Every year, I work with students who dream of studying in the UK, and one name that always lights up the conversation is Imperial College London. Known for its cutting-edge research, fierce academic rigor, and global reputation in science, engineering, medicine, and business, Imperial is a top destination for ambitious international students. But getting in? That’s another story entirely.
As an educational advisor, I’ve helped applicants from India, Nigeria, Brazil, the U.S., and beyond navigate the intricate process of applying to Imperial. The standards are high, but with the right preparation, international students absolutely can secure a spot. It takes clarity, strategy, and a deep understanding of what Imperial truly expects.
How to Get Into Imperial College London: For International Students
Imperial College London is consistently ranked among the top ten universities in the world. It’s particularly renowned for STEM fields, with departments like Computing, Bioengineering, and Aeronautics leading global innovation. But prestige comes with competition. For international students, the admissions process can feel overwhelming — unfamiliar systems, different academic standards, visa rules, and more.
Still, I’ve seen many international students thrive at Imperial. One of my students from Malaysia, Aisha, secured an offer to study Mechanical Engineering after months of careful preparation. She wasn’t from a British curriculum school, but she leaned into her strengths — a strong research project, top A-Level equivalents, and a compelling personal statement. If she could do it, so can you. Let’s walk through what it takes.
Key Admission Requirements for International Applicants
Academic Qualifications
Imperial doesn’t just expect good grades — it expects excellence. For most undergraduate programs, you’ll need qualifications that are equivalent to UK A-levels. This could include:
- International Baccalaureate (IB): Typically 38–42 points, with 6s and 7s in relevant subjects
- Advanced Placement (AP): Usually five APs with scores of 5 in relevant subjects
- National curriculums (e.g., CBSE, WAEC, Abitur): Specific requirements vary by country
Imperial’s admissions team provides detailed country-specific requirements on their official admissions site. Don’t guess — always confirm what’s expected for your background.
English Language Proficiency
If English isn’t your first language, you must prove proficiency. Imperial accepts:
- IELTS: Minimum 6.5 overall (7.0 for many STEM courses), with no less than 6.0 in each component
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum 92–100 depending on the course
- Cambridge English: Advanced or Proficiency
Even fluent speakers sometimes underestimate this requirement. One of my students from Egypt lost precious time because her IELTS expired. Always check the validity period and minimum scores for your program.
Entrance Exams and Additional Assessments
Unlike many U.S. colleges, Imperial does not require the SAT or ACT. However, some programs (like Mathematics or Computing) may ask for:
- STEP (Sixth Term Examination Paper)
- MAT (Mathematics Admissions Test)
- Departmental admissions tests or interviews
Imperial’s Computing department, for instance, gives a challenging online test based on logic and programming. If you’re applying to such programs, prepare early. Sites like maths.org offer helpful resources for STEP prep.
Personal Statement & Letters of Recommendation
Your personal statement matters more than you might think. While UK schools focus heavily on academics, Imperial also wants to see your genuine passion for the subject. Share specific experiences — research, projects, competitions — that prove your commitment.
I often tell students: “Don’t just say you love biology. Tell me about the time you dissected a frog, hated it, and then decided to study molecular biology instead.” Authenticity beats perfection.
You’ll also need strong academic references, ideally from teachers who know your work well. One of my students from Brazil asked a science teacher who had seen her lead a robotics team — and that letter made her stand out.
How to Strengthen Your Application to Imperial
Build a Competitive Academic Profile
Start early. If you’re in Grade 10 or 11 and already considering Imperial, aim for top marks in subjects relevant to your course. Take the most rigorous classes available to you — whether that’s IB Higher Level, A-Levels, or APs.
Want to know how other international schools compare? Check out our guide on AP vs IB to decide which path suits you best.
Engage in Relevant Enrichment
Imperial loves students who go beyond the classroom. This could be:
- Summer research programs
- National or international Olympiads
- Online courses like edX or Coursera in your subject area
One of my students from Kenya included his participation in a virtual engineering camp hosted by MIT. It wasn’t a formal credential, but it showed curiosity and initiative — and that helped him secure an Imperial interview.
Tailor Your Personal Statement
Imperial doesn’t read “fluff.” They want to know why you’re a fit for the course — not just the university. About 80% of your personal statement should focus on subject interest and preparation. The remaining 20% can mention extracurriculars that relate to your discipline.
For more guidance on writing with intention, see our article on crafting your college application narrative.
Consider Scholarships and Funding
Imperial does offer scholarships for international students, though they’re limited and competitive. Some notable options include:
- President’s Undergraduate Scholarships
- Faculty-specific awards
- External awards like the Chevening Scholarship or Fulbright UK (for postgraduates)
Need help writing scholarship essays? Our guide on how to write a winning scholarship essay can help you craft a compelling story.
FAQs About Applying to Imperial College London
Do international students need to attend an interview?
Some courses (especially Computing, Medicine, and Design Engineering) may invite applicants for online interviews. These are often technical and meant to assess subject knowledge, not personality. Prepare as if it’s an oral exam.
Can I apply to both Oxford/Cambridge and Imperial?
Yes, you can apply to Imperial alongside Oxford or Cambridge. The only limit is that you can’t apply to both Oxford and Cambridge in the same year. Many of my students treat Imperial as a top-tier alternative or complement to Oxbridge. If interested, read our full guide on getting into Cambridge as an international student.
Does Imperial accept the Common App?
No. Imperial applications are submitted through UCAS (the UK’s centralized application system). You can apply to up to 5 UK universities with one UCAS form. Learn more at UCAS official site.
What if I’m applying from a U.S. high school?
You’ll need to show strong AP or IB results. Imperial typically looks for 5s in at least three APs related to your course. You can also read our insights on how U.S. applicants can adjust to international admissions.
Final Thoughts: Is Imperial Right for You?
Imperial College London is not for the faint of heart. It demands academic excellence, deep subject passion, and a willingness to push yourself. But if you’re someone who thrives in a rigorous, research-driven environment, it could be life-changing.
I’ve seen students from small schools in rural India, urban public schools in the U.S., and international academies in Singapore all make it to Imperial. What they shared wasn’t perfect credentials — it was persistence, planning, and a clear sense of purpose.
If you’re serious about applying, start early. And don’t go it alone. Connect with mentors, teachers, and advisors. You’ll find more strategies and inspiration in our related guides on how to get into Oxford and navigating NYU as an international student.
Most of all, believe in your ability to rise to the challenge. Imperial isn’t just looking for the smartest students — they’re looking for the most driven. And if that’s you, you’re already halfway there.