Queen’s University Belfast
Queen’s University Belfast
Queen’s University Belfast is ranked 4th in the world for international outlook (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024).
Located in the heart of Northern Ireland’s capital, Queen’s University Belfast provides a world-class learning environment focused on creativity, innovation, and academic excellence.
Renowned for its strong global rankings and dedication to impactful research, the university offers a wide range of programmes to suit varied interests. Its inclusive and supportive community makes it an attractive destination for students pursuing an international education.
As a prestigious member of the Russell Group, Queen’s has been shaping society since 1845, with world-leading researchers, pioneering students, and distinguished alumni making lasting contributions both in Belfast and around the globe.
By completing the NCUK International Foundation Year (IFY) or International Year One (IYOne) at UFC, students can progress seamlessly to Queen’s University Belfast and gain access to world-class education and career opportunities.
Life at Queen’s University Belfast
Queen’s University Belfast offers a vibrant and inclusive student experience. The Students’ Union hosts over 200 clubs and societies, catering to a wide variety of interests and helping students achieve a balance between academic and social life.
With cutting-edge facilities including the McClay Library, the Physical Education Centre, and the award-winning Students’ Union building, the university is dedicated to providing both exceptional learning resources and personal development opportunities.
Its strong focus on student support and employability makes it an excellent choice for those looking to study abroad. By joining Queen’s, you will become part of a welcoming community, enriching your international education journey.
Queen’s University Belfast is dedicated to enhancing student employability through its Careers, Employability and Skills division, which offers a wide range of services, including career guidance, CV clinics, internships, and employer-led events. Combined with the university’s strong connections to industry, this support ensures students are well-equipped for their future careers.
Many degree programmes at Queen’s also include an optional year in industry, either in the UK or internationally, providing valuable real-world experience through partnerships with leading employers.
Careers Consultants are available to offer personalised advice, including one-to-one CV reviews, career consultations, and support with applications and interview preparation. These services remain accessible for up to two years after graduation, giving students continued support as they transition into the workforce. As an international student, studying at Queen’s will not only enhance your academic experience but also strengthen your career prospects globally.
Belfast, the home of Queen’s University, is a city rich in history, culture, and charm.
As a UK capital city, Belfast is welcoming, easy to navigate, and offers an affordable cost of living for students. With Queen’s at the heart of the city’s social and cultural life, students are perfectly placed to enjoy Belfast’s growing reputation as a global hub for food, arts, and shopping.
From the historic Titanic Quarter to the tranquil Botanic Gardens, Belfast offers a wide variety of attractions. The city is also known for its lively nightlife, with countless pubs, clubs, and live music venues.
A thriving arts scene, highlighted by events such as the Belfast Film Festival and the Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival, offers plenty of opportunities for cultural exploration. Studying at Queen’s allows you to fully experience this dynamic city while also enjoying easy access to Northern Ireland’s stunning landscapes, from mountains and forests to its dramatic coastline.
At Queen’s University Belfast, student wellbeing and academic support are a top priority. The Wellbeing Service offers mental health and wellbeing support to help students thrive throughout their studies, while the Disability Services ensure an inclusive and supportive environment by providing tailored adjustments for students with disabilities.
The Learning Development Service supports academic success through workshops and one-to-one consultations, helping students build effective study skills. In addition, the International Student Support office offers guidance on immigration, finances, and settling into life in the UK.
As an international student, you will have access to these comprehensive services, enriching your study abroad experience and helping you make the most of your time at Queen’s University Belfast.
Queen’s University Belfast offers student accommodation conveniently located in the heart of Belfast, just 15 minutes from the main campus and close to landmarks such as the famous Crown Bar and the Grand Opera House.
Students can choose from a variety of modern and comfortable housing options. Elms BT1 and Elms BT2, both located in the city centre, offer a range of room types, including shared apartments and studio rooms. For those seeking a more traditional halls of residence experience, Elms BT9 is set in a quiet, leafy suburb.
These residences provide a welcoming and supportive community, making them an excellent option for international students seeking a well-connected and comfortable living environment during their studies abroad.
At Queen’s University Belfast, you will benefit from cutting-edge facilities designed to support both learning and personal development. The award-winning McClay Library combines traditional library resources with modern study spaces, IT suites, and group study rooms, creating a central hub for academic activity.
The Physical Education Centre offers impressive sports facilities, including a 25-metre swimming pool, two gymnasiums, and a variety of fitness suites. Students in the School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science have access to advanced laboratories and research centres, where they can gain practical experience using industry-standard technology.
Additionally, the university features a fully equipped financial Trading Room with Bloomberg terminals, alongside a range of innovative interdisciplinary research facilities to enhance your academic journey.
At Queen’s University Belfast, international students can take part in a wide variety of sports clubs and teams through the Queen’s Athletic Union. Popular options include the Queen’s GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) teams, the Queen’s Mountaineering Club, and the Queen’s Badminton Club.
In addition to sports, the university offers a broad selection of societies covering academic, cultural, and special interest areas, providing students with countless opportunities to get involved, meet new people, and engage in a vibrant campus life.
Queen’s University Belfast is dedicated to achieving net zero and embedding sustainability across all aspects of university life. The institution integrates the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into its research, teaching, and operations, while actively promoting leadership in areas such as equality, diversity and inclusion, sustainable procurement, and disinvestment from fossil fuels.
The university’s ‘Green at Queen’s’ initiative highlights its sustainability-focused events, training, campaigns, and projects.
Queen’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its efforts to lower carbon emissions, enhance biodiversity, and engage the wider community in its environmental initiatives.
RANKING
Ranked 4th in the world for international outlook (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024)
Ranked 28th in the UK (QS World University Rankings 2025)
Search Programmes at Queen's University Belfast
Discover a wide range of undergraduate degrees at the Queen's University Belfast, 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.