The University of Bristol is ranked 9th in the UK and 54th in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
University of Bristol is a prestigious institution known for its academic excellence and research impact. Recognised as one of the UK’s leading universities, it offers over 600 undergraduate and postgraduate degrees across a diverse range of subjects. By studying with NCUK, international students can gain access to this prestigious university and benefit from its commitment to world-class teaching and research.
Located in a vibrant and welcoming city, Bristol provides an inspiring environment for students to live, learn, and grow. With a thriving arts and culture scene, modern facilities, and strong research partnerships, the university fosters an engaging and supportive community. International students at Bristol will have access to exceptional academic resources and personal development opportunities, ensuring a rewarding and enriching study abroad experience.
By completing the NCUK International Foundation Year (IFY) or International Year One (IYOne) at UFC, students can progress seamlessly to the University of Bristol and gain access to world-class education and career opportunities.
Life at the University of Bristol
The University of Bristol welcomes students from over 150 countries, creating a diverse and vibrant international community. With a dynamic student life, Bristol offers numerous clubs, organisations, and cultural events, ensuring international students have an enriching and engaging study abroad experience. By studying with NCUK, students gain access to this prestigious university and can immerse themselves in Bristol’s thriving arts, culture, and social scene.
Committed to providing a world-class education, the university equips students with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to succeed in a competitive global job market. Bristol fosters a supportive and inclusive environment, offering a wide range of student services and resources to help international students adjust to their new surroundings and excel in their studies.
With its rich history, strong research collaborations, and state-of-the-art facilities, the University of Bristol provides an inspiring and rewarding study-abroad experience, helping students achieve academic excellence and personal growth.
Graduates from the University of Bristol are highly sought after by employers in the UK and worldwide. Whether students choose to stay in the UK or return to their home country after graduation, the university’s Careers Service provides ongoing support throughout their studies and for up to three years after graduation. Bristol offers one of the largest careers programmes of any UK university, featuring presentations, networking events, and workshops designed to help students build professional connections and enhance their employability.
The Careers Service’s online portal gives students access to job vacancies, paid internships, and practical career resources, including CV writing guidance, application support, and interview preparation.
Bristol also fosters a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, encouraging students to think creatively and develop their own ventures, further enhancing their career prospects. With comprehensive career resources and personalised support, international students at the University of Bristol are well-equipped to succeed in the global job market and pursue fulfilling careers in their chosen fields.
Bristol, the largest city in the South West of the UK, is just 1 hour and 40 minutes from London, offering easy access to beaches, countryside, and nearby cities. Known for its friendly and welcoming community, Bristol provides international students with an exciting and diverse city experience filled with cultural, social, and recreational opportunities.
By studying with NCUK, students can join this prestigious university and immerse themselves in Bristol’s vibrant arts scene, historic landmarks, and scenic waterfront. The city boasts a rich mix of museums, galleries, festivals, and live music venues, ensuring students have endless opportunities to explore and engage with the local community throughout their study abroad journey.
Bristol’s excellent transport links and proximity to other major UK cities, including London and Cardiff, make it an ideal base for students to experience the UK’s diverse cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, enhancing both their academic and personal growth.
The University of Bristol provides a dedicated support system for international students, ensuring their well-being, academic success, and overall student experience. Through the university’s Request for Support service, students can access various resources, including online peer support, Student Wellbeing and Residential Life Services, the Student Counselling Service, and Nilaari, which offers culturally appropriate counselling for Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic students.
Bristol is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, helping international students feel at home throughout their studies. The university’s Global Lounge serves as a cultural hub, celebrating diversity and fostering a sense of community through social events, activities, and a regular Language Café. Located at the heart of the campus, the Global Lounge provides a space for international and UK students to connect, exchange ideas, and explore global opportunities, ensuring a truly enriching study abroad experience.
The University of Bristol offers a wide range of student accommodation options in the heart of the city, providing more than just a place to live—they are vibrant communities where students from around the world come together. Living in university residences is a great way to enjoy independence, make new friends, and settle into student life at Bristol.
Accommodation is spread across three student residential villages—North, East, and West—each offering a variety of living options to suit different preferences and budgets. Students can choose from shared Georgian townhouses in Clifton to modern city-centre flats, with both catered and self-catered options available. Room types include single rooms, en suite rooms, and studio apartments, ensuring flexibility for all lifestyles.
Many residences feature social spaces, common rooms, and study areas, with some offering access to gardens and outdoor spaces. University accommodation provides a safe and supportive environment, helping students build friendships and feel part of Bristol’s diverse and welcoming student community.
The University of Bristol offers cutting-edge facilities, ensuring an outstanding study experience for international students. With access to state-of-the-art laboratories, media suites, and lecture halls, students benefit from an environment that fosters academic excellence and innovation.
The university also provides impressive sports facilities, including the Indoor Sports Centre and Coombe Dingle Sports Complex, offering students opportunities to stay active and engaged throughout their studies.
Bristol’s modern learning spaces, such as the Arts and Social Sciences Library, provide extensive academic resources and support services, helping students excel in their coursework and research. The university’s dedication to innovation and world-class research is reflected in its specialist centres, including the Cabot Institute for the Environment and the Bristol Robotics Laboratory, both of which contribute to groundbreaking advancements in their fields.
The University of Bristol provides international students with a wide selection of sports teams, clubs, and societies, creating opportunities for community engagement and personal growth. The university’s Athletic Union supports various sports clubs, including the Bristol Jets Cheerleading Club and the Bristol University Swimming Club, allowing students to stay active and competitive.
Beyond sports, students can join societies such as the International Students’ Association and the Law Society, helping them connect with like-minded peers and become part of the university’s vibrant student life.
Getting involved in extracurricular activities allows students to develop valuable skills, build lifelong friendships, and explore new interests, making their time at the University of Bristol even more enriching and memorable.
The University of Bristol is deeply committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility, making it an ideal choice for international students who value eco-conscious initiatives. The university’s efforts align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on waste reduction, energy conservation, and sustainable transport solutions. Bristol’s dedicated sustainability team leads environmental initiatives aimed at reducing the university’s environmental footprint by conserving resources, minimising pollution, and tackling climate change.
In 2019, Bristol became the first UK university—and the second in the world—to declare a climate emergency, reinforcing its leadership in sustainability. The university now requires staff and students across all departments to develop and implement climate action plans, ensuring an ongoing commitment to creating a greener, more sustainable future.
Discover a wide range of undergraduate degrees at the University of Bristol, an NCUK partner university. Use the NCUK University Course Finder to explore programmes by subject area and find the perfect course for your academic and career goals.
We have an experienced team of admissions staff waiting to talk you through your options at University Foundation College and beyond, helping you to make decisions today which will positively influence your education and career.
We will provide you with personal counselling and support as you make the transition from high school to University Foundation College and then to your university degree programme.