in good standing.
Loughborough University is the world's number one university for sports-related subjects and is consistently top-ranked for student experience in the UK.
This guide breaks down Loughborough's admission requirements, the academic profile of admitted students, how its application deadlines should shape your strategy, and the programs it is best known for — followed by answers to the questions applicants ask most.
Loughborough University admission statistics
- Acceptance rate
- 68%
- Home fees
- $11,500
- International fees
- $26,250
- Enrollment
- 13,500
- Type
- Public
- Location
- Loughborough, England
How hard is it to get into Loughborough University?
An acceptance rate of 68% makes Loughborough an accessible school where most qualified applicants are offered admission. For students who meet the published academic minimums, this functions as a likely or safety option. The priority is a complete, accurate, on-time application rather than a polished competitive narrative.
Loughborough is a sensible likely or safety school. Confirm you meet the stated minimums, submit your application early in the cycle, and keep it clean and complete.
Academic profile of admitted students
As a UK university, Loughborough does not use the SAT or US-style GPA. Admission is driven primarily by predicted and achieved grades in school-leaving qualifications (such as A-levels or the IB), subject-specific entry requirements for the chosen course, and — for many courses — an admissions test and/or interview. Applicants should research the exact grade requirements for their specific course rather than a single university-wide threshold.
Loughborough Universityapplication deadlines & strategy
- • Regular Decision: Jan 25
Loughborough operates on a single Regular Decision deadline of Jan 25, with no early round in our dataset. Without an early option, the practical advice is to treat Jan 25 as a hard target, finalize essays and recommendations well in advance, and submit a few days early to avoid last-minute portal issues.
Whichever round you choose, give recommenders at least three to four weeks of notice and budget time for essay revisions — the strongest applications are rarely written in the final week before Jan 25.
Notable programs at Loughborough University
- Sport Science — a recognized area of strength at this institution.
- Engineering — typically a more selective track with specific math and science prerequisites.
- Design — frequently requiring a portfolio or audition in addition to the standard application.
- Business — often admitted directly into a named school with its own requirements.
- Communication & Media Studies — a professionally oriented program with strong industry ties.
Loughborough is particularly known for Sport Science, Engineering, Design, Business, and Communication & Media Studies.
Strong programs matter for admissions because many schools admit by college or major, and a credible, specific interest in one of these areas — reflected in your coursework, activities, and essays — is far more persuasive than a generic application.
Cost of attending Loughborough University
Tuition at Loughborough depends heavily on fee status. Home (UK) students pay around £11,500 per year, while international students pay approximately £26,250 — a difference of about £14,750 annually. International applicants should factor this gap, plus living costs in Loughborough, into their planning, and verify the exact fee for their specific course since rates vary by subject.
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Loughborough University: frequently asked questions
- What is the acceptance rate at Loughborough University?
- Loughborough University has an acceptance rate of 68%, which makes it accessible. Loughborough is a sensible likely or safety school. Confirm you meet the stated minimums, submit your application early in the cycle, and keep it clean and complete.
- What is the application deadline for Loughborough University?
- Loughborough University's application deadlines: Regular Decision is Jan 25. Submit a few days early to avoid last-minute portal problems.
- Is Loughborough University affordable for international students?
- Loughborough University is a UK university. Home (UK) students pay about £11,500 per year while international students pay roughly £26,250; budget for living costs in Loughborough on top of tuition.
- How much does it cost to attend Loughborough University?
- Tuition at Loughborough depends heavily on fee status. Home (UK) students pay around £11,500 per year, while international students pay approximately £26,250 — a difference of about £14,750 annually. International applicants should factor this gap, plus living costs in Loughborough, into their planning, and verify the exact fee for their specific course since rates vary by subject.