Durham University
Durham University
Durham University is ranked 15th in the UK and 89th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
Durham University provides international students studying with or applying through NCUK with an exceptional study abroad experience. Renowned for its outstanding teaching and research excellence, Durham fosters a vibrant collegiate community of remarkable individuals. As one of the UK’s most historic, distinctive, and prestigious universities, it boasts a rich academic heritage and a breathtaking campus, setting it apart from the rest.
With a strong emphasis on research and innovation, Durham offers a dynamic and enriching environment for higher education. The university provides over 330 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, catering to diverse academic and career aspirations. Additionally, Durham extends comprehensive support services to international students, including language courses, orientation programmes, and cultural events, ensuring a welcoming and engaging experience.
By completing the NCUK International Foundation Year (IFY) at UFC, students can progress seamlessly to Durham University and gain access to world-class education and career opportunities.
Life at Durham University
Durham University offers international students an exceptional experience built on a transformative, holistic approach that fosters personal and academic growth. By inspiring students to excel during their time at university, Durham empowers them to achieve remarkable success beyond graduation. With a vibrant array of clubs, societies, and events, students can connect with like-minded peers and fully immerse themselves in campus life.
Set in a historic location, Durham provides a unique and inspiring environment for both personal and academic development, making it an unforgettable study abroad destination. Known for its research excellence and strong academic community, the university offers opportunities to engage in groundbreaking projects and collaborate with leading experts. To support international students, Durham provides comprehensive services, including language courses, orientation programmes, and academic advising, ensuring a smooth transition to life in the UK.
Durham University provides international students with an outstanding Careers, Employability, Enterprise, and Graduate Support experience. The dedicated Careers & Enterprise Centre offers personalised guidance, workshops, and resources designed to equip students with essential employability skills. Through internships, work placements, and networking events, students gain valuable real-world experience and engage with potential employers.
With a strong emphasis on impact, reputation, and quality, Durham ensures that international students are well-prepared for today’s competitive job market. The Durham Inspired Award programme further enhances employability by helping students develop key transferable skills through extracurricular activities, fostering their readiness for the workforce.
Durham’s extensive connections with industry leaders and professional organisations provide students with valuable insights and career opportunities, positioning them for success in their chosen fields.
Durham is a truly breathtaking city, where the iconic Castle and Cathedral—both UNESCO World Heritage Sites—dominate the skyline. Rich in history and tradition, Durham boasts stunning architecture, impressive landmarks, and a vibrant cultural scene. Despite its compact and welcoming atmosphere, the city offers all the modern facilities students expect from a dynamic university setting.
Students can explore the magnificent Durham Cathedral, visit fascinating museums, or enjoy theatrical performances at the university’s own theatre. With its picturesque riverside setting and charming cobbled streets, Durham provides a captivating backdrop for student life, ensuring a memorable study abroad experience defined by impact, reputation, and quality.
The university’s strong focus on community engagement and volunteering offers students meaningful opportunities to connect with the local community and make a positive impact. Located in North East England, Durham also offers excellent transport links, with Newcastle just a 10-minute train ride away and easy access to major cities like York and Edinburgh, further enhancing the student experience.
Experience an enriching study abroad journey at Durham University, where student welfare, academic support, and campus life are top priorities. The university is committed to ensuring students feel supported, comfortable, and empowered to make the most of their university experience. Academic resources such as personal tutors, study skills workshops, and language support services are tailored to meet individual needs.
A comprehensive well-being framework provides counselling, disability support, and mental health resources, fostering a safe and inclusive environment. With over 200 clubs, societies, and events, students can immerse themselves in campus life, forming lasting friendships and connections.
Set in the historic city of Durham, the university offers a picturesque backdrop rich in culture and heritage, providing countless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. International students benefit from dedicated support services, including visa and immigration guidance, orientation programmes, and a buddy system designed to help them settle into their new surroundings with ease.
At Durham, your College is your “home from home.” Starting university is an exciting journey, and choosing where to live is a key part of the study abroad experience. Durham offers a diverse range of well-equipped accommodations, from the historic St. Mary’s College to the contemporary John Snow College, each with its own unique character.
With a variety of room types and pricing options, Durham’s colleges cater to different preferences and budgets. Each college fosters a welcoming and supportive community for international students, providing essential amenities such as Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and meal plans. Immerse yourself in the vibrant campus life and enjoy a comfortable, secure, and enriching university experience at Durham.
International students at Durham University benefit from world-class facilities that enhance their academic and personal growth. The university’s reputation for excellence is reflected in its state-of-the-art laboratories, modern lecture halls, and extensive sports amenities, creating an inspiring higher education experience.
Durham’s prestigious research centres, including the Ogden Centre for Fundamental Physics, provide cutting-edge resources across a range of disciplines, fostering innovation and discovery. The Sports and Wellbeing Park offers top-tier athletic facilities, including indoor courts, a fully equipped gym, and outdoor fields, promoting a balanced and active student lifestyle.
Experience the impact, reputation, and quality of Durham University’s outstanding facilities while studying abroad through NCUK.
Enrolling at Durham means becoming part of a vibrant community, not just starting an academic journey. Like any thriving community, Durham fosters engagement, collaboration, competition, and support, ensuring that students feel connected and inspired.
International students have unparalleled opportunities to participate in a diverse range of sports teams, clubs, societies, and the Durham University Athletic Union. The university’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its inclusive and dynamic sporting environment, reinforcing its reputation for impact and quality.
From competitive teams like Team Durham and the Durham University Boat Club to over 200 student-led clubs and societies, students can explore athletic, academic, and cultural interests while building lasting friendships. At Durham, the study abroad experience extends far beyond the classroom, shaping well-rounded individuals ready to take on the world.
Studying at Durham University allows international students to be part of an institution dedicated to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Durham’s commitment to impact, reputation, and quality is reflected in its alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
The university actively promotes sustainable water management, waste reduction, and eco-friendly transportation options. Sustainability is also embedded in the curriculum, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to become environmentally conscious leaders.
Join a university that values global responsibility and is committed to creating a greener, more sustainable future.
RANKING
Ranked 15th in the UK and 89th in the world (QS University World Rankings 2025)
Ranked 7th in the UK (The Complete University Guide 2025)
Search Programmes at Durham University
Discover a wide range of undergraduate degrees at Durham University, 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.
How to Apply
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.