Erasmus guide Imperial College London
Courses, housing, visa, campus life and exchange basics for studying at Imperial College London in London, UK.
Study abroad at Imperial College London: overview
Study abroad at Imperial College London means choosing a world top-5 university specialized exclusively in STEM, medicine, and business — located in South Kensington, offering intense, elite scientific education. In practice, the useful context is enrollment: ~22,000; international mix: ~9,000 (~41%); academically it fits best around Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Sciences, Physics, Computing and AI. The part to check without romanticising it: London housing costs and department-level course approval can matter as much as the brand.
Enrollment
~22,000
International Mix
~9,000 (~41%)
Why students choose it
Best fit: students who want Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Sciences, Physics, Computing and AI in London, with a course list that genuinely matches their home degree. Do not choose it on reputation alone; watch this trade-off: London housing costs and department-level course approval can matter as much as the brand.
Language of instruction: English
Exchange & application at Imperial College London
The exchange route at Imperial College London requires an official nomination from a partner institution. Deadlines vary by department and are strictly enforced.
✅Requirements
Bilateral exchange nomination, GPA of 3.5 or equivalent, Academic transcript, ATAS clearance (for specific science subjects), English language certificate (IELTS 7.0+)
📨Nomination Process
Your home university must submit a formal nomination before you can apply online.
🛂Visa Support
Student visa required for stays >6 months. Standard Visitor visa allowed for 1 semester (<6 months). CAS letters issued to eligible visa applicants.
👥Buddy System
International student buddy scheme runs at the beginning of each semester to connect you with local student peers.
🧭Orientation Week
International orientation runs in the week before lectures start, helping you register and complete administrative setup.
🗓️Deadlines by intake
| Intake | Nomination deadline | Application deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Autumn Term (October start) | April 1 | May 1 |
| Spring Term (January start) | October 1 | October 31 |
Arrival Checklist
- Complete online registration and upload passport photo for student ID.
- Apply for UK student visa (if staying over 6 months) or check Visitor rules.
- Confirm university-allocated housing or secure verified private flats.
- Get an NUS Extra / Totum card for student discounts.
Academics & courses at Imperial College London
Academics at Imperial are highly rigorous and science-heavy. Students must take most of their courses within the host department that accepted them.
📝Course Registration
Online course registration opens several weeks before classes. Course selections must be pre-approved by your home university.
🎓Credit System
UK credits (typically 60 credits per semester = 30 ECTS; 120 credits per year = 60 ECTS).
💯Grading System
UK percentage scale: 70%+ (First), 60-69% (2:1), 50-59% (2:2), 40-49% (Third), <40% (Fail).
✍️Exam Culture
Assessments include final written exams, essay submissions, and group projects. Exam schedules are published mid-semester.
📚Library Access
Full access to university library buildings, including study spaces, group rooms, and complete digital databases.
Tuition & fees at Imperial College London
Nominated exchange students pay no tuition to Imperial. Living costs in South Kensington are very high, demanding careful budgeting.
| Student Type | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| EXCHANGE | £0 (Tuition waiver under reciprocal exchange agreement) | Nominated exchange students pay £0 tuition to Imperial College London. Reciprocal tuition waivers apply. |
| Full degree - international | £32,000-47,000/year | International tuition fees range from £32,000 to £47,000 per year depending on the faculty, with medicine and engineering being highest. |
£0 (Tuition waiver under reciprocal exchange agreement)
Nominated exchange students pay £0 tuition to Imperial College London. Reciprocal tuition waivers apply.
£32,000-47,000/year
International tuition fees range from £32,000 to £47,000 per year depending on the faculty, with medicine and engineering being highest.
Fees change annually — verify current rates on the official exchange office page
Student housing at Imperial College London
Student housing is available in Imperial residences, though exchange students are not always guaranteed a place due to high demand.
Full housing guide
Find housing in London
Official contacts, student residences, private platforms, tips & red flags.
Insurance & campus support at Imperial College London
Student life at Imperial College London
Student life at Imperial is focused around South Kensington, Queen's Tower, and the Imperial College Union. London's major museums are adjacent.
Key exchange dates at Imperial College London
Key exchange dates at Imperial are set by individual departments. Early nomination and application are required due to visa and ATAS clearance times.
-
1
Orientation
Mid-September / Early January
Essential orientation events, registration, and social activities.
-
2
Academics
September-December / January-May
Standard academic lectures, seminars, and tutorials.
-
3
Assessed Exams
January / May-June
Confirm your exam schedule before planning departure flights.