University of Bristol
Founded in 1876, the University of Bristol has a proud history of academic achievement, and a great reputation with employers.
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Why choose the University of Bristol?
Top 10 in the UK
QS World University Rankings 2026
Top 60 in the world
QS World University Rankings 2026
Member of the Russell Group
A respected UK research group
The University of Bristol has high rankings in many areas, so you can choose a subject that matches your goals.
Ready to find a degree at University of Bristol?
in the UK for Civil Engineering
in the UK for Social Policy
in the UK for Computer Science and Information Systems
in the UK for Law
Accounting and Finance
18th in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2025)
Chemistry
8th in the UK (Complete University Guide 2026)
Economics
12th in the UK (Complete University Guide 2026)
Mathematics
6th in the UK (Complete University Guide 2026)
Pharmacy and Pharmacology
18th in the UK (Complete University Guide 2026)
Physics
8th in the UK (Complete University Guide 2026)
Politics
10th in the UK (Complete University Guide 2026)
Sociology
8th in the UK (Complete University Guide 2026)
Take a closer look at the University of Bristol
Here’s why our students love Bristol
Bristol is a modern city in the south-west of England. Here, you’ll join a friendly community that’s full of opportunities.
Bristol is a great place to start your career
A rapidly growing tech hub that’s home to startups and big businesses
Top 3 reasons to choose Bristol
- A history of cutting-edge research
- State-of-the-art facilities
- Bristol is a scenic city with lots to do
Let’s choose your route to the University of Bristol
If you want to study at the University of Bristol but don’t yet meet the entry requirements, then you can take a degree preparation course on campus at the University of Bristol, or at our International College in London, and progress to the University.
OPTION 1
On campus
University of Bristol International Foundation Programme
- On-campus degree preparation courses taught by University academics
- Live and study in Bristol from day one
- Guaranteed entry to a University of Bristol degree*
OPTION 2
Off campus
Kaplan International College London
- Off-campus degree preparation courses taught by Kaplan
- Live and study in London before moving to Bristol for your degree
- Guaranteed entry to a University of Bristol degree*
Applying from China
University of Bristol International Foundation Programme
If you are based in mainland China and wish to apply to the International Foundation Programme, you can apply through the University of Bristol’s website.
Your admission will be processed by the University’s China office.
*When you pass your degree preparation course at the required level with good attendance.
- A degree preparation course (also known as a pathway course) helps you improve your English language level, academic skills, and subject knowledge.
- If you pass your degree preparation course at the required level and with good attendance, then you are guaranteed entry to your chosen degree at university.
Enjoy life in a dynamic city, while you study a degree that will give you an edge.
5th most-targeted
university by top UK employers (High Fliers 2024)
Top 5 in the UK
for research (Times Higher Education interpretation of Research Excellence Framework)
One of the best places to live in the UK
Bristol is named in the Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2023
Silver award
Teaching Excellence Framework 2023
140+
nationalities represented on campus
Top 15 in the world
for sustainability (QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2025)
Download useful information
(16MB, PDF)
Includes:
- University of Bristol international pathways guide
- Degree preparation course information
- Kaplan International College London guide
Any other questions?
Where is Bristol and what is it like?
Bristol is a famously creative city that’s home to lots of street art and a variety of festivals. It’s close to beautiful countryside and just one hour and 30 minutes from London by train.
What is there to do in Bristol?
You could explore the city’s many museums, or head down to Bristol Harbour where you can find a bustling market, restaurants and cafés, or even take a river cruise!
Is the University of Bristol good for international students?
Yes! Bristol is home to a large international student community from the city’s two universities. Here, you’ll be given a warm welcome and encouraged to meet your full potential.
