Are you considering studying at the London School of Economics (LSE)? Perhaps you’ve heard rumors that it’s difficult to get in, or maybe you’re just curious about the application process. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how hard it really is to get into LSE.
Admissions Requirements
Firstly, let’s outline the admissions requirements for LSE. As with most universities, LSE has specific academic and non-academic criteria that applicants must meet. These include:
- Academic Requirements: Applicants are required to have excellent grades in their previous studies. For undergraduate courses, applicants must have completed their high school education and obtained a high score on their final exams. For graduate courses, applicants must have completed an undergraduate degree with a high grade point average.
- Standardized Tests: Depending on the course and program you’re applying for, you may be required to take standardized tests such as the SATs, ACTs, GREs or GMATs.
- Work Experience: For some graduate programs, relevant work experience is required as part of the application process.
- English Language Proficiency: As LSE is an English-speaking institution, applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in English by taking an approved language test such as IELTS or TOEFL.
Competition for Places
Now let’s talk about competition for places at LSE. The truth is that it’s highly competitive to secure a place at this prestigious institution. Each year, thousands of students apply from all over the world for relatively few places.
Undergraduate Admissions
For undergraduate admissions, LSE received over 21,000 applications for around 1,400 places in the 2020-2021 academic year. This means that the acceptance rate for undergraduate programs is around 6-7%.
Graduate Admissions
For graduate admissions, LSE received over 23,000 applications for around 2,800 places in the 2020-2021 academic year. This means that the acceptance rate for graduate programs is around 12%.
Tips for a Successful Application
If you’re serious about applying to LSE, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of success:
- Research: Take time to research the courses and programs offered by LSE and make sure they align with your interests and career goals.
- Academic Excellence: Ensure that your academic qualifications meet or exceed LSE’s requirements. Good grades and test scores are essential.
- Relevant Work Experience: If you’re applying for a graduate program, relevant work experience can be a plus.
- Strong Personal Statement: Your personal statement should showcase your passion and suitability for the course or program you’re applying for.
- References: Choose referees who know you well and can provide glowing references that highlight your strengths and achievements.
The Final Verdict
So, is it hard to get into London School of Economics? The answer is yes – it’s highly competitive.
However, if you have excellent grades, relevant experience, a strong application package and are passionate about studying at LSE, then there’s no reason why you shouldn’t apply. Just remember to do your research and give yourself plenty of time to complete your application. Good luck!