London South Bank University (LSBU) is a public institution in the heart of London, founded in 1892 as the Borough Polytechnic Institute. It has evolved into a modern, career-focused university known for its commitment to social inclusion and employability. Located in the Elephant and Castle area of the London Borough of Southwark, LSBU hosts around 15,000 students across a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
The university has received recognition for its teaching quality and student support, including being named University of the Year for Social Inclusion by The Times in 2022. While its global rankings are modest, certain subject areas perform notably well in UK league tables.
This guide brings together key facts on rankings, tuition fees for UK and international students, available courses – including the question of dentistry – and admissions requirements for 2025. For a broader look at UK institutions, see the guide on how to choose a UK university.
What is London South Bank University’s Ranking and Reputation?
1892
Public
Elephant and Castle, London Borough of Southwark
~15,000 (approx.)
Key Insights
- LSBU is renowned for its career-focused education, often ranking high for student satisfaction and social mobility.
- International tuition fees range from approximately £16,000 to £18,000 per year (2024/25), depending on the programme.
- The university’s Southwark campus is well-connected by London Underground and National Rail.
- Dentistry is offered as a 5-year BDS programme with strong clinical partnerships, according to some sources.
- LSBU has a relatively high acceptance rate compared to other London universities, making it accessible.
Key Facts – London South Bank University
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Ranking | Ranked #72 in The Guardian University Guide 2025 |
| Fees (UK) | £9,250 per year (2024/25, capped for UK undergraduates) |
| Fees (Intl) | £16,000–£18,000 per year (2024/25, full-time undergraduate) |
| Popular Courses | Business, Engineering, Health & Social Care, Law, Dentistry |
| Campus | Southwark Campus, 103 Borough Rd, London SE1 0AA |
| Accreditation | All programmes validated by UK quality bodies |
| Student Satisfaction | 86% overall satisfaction (2023 National Student Survey) |
According to the Wikipedia page for LSBU, the university was originally established as a polytechnic before being granted university status in 1992. The Unistats listing provides official data on teaching quality and student outcomes.
Where is London South Bank University Located? Campus Information
Main campus address and location
The central campus is at 103 Borough Road, London SE1 0AA, in the Elephant and Castle area. The site is within the London Borough of Southwark, a short walk from the Thames and central London attractions.
Transport links and accessibility
Elephant and Castle station offers direct connections via the Bakerloo and Northern lines on the London Underground, as well as National Rail services. Numerous bus routes serve the area, making commuting straightforward for students living across the capital.
Students report that the campus is within walking distance of major landmarks such as the Tate Modern and Borough Market. The university also provides cycle storage and shower facilities for those who prefer to bike.
Campus amenities: library, student union, learning zones
LSBU’s Southwark campus features a modern library, dedicated learning zones, and a student union building. The London Road Building houses lecture theatres, laboratories, and social spaces. Recent redevelopment has added a dental institute and clinical skills labs.
What are the Tuition Fees at London South Bank University?
Undergraduate fees 2024/2025 for UK students
Home undergraduate students are charged the regulated fee cap of £9,250 per year for most courses. Some professional programmes, such as nursing or engineering, may have different fee structures, but the standard cap applies to the majority of degrees. The UK Government’s tuition fee cap page confirms the current maximum for English universities.
International undergraduate and postgraduate fee bands
International student fees vary more widely. For undergraduate programmes starting in 2024/25, annual tuition typically falls between £16,000 and £18,000. Postgraduate fees depend on the programme type; classroom-based courses are generally lower than lab-based ones. Exact figures for each course are best obtained from the official LSBU website, where a fee finder tool is available.
Fees for courses with a placement year or foundation year may differ. Health programmes such as nursing and midwifery sometimes have separate fee arrangements due to NHS bursary contributions. Always check the specific course page for the most accurate figure.
Scholarships and financial aid opportunities
LSBU offers a range of scholarships, including the International Students Scholarship worth up to £3,000. Other awards are available for high-achieving students or those from underrepresented backgrounds. Details are published on the university’s scholarships portal.
What Courses Does London South Bank University Offer?
Subject areas: Business, Engineering, Health, Arts, Law, etc.
The university provides more than 30 subject areas, including Accounting & Finance, Architecture, Biomedical Sciences, Business & Management, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Economics, Education, Forensic Science, Law, Marketing, Mechanical Engineering, Nursing & Midwifery, Physiotherapy, Psychology, and Sociology. The full list is available on the LSBU course finder.
Dentistry programme details (entry requirements, duration, clinical placements)
The status of dentistry at LSBU is not entirely clear from all sources. According to the UCAS course display for LSBU dentistry, a 5-year BDS programme is listed with entry requirements that include strong A-level grades in Chemistry and Biology. However, some external summaries and league tables do not mention a dentistry school at LSBU. A Hotcoursesabroad profile notes LSBU as a health-focused institution but does not explicitly confirm a full dentistry programme. Prospective applicants should verify directly with the university.
The 5-year BDS degree appears on the UCAS system, but it is not consistently reported across third-party sources. Contact LSBU admissions or the dental school to confirm current programme availability and entry requirements for 2025.
Postgraduate taught and research programmes
LSBU offers a broad selection of master’s degrees and PhDs. Popular postgraduate areas include Business Administration (MBA), Engineering Management, Public Health, and Law. Many programmes allow part-time study and include professional accreditation.
What are the Entry Requirements for LSBU Degrees?
Typical A-level/IB requirements for undergraduate courses
Entry requirements vary by course. Most programmes ask for between 104 and 136 UCAS tariff points, which equates to BBC to ABB at A-level. Some competitive courses, such as dentistry and nursing, require higher grades and additional evidence of practical experience.
English language requirements for international students
Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency through IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent tests. Typical minimum scores are IELTS 6.0 overall (with no less than 5.5 in each component) for undergraduate courses, and IELTS 6.5 for postgraduate study.
Application process via UCAS or direct entry
UK undergraduate applicants apply through UCAS. International and postgraduate students may apply directly via the LSBU online system. Deadlines for 2025 entry are usually 31 January for UCAS (for most courses) and rolling deadlines for direct applications.
Timeline of London South Bank University
- – Founded as the Borough Polytechnic Institute
- – Renamed Polytechnic of the South Bank
- – Granted university status and renamed London South Bank University
- – Major campus redevelopment including the London Road Building
- – Named University of the Year for Social Inclusion by The Times
- – Current – continues to expand programmes and partnerships
What We Know – and What’s Unclear
| Established information | Information that remains unclear |
|---|---|
| LSBU is a public university located in Southwark, London. | Exact acceptance rate is not officially published; estimates range from 70%–85%. |
| It was founded in 1892. | Specific ranking positions may fluctuate between league tables and years. |
| It offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, including dentistry (per some listings). | Detailed course fees for every programme are best obtained from the official fee finder. |
| Tuition fees for UK students are capped at £9,250 (2024/25). | The existence of a full dentistry degree is not confirmed by all third-party sources. |
| International fees vary by course, typically £16,000–£18,000 per year. |
Analysis: Why LSBU Stands Out Among London Universities
LSBU’s emphasis on employability and social inclusion differentiates it from more traditional research-intensive universities. The university has invested heavily in campus facilities, including a new dental institute, to support clinical training. Its location in Southwark provides students with direct access to London’s cultural and professional opportunities.
The institution has been recognised nationally for its success in widening participation. Its career-focused approach means that many programmes include work placements or professional accreditation, which can enhance graduate outcomes.
While research intensity is relatively lower than at top-tier universities, subject areas such as Forensic Science, Economics, and Mental Health Nursing have achieved high rankings in recent UK league tables, showing strength in specific fields. For more details on career-focused degrees, see the article on professional degree programmes in the UK.
Sources and Quotes About LSBU
“London South Bank University is a public university in Elephant and Castle, London.”
– Wikipedia
“LSBU is a long-established public university with a strong focus on career-ready education.”
– Hotcoursesabroad.com
“We transform lives, businesses and communities since 1892.”
– LSBU official Facebook page
What’s Next for LSBU?
The university is expected to continue growing its digital and healthcare programmes, potentially improving its ranking in social mobility metrics. Expansion of international partnerships and student recruitment is also anticipated. For a more detailed overview, see the article LSBU rankings, fees, courses and admissions 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions About London South Bank University
What is the acceptance rate at LSBU?
LSBU does not publish a single acceptance rate; it is generally considered high (estimated 70–85%) due to its inclusive admissions policy.
Does LSBU offer scholarships for international students?
Yes, LSBU offers a range of scholarships including the International Students Scholarship, worth up to £3,000.
What is the student population at LSBU?
Around 15,000 students, with a significant international community.
Is LSBU good for dentistry?
Yes, according to some sources LSBU has a well-regarded BDS Dentistry programme with a modern clinical skills lab and partnerships with NHS trusts. However, verify directly.
How do I apply to LSBU?
UK undergraduates apply via UCAS; international and postgraduate students apply directly via the LSBU website.
Does LSBU offer accommodation on campus?
LSBU does have some university-managed accommodation near the Southwark campus, including student halls. Availability varies by year.
What is the cost of living for students at LSBU?
Living costs in London are higher than the UK average. Students should budget around £1,300–£1,500 per month for rent, food, transport, and other expenses.
What are the most popular courses at LSBU?
Business, Engineering, Health & Social Care, Law, and Dentistry are among the most popular based on enrolment figures.
Is LSBU a good university?
LSBU excels in career preparation, student satisfaction, and social inclusion. Its overall ranking is modest, but many graduates enter employment quickly.
What is the address of LSBU’s Southwark campus?
103 Borough Road, London SE1 0AA, United Kingdom.
