University of Bristol

Overview

The University of Bristol has an international reputation for high-quality education and research. It combines academic excellence with an independent, forward-thinking spirit. 

Founded in 1876, Bristol is one of the 24 members of the research-intensive Russell Group. It is one of the original ‘red brick’ universities, founded in England's major industrial cities. The University is in the UK's top ten and 54th in the world (QS World University Rankings 2025).

Learn more about the University of Bristol by completing their enquiry form, where you can sign up for updates and download the international student guide.

Services for International Students

More than 32,000 students currently study at the University of Bristol from more than  140 countries. Around 32% of students are international. With over 600 undergraduate and postgraduate options on offer, the University supports international students throughout the application process, during their studies and after graduation. 

International students can access tailored career support whether they plan to stay in the UK or return to their home country. This is available throughout your degree and for up to three years after graduation. The Student Visa Services team is available before arrival and throughout your degree. Students can access academic support from their personal tutor or supervisor and the Study Skills service.

Medical care is available on campus at the Students’ Health Service. Other support services include online peer support, the Student Counselling Service and the Multifaith Chaplaincy. 

The University is investing £3.5 million in scholarships for international students in 2025. Please visit the University of Bristol website for the latest scholarship information.

Ranking

• 11th in the Times University Guide 2025
• 16th in the Guardian University Guide 2025
• 54th in the QS World University Rankings 2025
• 78th in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025
• 88th in the Academic Ranking of World Universities 2023

94% of the University's research was assessed as either 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent' in the REF 2021, while 57% of the University's research achieved the top 'world-leading' 4* rating, compared to a sector average of 41%.

Accommodation

Bristol's student accommodation offers a ready-made community to help you settle into life in the UK. All new first-year international students are guaranteed accommodation, if they meet the criteria and deadline.

Both catered and self-catered accommodation is available. Residences are grouped into four areas of the city: Stoke Bishop in the north, Clifton in the west, Bedminster in the south and the city centre. A regular bus service connects residences with the campus and other parts of the city.

Bristol prides itself on a safe and supportive accommodation environment, where you can make new friends, and feel part of the community, Their Residential Life team will also be on hand to provide you help, support and advice 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Location

The University is at the heart of the city of Bristol. It is a vibrant and creative place with a friendly, relaxed atmosphere that will help you feel at home. The multicultural city is home to over 460,000 people from more than 185 countries, speaking 90 languages. A large public transport network links the city’s modern facilities. Bristol International Airport is easily accessible, and London is just under two hours away by train. 

Bristol is perfect for exploring on foot or by bike and is home to over 400+ gardens, parks and nature reserves. There is always something to do, with streets full of colourful art, quirky independent shops and cosy cafés. 

Bristol has been ranked the happiest city in the UK, and one of the happiest in the world (Institute for Quality of Life’s 2024 ‘Happy City Index’). The city is committed to protecting the environment as a former European Green Capital.

Alumni

• Simon Pegg, actor and comedian
• Paul Dirac, Nobel Prize-winning theoretical physicist
• Hannah Mills, Olympic sailing gold medallist
• David Walliams OBE, actor, comedian and children’s author
• Derren Brown, illusionist and bestselling author
• Eboni Usoro-Brown, internationally renowned England netball player
• Matt Lucas, writer, comedian and actor
• James Blunt, singer-songwriter
• David Nicholls, author and screenwriter