What is the LSE Acceptance Rate?

What is the LSE Acceptance Rate?

The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) is globally recognised for its academic excellence, particularly in social sciences, economics, and political science. It was recently ranked the number one university in the UK for the first time, according to The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025.

As one of the most competitive institutions in the UK, LSE has a notably low acceptance rate, underscoring its selectivity. This guide will cover recent acceptance rate trends at LSE, variations by admission cycles, and other factors that impact the likelihood of admission.

The Recent History of LSE Acceptance Rates

LSE’s acceptance rate varies yearly, reflecting changes in applicant volume, admission policies, and intake capacity. Recent data show that LSE’s selectivity has increased, making admission highly competitive.

Current Acceptance Rate

LSE’s general acceptance rate has hovered between 8-10% in recent years, highlighting its exclusivity and appeal to high-achieving students globally.

Previous Trends

A decade ago, LSE had a slightly higher acceptance rate, around 12%, but as the school’s prestige has grown, so has the competitiveness.

LSE Acceptance Rates: Class of 2018 to 2027

The Latest LSE Admission Cycle

In the most recent cycle, LSE received around 28,500 applications, with an acceptance rate of 8.7%. This figure continues an ongoing trend of growing selectivity, impacted by both an increase in applicants and a stable upper limit on the number of available places. Key trends include a steady increase in applications from international students, who contribute significantly to LSE’s diverse student body.

Comparing Various LSE Acceptance Rates

LSE Acceptance Rate: Early Decision

Although LSE does not offer an “Early Decision” option, it does provide early application deadlines for international students requiring visa processing. Statistics show that early applications often yield better results, as spots are less limited earlier in the admission process.

LSE Acceptance Rate: Regular Decision

Regular decision admissions at LSE follow the traditional January deadline, where most students apply. With higher application volumes during this period, acceptance rates are generally lower. For the class of 2027, regular decision applicants faced an 8.3% acceptance rate, indicating tougher competition.

Factors That Affect the LSE Acceptance Rate

Quality and Size of the Applicant Pool

Over the past years, the number of applicants has steadily increased, driven by the university’s growing international popularity and its strong career prospects for graduates. This influx of high-achieving students—many with competitive academic records, leadership experience, and impressive extracurriculars—has naturally led to a lower acceptance rate, as LSE seeks to maintain selectivity and a high calibre of student body.

The diversity within this applicant pool is significant, with students from a wide range of educational and cultural backgrounds applying to LSE, making the competition for places even tougher. An applicant pool like this enables LSE to maintain its rigorous academic standards and choose only the strongest canidates from around the world.

Holistic Admissions Process

LSE employs a holistic admissions approach, meaning it evaluates each application based on more than academic achievements alone. Academic records are certainly crucial, but LSE also places a strong emphasis on personal statements, letters of recommendation, and demonstrated commitment to community engagement or relevant extracurricular activities.

This holistic process aims to identify well-rounded individuals who not only excel academically but also align with LSE’s values, such as a commitment to social impact and critical thinking.

The personal statement is a particularly critical component, offering candidates the chance to express their motivations, unique perspectives, and how they would contribute to LSE’s academic community. This approach supports LSE’s goal of fostering an environment of cross-cultural dialogue and collaboration.

How Does the LSE Acceptance Rate Compare with Other UK Universities?

The London School of Economics (LSE) has one of the most competitive acceptance rates among UK universities, estimated at 8% for the most recent admissions cycle. This level of selectivity surpasses even top UK institutions such as Oxford and Cambridge, whose acceptance rates are approximately 16% and 21% respectively. Imperial College London, another prestigious institution, has an acceptance rate of around 10% overall, though this varies by course, especially for its STEM courses.

These figures reflect LSE’s global reputation and strong demand for courses in fields like Economics, Law, and International Relations. As with Ivy League universities, LSE’s admissions standards and competitiveness align with its standing as a world-renowned social sciences institution.

Why is the LSE Acceptance Rate So Low?

LSE’s low acceptance rate can be attributed to its prestigious reputation, robust academic standards, and high volume of applicants. As more students aim to benefit from LSE’s world-renowned education and career opportunities, selectivity naturally increases.

Looking to Study at LSE?

Looking to study at LSE? Check out our comprehensive guide How to get into LSE in 2024.

How Can Dukes Plus Help Your LSE Application Succeed?

At Dukes Plus, we provide tailored support to maximise your chances of admission to LSE. Our advisors work with students to enhance their applications through personalised strategies, essay guidance, and interview preparation.

For more information on how Dukes Plus can support your LSE application, please visit our private admissions consulting page or get in touch with us directly. Let’s work together to turn your ambition into a successful application. 

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Sources

https://www.lse.ac.uk/News/Latest-news-from-LSE/2024/i-September-2024/University-of-the-Year

https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/lse-university-of-st-andrews-university-of-sheffield-cambridge-oxford-b2616188.html