UK University · Ranked #5
London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE): Acceptance Rate & Admission Requirements (2026)
London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) is a highly selective UK university that admits roughly 13.4% of applicants. Set in London, England and ranked #5 in the UK in our dataset, London School of Economics and Political Science attracts a deep, accomplished applicant pool, so a strong academic record is the entry ticket rather than the deciding factor. Successful candidates typically pair excellent grades with a clear, well-articulated reason for applying here specifically.
LSE is the world's leading dedicated social science institution, with a unique concentration of teaching and research across the full range of social, political, and economic sciences.
This guide breaks down London School of Economics and Political Science's selectivity, 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.
London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) admission statistics
- Acceptance rate
- 13.4%
- Home fees
- $11,500
- International fees
- $31,250
- Enrollment
- 5,500
- Type
- Public
- Location
- London, England
How hard is it to get into London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)?
An acceptance rate of 13.4% places London School of Economics and Political Science firmly in the highly selective category. Academic excellence is necessary but not sufficient here: the majority of denied applicants are fully qualified on paper. Decisions turn on the strength of essays, recommendations, and demonstrated depth in a few areas rather than a long list of activities.
Plan for London School of Economics and Political Science as a reach. Make sure your list includes target and likely schools, and use your essays to show depth and a specific reason this school fits your goals.
Academic profile of admitted students
As a UK university, London School of Economics and Political Science 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.
London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)application deadlines & strategy
- • Regular Decision: Jan 25
London School of Economics and Political Science 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 London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
- Economics — one of the most popular majors nationally and a strong feeder to graduate and professional study.
- Political Science — a discipline that pairs well with the school's research and internship networks.
- International Relations — a discipline that pairs well with the school's research and internship networks.
- Law — a strong pre-professional and graduate strength for this institution.
- Finance — often admitted directly into a named school with its own requirements.
London School of Economics and Political Science is particularly known for Economics, Political Science, International Relations, Law, and Finance.
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 London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
Tuition at London School of Economics and Political Science depends heavily on fee status. Home (UK) students pay around £11,500 per year, while international students pay approximately £31,250 — a difference of about £19,750 annually. International applicants should factor this gap, plus living costs in London, into their planning, and verify the exact fee for their specific course since rates vary by subject.
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London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE): frequently asked questions
- What is the acceptance rate at London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)?
- London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) has an acceptance rate of 13.4%, which makes it highly selective. Plan for London School of Economics and Political Science as a reach. Make sure your list includes target and likely schools, and use your essays to show depth and a specific reason this school fits your goals.
- What is the application deadline for London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)?
- London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)'s application deadlines: Regular Decision is Jan 25. Submit a few days early to avoid last-minute portal problems.
- Is London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) affordable for international students?
- London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) is a UK university. Home (UK) students pay about £11,500 per year while international students pay roughly £31,250; budget for living costs in London on top of tuition.
- How much does it cost to attend London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)?
- Tuition at London School of Economics and Political Science depends heavily on fee status. Home (UK) students pay around £11,500 per year, while international students pay approximately £31,250 — a difference of about £19,750 annually. International applicants should factor this gap, plus living costs in London, into their planning, and verify the exact fee for their specific course since rates vary by subject.