Top UK Universities For Business Studies - Ranking & League Table
Check out our full guide on the top universities offering business degrees to study at in the UK. We’ve also curated a list of high-ranking universities which offer affordable, globally-recognised qualifications for Business Studies.
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UK University League Table For Business Studies (Updated 2025)
The University League Table for Business Studies shows some of the top ranking universities to study Business & Management Studies in the UK. We’ve compiled a list of UK universities you should look out for, based on the Complete University Guide 2025.
Types of Business Degrees
There are quite a few degrees that fall under the umbrella of Business studies such as Business Administration and Business Management.
Some may wonder, what is the difference between Business Administration Studies and Business Management Studies?
Both of these degrees will cover the basics of business such as entrepreneurship, management, marketing, and economics. A Business Management degree would have modules that are more focused on business management such as management theory and communication, while a Business Administration degree offers paths for specialisation in more practical areas of business such as marketing, operations, finance, and so on.
Additionally, a general Business degree will cover similar core subjects as some of the more specialised Business degrees, but students have the option to tailor their elective subjects to their interests. International Business studies is also another option, offering modules with a more international look at business markets and human resource management.
In summary, all of these course options and their respective modules are interrelated in some way. The differences between these degrees lie in the practical applications of the modules that you choose to undertake.
If you’re also considering management degrees, take a look at our article on the Top UK Universities for Management.
Top Business Schools In The UK
The University of Bath certainly needs no introduction. Ranking number two in the UK for business studies, their four-year Bachelor of Science in Business programme includes professional placements which bolster graduate employability and enrich the students’ learning experience.
In just over a decade, the University of Exeter’s Business school has already established itself as one of the top UK institutions for business studies. Their programme offers a three-year degree with flexible module options and students may opt to study a year abroad or complete a professional placement. Do take note that the University of Exeter’s Bachelor of Science in Business programme is conducted at their campus in Cornwall.
Recommended Business Schools In The UK
Located in Glasgow, Scotland, the University of Strathclyde is an attractive option for international students and is ranked 16th in the UK for Business studies. We recommend the BA (Hons) Degree in Business at Strathclyde Business School as it is a reputable programme with a relatively lower academic requirement of ABB-BBB and affordable tuition starting at £19,600 per year for international students. As with other general business studies programme, their degree offers flexibility in module options and provides electives from various disciplines.
The University of York is among the top 20 universities in the UK for the subject and it offers an impressive array of Business-related degrees and specialised modules which allows students great flexibility. Their student body is consists of roughly 20% international students, and their campus features many state-of-the-art facilities. The University of York has a vibrant research community, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research projects and collaborate with renowned academics in their fields.
Located in the heart of the UK, Loughborough University is ranked 12th in the UK for business subjects and it has programmes in Business Analytics and International Business on top of other business-related degrees. Loughborough University boasts excellent graduate prospects and practice-oriented teaching. Similar to other business programmes, students have the option to undertake a year of professional placement as part of the degree.
How To Apply To Study Business In The UK?
Step 1: Choose A University
The first step is to look for popular and high-ranking Universities in the UK that offer courses you are interested in. Refer to the table above to start your search. Here are some things to consider when applying:
- Location
- Employability/Graduate prospects
- Fees
- Entry requirements
- University Ranking
Step 2: Preparations
Once you have narrowed down the search to your top five universities, the first step is to prepare necessary documents and forms. This includes school leaving certificates, exam results, the UCAS application form and a written Personal Statement, among other documents that may be required.
Step 3: Submit UCAS Application
The application process for UK universities differs from local universities as applications go through an organisation known as UCAS, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. UCAS handles all admission applications to UK universities, including those submitted by international candidates like you.
To ensure a better chance of getting accepted, it is important that you prepare all the necessary documents and fill out all forms correctly. We also recommend that you apply for multiple universities simultaneously to ensure that you get your preferred offers. Read our full guide on UCAS here.
More about UCAS
The entire application process might be daunting and lengthy for some, so let us help you. Make a free appointment with us today for professional assistance in submitting applications to your preferred UK universities.
UK Business School University Entry Requirements
Here are some of the common entry requirements and tests a student has to pass before being accepted at a UK university to study Business.
English Language Test requirement – such as IELTS or TOEFL.
Criminal records declaration (DBS/Disclosure Scotland for Scottish Universities)
Health checks.
Entrance interviews.
Personal statement. This is a supporting document and part of your application to a UK university. Usually, you will write about what you hope to achieve studying at the course, what you plan to do after graduating and why you are applying for this specific university.
Frequently Asked Questions
Both degrees cover the basics of business such as entrepreneurship, management, marketing, and economics. A Business Management degree would have modules that are more focused on business management such as management theory and communication, while a Business Administration degree offers paths for specialisation in more practical areas of business such as marketing, operations, finance, and so on.
The number 1 university for business in the UK is currently the University of Oxford as of 2025.
The common entry requirements for studying business in the UK include: English language tests, criminal record declarations, health checks, entrance interviews and submission of a personal statement.
The fees for business degrees in UK depends on the university, but can range anywhere between £20,000 to £30,000 per annum for international students. Rankings and location of a university might also affect the price.
For most business degrees, it is best to apply before 15 of January of the year of admission. Take note that if you are applying for most courses in Oxford and Cambridge University, you need to apply before 15 of October.
Get Free UK Business Course Application Assistance
If you would like a free consultation on any step of the application process, contact us today or come visit us at our office in Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur. Book an appointment with us now!
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