- Location
- Central London
- Type
- University of London · specialist
- UCAS deadline
- Late January (standard)
- Intl. undergrad tuition
- ≈ £20,000–£26,000 / year (confirm on fees page)
- English requirement
- IELTS or accepted equivalent
Key takeaways
- Apply through UCAS — most courses use the standard late-January deadline.
- SOAS is the UK's specialist in Asian, African and Middle Eastern studies.
- Strengths in regional languages, law, development, economics and politics.
- International undergraduate tuition is roughly £20,000–£26,000 a year (confirm on the fees page).
Overview
SOAS University of London is a unique specialist institution, part of the University of London, devoted to the study of Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Its expertise spans the languages, law, economics, development studies, politics, history and arts of these regions, making it a natural home for international students interested in global affairs, area studies and development. Its central-London location adds access to global institutions and networks.
Entry requirements
Offers are typically in the AAB to BBB range at A-level (or equivalent), with essay-based subjects valued for many courses. International students must meet an English-language requirement such as IELTS. Always confirm the exact grades and accepted qualifications for your course on SOAS's official pages.
Fees and scholarships
International undergraduate tuition is roughly £20,000–£26,000 a year depending on the course. SOAS offers a range of scholarships, including regional and subject-specific awards. Confirm the current figure for your course on SOAS's fees and funding pages. Regional and subject-specific scholarships are worth checking early.
How Study UK Now helps you apply
SOAS rewards genuine intellectual engagement with its regions and themes. Study UK Now gives you an honest read of your profile against the course bar and shapes a personal statement that shows real depth and motivation — in good time for the UCAS deadline.
How Study UK Now helps with this
Get expert, end-to-end help — from university matching to your visa.
Frequently asked questions
What is SOAS University of London known for?
SOAS is the UK's leading specialist in the study of Asia, Africa and the Middle East, covering regional languages, law, economics, development studies, politics, history and the arts. It is part of the University of London and based in central London. Confirm course details on the university's pages.
Is SOAS good for development studies and international relations?
Yes — SOAS is highly regarded for development studies, politics and international relations with a regional focus on Asia, Africa and the Middle East, making it a strong choice for students interested in global affairs and development. Check your specific programme on the university's pages.
How much does SOAS cost for international students?
International undergraduate tuition is roughly £20,000–£26,000 a year depending on the course. Central-London living costs are significant and on top. Confirm the current figures on SOAS's official fees page.
Sources — verified June 2026
Visa, fee and policy details change. Always confirm the latest on the official source before you rely on it.