University of Glasgow
University of Glasgow
The University of Glasgow is ranked 80th in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2027 and 84th in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026.
Founded in 1451, the University of Glasgow has a long history of discovery, innovation and global impact. Consistently ranked among the world’s top 100 universities, it is a member of the prestigious Russell Group of leading UK research universities, recognised for its pioneering research and excellent teaching.
Located in Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow offers students a rich academic experience across four colleges: Social Sciences, Science and Engineering, Arts and Humanities, and Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences. Its broad range of subjects allows students to explore their interests and develop the knowledge and skills for their future careers.
The university’s Gilmorehill campus in Glasgow’s West End brings together striking historic architecture and modern facilities. Students have access to an extensive university library, two student unions, a gym and swimming pool, well equipped laboratories, dedicated study spaces and support services, alongside a variety of cafés and food outlets.
Beyond campus, Glasgow offers a welcoming community and a lively cultural scene, with convenient public transport links and easy access to Scotland’s countryside. Studying at the University of Glasgow gives students opportunities to build lasting friendships, gain valuable experiences and prepare for their future.
Students who successfully complete the NCUK International Foundation Year (IFY) at University Foundation College (UFC) in Qatar benefit from guaranteed progression to bachelor’s degree programmes at the University of Glasgow (subject to meeting the entry requirements) and gain access to world class education and career opportunities.
Life at the University of Glasgow
Home to around 35,000 students from more than 140 countries, the University of Glasgow offers a diverse and welcoming international community. Students can explore their interests through a wide range of clubs and societies, volunteering and employment opportunities, while enjoying the city’s lively cultural scene. Academic, wellbeing and careers support helps students make the most of their time at university and prepare for life after graduation.
Scotland’s largest city has plenty to discover, from renowned music venues, museums and art galleries to excellent sports facilities, shops, restaurants and cafés. Convenient and affordable transport links make it easy to explore Glasgow and travel further afield to Scotland’s towns, Highlands, islands and coastlines.
Whether learning in historic surroundings and modern facilities, making new friends or gaining experience for their future careers, students at Glasgow have opportunities to grow, explore and create lasting memories.
The University of Glasgow’s award winning Careers team helps students connect their university experience with future career opportunities. Bringing together specialists in employability and international mobility, the team supports students in understanding changing job markets, building confidence and developing skills for their working lives.
Support is available throughout university and after graduation. Regular careers fairs, employer events and masterclasses give students opportunities to explore career options, meet employers and learn about internships and placements in Glasgow, across the UK and abroad.
Students can also turn to the trained Peer Career Support Team for personalised information on careers, employability and their next steps. They can drop into The Career Studio to speak with a team member or book an individual coaching appointment with a qualified Careers Adviser.
Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow offers students plenty to enjoy beyond their studies. As the UK’s first UNESCO City of Music, it has a thriving live music scene, alongside cinemas, restaurants, cafés and lively nightlife. Its welcoming atmosphere and wide choice of shops make it an exciting place to live and explore.
Culture and green spaces are part of everyday life in Glasgow. Alongside the university’s Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery, the city has more than 20 museums and galleries and over 90 parks and public gardens, earning it the nickname ‘Dear Green Place’.
Getting around is straightforward, with regular bus, train and subway services connecting the university’s West End location to the city centre and surrounding areas. Two main railway stations provide connections across Scotland and the UK, while nearby international airports offer convenient options for travelling further afield. Edinburgh is also within easy reach, providing additional transport connections.
The University of Glasgow offers a wide range of support services to help students succeed in their studies, look after their wellbeing and prepare for their future. Based centrally on campus, the International Student Support team provides visa and immigration guidance, safety and wellbeing advice, and induction and social events to help students settle into life in Glasgow.
Students can also access the Disability Service, Careers Service, Student Counselling and Psychological Services, Chaplaincy, English language support and an on campus doctor’s surgery. The Students’ Representative Council’s Advice Centre offers help throughout their studies with academic, employment, wellbeing and financial concerns.
For students who would like someone to talk to, Student Listeners provides a confidential service run by specially trained peers. Available online and in person, it offers a welcoming space to share concerns and be heard without judgement. Together, these services help students feel supported, build confidence and make the most of university life.
The University of Glasgow offers 12 student accommodation options across the West End and city centre, within walking distance of the university and close to shops, parks, local amenities and public transport.
Residences offer a variety of living arrangements, including flats for three to five students and larger flats for 10 or 12, with shared kitchens and a choice of private or shared bathrooms. Accessible rooms, family rooms and twin rooms are also available, giving students options to suit different needs, preferences and budgets.
Accommodation facilities include residential support, laundry services, parking and social spaces where students can meet and spend time together. Facilities and room types vary by residence.
Explore the University of Glasgow student accommodation options to find out more about individual residences and their facilities.
The University of Glasgow’s Gilmorehill campus brings together historic architecture and modern facilities to support learning, research and student life. Students have access throughout the year to one of Europe’s largest university libraries, dedicated study and social spaces, advanced teaching and research facilities, computer labs, and a variety of cafés and food outlets. Two student unions provide spaces for societies and events, alongside regular music and club nights.
Recent additions include the James McCune Smith Learning Hub, the Advanced Research Centre, and new buildings for Public Health and the Adam Smith Business School. Campus development continues with the Keystone Building, a major learning, teaching and research facility scheduled to open during 2028 to 2029.
Beyond Gilmorehill, the university has campuses at Garscube, four miles away, and Dumfries in the south west of Scotland. Garscube houses Veterinary Medicine facilities, including the Small Animal and Equine Hospitals, as well as outdoor sports facilities. Set within historic parkland, the Dumfries campus is home to the School of Social & Environmental Sustainability, where the surrounding landscape provides opportunities for outdoor learning, fieldwork and research.
The University of Glasgow offers plenty of ways for students to stay active, explore their interests and meet new people. Through UofG Sport and the Glasgow University Sports Association (GUSA), students can access a gym, swimming pool and courts at the Gilmorehill campus, alongside sports pitches and additional facilities at Garscube. More than 50 affiliated sports clubs welcome students of all experience levels, whether they are trying a sport for the first time, playing socially or competing.
Beyond sport, the Students’ Representative Council (SRC) supports more than 300 clubs and societies covering cultural and academic interests, volunteering, performance and a wide range of hobbies. Students can develop new skills, take on leadership roles and build lasting friendships while enjoying life alongside their studies.
Explore the University of Glasgow clubs and societies to find a group that matches your interests or discover something new.
Sustainability shapes research, teaching, campus development and everyday life at the University of Glasgow. The university has pledged to become carbon neutral by 2030 and supports the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals. It was the first university in Europe to announce plans to divest from fossil fuels by 2024 and the first in Scotland to declare a climate emergency.
Glasgow’s research addresses global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity, renewable energy and sustainable development. Students can explore these subjects through the School of Social & Environmental Sustainability, alongside modules on climate, the environment and sustainability across a wide range of disciplines.
Across its campuses, the university encourages biodiversity, waste reduction, recycling and responsible use of resources. Students can take an active role through volunteering with the Glasgow University Environmental and Sustainability Team (GUEST) and getting involved in the Eco Hub, a campus space featuring a sustainable café, a swap shop and events focused on sustainability.
RANKING
Ranked 80th in the world (QS World University Rankings 2027)
Ranked 84th in the world (Times Higher World University Rankings 2026)
Search Programmes at the University of Glasgow
Discover a wide range of bachelor’s degree programmes at the University of Glasgow, 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.