Students rank LSBU number one in London for international student experience
London South Bank University (LSBU) has been named the top university in London for international students in a ranking compiled entirely from student reviews.
The recognition comes from the WhatUni Student Choice Awards (WUSCAs) 2026, the largest annual awards in the UK where the outcome is decided exclusively by students. Unlike rankings determined by expert panels or institutional submissions, the WUSCAs reflect the unfiltered views of students themselves.
"We are delighted to receive this recognition, especially as it reflects our students’ own experiences and feelings about their time with us," said Professor Tara Dean, Provost at LSBU. "Our international students shape who we are as a university. The diversity of perspective, experience and ambition they bring enriches every classroom, research project and community on our campus. This award belongs to them and to the staff who work every day to make LSBU a place where everyone feels they truly belong."
A community built on belonging
More than 2,000 international students from over 130 countries currently study at LSBU, forming part of a university community that has been defined by diversity since its founding in 1892.
Originally from Pakistan Ali Asghar Karani completed his MSc Data Science at LSBU. He said the University's inclusive environment was one of the defining features of his studies. "My experience at LSBU was incredibly positive — from the supportive teaching staff and inclusive learning environment to the diverse student community, I always felt empowered to grow both personally and professionally," he said.
For Ali, inclusion went beyond the academic: "As a Muslim student, I truly appreciated how the University respected and embraced cultural and religious diversity. Events like Eid were celebrated on campus, iftar meals were arranged during Ramadan and having access to a dedicated prayer room made me feel welcomed and valued."
Since graduation he has worked as a software engineer and credits LSBU's support network with preparing him not only for his career, but for life in a new country.
That sense of transformation is echoed by Glory Kekeocha, who came to LSBU from Nigeria to study MSc Applied Artificial Intelligence. "As an international student, the thought of studying AI felt daunting," she recalled. "However, when I discovered LSBU's Applied Artificial Intelligence course, I knew it was the perfect fit — it was beginner-friendly, supportive and located in the heart of London, a hub of endless opportunities."
The experience proved to be more than she had hoped for. After winning a hackathon run by global engineering firm Atkins Realis, Glory secured a job offer as a junior digital technology specialist before completing her degree. "LSBU didn't just prepare me academically; it helped me believe in myself," she said. "To anyone thinking of studying AI...choose a university that will support your passion and growth. For me, that place was LSBU."
Supporting students from arrival to ambition
Behind these individual journeys is a deliberate and sustained investment in international student support. From pre-arrival webinars, airport transfers and a dedicated orientation programme, LSBU works to ensure students feel at home before they have even set foot on campus.
A range of scholarships for international students — including the Global Success Scholarship worth up to £4,000 and the Vice Chancellor's International Merit Award — further reflects the University's commitment to making a world-class London education accessible to talented students regardless of where they come from.
Professor Dean added: "The WhatUni Student Choice Awards recognition also reflects what our international students go on to achieve. LSBU graduates are already the highest-paid on average among all London modern universities and that doesn't happen by accident. It is the direct result of the support, the networks and the real-world focus we invest in from the moment a student arrives with us."
The WhatUni Student Choice Awards 2026 winners were announced on 22 May 2026 and compiled from thousands of verified student reviews.
Find out more about studying at LSBU as an international student.