University of Bristol
Overview
Founded in 1876, the University of Bristol is one of the UK’s leading research-intensive universities and a proud member of the prestigious Russell Group. Located in the vibrant city of Bristol, the university is renowned for its academic excellence, innovation, and global outlook. With a diverse student body from over 150 countries, it combines tradition with cutting-edge teaching and research.
Highlights
Acceptance Rate: 67%
Total International Students: 8,000+ from 150+ countries
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Placement Percentage: 86% within 15 months of graduation
University of Bristol Rankings
The University of Bristol consistently ranks among the world’s top universities. Here’s a look at its latest standings:
Ranking Agency | Rank |
U.S. News & World Report |
|
QS World University | 51 in Top Global Universities |
Times Higher Education (THE) World University |
|
University of Bristol Intakes
The University of Bristol offers two main intakes for its international students:
- Autumn Intake (September): The primary intake with admissions for all undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
- Spring Intake (January): Limited availability, mainly for postgraduate taught programs and research degrees.
Tip: Applications should ideally be submitted at least 6 – 9 months before the intake start date.
University of Bristol Courses
The university offers 600+ undergraduate and postgraduate programs across faculties like Arts, Social Sciences, Engineering, Medicine, and Sciences. Some popular programs of University of Bristol are:
Program | Duration | Total Tuition Fees |
MSc Accounting and Finance | 1 Year | £39,000 |
MSc Aerospace Engineering | 1 Year | £33,900 |
MSc Data Science | 1 Year | £35,500 |
MA English Literature | 1 Year (2 Years Part-time) | £29,300 |
MSc Public Health | 1 Year (2 Years Part-time) | £32,500 |
MSc Biomedical Sciences Research | 1 Year | £29,000 |
LLM Law – International Law and International Relations | 1 Year (2 Years Part-time) | £28,600 |
Cost of Studying at the University of Bristol
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost (per year) |
| UG Tuition Fees | £22,000 – £28,000 |
| PG Tuition Fees | £25,000 – £30,000 |
| Accommodation | £7,000 – £11,000 |
| Food & Groceries | £2,500 – £3,500 |
| Study Materials & Books | £400 – £800 |
| Personal & Travel Expenses | £2,000 – £3,000 |
University of Bristol Scholarships
The University of Bristol offers a variety of scholarships to assist international students, including:
Scholarship | Value | Details |
Think Big Undergraduate Scholarship | £6,500 – £13,000 towards tuition fees | For international UG students studying at the university |
Think Big Postgraduate Scholarship | £6,500 – £26,000 towards tuition fees | For international PG students studying at the university |
GREAT Scholarships | £10,000 | Available for students from selected countries |
Chevening Scholarships | Fully funded | For master’s students with leadership potential |
University of Bristol Admissions
Undergraduate students will be applying to the University of Bristol via UCAS, whereas postgraduate students will have to apply online via the university. The admission criteria are as follows:
Masters
Admission Requirements:
For admission to Master’s programs at Bristol, you must hold a bachelor’s degree equivalent to a UK 2:1 (upper second-class honours). Some courses may also accept a 2:2 with relevant experience.
English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:
- TOEFL iBT – 88 – 95
- IELTS – 6.5 – 7.0 (no band below 6.0)
- PTE – 67+
Additional Requirements:
You must also submit your official academic transcripts, personal statement or statement of purpose, CV or resume, two references (academic or professional), and English language proficiency scores.
Bachelors
Admission Requirements:
At undergraduate programmes, candidates are required to complete high school qualifications that are equivalent to UK A-levels. The entry requirements are usually between AAA – ABB depending on the course chosen.
English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:
- TOEFL iBT – 88 – 95
- IELTS – 6.5 – 7.0 (no band below 6.0)
- PTE – 67+
Additional Requirements:
You will also be required to provide official academic transcripts, a personal statement, two academic references, and English language proficiency scores.
Accommodation at the University of Bristol
The University of Bristol offers both university-managed residences (on-campus) and private rentals (off-campus) to its students:
- On-Campus Halls: Options like Badock Hall, Wills Hall, and Hiatt Baker Hall with catered or self-catered packages. Average rent: £6,500 – £9,000 per year.
- Off-Campus Housing: Private student accommodations (PBSAs) and shared rentals across Bristol. Average rent: £150 – £250 per week.
University of Bristol Placements
The University of Bristol has an excellent reputation for graduate employability, with most students securing jobs or further study within 15 months of graduation. The university’s Careers Service offers tailored career guidance, internship opportunities, skill-building workshops, and regular employer networking events to help students transition smoothly into the professional world. Some of the top employers of Bristol are:
- PwC
- Deloitte
- BBC
- Airbus
- Rolls-Royce
- KPMG
- HSBC
- Accenture
- IBM
- Unilever
Student Essential Services
The University of Bristol provides a wide range of student services to ensure both academic success and personal wellbeing. From visa advice to mental health support and active student societies, the university ensures that both international and home students feel supported throughout their journey.
- Student Advice Services: Provides advice on enrolment, visas, finance and settling in the UK. International students are provided with one-to-one consultations and drop-ins.
- Wellbeing & Mental Health Services: Professional counselling, mental health advisors, and disability support teams are available to help students manage academic and personal challenges.
- IT & Digital Support: Bristol offers free Wi-Fi throughout the campus, access to learning platforms, printing facilities, and software packages. Students can also get 24/7 technical assistance.
- Libraries & Learning Resources: Multiple libraries across the campus with extensive digital and print collections, study spaces, and academic skills workshops.
- Clubs & Organizations: More than 350 student societies, cultural groups and sports clubs run by the Bristol Students Union provide social and networking opportunities and ways to develop skills beyond the classroom.
- Health & Wellbeing Hub: On-campus GP, dental, and healthcare services ensure students can access medical support quickly and easily.
Location of University of Bristol
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students work while studying at the University of Bristol?
Yes, students on a UK Student Visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations. Many students take on part-time roles in hospitality, retail, or university jobs to support their living costs.
How safe is the University of Bristol campus and the city for students?
Bristol is considered a safe, student-friendly city with a vibrant international community. The university also has a dedicated Security Service, 24/7 emergency support, and student wellbeing officers to ensure a safe study environment.
When should I apply for admission to the University of Bristol?
Undergraduate applications must be submitted through UCAS by mid-January of the year you intend to study. Postgraduate applications are usually rolling, but students are advised to apply 6 – 9 months in advance to secure a place and funding.
What kind of career support does Bristol provide to students?
Bristol’s Careers Service offers one-to-one coaching, career fairs, networking events, internships, and graduate scheme opportunities. Students also benefit from the Bristol PLUS Award, which enhances employability by recognizing extracurricular achievements.
How does public transport work for students in Bristol?
Bristol has an extensive bus network and is well connected by train to other UK cities. Many students cycle or walk, as the campus is centrally located. The university also offers travel discounts for students who use local transportation services.
What is student life like at the University of Bristol?
The Students Union has 350+ societies, sports clubs and cultural groups that make student life in Bristol vibrant. The city has a rich music, arts, and food scene, which has so many places to meet and have fun.
What are the accommodation options for international students?
Students can choose from university-managed halls, which are catered or self-catered, or private rentals across the city. On-campus accommodation costs range between £6,500 – £9,000 per year, while private student housing averages £150 – £250 per week.
