University of Westminster

Overview

The University of Westminster was formed from the Royal Polytechnic established in 1838. It is spread over four campuses, three of which are in central London. There are over 19,000 students from more than 160 countries on a variety of programmes, ranging from undergraduate and postgraduate courses, to tailored professional programmes and short courses.

Subjects maintain a strong vocational focus, with longer modules including work-based skills and integration with practical activity. Undergraduates are able to conduct research during their degree and the University has achieved fame for its media studies and fashion degrees, both of which are rated as being some of the best in the world. Having celebrated its 175th anniversary in 2013, Westminster continues to invest heavily in all facilities from accommodation to the restoration of one of the first cinemas in Britain within the Regent Campus.

Foundation Courses at Westminster

The University of Westminster works in partnership with Kaplan International College London to provide foundation courses for international students and also has progression agreements with a number of other foundation providers.

The University also offers a number of in-house foundations for access to undergraduate study, for students already familiar with the UK education system who require no additional English language support, or adjustment to UK life.

Services for International Students

Dedicated International Student Advisers provide information, support and advice to international students at the University of Westminster. The services provided include a three-day residential orientation programme for new international students and a regular newsletter detailing social events, interesting news and what’s on in London. English as a Foreign Language is available both as a pre-sessional course and as a credited module as part of a degree course.

Ranking

• 120th in the Times University Guide 2025
• 119th in the Guardian University Guide 2025

100% of Westminster's Art & Design and English submissions were judged to enjoy a world-leading and internationally excellent research environment.

The world-leading impact the University achieved includes the first in-depth retrospective of Black British music, revolutionising understanding of its cultural significance to the nation. Work from the Ceramics Research Centre-UK re-evaluated the position of ceramics in contemporary art and museum culture and changed the approach to public participation and audience engagement. Moreover, documentary film research has led to official recognition and the first government-sponsored forums for addressing acts of genocide in Indonesia.

Accommodation

The University of Westminster has four halls of residence, all self-catered and the majority with individual, ensuite bathrooms. The dedicated student accommodation team can provide advice and guidance about applying to University halls and information for students looking for private hall options across London. 

• Harrow Hall: Designed to harmonise with the environment, the on-campus complex offers exciting accommodation consisting of self-contained units arranged in small, purpose-built, low-rise blocks, all surrounded by shrubbery and green lawns. For New and continuing undergraduates and postgraduates on courses at Harrow

• Marylebone Hall: Situated near Baker Street underground station and opposite Madame Tussaud's, Marylebone Hall is an ideal location for exploring the shops, cafés and restaurants of the West End, as well as enjoying the many theatres and nightlife of this great cosmopolitan city. For Study Abroad and Exchange students, continuing undergraduates and postgraduates.

• Raffles House: As a first-year student village, Raffles House has a location with many benefits. The hall is on the same development as Wembley Stadium and Wembley Arena, so there is always a lot going on. It is also only two stops from Harrow Campus and University facilities. For new undergraduate students on a course at a Central London campus, and continuing undergraduate and postgraduate students.

• Alexander Fleming Hall: Alexander Fleming Hall is situated in a lively, fashionable area of east London that is known for its vibrant nightlife. As well as numerous bars and clubs, there are also many shops, cafes, restaurants and markets nearby. For Study Abroad and Exchange students, continuing undergraduates and postgraduates.

International students holding offers who apply for accommodation before the beginning of May in the year of entry will have their applications prioritised. Even after this date, the University's accommodation office will assist international students gain accommodation and can give further help and advice to students seeking private accommodation.

Location

The University of Westminster is divided into four campuses; three of these are in central London with a fourth in Harrow. The nearest tube station to the Harrow Campus is Northwick Park, on the Metropolitan Line. The University of Westminster has a range of shops, cafes, bars and sporting facilities on site, but London as a whole offers something for everyone.

Theatres, museums, galleries, cinemas and restaurants are just some of the cultural and recreational attractions within easy reach. The campuses are a short distance from London landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, the BBC, the London Eye, Tate Modern and the British Library. With a large student community of over 350,000 in the capital, a wide range of special student discounts, events and activities are available throughout the city.

Alumni

• Jon Ronson (Journalist and author)
• Nick Mason (Pink Floyd)
• Sir Alexander Fleming (Nobel Prize laureate and discoverer of penicillin)
• Frank Turner (Olympic gymnast)