Erasmus guide King’s College London
Courses, housing, visa, campus life and exchange basics for studying at King’s College London in London, UK.
Study abroad at King’s College London: overview
Study abroad at King's College London means choosing a historic Russell Group university in central London — ranking in the global top 40, featuring campuses along the Thames and premier programs in law, humanities, and health. In practice, the useful context is enrollment: ~33,000; international mix: ~12,000 (~36%); academically it fits best around Law, Medicine, International Relations, War Studies. The part to check without romanticising it: London housing costs and department-level course approval can matter as much as the brand.
Enrollment
~33,000
International Mix
~12,000 (~36%)
Why students choose it
Best fit: students who want Law, Medicine, International Relations, War Studies 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 King’s College London
The exchange route at King's College London is open to nominated students. Applications must be completed online by March 31 for Semester 1 (September) or October 15 for Semester 2 (January).
✅Requirements
Home coordinator nomination, GPA of 3.3 or equivalent, Academic transcript, English language proof (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 |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 (September start) | March 15 | March 31 |
| Semester 2 (January start) | October 1 | October 15 |
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 King’s College London
Academics at King's are highly prestigious and competitive. You must pre-register for 10 module choices, which are approved based on your academic background.
📝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 King’s College London
Nominated exchange students receive a full tuition fee waiver. Independent fee-paying study abroad students pay KCL tuition directly. London living costs are high.
| Student Type | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| EXCHANGE | £0 (Tuition waiver under reciprocal exchange agreement) | Nominated exchange students pay £0 tuition to King's College London. Home university fees apply. |
| Full degree - international | £23,000-39,000/year | International tuition fees for undergraduate degrees are £23,000 to £39,000 per year. Clinical subjects are higher. |
£0 (Tuition waiver under reciprocal exchange agreement)
Nominated exchange students pay £0 tuition to King's College London. Home university fees apply.
£23,000-39,000/year
International tuition fees for undergraduate degrees are £23,000 to £39,000 per year. Clinical subjects are higher.
Fees change annually — verify current rates on the official exchange office page
Student housing at King’s College London
Student housing at King's includes university residences (booking opens in March and November). University housing is not guaranteed due to high demand.
Full housing guide
Find housing in London
Official contacts, student residences, private platforms, tips & red flags.
Insurance & campus support at King’s College London
Student life at King’s College London
Student life at King's is centered around central London campuses, the Maughan Library, and 250+ KCLSU student societies. Harbourside views are steps away.
Key exchange dates at King’s College London
Key dates for the King's exchange are critical. Nominations must be submitted by March 15 for September entry or October 1 for January entry.
-
1
Orientation
Mid-September / Early January
Essential orientation events, registration, and social activities.
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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.