The University of London is not a physical university, but a university consortium composed of more than a dozen universities and research institutions in London, England (also known as "public federal universities" like the University of California). It was formed by the merger of University College London and King's College London in 1836, and was granted the Royal Charter. It is one of the most influential public university systems in the world.

University College London (UCL), founded in 1826, is located in London, England. It is a world-class public comprehensive research university and the founding college of University of London, ranking in the top ten in the world. It is an old British prestigious school with a top reputation. It is also a G5 super elite university in Britain (G5 includes Cambridge University, Oxford University, London Imperial College London, London School of Economics and Political Science, University College London).