University of Birmingham Guide: World Ranking, Courses & More
August 17, 2025 2025-08-20 22:40University of Birmingham Guide: World Ranking, Courses & More
University of Birmingham
Ranking
22
Located
UK & Dubai
Fees
£21,000 - £28,530
Famous For
Engineering, Economics, Medicine
Overview
The University of Birmingham is a prestigious redbrick university located in Birmingham, a vibrant and multicultural city just over 150km north of London. Its leafy 250-acre campus provides an inclusive environment for study and innovation. Founded in 1900, Birmingham is a founding member of the Russell Group and Universitas 21 and is ranked among the world’s top 100 universities (QS World Rankings 2025). The university has over 34,000 students from nearly 150 countries and is known for producing highly employable graduates. In 2020–21, it was ranked first in the UK for employer-targeted recruitment (High Fliers Research).
The University of Birmingham invests heavily in student success, with £5 million dedicated to career services that offer mentoring, networking, and job-seeking support. International students receive tailored assistance and opportunities for work experience in the UK and abroad. Expanding its global reach, Birmingham opened a Dubai campus in 2018, providing a British education in a dynamic international city. With a 15% acceptance rate and strong links to top employers, the university is a leading choice for students seeking academic excellence and career opportunities.
History
Established in 1900 by Joseph Chamberlain, the University of Birmingham broke new ground as England’s first civic university, welcoming students from all backgrounds. Over a century later, our campus has grown to 672 acres and expanded internationally with a vibrant Dubai campus.
Learning at Birmingham
Choosing Birmingham means joining a university known for making a difference. We offer more than 600 Master’s programmes and research pathways designed to empower you in your career and help you explore your academic interests.
Impactful Research Culture
Innovation thrives here. Our researchers and staff work together to drive forward new ideas, collaborating across disciplines and borders. Diverse partnerships help us tackle real-world challenges and create new solutions for the future.
Career Growth & Support
Our Birmingham Academic programme supports your career at every stage, fostering a culture rich in ambition and connection. We’re committed to helping staff and students grow, achieve and build lasting ties with the university.
Global Ranking: #76
Undergraduate Degrees: 251
Scholarships: 62
Students: 38,000
Type: Public
Campus Life
Our green campus is just minutes from Birmingham city centre, with historic and modern spaces for study, events, and social life. Museums, galleries, and venues host major events and sports fixtures throughout the year.
Sports Facilities
Birmingham offers top-class hockey pitches, 3G football fields, tennis and netball courts, plus a 400m athletics track. Join over 60 sports clubs suited to all levels and interests.
Accommodation
Student housing provides safe, welcoming spaces where you can enjoy independence and make new friends.
Library Services
Access over 1.5 million printed books, nearly 900,000 e-books, and 130,000 journals with expert support from library staff throughout your studies.
Medical Services
The University Medical Practice on campus offers healthcare services for students and staff, ensuring your well-being is looked after.
Scholarships at Birmingham
The University of Birmingham offers a variety of scholarships to support students in achieving their academic goals. These scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students, recognizing academic excellence, leadership, and community engagement.
These funding opportunities help reduce financial barriers and provide access to world-class education. Scholarships are available for international students, in specific subjects, and for extracurricular achievements.
To explore available scholarships and application details, visit: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/study/international/fees/scholarships
Overview
Overall ranking 14th out of 130
Overall ranking trend - past 5 years
Overall ranking trend - past 5 years
Overall score
/ Max 1000
779
14th 1
Entry standards
/ Max 215
161
24th 2
Student satisfaction
/ Max 4
3.04
106th
7
Research quality
/ Max 1000
3.43
10th
Research intensity
/ Max 1
0.63
37th
Academic services spend
/ Max 3757
1859
68th 13
Facilities spend
/ Max 2164
1548
6th 4
Student - staff ratio
/ Min 9.7
14.0
35th 3
Continuation
O/ Max 100
94.7
23th 2
Graduate prospects – outcomes
/ Max 100
83.4
15th 1
Graduate prospects – on track
/ Max 100
81.1
9th 7
Meet your Counselor
Get expert advice on choosing the right university, course, and country — with personalised guidance from our experienced counsellors.
Student Support & Services
The University of Birmingham’s Student Support Hub provides a central place where students can access help and advice for a range of personal and academic issues. Professionally trained counsellors offer support for any difficulties students might face, while the International Student Team provides specialised guidance on immigration, working in the UK, healthcare, and finance. All services through the Support Hub are free of charge. To help new international students settle in, the university offers airport pickup and organizes an international welcome week to foster connections and ease the transition. Free English language classes are also available during term time to support language development and academic success.
Courses Offered at University of Birmingham
Applying to University of Birmingham
Undergraduate entry requirement
- Three GCE A levels (including International A Levels)
- The International Baccalaureate Diploma
- SQA Highers and Advanced Highers (many programmes will accept Highers without additional Advanced Highers)
- The Cambridge Pre-U (minimum three separate subjects)
- A mix of A levels and Cambridge Pre-U subjects (minimum three in total)
Postgraduate entry requirements
- A strong Honours degree (2:1 or above), or an equivalent qualification if obtained outside the UK.
Acceptance rate:
Accommodation
The University of Birmingham guarantees all new international students a place in university accommodation for their first year, ensuring you have a supportive home when you arrive in the UK. Accommodation options include ensuite bedrooms, studios, and shared apartments, spread across several campus villages such as Pritchatts Park, The Vale, and Selly Oak. With almost 7,000 rooms available, you can choose the style and setting that fits your needs and preferences.
Students can list six preferences when applying, tailoring selections to room type, location, and catering. If you have specific requirements, such as medical needs or a preference for mixed or single-sex flats, the university’s Living team is available to match you with the best options and provide ongoing housing support throughout your studies. Privately rented accommodation near campus is also available, with advice and resources provided to help you find safe and suitable housing in Birmingham.
