University of York
York, United Kingdom
University of York
York, United Kingdom
Founded
1963
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
20,000+
QS World Ranking 2026
#169
Discover the University of York: A Leading Russell Group Institution
Discover the University of York: A Leading Russell Group Institution
The University of York is a prestigious Russell Group university founded in 1963, built on founding values of excellence, equality, and opportunity for all. Located on a beautiful parkland campus on the outskirts of the historic city of York, it has grown from its initial intake of 230 students to a thriving community of more than 20,000 students and 5,000 staff from over 140 countries.
York is one of only four UK universities to hold both a Gold rating for teaching in the 2023 Teaching Excellence Framework and a top-ten position for research in the Times Higher Education ranking of the Research Excellence Framework 2021. The university operates a distinctive collegiate system with eleven colleges, providing students with an inclusive and supportive community throughout their studies.
As a member of the Russell Group, the N8 Research Partnership, and the Worldwide Universities Network, York is recognised globally for its research-intensive approach to tackling pressing environmental, social, and economic challenges. The university is ranked 169th in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and joint 154th in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026.
Key Milestones
- 1963: University of York opens its doors, welcoming its first 230 students at Heslington Hall and King's Manor.
- 1965: First residential colleges, Derwent and Langwith, are founded along with the University of York Library.
- 2012: York is invited to join the prestigious Russell Group of leading UK research universities.
- 2023: Awarded Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework, confirming outstanding teaching and student outcomes.
Academic Structure and Faculties
Academic Structure and Faculties
The University of York organises its academic departments across three main faculties, covering arts and humanities, sciences, and social sciences. With over 30 academic departments and research centres, York offers more than 350 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning and research excellence.
Faculty of Arts and Humanities
The Faculty of Arts and Humanities brings together departments with global reputations in subjects such as archaeology, English, history, and linguistics. York is ranked 50th in the world for Arts and Humanities in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026.
- English and Related Literature
- Archaeology
- History of Art
Faculty of Sciences
The Faculty of Sciences encompasses departments spanning biological and physical sciences, computer science, and engineering. The faculty is home to cutting-edge research facilities including the York Plasma Institute and the Institute for Safe Autonomy.
- Computer Science
- Chemistry
- Physics, Engineering and Technology
Faculty of Social Sciences
The Faculty of Social Sciences hosts departments with strong reputations in economics, law, politics, and social policy. Social Policy and Administration at York is ranked 41st in the world according to QS subject rankings.
- Economics and Related Studies
- Social Policy and Social Work
- Politics and International Relations
York Law School
York Law School offers innovative law programmes that combine rigorous legal training with interdisciplinary perspectives. The school emphasises social justice and provides students with practical legal skills alongside academic knowledge.
- LLB Law
- LLB Law with Criminology
- LLM International Corporate and Commercial Law
Hull York Medical School
The Hull York Medical School is a joint venture between the University of York and the University of Hull, offering medical education that combines scientific excellence with a focus on patient-centred care. Medicine at York is ranked 153rd globally by QS.
- Medicine (MBBS)
- Biomedical Sciences
- Physician Associate Studies
York Management School
York Management School provides business and management education grounded in research, preparing graduates for leadership roles in the global economy. The school offers programmes at undergraduate and postgraduate levels with a strong focus on employability.
- BSc Business and Management
- MSc Management
- MSc Accounting and Financial Management
Admission Requirements for the University of York
Admission Requirements for the University of York
Undergraduate Admissions
- Application PlatformUCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service)
- A-Level RequirementsTypically AAA to ABB depending on the programme
- IB DiplomaTypically 36 to 31 points depending on the programme
- English Language (IELTS)Overall 6.0 to 7.0, with minimum component scores varying by course
- Foundation PathwayAvailable via the International Pathway College (Kaplan)
Postgraduate Admissions
- Minimum Degree ClassificationTypically a 2:1 (Upper Second Class Honours) or international equivalent
- English Language (IELTS)Overall 6.5 to 7.0, with minimum component scores varying by programme
- ReferencesTwo academic references typically required
- Personal StatementRequired for most programmes, outlining academic interests and career goals
- Pre-Masters PathwayAvailable via International Pathway College for those not meeting direct entry
Equal consideration deadline for most undergraduate programmes via UCAS.
Deadline for MBBS Medicine applications through UCAS.
Most postgraduate taught programmes accept applications on a rolling basis until places are filled. Early application is recommended.
Scholarship deadlines vary by award. Check the university website for specific dates, as some close as early as May.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at the University of York
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at the University of York
Tuition fees at the University of York vary by programme and student fee status. The UK government has confirmed undergraduate home fees of GBP 9,535 for 2025/26, with an increase to GBP 9,790 expected for 2026/27. International fees vary significantly by course, so prospective students should check specific programme pages for exact amounts.
| Fee Category | UK (Home) Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition (per year) | GBP 9,535 | GBP 22,000 - GBP 28,000 |
| Postgraduate Taught (per year) | GBP 12,250 - GBP 15,950 | GBP 25,900 - GBP 34,500 |
| Campus Accommodation (per year) | GBP 4,000 - GBP 8,600 | GBP 4,000 - GBP 8,600 |
| Estimated Living Costs (per year) | GBP 9,000 - GBP 12,000 | GBP 9,000 - GBP 12,000 |
| Total | GBP 34,785 - GBP 46,085 | GBP 40,900 - GBP 83,100 |
Dean's Global Excellence Scholarship
A prestigious scholarship for talented international undergraduate students, offering significant tuition fee discounts across the faculties to reward academic excellence.
- Value: Full first-year tuition fee discount; GBP 10,000 discount in subsequent years
- Eligibility: International undergraduate applicants with outstanding academic records
- Application: Automatically considered upon holding an offer at York
GREAT Scholarships
Offered in partnership with the British Council and the GREAT Britain Campaign, these scholarships support international postgraduate students from selected countries studying at the University of York.
- Value: GBP 10,000 towards tuition fees
- Eligibility: Students from China, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Kenya on full-time postgraduate taught programmes
- Deadline: 11 May 2026 for the 2026-27 academic year
Campus and Facilities at the University of York
Campus and Facilities at the University of York
The University of York's main campus is set across beautiful parkland at Heslington, on the outskirts of the city of York. The campus features a central artificial lake, modern academic buildings, and the historic Tudor-era Heslington Hall. A major expansion, Heslington East, was completed in 2009, significantly increasing the university's teaching, research, and residential capacity.
The iconic campus lake is the heart of university life, surrounded by academic buildings, colleges, and green spaces.
The historic Tudor-era Heslington Hall serves as the university's administrative headquarters and is a Grade II* listed building.
Named after the university's founding benefactor, the library provides extensive study spaces, digital resources, and specialist collections.
Housing and Dining
Accommodation
All York students are members of one of eleven colleges, which allocate on-campus accommodation. Options include catered and self-catered rooms with ensuite or shared bathrooms.
- Guaranteed accommodation for first-year undergraduates
- Eleven colleges across Campus West and Campus East
- Flexible let lengths available for added convenience
Dining and Amenities
The campus offers a wide range of dining options, from college dining halls to independent cafes and restaurants. Sports and leisure facilities include a swimming pool, gym, athletics track, and multiple sports pitches.
- Multiple bars, cafes, and restaurants across campus
- York Sport Village with gym, swimming pool, and athletics track
- Two on-campus supermarkets for daily essentials
Student Life at the University of York
Student Life at the University of York
Student life at York is vibrant and community-driven, supported by the University of York Students' Union (YUSU) and the collegiate system. With over 200 clubs and societies, award-winning student media, and a thriving cultural scene, there is something for everyone at York.
York: A Historic City with Modern Appeal
York: A Historic City with Modern Appeal
Living in York
York is a vibrant, friendly city of around 200,000 people, renowned for its 2,000 years of history, rich cultural scene, and welcoming atmosphere. Regularly named one of the UK's friendliest and safest cities, York offers a unique blend of medieval heritage, independent shops, and a thriving food and drink scene, all within easy reach of the stunning Yorkshire countryside.
Rich Historical Heritage
From the iconic York Minster and Roman city walls to the medieval Shambles and Viking heritage at the Jorvik Centre, the city is steeped in over 2,000 years of history.
Excellent Transport Links
York is well connected by rail, with direct trains to London in under two hours, Edinburgh in two and a half hours, and Leeds-Bradford and Manchester airports within easy reach.
Culture and Events
The city hosts a year-round calendar of festivals and events, including the York Chocolate Festival, York Food and Drink Festival, and numerous theatre and music performances.
Safe and Affordable
Compared to London and other major UK cities, York offers a lower cost of living while providing a high quality of life, with the city regularly ranked among the UK's most desirable places to live.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Notable Employers of York Graduates
Practical Information for Prospective Students
Practical Information for Prospective Students
For International Students
The International Student Support Team provides dedicated services including visa advice, English language support, orientation events, and a free airport collection service from Manchester Airport.
The university offers pre-sessional English language courses of varying lengths to help international students meet the language requirements for their degree programme before the start of term.
Run in partnership with Kaplan, the International Pathway College offers Foundation Certificate, International Year One, and Pre-Masters programmes with guaranteed progression to University of York degrees upon successful completion.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of York: Worldwide Rankings
University of York: Worldwide Rankings
The University of York consistently ranks among the top universities in the UK and globally. As a Russell Group member with Gold-rated teaching and top-ten research performance, York maintains strong positions across all major international and domestic ranking frameworks.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Archaeology | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #25 |
| English Language and Literature | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #32 |
| Social Policy and Administration | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #41 |
| Arts and Humanities (Broad) | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #50 |
Features
The University of York is a top-ranked UK public research university known for academic excellence and a vibrant campus life. Established in 1963, it offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across arts, sciences, and social sciences. The university boasts strong research impact, with over 20,000 students and a diverse international community. Its scenic campus combines modern facilities with historic surroundings in the city of York. York’s collegiate system fosters a supportive student environment, while career services ensure high graduate employability, with 94% employed or in further study within six months. The university is a member of the prestigious Russell Group, emphasizing innovation, inclusivity, and global engagement.
Accommodation
Yes, the University of York offers comprehensive accommodation services for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. These accommodations are integrated into the university's eleven college communities, providing a supportive environment with easy access to teaching, study, and social facilities.
Work While Studying
Yes, students at the University of York can work while studying, subject to certain conditions.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Yes, the University of York offers comprehensive internship services to support students in gaining valuable work experience during their studies.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - January
4 week
Location
Heslington, York YO10 5DD, United Kingdom
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