Russell Group Universities in the UK: Rankings, Members
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
If you’re exploring higher education in the UK, you’ve probably heard the term Russell Group universities more than once. These are some of the most prestigious institutions in the country, known for academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and strong links with industry. But what exactly are they? How many are there? And are they the only great universities in the UK? In this guide, we’ll break down the Russell Group universities ranking, highlight those in London, and even share the best non-Russell Group options worth your attention.
Table of contents
- What Are Russell Group Universities?
- How Many Russell Group Universities Are There?
- Russell Group Universities Ranking (2025 Overview)
- Russell Group Universities in London
- Is UCL Russell Group?
- Best Non Russell Group Universities
- Is St Andrews Russell Group?
- Is Bath a Russell Group University?
- Should You Only Apply to Russell Group Universities?
- Final Thoughts on Russell Group Universities
What Are Russell Group Universities?
In simple terms, the Russell Group is an association of 24 leading UK universities committed to maintaining the highest research and teaching standards. Formed in 1994, the group represents institutions that receive a significant share of research funding and influence education policy in the UK.
If you’re wondering “what is the Russell Group of 24 universities?”, it’s essentially a self-selected network of institutions that consistently rank among the best in the UK and globally. They are known for attracting top academic talent, producing world-class research, and offering students access to exceptional resources.
How Many Russell Group Universities Are There?
Currently, there are 24 Russell Group universities spread across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Here’s the complete list:
- University of Birmingham
- University of Bristol
- University of Cambridge
- Cardiff University
- Durham University
- University of Edinburgh
- University of Exeter
- University of Glasgow
- Imperial College London
- King’s College London
- University of Leeds
- University of Liverpool
- London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
- University of Manchester
- Newcastle University
- University of Nottingham
- University of Oxford
- Queen Mary University of London
- Queen’s University Belfast
- University of Sheffield
- University of Southampton
- University College London (UCL)
- University of Warwick
- University of York
So, if you’ve been asking “how many Russell Group universities are there?” — the answer is 24.
Russell Group Universities Ranking (2025 Overview)
While there is no official single Russell Group ranking, these institutions consistently perform well in the QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education (THE) tables. Here’s how some of them rank globally (QS 2025):
| University | QS World Rank 2025 |
|---|---|
| University of Cambridge | 2 |
| University of Oxford | 3 |
| Imperial College London | 6 |
| UCL | 9 |
| University of Edinburgh | 22 |
| University of Manchester | 32 |
This shows that Russell Group membership often aligns with high global rankings — but not always, which is why researching each university individually is so important.
Russell Group Universities in London
If you dream of studying in the heart of the UK’s capital, here are the Russell Group universities in London:
- University College London (UCL)
- Imperial College London
- King’s College London
- London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
These universities combine academic excellence with the cultural, professional, and networking opportunities that only London can offer.
Is UCL Russell Group?
Yes, UCL is a Russell Group university. In fact, it’s one of the most prestigious, ranking 9th in the world (QS 2025). UCL is celebrated for its research impact, diverse student body, and central London location.
Best Non Russell Group Universities
You might be surprised to know that some of the best non Russell Group universities actually outperform Russell Group members in certain subject rankings. Examples include:
- University of St Andrews
- University of Bath
- Loughborough University
- Lancaster University
These universities are known for teaching quality, student satisfaction, and strong graduate employability — proving that the Russell Group isn’t the only path to success.
Is St Andrews Russell Group?
No, St Andrews is not a Russell Group university. Despite this, it has topped UK league tables in recent years, even ranking above Oxford and Cambridge in some cases. Its smaller size and high student satisfaction scores make it an excellent choice for many.
Is Bath a Russell Group University?
No, the University of Bath is not part of the Russell Group. However, it’s renowned for engineering, sports science, and management courses, as well as its strong links with employers.
Should You Only Apply to Russell Group Universities?
While Russell Group universities offer undeniable advantages, they are not the only excellent universities in the UK. Some non-members provide better teaching quality or rank higher in specific subjects. The key is to choose a university that fits your course, budget, and career goals.
At Bluehawks EduAbroad, we help students compare all options — Russell Group or not — to find the perfect match for their ambitions.
Final Thoughts on Russell Group Universities
The Russell Group universities represent some of the UK’s finest institutions, but they are not the only route to academic and career success. Understanding their rankings, membership, and alternatives helps you make an informed decision. Whether you aim for Oxford, UCL, Bath, or St Andrews, the right choice is the one that aligns with your goals.
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