12. Royal Agricultural University
11. Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
Located in Glasgow, the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland is a school specialising in music, drama, dance, production and film. You can do undergraduate or postgraduate degrees here, and the conservatoire is a member of the Federation of Drama Schools. Although it’s a pretty good place to study in the creative arts, it’s one of the least diverse universities in the UK. There are only 47 nationalities, and 306 international students. However, compared with some other unis in this list, that’s actually not too bad.10. Leeds Trinity University
9. Courtauld Institute of Art, University of London
With 216 international students from 39 nationalities, the Courtauld Institute of Art is one of two members of the University of London on our list of the least diverse universities in the UK. It’s one of the world’s most prestigious programmes, in subjects relating to art history, curating, and conservation. It’s definitely a great place to go if you’re interested in art, however there’s not going to be a huge international crowd around.8. SRUC – Scotland’s Rural College
This university is one of the least diverse in the UK, but it might be due to the fact it’s such a niche area. SRUC, Scotland’s Rural College, specialises in agriculture and life sciences, with a strong focus on sustainability. Currently, there are only 37 nationalities and 119 international students. This is less surprising given it’s not situated in one of the leading cities like some of the others on this list.7. Plymouth Marijon University
6. Leeds Art University
This another of the least diverse universities in the UK hat has a specialist area, which may explain why it’s less diverse than others with a broader array of courses. At Leeds Art University, you can study at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. There are lots of courses within the arts, such as creative writing, comic and concept art, fashion branding, animation and much more. Despite offering students the chance to study abroad, it seems not many come from abroad. There’s currently only 87 international students from 37 nationalities.5. National Film and Television School
The National Film and Television School (NFTS) is one of the best schools in the UK to study film. There’s no doubt about its reputation. However, it still doesn’t have a strong international student population which makes it one of the least diverse universities in the UK. There are only 98 international students of 36 nationalities, which means that the majority come from the UK. Nevertheless, this isn’t likely to put students dedicated to a career in film and TV off.4. Writtle University College
3. Arts University Plymouth
Considered as the UK’s best small or specialist university, Arts University Plymouth is also one of the least diverse. However, it’s most likely the fact that it is a small uni that makes it lack a large international student population. It currently has 34 nationalities – just one nationality more than the second least diverse university, and only 76 international students.2. Institute of Cancer Research, University of London
Specialising in oncology, the Institute of Cancer Research is a member institution of the broader Uni of London. It’s technically more of a college than a university, but it’s still considered one of the least diverse higher education institutions. With only 33 nationalities, it’s arguably important that as one of the leaders in such important scientific research, they draw in more minds from around the world.1.Bisshop Grosseteste University
FAQs on the Least Diverse Universities in the UK
Bishop Grosseteste University in Lincoln is often ranked the least diverse. It has only around 30 international students and a very small mix of nationalities, with most overseas students coming from nearby European countries or the United States.
Location plays a big part. Rural campuses and smaller towns are less attractive to international students. Niche subject focus, limited global recruitment, and fewer exchange or partner programmes also reduce diversity.
Usually yes. Specialist institutions such as the Royal Agricultural University or small arts schools draw fewer overseas applicants and do not have the same global reach as large research universities.
Less diverse campuses may represent as few as 20 to 40 nationalities. In contrast, leading global universities such as UCL or Imperial College London often have students from over 150 countries.
It can mean fewer cultural events and less exposure to global viewpoints. Some students enjoy the close community feel, but others may find it limits networking and international perspectives.
Yes. Career outcomes depend more on course quality, placements, and industry links than student diversity levels. Many smaller universities have strong employer partnerships despite a limited international mix.
Yes. Joining or launching cultural societies, supporting exchange programmes, and volunteering with international student services can help build a more inclusive environment over time.
Not necessarily. Many small universities provide excellent personal support and community feel, even if the student body is less international overall.
In smaller towns, low diversity can limit cultural events, food options, and international networking. Students who value global community may prefer larger cities or highly international campuses.
They give a good overview but may not capture the full student experience. Check official statistics and speak with current students to understand what day to day campus life is like.