University of Cumbria

Overview

The University of Cumbria was founded in 2007, and it has rapidly gained a reputation of quality teaching and applied learning. It is a good alternative to foreign students unlike big research-oriented universities that emphasize student success, professional skills, and community engagement.

The University of Cumbria UK is in one of the prettiest and student-friendly cities in England, and it offers affordable education, small classes, and good academic assistance. The university has campuses in Scenic Lancaster, Ambleside, and Carlisle, but London offers a unique blend of urban and natural environments.

The University of Cumbria is a career-oriented and supportive learning institution that has a real world relevancy that students seeking to study in the UK would enjoy. The university has a high teaching culture and excellent connections with employers and hence attracts students worldwide.

Highlights

Acceptance Rate: 65%

Total International Students: 800+ (from 907+ countries)

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1

Placement Percentage: 97%

University of Cumbria Intakes

As international students who are comparing universities to study in the UK, it is important to know the intake periods in order to plan effectively on the academic and visa front.

The University of Cumbria has structured intakes that can fit well within the world academic calendar and the University is therefore a good choice to students intending to study Masters in UK or Bachelors.

Application timelines vary by course, but early applications are strongly recommended due to visa processing times. Understanding University of Cumbria application deadlines is essential for securing admission and accommodation.

  • Fall Intake: The Fall intake is the main and most popular intake, offering the widest range of undergraduate programs at the University of Cumbria. Most bachelor’s degrees across education, business, health, and science disciplines are available during this intake.
  • Spring Intake: The Spring intake is primarily applicable to the chosen postgraduate programs at the University of Cumbria; it is relevant to students who missed the September deadline or require extra time to prepare. The intake is particularly high among foreign students pursuing master’s-level courses.

Tip: If you’re unsure about timelines, always review the University of Cumbria application process on the official website for the most accurate, intake-specific guidance.

University of Cumbria Courses

When exploring courses to study in the UK, the University of Cumbria stands out for its career-focused and practice-led curriculum.

For students planning to study Bachelors in the UK, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate degrees as well as postgraduate degrees.

Popular programs at the University of Cumbria include nursing, MBA, public health, education, sports science, and data-related fields. These programs are designed to meet UK and global workforce demands.

Some of the top courses at University of Cumbria are as follows:

Program Duration Total Tuition Fees
MSc Conservation Management
1 Year
£14,900
MA Creative Practice
1 Year
£14,900
MA Education
1 Year
£14,900
MSc Forest Science
1 Year
£14,900
MSc Sport and Exercise Rehabilitation
1 Year
£13,575
MSc International Management
1 Year (2 Years Part-time)
£14,900
MBA Master of Business Administration
1 Year (2 Years Part-time)
£16,900

Cost of Studying at University of Cumbria

Beyond tuition, international students should budget for accommodation, food, transport, and study materials. Compared to major UK cities, the cost of education in the UK is significantly lower in Cumbria’s campus locations.

Tuition fees at the University of Cumbria are relatively affordable for international students, keeping costs lower than at many UK institutions without compromising quality.

Here is an overview of the estimated expenses for international students at the University of Cumbria:

Expense Type Estimated Cost
UG Tuition Fees
£13,000 – £15,000/year
PG Tuition Fees
£14,000 – £16,900/year
Accommodation
£4,800 – £6,500/year
Food
£180 – £250/month
Travel
£60 – £100/month
General Expenses
£80 – £120/month

University of Cumbria Scholarships

For international students looking for a scholarship to study in the UK, the University of Cumbria offers a range of funding opportunities designed to make education more affordable.

The University of Cumbria offers various types of financial aid, including discounts on tuition fees for international students. The majority of awards are automatic at admission, and separate scholarship applications are not required, and the award process becomes more transparent.

In particular, University of Cumbria merit-based scholarships are awarded based on academic performance and prior qualifications. These scholarships help lower overall tuition costs and are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Some of the top University of Cumbria scholarships for international students are as follows:

Scholarship Value Details
Cumbria International UG Scholarship
£4,500 towards tuition fees
Awarded to international students pursuing UG degree at university
Cumbria International PGT Scholarship
£2,000 towards tuition fees
Awarded to international students pursuing PG degree at university
Cumbria Global Business Excellence MBA Scholarship
£2,500 towards tuition fees
Awarded to international students pursuing an MBA at university
Cumbria Health and Wellbeing Scholarship
£12,000 towards tuition fees
Awarded to international students pursuing full-time nursing and MPH Public Health program at university

University of Cumbria Admission

University of Cumbria admissions are friendly and accommodating with clear instructions on international applications. The requirements depend on the level of study and the student’s academic background.

In general, the documents needed to apply to an institution are academic transcripts, a personal statement, and evidence of English proficiency. Knowledge of eligibility to study at the University of Cumbria early enough prevents delays.

Accepted English proficiency tests for the University of Cumbria include IELTS and other recognized equivalents, depending on the course.

The admission requirements for the University of Cumbria are as follows:

Masters

Admission Requirements:

To get admission into a Master’s program, students must have a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 55% or equivalent to a UK 2:1 or 2:2 Bachelor’s degree.

English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:

  • TOEFL iBT – 80
  • IELTS – 6.5
  • Cambridge C1/C2 – 176

Additional Requirements:

You are also required to submit academic transcripts, personal statement, reference, work experience (if required), references, CV, and English language proficiency scores.

Bachelors

Admission Requirements:

For admission to Bachelor’s program, students are required to have a high school diploma with a minimum of 50% or equivalent.

English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:

  • TOEFL iBT – 72
  • IELTS – 6.0
  • Cambridge C1/C2 – 170

Additional Requirements:

You also need to provide academic transcripts, personal statement, references, CV, and English language proficiency scores.

Accommodation at University of Cumbria

Housing at the University of Cumbria includes on-campus and off-campus options. International students prefer using university accommodation due to its security and comfort.

The accommodation team helps international students find accommodation in advance, making relocation to the UK easier.

  • On-Campus: Offers safe and convenient accommodation to international students on-campus, across its main campuses. University-owned halls such as Carrock Fell and Hadrians Hall in Carlisle, Ullswater House in Lancaster, and student quarters in Ambleside, built specifically to serve an academic group are very popular.
  • Off-Campus: Students also use off-campus accommodation, especially in Carlisle and Lancaster where shared houses and private rent are easily accessible. Living off campus offers greater independence and may be a more cost-effective option for continuing students beyond the first year.

University of Cumbria Placements

The university places strong emphasis on employability, with many programs including placements or practical projects. The University of Cumbria placement rate reflects this career-focused approach.

Career support at the University of Cumbria includes CV workshops, interview preparation, employer networking, and internship guidance. These services are available throughout your studies.

Graduates benefit from a growing University of Cumbria alumni network, offering mentoring, industry connections, and long-term career support.

Some of the top recruiters at University of Cumbria are:

  • NHS (National Health Service)
  • NHS Foundation Trusts
  • PwC
  • KPMG
  • EY
  • Deloitte
  • Amazon UK
  • Tesco
  • Boots UK
  • Network Rail
  • Environment Agency
  • National Trust
  • British Army
  • HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC)

Student Essential Services

Student life at the University of Cumbria is relaxed, participatory, and friendly, the perfect place to be as an international student acclimatizing to the UK culture. Clubs, societies and wellbeing activities take place in campuses.

International student support at the University of Cumbria such as the UK student visa advice, academic skills training, and personal wellbeing support. Special advisors assist students to get settled in.

  • Academic Skills & Learning Support: The student will have access to one-on-one academic coaching, writing and referencing support, workshops on study skills and numeracy support.
  • Student Wellbeing & Mental Health Services: Confidential counselling, mental health advisors, and wellbeing programs are available to support emotional health, stress management, and overall wellbeing.
  • Students’ Union & Societies: The Students’ Union organizes clubs, societies, events, and leadership opportunities, helping students build friendships and develop soft skills.
  • Health & Medical Support: Assistance with GP registration, NHS access guidance, and health awareness programs is provided for all enrolled students.

Location of University of Cumbria

Frequently Asked Questions Section

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly are the University of Cumbria campuses located?

The university has campuses in Carlisle, Lancaster, Ambleside, and London. Carlisle and Lancaster are popular among international students due to lower rent and a quieter lifestyle, while the London campus suits students seeking industry exposure.

Does the University of Cumbria focus more on teaching or research?

The university is primarily teaching-focused. This benefits international students who prefer interactive learning, regular feedback, and direct access to lecturers instead of research-heavy teaching models.

How difficult is it to adjust to life in Cumbria as an international student?

It is usually easy to adjust, because of the relaxed ambience, the hospitable host societies, and the orientation programs provided by the university. Cumbria is not that overwhelming to many students as compared to bigger cities.

How early should I arrive before my course starts at University of Cumbria?

International students are encouraged to arrive 1-2 weeks early to attend orientation, settle into accommodation, and complete administrative tasks.

What kind of part-time jobs do international students usually get near the University of Cumbria?

Most international students find part-time work in retail stores, supermarkets, cafes, warehouses, hospitality, and campus facilities. The quieter cities around Cumbria make competition manageable, and the careers team regularly advertises local job openings suitable for students.

How easy is it to travel to other cities from Cumbria?

Cumbria is accessible by train and bus to larger cities like Manchester, liverpool and London. Travel is affordable, thanks to student discounts that allow students to visit the UK on weekends and during breaks.

Does the University of Cumbria help students understand UK workplace culture?

Yes, the career services conduct workshops on what is required of them in the UK workplace, how to communicate professionally, how to format a CV, and how to behave during an interview, which are highly important to international students.

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