Early Action Acceptance Rates for the Class of 2029
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Imperial College London Acceptance Rates and Entry Requirements
13/01/2025•23 minute read
Competing with academic legends such as the University of Oxford and Cambridge, Imperial College London has been ranked 3rd in the best universities in the UK 2025 rankings, and 9th in the World University Rankings 2025. Famous for its prime specialisation in STEM subjects, Medicine, as well as its high-class global reputation and research excellence in AI and climate change, Imperial College London stands as one of the most desirable institutions to study at by many ambitious students worldwide. The competition is fierce and applicants are challenged to beat acceptance rates as low as 10%. Luckily, Crimson has a proven track of student success in achieving dream acceptance with their determination and our guided personalised support and an early prep start. But what does it actually take to stand out? This blog post is a go-to guide for school students in the UK and Europe aspiring to study in the Imperial College London. It covers the latest acceptance rates across different subjects, entry requirements and least and most competitive courses.
Imperial College London Undergraduate Acceptance Rates 2024
Ever wondered why this university is so selective? Let’s review some key facts about why Imperial College London has deserved its prestige.
Nestling in the capital of London and founded in 1907, it has ever been merged with the Royal College of Science, City and Guilds College and the Royal School of Mines. The university prides itself on 14 Nobel prize winners and notable alumni such as Sir Alexander Fleming, who discovered penicillin, Rajiv Gandi, the former Prime Minister of India, and Julius Vogel, the prime minister of New Zealand. Imperial College London even issued an honorary degree to Jeff Bezoz for his achievements in technology. Nevertheless, Imperial College London has also been ranked 11th in the Global Employability Rankings 2025, with its starting undergraduate salary being around £34,000. Being a leader in most educational rankings showcases its tough student filtering system and low acceptance rates. Let's compare how these rates have changed over the past five years.
Imperial College London Undergraduate Acceptance Rates
| Year | Applications | Admitted Students | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-2024 | 30,039 | 3,032 | 9.9% |
| 2021-2022 | 28,866 | 3,191 | 9% |
| 2020-2021 | 26,133 | 3,203 | 8.2% |
| 2019-2020 | 23,470 | 2,777 | 8.5% |
| 2018-2019 | 21,070 | 2,685 | 7.8% |
Source: Imperial College London - Statistics Guide
Generally, Imperial College London has an acceptance rate of approximately 10% for undergraduate programmes. In the 2023-2024 cycle, Imperial College London received the highest amount of applications 30,039 and only 3,032 applicants were admitted. Due to the university’s growing prestige, the number of applications has risen significantly in the past 5 years, meaning aspiring students need to go above and beyond their academics and supercurriculars to stand out!Â
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Course-Based Acceptance Rate
Acceptance rates can change depending on the programme or faculty you're applying for. Here are some statistics for the most and the least competitive programmes at Imperial College London.
Most Competitive Programmes at Imperial College London
| Programme | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| Computing | 19.9% |
| Mathematics | 12.4% |
| Mechanical Engineering | 11.1% |
| Life Sciences | 10.6% |
| Electrical and Electronic Engineering | 8.2% |
Source: Imperial College London - Statistics Guide 2023-2024
Least Competitive Programmes at Imperial College London
| Programme | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| Earth Science and Engineering | 5.5% |
| Bioengineering | 4.7% |
| Chemical Engineering | 5.5% |
| Chemistry | 6.9% |
| Materials | 4.9% |
Source: Imperial College London - Statistics Guide 2023-2024
For a complete breakdown of admission statistics at Imperial College London, check out the Imperial College London Statistics Guide
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Entry Requirements for UK and International Students from Europe
To get into Imperial College all UK and international students from Europe must apply through UCAS (University and Colleges Admissions Service) and are expected to meet its meticulous admission requirements despite the geographical origins of their applications. All applicants must demonstrate stellar academic excellence with strong enthusiasm and investment in relevant subjects and their chosen major. The standard university’s entry requirement is usually meeting A*AA to A*A*A in A-Level with some competitive programmes being even more demanding. Imperial College London also recognises various international qualifications such as International Baccalaureate (IB) or European Baccalaureate, therefore all overseas students must check the requirements for their qualifications before applying.
Below are the main standard entry requirements:
A-Levels
UK students are expected to meet straight AAA or A*A*A for most of the courses, with even higher requirements for specific courses such as medicine or computing. Applicants should check individual programmes for exact requirements as they vary from course to course.
International Baccalaureate
A total score of 38-42, with scores of 6-7 in relevant subjects at a higher level.
Other International Qualifications
The university recognises many other international qualifications such as European Baccalaureate, French Baccalaureate, or Abitur, thus aspiring students are encouraged to check accepted qualifications on Imperial College London’s website.
Admission Tests
In certain departments, students are required to pass specific computer-based admissions tests to help the admissions officers measure the applicant’s suitability for the course.
For example, the below admissions tests are mandatory for students applying to engineering, medicine or mathematics:
- Engineering: The Engineering and Science Admissions Test (ESAT)
- Medicine: University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT)
- Medicine: University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT)
Personal Statement
One of the key ways to stand out in your application is to write a compelling personal statement. It is a golden opportunity for all applicants to demonstrate their academic achievements, enthusiasm for the selected programme and any leadership supercurriculars. However, it is important to acknowledge that for the 2026 entry, UCAS has revised the traditional personal statement essay requirements and will be replacing it with three sections each representing different questions. While academic achievements are important, Imperial College London also values well-rounded applicants. Supercurricular activities, community involvement, and personal achievements can help demonstrate your passion, skills, and leadership potential and are strongly encouraged to be thoughtfully included in your applications.
Letters of Recommendation
Another important document that students must submit with their applications is a teacher’s recommendation. It must be obtained from a teacher who has taught you a relevant subject and could give a thoroughly positive review of your abilities, achievements and participation in school.
English Language Proficiency
All UK or International Students from Europe must meet at least the standard English language proficiency requirements of the approved tests or prove that they are exempt.
Below are some of the university’s approved English language qualifications:
- Duolingo English Test
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System) 6.5 overall
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) 92 overall
- International Baccalaureate (English language Grade 4)
- European Baccalaureate (English as a First Language Grade 6)
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FAQs
When was Imperial College London founded?
Imperial College London was founded in 1907.
Where is Imperial College London?
Imperial College London is located in London, United Kingdom. Its main campus is situated in the South Kensington area of London, which is known for its museums, parks, and cultural attractions.
Does Imperial College London give scholarships?
Yes, Imperial College London offers a variety of scholarships and funding opportunities to its students, including merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, and scholarships specifically targeted at certain fields of study or nationalities. Prospective students can visit the Imperial College London website for more information on available scholarships and how to apply.
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