Aston University
Overview
Aston University is a great example of academic excellence, cutting-edge study, and a dedication to student success. With a rich history that dates back to 1895, Aston has developed into a renowned university with a strong industry connection and an emphasis on preparing students for meaningful careers.
A total of 14,890 students attend the university, with a large number of international students (about 24.5% of the total student body). Aston’s dedication to quality education is reflected in its consistently high rankings, including being named “University of the Year for Student Success 2025” by the Daily Mail University Guide and securing a “Gold” rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework. Furthermore, Aston graduates consistently demonstrate strong employability outcomes, with a median salary of £35,400 five years after graduation, positioning the university among the top 20 in the UK for graduate salaries.
Highlights
Acceptance Rate- 50%
Total International Students- 5,375
Student to Faculty Ratio- 19:1
Placement Rate- 80%
Aston University Rankings
Aston University consistently demonstrates a strong performance in various university rankings, reflecting its commitment to academic quality, student success, and research impact. Here’s a brief overview:
Ranking Agency | Rank |
QS World University Rankings | #395 |
Best Global Universities (US News) | #594 |
Best Global Universities in the United Kingdom (US News) | #44 |
Energy and Fuels (US News) | #102 |
Aston University Intakes
Aston University primarily offers two main intake periods for its programs:
- September Intake (Main Intake): This is the most common intake, with a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses starting in late September.
- Undergraduate: Applications are typically submitted through UCAS, with the main deadline usually in late January. Late applications may be considered if vacancies exist, often until June 30th.
- Postgraduate: The final application deadline for the September intake is usually September 1st. However, it’s highly recommended to apply much earlier, as popular courses can fill up quickly and earlier applications allow more time for visa processing and meeting offer conditions.
- January Intake: A smaller selection of postgraduate courses is available for a January start.
- Postgraduate: The final application deadline for the January intake is typically December 18th.
Additionally, some specialized postgraduate programs, particularly at Aston University London, may offer an April/May intake.
Aston University Courses
Aston University offers a variety of highly-regarded graduate programs that attract international students. Here’s a table outlining some of their top programs, their typical durations, and approximate total tuition fees for international students.
Aston University Top Graduate Programs for International Students
Program Name | Duration (Full-time) | Total Tuition Fees for International Students (GBP) – Approx. |
MBA (Master of Business Administration) | 1 year | £30,000 – £35,000 |
MSc Business Analytics | 1 year | £23,500 – £27,500 |
MSc Computer Science | 1 year (or 22 months with Professional Practice) | £21,500 – £24,000 |
MSc Finance | 1 year | £23,500 – £27,500 |
LLM International Commercial Law | 1 year | £22,750 – £23,500 |
MSc Public Health (MPH) | 1 year | £22,750 – £23,500 |
MSc International Accounting and Finance | 1 year | £22,750 – £26,700 |
Cost of Studying at Aston University
The cost of studying at Aston University for international students comprises both tuition fees and living expenses. These costs can vary widely depending on the program of study and personal lifestyle choices.
Expenses | Undergraduate Programs (approximate) | Graduate Programs (approximate) |
Tuition Fees | £14,500 – £23,500 | £14,500 – £30,000 |
Accommodation | £5,000 – £9,000 | £5,000 – £9,000 |
Food & Groceries | £2,500 – £3,500 | £2,500 – £3,500 |
Personal Expenses | £1,500 – £2,000 | £1,500 – £2,000 |
Health Insurance (IHS) | £776/year | £776/year |
Books & Supplies | £500 – £700 | £500 – £700 |
Total Estimated Annual Cost | £24,776 – £39,476 | £24,776 – £45,276 |
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Aston University Scholarships
Aston University offers various scholarships specifically designed to support international students, both at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Here’s a table outlining some of the key scholarships available for international students at Aston University:
Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Scholarship Amount (Approx.) |
Aston University Ferguson Scholarship | – Nationals of India or African countries. – Hold a conditional or unconditional offer for specific postgraduate taught courses (e.g., in Pharmacy, Psychology, Neuroscience). – Hold a 2:1 degree or equivalent in a relevant subject. – Be a self-funded student. | Full tuition fee cover (£22,500) + £6,000 contribution towards living costs. |
GREAT Scholarships 2025 | – Nationals and residents of specific countries (e.g., Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Pakistan, among others listed by the British Council). – Hold an offer for a one-year postgraduate taught course (excluding MBA and OSPAP). – Meet minimum academic qualifications (typically equivalent to a UK 2:1 degree). | £10,000 towards tuition fees. |
Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship | – International students from any country. – For undergraduate or postgraduate taught courses (excluding Medicine for UG, and MBA, OSPAP, Physician Associate for PG). – Demonstrate exceptional academic results and a passion for their subject (e.g., through work experience, volunteering, or extracurriculars). | Up to £17,500 (Undergraduate) / Up to £10,000 (Postgraduate) |
Automatic Merit Scholarship (Undergraduate) | – International undergraduate students. – Achieve specific academic grades (e.g., equivalent to A*AA for a higher award, or AAB for a lower award). | Up to £2,000 (for A*AA equivalent) / Up to £1,000 (for AAB equivalent) |
Automatic Merit Scholarship (Postgraduate) | – International postgraduate taught students. – Achieve specific academic grades (e.g., equivalent to a UK First Class Honours degree for a higher award, or 2:1 for a lower award). | Up to £2,000 (for First Class equivalent) / Up to £1,000 (for 2:1 equivalent) |
Regional Scholarships | – International students from specific regions or countries. Eligibility varies by region/country. | Varies (often £2,000 – £4,000) |
Aston University Admissions
Aston University’s admission process for international students is designed to be straightforward, with clear requirements and support available. The following section will discuss the admission requirements and top programs at Aston University.
Masters
Admission Requirements:
International students must hold a bachelor’s degree (or higher). Applicants should have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
English Language Proficiency Test Requirements:
Additional Requirements:
International students must submit a statement of purpose, two to three letters of recommendation, a resume, and official transcripts.
Bachelors
Admission Requirements:
International students require a higher secondary or equivalent degree with a minimum GPA of 2.6 (4.0 scale) in all high school courses.
English Language Proficiency Test Requirements:
- Duolingo: 105
- TOEFL iBT: 71
- PTE: 48
- IELTS: 6.0
Additional Requirements:
International students will have to submit official transcripts and a financial statement.
Accommodation at Aston University
Aston University guarantees an offer of a room in its on-campus accommodation to all first-year international undergraduate and postgraduate students who meet the application deadlines. The university’s on-campus residences, known as Aston Student Village, are managed by their partner, Unite Students.
- On-Campus Accommodation: Aston Student Village is located right on the city-centre campus, making it very convenient. It offers a range of options, primarily in 5-bedroom and 7-bedroom shared flats. These flats come with an en-suite bathroom and a shared kitchen. The accommodation includes all bills (utilities, Wi-Fi), and prices vary based on the room type and contract length. For international students, the standard contract for undergraduates is around 44 weeks, while postgraduates have a 51-week contract.
- Off-Campus Accommodation: For students who prefer to live off-campus, Aston University’s Students’ Union operates the Aston Student Homes service. This service provides a list of approved and vetted private rental properties, including shared houses and private halls, in various areas of Birmingham. It’s a useful resource for finding safe and reliable accommodation close to campus or in other parts of the city.
Student Essential Services
Life at Aston University offers a dynamic and well-rounded experience, blending academic rigor with a vibrant campus community in the heart of a major UK city. Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:
- Vibrant Campus Culture: Aston University’s campus is located in the center of Birmingham, one of the UK’s most diverse cities. It’s a modern, self-contained campus with all the necessary facilities, including academic buildings, student accommodation, and recreational spaces, within walking distance.
- Active Student Union: The Aston Students’ Union is a central part of student life. It runs over 130 clubs and societies, offering something for everyone from academic and cultural groups to sports teams and social clubs. Joining a society is an excellent way to meet new people and pursue your interests.
- Strong Focus on Employability: Aston places a high value on preparing students for their careers. Many of its courses feature a placement year, providing hands-on industry experience. The university’s careers and placements team provides extensive support, including CV workshops and networking events.
- Convenient Accommodation: For first-year international students, the university guarantees a place in its on-campus accommodation, the Aston Student Village. This provides a safe and convenient living environment right on campus.
Location of Aston University
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key application deadlines for international students at Aston University?
For undergraduate programs, most international students apply through the UCAS portal. The main application deadline is typically in late January, but it’s advisable to apply as early as possible. For postgraduate programs, Aston University has a rolling admissions policy, meaning applications are assessed as they come in. However, it’s crucial to apply early as some popular courses may close once they reach capacity. The university also offers a limited January intake for certain programs.
Does Aston University offer scholarships for international students?
Yes, Aston University offers a variety of scholarships for international students. These are often merit-based, recognizing academic excellence. The university has its own scholarships, such as the Aston Global Excellence Scholarship, which can offer a tuition fee reduction. Additionally, international students may be eligible for scholarships offered by external bodies like the GREAT Scholarships from the British Council.
Can I work while studying at Aston University?
Yes, as an international student with a student visa, you are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official university holidays. The university’s careers service can help you find part-time jobs, internships, and work placements to gain valuable experience.
What kind of accommodation does Aston University offer?
Aston University guarantees an offer of a room in its on-campus accommodation to all first-year international undergraduate and postgraduate students who apply by the deadline. The university has a range of student residences located on its city-centre campus, offering a safe and convenient living environment with a strong sense of community.
What is the total estimated cost of studying at Aston University?
The total estimated annual cost for an international student at Aston, including tuition fees and living expenses, is approximately £25,000 to £35,000. This can vary depending on your chosen program and personal spending habits. Birmingham is generally considered a more affordable city compared to London.
What is student life like at Aston University?
Student life at Aston is vibrant and diverse. The Students’ Union hosts over 130 clubs and societies, ranging from academic and cultural groups to sports and social activities. The campus is located in the heart of Birmingham, the UK’s second-largest city, which offers a rich cultural scene, a variety of restaurants, and excellent transport links to the rest of the country.
