Savanna Hoffman
The University of London is the largest university in the United Kingdom by total enrolment, with 161,270 full-time students and over 50,000 distance-learning students. The Open University, a Wales university, is the second-largest university in the UK by enrolment, with 126,210 students. The University of Manchester and the University of Glasgow are also among the largest universities in the UK, ranking fourth and sixth, respectively. In 2022–23, there were a total of 2,937,155 students studying at UK higher education providers, and in 2023/24, this number grew to 2.9 million.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Largest university in the UK by total enrolment | University of London |
| Number of full-time students | 161,270 |
| Number of students enrolled for distance learning | Over 50,000 |
| Second-largest university in the UK by enrolment | Open University |
| Latest enrolment at Open University | 126,210 |
| Number of international students at the University of Edinburgh | Over 44% of the student population, representing 167 countries |
| Total number of students at UK higher education institutions in 2023/24 | 2.9 million |
| Total number of students at UK higher education institutions in 2022/23 | 2,937,155 |
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What You'll Learn
University of London: largest university by enrolment
The University of London is the largest university in the UK by enrolment. It is a collegiate and federal research university that offers both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. The University of London has approximately two million alumni worldwide, including notable figures such as Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu, Mahatma Gandhi, and Alexander Graham Bell. There are also 84 Nobel Laureates, six Grammy Award winners, and two Oscar winners associated with the university.
The University of London is a confederal organisation made up of constituent colleges, central institutions, and activities, which are listed separately. The university enrols a high number of students for distance learning, with over 50,000 students enrolled in online degree programs.
In the 2018/19 academic year, the University of London had 37,850 students, according to the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA). However, this figure may not include all students, as HESA data only includes students studying within the UK and excludes those engaged in distance learning or transnational education programs conducted overseas.
The University of London's large enrolment numbers can be attributed to its confederal structure and its offering of both on-campus and distance learning programs. The university's reputation, with its long list of notable alumni and award winners, also likely contributes to its appeal to a high number of students.
While the University of London has the highest enrolment in the UK, it is worth noting that other universities, such as The Open University, have higher student numbers when considering only on-campus students. The Open University is a dedicated distance learning university with a high number of online students, and its on-campus student population is smaller than that of the University of London.
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Open University: second-highest enrolment
The Open University is a Wales university that offers distance learning. It is known for being a pioneer in distance learning and for its flexible and high-quality online degree programs. The university enrols the second-highest number of students in the UK, after the University of London. The Open University's latest enrolment figure is 126,210 students, many of whom study off-campus. The university awards both degree and non-degree qualifications. Degree qualifications include undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, while non-degree qualifications include certificates, diplomas, and continuing education units.
The Open University's high enrolment numbers can be attributed to its broad reach, attracting students from both within the UK and internationally. In the 2018/19 academic year, the university had 48,805 overseas students. The Open University's flexibility and accessibility make it a popular choice for those seeking higher education.
The University of London, on the other hand, had an enrolment of 161,270 full-time students in 2017, along with over 50,000 distance learning students. The University of London is a collegiate and federal research university, offering both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.
While the University of London and the Open University have the highest enrolments in the UK, it is worth noting that overall student numbers in UK higher education institutions reached approximately 2.9 million in 2022-23 and 2023/24. This count includes both full-time and part-time students, with a growing proportion of overseas students, particularly at the postgraduate level.
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University of Manchester: fourth-highest enrolment
The University of London is the largest university in the United Kingdom by total enrolment, with 161,270 full-time students and over 50,000 distance learning students. The University of London is a collegiate and federal research university that offers both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.
The second-largest university in the UK by enrolment is the Open University, with 126,210 students. The Open University is a Wales-based research and public distance learning university. It is known for being a pioneer in distance learning and for offering flexible and high-quality online degree programs.
The third-largest university in the UK by enrolment is the Open University in England. The University of Manchester ranks fourth in the UK for enrolment. While the exact number of students at the University of Manchester is unclear, its high ranking suggests a substantial student population.
The University of Manchester is a prestigious academic institution located in the vibrant city of Manchester, England. It is known for its strong academic programs and diverse student body, attracting students from both the United Kingdom and international locations. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, providing a well-rounded educational experience to its large student population.
The University of Manchester's high enrolment numbers can be attributed to various factors. One factor may be the university's reputation for academic excellence, attracting students seeking a high-quality education. Additionally, the university's location in a thriving and culturally diverse city may appeal to students who desire a dynamic and stimulating environment for their studies. The UK's higher education sector has seen significant growth in recent years, with millions of students enrolled in higher education institutions and a rising trend in the number of applicants.
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University of Glasgow: fourth-largest university
The University of Glasgow is the fourth-largest university in the UK. With a total of 42,980 students, it is a comprehensive university located in Scotland. It is the fourth oldest university in the English-speaking world and is known for its academic excellence as a member of the Russell Group. The University of Glasgow ranks among the top 80 global universities, making it one of the top institutions in the UK and Scotland.
The Adam Smith School of Business at the University of Glasgow is one of the largest and most renowned business schools in the UK. The school has a strong reputation and is known for its high-quality teaching and research. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, attracting students from diverse backgrounds.
The University of Glasgow has a rich history and a strong tradition of academic excellence. It has produced many notable alumni, including prominent figures in various fields such as business, politics, and science. The university offers a wide range of degree programmes and is known for its research-intensive environment. With a focus on interdisciplinary studies, the university encourages collaboration across different disciplines.
As one of the largest universities in the UK, the University of Glasgow has a diverse student population. It attracts students from all over the UK and beyond, with a significant number of international students. The university provides a vibrant and multicultural campus environment, fostering a global community that enriches the student experience. The university also has a strong focus on student support, offering a range of services and resources to ensure a positive and fulfilling academic journey.
The University of Glasgow's ranking as the fourth-largest university in the UK reflects its reputation and impact. With a large student population, a distinguished faculty, and a history of academic excellence, the university continues to play a significant role in shaping higher education in the country and beyond. Its position as a top-tier institution attracts students and scholars who seek a world-class education and contributes to its standing as one of the leading universities in the UK and internationally.
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Nottingham Trent University: sixth-largest university
Nottingham Trent University (NTU) is the sixth-largest university in the UK, with over 38,000 students spread across five to six campuses. The university has a rich history, dating back to the 19th century with the founding of the Nottingham Government School of Design in 1843. Over time, various institutions of higher education in Nottingham amalgamated, leading to the formation of Nottingham Trent University. The university has a strong focus on student satisfaction, graduate employment, and teaching quality, and has received numerous awards and recognition for its excellence.
NTU's campuses include City, Clifton, Brackenhurst, NTU London, and NTU in Mansfield. The City site, located just north of Nottingham City Centre, is home to over 17,000 students from various schools, including Nottingham Business School, Nottingham Law School, and the School of Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment. The Creative Quarter campus, located near the city centre, houses over 2,000 students and features a Digital Media Hub, a live music venue, and an Esports venue. The university also has a 200-hectare farm and woodland estate on the Brackenhurst campus, with over 250 animals from more than 70 species for students of the School of Animal, Rural, and Environmental Sciences.
Nottingham Trent University offers a comprehensive academic curriculum with a focus on employability. All courses include work-related experience, and the university has a top-10 ranking for the number of students completing year-long placements. NTU has the second-largest number of postgraduate students in the UK pursuing professional qualifications and is ranked among the top five universities for employer satisfaction. The university has also been recognised for its sustainability efforts, ranking third in the People & Planet University Ranking and winning the "Outstanding Sustainability Leadership Team of the Year" award at the Green Gown Awards.
With students and staff from over 160 countries, NTU provides a truly international community and fosters global connections. The university has been voted 1st for Employability in the UK by students on Uni Compare 2025 and has been named University of the Year for five out of six years by various prestigious organisations. NTU's teaching quality is among the best in the UK, receiving the highest ranking in the UK government's Teaching Excellence Framework. The university's lecturers bring a wealth of industry, research, and professional experience, enhancing the learning experience for students.
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Frequently asked questions
The University of London is the largest university in the UK by total enrolment. It has 161,270 full-time students and over 50,000 students enrolled for distance learning.
In 2023/24, there were 2.9 million students enrolled at UK higher education institutions.
The Open University, a distance learning university in Wales, is the second-largest university in the UK by enrolment. It has 126,210 students, many of whom study off-campus.
The University of Glasgow is the fourth-largest university in the UK, with 42,980 students. The University of Manchester is fifth, with 42,225 students.
Nottingham Trent University is the sixth-largest university in the UK, with 41,465 students.
