Most prestigious universities in the UK for undergrad?

I'm looking at applying to schools in the UK, and I'm curious about which universities are considered the most prestigious. I've heard about Oxford and Cambridge, but I'm wondering if there are others I should consider. Any suggestions?

Certainly, the universities of Oxford and Cambridge, often referred to as "Oxbridge," are famously prestigious institutions in the UK and globally renowned. However, there are many other universities in the UK that are celebrated for their high academic standards and excellent programs.

Imperial College London, University College London (UCL), and the London School of Economics (LSE) are three such institutions. All three hold a globally prestigious reputation, particularly in STEM fields for Imperial and social sciences for LSE. UCL is renowned for its diverse course offerings as it excels in multiple areas, from life sciences to arts and humanities.

The University of Edinburgh in Scotland is another university that is highly respected, offering strong programs, especially in philosophy, artificial intelligence, and informatics.

King's College London and the University of Manchester are also considered among the top UK universities. They have robust research departments and house world-leading programs, including King's Dental Institute at King's College and the School of Computer Science at Manchester.

Last but definitely not least, the University of St. Andrews, which is the third oldest university in the English-speaking world, has a prestigious reputation, particularly in the humanities.

Remember that while prestige can be an indicator of quality, it is far from the only factor to consider. Your specific interests, the types of programs you are seeking, and the environment where you envision thriving are all important considerations.

Keep in mind that each of these schools uses UCAS, the centralized application system for UK universities, and the application process, including essays and recommendation letters, differs from the process for US schools. Additionally, British universities often require applicants to declare a major upon applying and it can be difficult to switch later. Be sure to research these aspects thoroughly before applying.