University Guide

University of Bristol

The University of Bristol traces its origins to University College Bristol, founded in 1876, and received its Royal Charter in 1909. Today, this Russell Group university offers a wide range of courses across the sciences, engineering, arts and social sciences. Teaching locations include Clifton, Temple Quarter and Langford, so check where your course is based before choosing accommodation or planning your daily journey.

Find a great place to liveVisit their website
University of Bristol

The overview

The main things you need to know about studying at the University of Bristol.

  • Rankings

    Bristol ranks 57th worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2027 and 17th in the UK in the Complete University Guide 2027. Rankings differ by subject and assessment method, so compare your chosen course’s content, facilities and opportunities alongside its league-table position.

  • Employability

    Bristol’s Careers Service helps students explore career options, find internships and prepare CVs, applications and interviews. Through mycareer, you can access vacancies, events and appointments. The Bristol PLUS Award also provides a way to develop and demonstrate skills gained beyond your course. Graduates can continue using careers support for up to three years after finishing their studies.

  • Fees

    Standard full-time home undergraduate tuition fees are £9,790 for 2026/27 and £10,050 for 2027/28. International and postgraduate fees vary by programme, so check the university’s fees and funding information and your course page. Fees are reviewed annually, and placement or study-abroad years may have reduced charges. Budget separately for accommodation, everyday living expenses and any additional course costs.

  • Bursaries

    The University of Bristol Bursary offers eligible full-time home undergraduates £500–£2,500 annually, depending on household income. The highest award applies to incomes of £10,000 or below, with support extending to £50,000. Student Finance eligibility and other conditions apply. There is no separate application, but you must consent to sharing your assessed household income. International students can explore Think Big scholarships; applications for September 2026 entry have closed, so check announcements for your entry year.

Accommodation

Bristol offers catered and self-catered residences, with shared-bathroom, en-suite and studio options. University accommodation fees include utilities, internet and basic contents insurance. For 2026/27, an undergraduate en-suite room at Orchard Heights costs £250.60 a week, or £10,525.20 for a 42-week tenancy. The published accommodation guarantee currently covers September 2026 entrants and requires eligible new students to firmly accept their study offer, meet the application deadline and accept their room offer on time. Check updated conditions for 2027 entry. Compare residence locations with your teaching campus, or explore private student accommodation in Bristol through AFS.

Need a place to stay in Bristol?

We have lots of available student accommodation in Bristol.

Students' Union

Bristol Students’ Union offers societies, sports clubs, volunteering and events to help you meet people beyond your course. Student representatives also give you opportunities to influence university life. Its Academic Advice service provides free, confidential and impartial guidance on university procedures, while the Housing Advice Service offers independent support with renting and accommodation concerns.

Go to their website
University of Bristol Students' Union
University of Bristol Students' Union

Famous for

Bristol is recognised for research across science, engineering and the arts. Its notable alumni include Nobel Prize-winning physicist Paul Dirac, a pioneer of quantum mechanics. In the Research Excellence Framework 2021, 94% of the university’s research was assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent.

News

On 7 September 2026, Bristol opened the Sloane Robinson Building at its Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus, near Bristol Temple Meads station. The new campus brings together teaching, research and industry collaboration in areas including business, artificial intelligence and digital engineering, alongside new public spaces and walking and cycling routes.

Accommodation for Students says

"Wacky and wonderful, Bristol is an exciting city and a popular student destination. Despite not being a campus university, Bristol nonetheless has the strong feel of a student city so you’ll feel at home in no time".

Still looking for accommodation?

We have lots of great student properties available near the University of Bristol.

See all available properties