Why Choose the University of Glasgow?

The University of Glasgow is a Russell Group institution with 570+ years of history and a modern, research-led approach. Here’s what makes it stand out for international students.

Global reputation and rankings

• Consistently top 80 globally (THE/QS) and top 15 in the UK.
• Russell Group member with high research intensity and REF-rated world-leading outputs.
• AACSB/AMBA/EQUIS triple-accredited Adam Smith Business School; strong in Medicine, Vet Medicine, Computing, and Arts.

Courses international students love

• Data & Computing: AI, Software Engineering, Cyber Security with industry projects.
• Business & Finance: FinTech, Accounting & Finance, Management; CFA Institute and CIMA-aligned modules.
• Health & Life Sciences: Public Health, Biomedical Sciences, Veterinary Medicine with clinical placements.
• Creative & Social Sciences: Media, Education, International Relations with study-abroad options.

Scholarships and affordability

• University-wide International Leadership Scholarship (£10,000 tuition discount) plus country-specific awards.
• College scholarships for Engineering, Science, and Arts; early applications increase chances.
• Living costs in Glasgow are typically lower than London—factor £900–£1,100 per month for housing, food, and transport.

Careers and industry links

• Careers Service offers CV checks, mock interviews, and visa-friendly employer events.
• Internships with local fintechs, creative agencies, NHS Scotland, and global firms in the city’s International Financial Services District.
• Graduate Route visa eligible; many employers sponsor Skilled Worker visas in engineering, tech, finance, and healthcare.

Student life and support

• Campus: Gothic main building with modern labs; new James McCune Smith Learning Hub for 24/7 study.
• Accommodation: University residences in Kelvinhaugh, Murano, and QM halls; city-centre private halls widely available.
• Community: 300+ clubs and societies; active Glasgow University Union and Queen Margaret Union events.
• Wellbeing: Counselling, disability support, faith spaces, and International Student Advisers for visas and compliance.

Location advantages

• Glasgow is Scotland’s cultural capital—live music, museums, and affordable food.
• Fast transport to the Highlands for hiking, or 1 hour by train to Edinburgh.
• Two major airports with direct routes across Europe for weekend trips.

Application tips for international students

1. Apply early through UCAS (undergraduate) or the university portal (postgraduate); some programmes close quickly.
2. Check entry requirements: typical undergrad offers are AAB–ABB or equivalent; many postgrad courses expect a 2:1/upper second or 80–85% from recognised universities.
3. Proof of English: IELTS 6.5 overall (programme-specific variations); Pre-sessional English available.
4. Prepare financial evidence for CAS issuance and UK visa; keep deposit and scholarship letters handy.

7-Day Starter Plan When You Arrive

• Day 1: Collect your BRP, register with the university, and set up your student email and Wi‑Fi.
• Day 2: Attend an International Student Adviser session to review visa conditions and work hours.
• Day 3: Explore Kelvinhaugh and Byres Road; shortlist three supermarkets and two affordable cafés.
• Day 4: Visit the Careers Service for a CV check and add upcoming employer events to your calendar.
• Day 5: Join one academic society and one hobby club to start building a community early.
• Day 6: Plan your first Highlands day trip; practice using ScotRail/coach apps and check student fares.
• Day 7: Review your weekly budget versus actual spend; adjust meal prep and transport plans.

Choosing Glasgow means combining research excellence, a supportive international community, and a vibrant Scottish city that’s kinder on budgets than many UK capitals.