The University of Bristol is a thousand years old but remains at the cutting edge; energised yet laid back; culturally rich but unpretentious; unorthodox and influential.
The University
Bristol is renowned in the UK as being an academic heavyweight. We are one of the UK's premier universities and are proud of our worldwide reputation for academic achievement and award-winning research. University league tables consistently place Bristol in the top ten of all universities in Britain, and for UK students Bristol is one of the most difficult universities to get into.
The University has been groundbreaking and forward thinking since gaining its Royal Charter in 1909. The University of Bristol was the first institute of higher education in the country to admit women on an equal basis with men. Our students come from all aspects of society, which ensures a diverse and vibrant community. We believe that anyone with great potential will thrive at Bristol. We offer an opportunity to engage with intellectually challenging programmes of study, designed and taught by world leaders in research. Our supportive environment enables you to work in partnership with creative teachers. We also offer numerous opportunities to take part in social, sporting and cultural activities.
By studying at Bristol, you will be part of a community of highly motivated and talented people.
The City
When you choose a university, you're also choosing the place that will be your new home, so it's worth getting it right. Our students always say how much they love the city of Bristol - from its friendly people and fantastic music scene to its vibrant harbourside, green spaces and buzzing centre.
Bristol is a fantastic place to live. You will be spoilt for choice when you sample life outside the University. Most of our university buildings are in the heart of this creative, multi-cultural city. A short stroll from the University precinct will take you to Bristol's beautiful Harbourside. The redeveloped quayside is alive with artistic and cultural activity: theatres, concert halls, bars and restaurants, galleries, street art, and live music. Bristol's music and arts scene fires on all cylinders, with festivals championing new music and venues where you can enjoy everything from unsigned bands to chart acts.
While nightclubs, films, parties, and gigs - all that a big city has to offer - are part of university life, there will be times when you just want to unwind and get some fresh air. Here, Bristol hits the mark again, with a beautiful surrounding countryside that's perfect for escaping from the hustle and bustle of the city.
For more views and information about this vibrant city, please have a look at our
interactive map of Bristol.
The Study Abroad Programme
Here at Bristol, we have been welcoming students from all over the world for nearly half a century. Some of our institutional links (particularly with the USA) date back over thirty years and in a typical year, we accept over 130 foreign students from all over the world.
Study Abroad students are a vital part of the cosmopolitan mix here at Bristol and are an important part of the University life. You will attend the same lectures and seminars as our British students and will sit the same examinations. Membership of the University Union is automatic and university accommodation is guaranteed. We also offer a full orientation upon arrival, a series of welcome events, and provide a designated Study Abroad Team who are there to support you throughout your time with us.
Entrance Requirements and how to apply
Entry to Bristol is competitive and this is shown through our requirement.
Applicants who fall below our minimum requirements are still encouraged to apply and will be considered on a case by case basis.
You can apply directly through our Study Abroad programme website.
Please also check with your home university about any other requirements before you apply to Bristol.
For further information, please email: swap-in@bristol.ac.uk
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