The University of Bristol was founded in 1876 and granted its Royal Charter in 1909. Bristol is in the premier league of British higher education institutions, with an excellent reputation for its teaching and research. It is acknowledged by the Government research bodies, funding agencies and industry as a leading centre for enterprise, innovation and research.
Bristol is among the UK’s top research universities, according to a rigorous exercise to assess the quality of research at every university. Each academic area is given a grading to indicate whether it is considered 'world class', 'excellent' or other criteria. Visit the departmental websites to see how each of our academic areas has performed.
International students form a critical part of the social and intellectual life of the University. Coming from over 100 countries, the rich community they create is an integral part of the experience of university life for all concerned. We are proud of our alumni throughout the world, and are extending that network every year.
The City
Bristol is the largest city in the south west of England, with a population of 450,000. It is the region's leading centre for business, culture and education. Much of the city's present economic strength arises from engineering, aerospace and the new technologies, as well as financial services, the media industries and tourism. This is a city both ancient and modern, in which history and technology sit side by side in beautiful surroundings.
This modern city's facilities are linked by a good public transport network. Bristol International Airport is 20 minutes away by shuttle bus or taxi, and London is 90 minutes away by train. There is easy access to the popular holiday destinations of the south-west coastal region, the Cotswolds and Wales.
Facilities
The University guarantees accommodation for all new, single, full-time international students who accept an academic place at Bristol by the given date. There is a wide range of accommodation to suit all tastes - halls of residence offer single study bedrooms equipped with data connection points, along with fully equipped 24-hour access computer rooms.
For postgraduate students, accommodation is also available in a selection of smaller houses. Students may apply for university accommodation in their second and subsequent years if they wish.
The new centrally located Centre for Sport, Exercise and Health is part of a network of sports facilities at the University, including a swimming pool, and offers a range of activities for all levels of fitness.
Student life
The University of Bristol is a precinct university, which means that departments, libraries and halls of residence are situated within the city centre and not located on a separate campus. The majority of university buildings are within easy walking distance of each other and, equally important, Bristol's numerous shops, parks, museums, theatres, cafes, restaurants, night clubs and places of interest.
The University has a dedicated Advice and Support service for international students, which can help with matters ranging from opening a bank account to visa renewals. On arrival you will find us running a Welcome Lounge with a dedicated Orientation programme to ensure you integrate into life in Bristol and the university as quickly and comfortably as possible. Throughout the year, a schedule of weekend outings ensures that there is always somewhere new to visit with friends from across the university.
