Study in Bristol, international student city guide

Regularly voted as “The Times Best Place to Live in the UK,” Bristol is the home of close to half a million people. It is the UK’s only European Green Capital and it boasts of a diverse and creative spirit with a buzzing artistic scene and rich heritage.

Bristol was first founded in 1542 and is known for its active marine trade. It sits upon the River Avon and was once renowned for its sturdy craftsmanship and skilled ship building. Its maritime position also saw it prosper from the slave trade in the 1700’s, and it is the alledged birth place of the infamous pirate Blackbeard, known to have scurged the Caribbean seas.

Now a cosmopolitan city – it is the home of numerous museums, art galleries, theatres, music venues and sporting facilities all set within its renowned Georgian architecture.

Universities in Bristol

• University of Bristol
• University of the West of England (UWE) 

There are also local colleges such as the City of Bristol college and the Bristol International college, where international students can study higher education.

Bristol universities world ranking 2025

Below is a list of the top Bristol universities in 2025, according to QS world rankings and Times Higher Education:

About the universities in Bristol

The University of Bristol

The University of Bristol was established in 1876 with an initial staff of two professors and five lecturers offering courses in 15 subjects. It now has close to 30,000 students and provides over 300 courses. 

The university’s highest ranking courses are in engineering, medical sciences, languages and the arts. Over 30 courses within these subject areas are ranked within the top 10 UK rankings.The University is at the cutting edge of global research and has made innovations in climate change and nanotechnology. They are involved with different international collaborations and students have the opportunity to work on real-life projects through the University’s integrated practical curriculum.

Along with its undergraduate and postgraduate courses, the university also offers an International Foundation scheme which allows international students a year of preparatory study, enabling them to integrate into degree level education.

The University of the West of England (UWE)

The University of the West of England was established in 1957 and gained its University status in 1992. Its most popular courses are in architecture, economics, engineering, interior design and law. Courses are created with support from industry professionals leading to forward thinking enterprise programmes.

Tuition and living costs in Bristol

Fees for study at the University of Bristol will depend on your course choice and fee status. Generally course fees range from £22,000-£31,000. On top of your tuition fee you must also consider the cost of accommodation. Undergraduate accommodation fees will cover your amenities, internet, basic insurance and a bus pass for the Unibus service. Prices will depend on the room type, size and facilities available.

Help with tuition funding can be found through the ThinkBig scholarship scheme which has invested £3 million to help international students come to Bristol.

Tuition fees at The University of the West of England range from £15,850-£18,000 for International students and the University has an international student support fund to provide extra financial support to international students.

To help with living expenses there are lots of opportunities within the city for part-time work to fit around your timetable.

Life in Bristol for international students

Many of Bristol’s popular tourist sites are free to visit, including its iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge that was designed by the prolific engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel. The majestic Cathedral known to be one of the finest examples of a hall church in the UK is open 365 days a year and hosts guided tours that take you through its 900 years of history and architecture. 

Voted the best place to live outside of London if you are under 26 – it has a bustling nightlife. The Bristol Old Vic theater shows regular live productions and runs educational programs for those interested in the arts. You can sample the city’s many live music venues and varying festivals throughout the year, including celebrations of graffiti, balloons, dance and beer. The popular Harbourside area has a dynamic range of restaurants, pubs and shops and hosts regular Sunday markets.