UK University · Ranked #44
SOAS University of London: Acceptance Rate & Admission Requirements (2026)
SOAS University of London is a moderately selective UK university in London, England, admitting around 58% of those who apply. Ranked #44 in the UK in our dataset, it rewards students who meet its academic benchmarks and submit a complete, on-time application — the bar is attainable for solid candidates and the process is more forgiving than at the most selective schools.
SOAS University of London is the world's leading institution for the study of Asia, Africa, and the Near and Middle East, offering a unique specialist perspective on global issues.
This guide breaks down SOAS'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.
SOAS University of London admission statistics
- Acceptance rate
- 58%
- Home fees
- $11,500
- International fees
- $24,000
- Enrollment
- 4,200
- Type
- Public
- Location
- London, England
How hard is it to get into SOAS University of London?
With 58% of applicants admitted, SOAS is moderately selective. The school admits the majority of students who meet its academic benchmarks, so the most common reasons for denial are an incomplete application, missing the deadline, or numbers that fall below the published ranges. Hitting the academic targets and applying on time is most of the battle.
For students who meet the numbers, SOAS is a target-to-likely school. Double-check that every required component is submitted before the deadline — completeness matters more than polish at this level.
Academic profile of admitted students
As a UK university, SOAS 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.
SOAS University of Londonapplication deadlines & strategy
- • Regular Decision: Jan 25
SOAS 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 SOAS University of London
- Asian & African Studies — a recognized area of strength at this institution.
- Development Studies — a recognized area of strength at this institution.
- Law — a strong pre-professional and graduate strength for this institution.
- Languages — a recognized area of strength at this institution.
- International Relations — a discipline that pairs well with the school's research and internship networks.
SOAS is particularly known for Asian & African Studies, Development Studies, Law, Languages, and International Relations.
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 SOAS University of London
Tuition at SOAS depends heavily on fee status. Home (UK) students pay around £11,500 per year, while international students pay approximately £24,000 — a difference of about £12,500 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.
What are your chances at SOAS University of London?
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SOAS University of London: frequently asked questions
- What is the acceptance rate at SOAS University of London?
- SOAS University of London has an acceptance rate of 58%, which makes it moderately selective. For students who meet the numbers, SOAS is a target-to-likely school. Double-check that every required component is submitted before the deadline — completeness matters more than polish at this level.
- What is the application deadline for SOAS University of London?
- SOAS University of London's application deadlines: Regular Decision is Jan 25. Submit a few days early to avoid last-minute portal problems.
- Is SOAS University of London affordable for international students?
- SOAS University of London is a UK university. Home (UK) students pay about £11,500 per year while international students pay roughly £24,000; budget for living costs in London on top of tuition.
- How much does it cost to attend SOAS University of London?
- Tuition at SOAS depends heavily on fee status. Home (UK) students pay around £11,500 per year, while international students pay approximately £24,000 — a difference of about £12,500 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.