London School of Economics

Overview

The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) is renowned as a world class centre for its concentration of teaching and research across the full range of the social, political and economic sciences. Founded in 1895 by Beatrice and Sidney Webb, the LSE has an outstanding reputation for academic excellence.
The London School of Economics and Political Science is the UK’s most international university. More than half of the LSE’s students are classified as international or overseas. The study of social, economic and political problems covers not only the UK and European Union, but also countries of every continent. From its foundation the LSE has aimed to be a laboratory of the social sciences, a place where ideas are developed, analysed, evaluated and disseminated around the globe.
The academic excellence of the London School of Economics and Political Science is reflected in the fact that it has produced 29 heads of state and 13 Nobel prizewinners during its 100+ years of existence.

Ranking

The London School of Economics was ranked 4th in the Times Good University Guide 2009. The LSE was also ranked 2nd for the quality of its research and 3rd for graduate prospects. The LSE was placed second only to Harvard University in the Time Higher Education/QS world rankings for Social Science.

Services for International Students

With around two-thirds of the LSE’s students arriving from outside the UK, the School is one of the best able in the country to deal with the issues that affect international students. The advice team at the Student Services Centre can provide information about all administrative services relating to admissions, registry, courses and assessment, examinations, ceremonies and financial support.
English language support is another priority and the Language Centre at the LSE reflects the specialist nature of the School itself, where quality of research and teaching is paramount. The Language Centre provides English language support to current students and staff of LSE as well as programmes for prospective students.

Accommodation

Both private and LSE-provided housing options are available through the Accommodation Office. The LSE has some halls of residences for first year undergraduate students and a wider range of accommodation is available through its partner institutions in the University of London.
However, please note when applying that the LSE is unable to guarantee all students a place in residences and in fact the majority of students, particularly postgraduates, choose to live in privately rented housing. You should bear in mind that London is the most expensive place to live in the UK and the LSE's own very general estimate of minimum living costs for the 2008/09 academic session is £1000 per month. The Accommodation Office will assist you in finding the most affordable housing during your stay.

Campus

The London School of Economics and Political Science is located in the City district of London, one of the world’s richest and most dynamic capitals. The foundation stone of the Old Building, still the main building of the LSE, was laid by King George V in May 1920. Recently, the LSE has been able to acquire some Government buildings near its original site and plans to expand its student intake by 20%.
The LSE’s greatest treasure is undoubtedly its library, the largest in the world devoted exclusively to the social sciences. Founded a year after the School, it is also known as the British Library of Political and Economic Science and provides a specialist national and international research collection. In 2001 architects Foster and Partners redeveloped the Lionel Robbins Building, which houses the Library, into a modern, energy efficient and visually stunning space.

Health centre

There is a Medical Centre at the LSE with all students’ healthcare needs covered. All students have full access to the Centre and all health care fees are fully covered by the National Health Service for full-time students.

Location

The London School of Economics and Political Science is centrally located in one of the world’s most dynamic cities. The financial district and the popular tourist spots of Covent Garden, Leicester Square and the South Bank are all within walking distance of the School buildings. London’s vast selection of museums, galleries, parks and other attractions, many of them free of charge, ensures that LSE students will never grow bored during their stay. London is served by five international airports and well connected by rail to Paris, Brussels and the historical and cultural delights spread throughout the rest of the UK.
URL: www.lse.ac.uk