SOAS, University of London

Overview

English Name: SOAS University of London

Acronyms: SOAS

Founded: 1916

Control Type: Public

Entity Type: Non-profit

World Rank: #2283

Rank in United Kingdom: #108

Motto: Knowledge is Power

Mascot: Arabian Camel and Asian Elephant

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Established in 1916, the SOAS, University of London is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the large metropolis of London (population range of over 5,000,000 inhabitants).

Officially recognized/chartered by the Privy Council, SOAS, University of London (SOAS) is a small-sized coeducational UK higher education institution. SOAS, University of London (SOAS) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.

This 108-year-old UK higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on students' past academic records and grades. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.

SOAS also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, sports facilities, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.

Location & Contact

SOAS, University of London's campus address and the ways prospective students can reach the institution. For visa queries, contact the international student services office directly rather than central admissions.

Academic Details

SOAS, University of London's student-to-faculty composition and recognition standing are listed below. Student support staff (advisers, counsellors) are typically separate from academic staff and often uncounted here.

Academic Structures

The departmental layout below shows how SOAS, University of London groups subjects, faculties, and teaching units. Subject grouping reflects institutional priorities, research strengths, and historical evolution.

Degrees

SOAS, University of London's degree portfolio is grouped by level below. Each tier reflects different time commitments, academic depth, and career outcomes — useful when matching a programme to your current study stage.

Faculties & Divisions

All faculties operate under Privy Council.

Programs Offered

Search the SOAS, University of London programme catalogue or scan it by degree level. The catalogue updates periodically; recently added programmes may not yet appear in some search-engine results.

How to apply to SOAS, University of London

Practical steps to apply to SOAS, University of London, suitable as a starting checklist before contacting the admissions team directly.

1. 1
   Find a programme that fits your goals

   SOAS, University of London's catalogue includes 413 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.

2. 2
   Confirm you meet the requirements

   Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for SOAS, University of London's admissions process.

3. 3
   Assemble your application package

   Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.

4. 4
   Submit your application

   Submit your completed application through SOAS, University of London's official website at www.soas.ac.uk. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.

5. 5
   Contact admissions and follow up

   Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Reach the institution by phone at +44 (20) 7637 2388. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.

Frequently Asked Questions about SOAS, University of London

Below are the key facts most prospective students ask about SOAS, University of London, drawn directly from institutional records.

Top-Ranked Universities in the United Kingdom

National rankings in the United Kingdom often weight different signals than international rankings. The leaders below typically top both, but the order can differ meaningfully.

University of Oxford

Oxford · Public · Rank #10

University College London

London · Public · Rank #11

University of Cambridge

Cambridge · Public · Rank #26

Imperial College London

London · Public · Rank #28

King's College London

London · Public · Rank #65

Members of Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU)

Beyond SOAS, University of London, these universities also belong to Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) — useful for students who weight inter-institutional partnerships, exchange programmes, or shared accreditation frameworks. Membership networks often translate into practical student benefits.

University of Toronto

Toronto · Public · Rank #14

National University of Singapore

Singapore · Public · Rank #24

University of New South Wales

Sydney · Public · Rank #45

Nanyang Technological University

Singapore · Public · Rank #59

McGill University

Montréal · Public · Rank #73

Faculties at Nearby Universities

Students considering SOAS, University of London often compare it against universities in the same region. Below are nearby institutions with comparable academic departments and student support structures, useful for cross-shortlisting.

Queen Mary University of London

London · Public · Rank #166

London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of London

London · Public · Rank #305

The London School of Economics and Political Science

London · Public · Rank #499

University of Greenwich

London · Public · Rank #756

St George's, University of London

London · Public · Rank #840

Where Else to Study Humanities & Cultural Studies

Choosing the right Humanities & Cultural Studies programme is rarely about one university alone. Institutions across the United Kingdom cover the same discipline as SOAS, University of London from different academic angles, and the right fit depends on what kind of teaching environment suits you.

University of Edinburgh

Edinburgh · Public · Rank #79

University of Manchester

Manchester · Public · Rank #85

University of Nottingham

Nottingham · Public · Rank #129

University of Glasgow

Glasgow · Public · Rank #140

University of Birmingham

Birmingham · Public · Rank #148

Universities Often Compared with SOAS, University of London

When students choose SOAS, University of London, they typically weigh it against institutions of similar standing. These universities sit at a comparable level — useful comparisons before committing to a final choice, especially when programme content is similar across the options.

Harper Adams University

Newport · Public · Rank #2283

University of Gloucestershire

Cheltenham · Public · Rank #2335

University of Bedfordshire

Luton · Public · Rank #2217

University of Sunderland

Sunderland · Public · Rank #2365

University of Roehampton

London · Public · Rank #2367