Qualifications aside, Imperial is a VERY good place to study. The quality of education you get is on par with Oxbridge I'd say. Nottingham U on the other hand has an excellent campus, and students studying there is guranteed a great time.

Going to uni isn't just about that piece of paper you get at the end of the course, but the experience you gain through the journey.

Either route, that person you're sponsering is one lucky git!