The University of Glasgow is a historic, research-driven university dating back to 1451—making it Scotland’s second-oldest university. It is globally respected, QS ranks it #78 in the world 2025 and Times Higher places it #87. With hundreds of study programs, campuses across Glasgow, and strong support for international students, its a top pick if you want to study abroad in the UK.
Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
| Founded | 1451 (Papal charter) |
| Location | Glasgow, Scotland, UK |
| QS Global Ranking 2025 | #78 worldwide |
| THE Global Ranking 2025 | #87 |
| Student Population | ~36,240 students |
| International Share | ~46 percent |
| Acceptance Rate | ~60–70 percent overall |
| Tuition Fees (Intl UG) | £26,580 (Arts/Social Sci); £31,800 (Sciences/Engineering) |
| Living Costs | ~£11,300–£16,000/year |
| Scholarships Available | World Changers, Global Excellence (£7k/year); Leadership (£10k PG); African Excellence (full PG) |
| Subject Strengths | Life Sciences (42), Law (44), Psychology (52), Arts & Humanities (56) |
Why Choose the University of Glasgow?
It’s not just old, it’s smart, global, and robust. A Russell Group member with strong funding (income near £950 million a year), Glasgow mixes rich heritage with modern research muscle. You get flexible study, a diverse international crowd (46 percent), and campuses that feel friendly and safe. Plus, Glasgow is lively and more affordable than London.
Glasgow also has a legacy of innovators—think Adam Smith and Lord Kelvin—and today it ranks in the global top 50 for subjects like life sciences, medicine, law, and psychology. If you want strong academics with a globally recognized degree, this is a solid place to be.
How to Apply to the University of Glasgow as an International Student?
Applying to Glasgow isn’t complicated but like most UK universities, it requires attention to detail. What makes it easier is that they offer clear guidelines for international applicants, plus dedicated visa and admissions support.
For Undergraduate Students:
- Apply through UCAS (University and College Admissions Service)
- Glasgow’s UCAS code: G28
For Postgraduate Students:
- Apply directly on the University of Glasgow’s online portal
Documents You’ll Need:
- Academic transcripts (high school or undergraduate degree)
- English language test results (IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL iBT 90+)
- Personal statement (your reason for studying)
- Letters of recommendation (for postgrad)
- Valid passport + visa documents
Key Deadlines:
- UCAS deadline for undergrads: usually January 31
- Rolling deadlines for postgraduate programs, but earlier is better for scholarships and visa processing
Once admitted, the university sends your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) — this is essential to start your UK student visa application.
Top Courses at the University of Glasgow
The university offers over 600 degree combinations, but some programs stand out worldwide for their academic quality and graduate outcomes.
Popular Courses for International Students:
- Law & Criminology – Ranked #44 globally
- Life Sciences & Medicine – High research output, modern labs
- Psychology & Neuroscience – Global QS rank #52
- Business & Management – Accredited programs with internship options
- Engineering – Civil, Biomedical, Electrical, and Aerospace
- Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences – History, English, Global Politics
Each degree is backed by top faculty and research partnerships, plus internship placements and study abroad opportunities.
Tuition Fees and Living Costs (2025)
As a top university, Glasgow’s fees reflect its global standard — but it’s still more affordable than London for many international students.
| Program Area | Annual Tuition Fee (GBP) |
| Arts & Social Sciences | £22,640 – £26,580 |
| Science, Engineering, Tech | £27,930 – £31,800 |
| Clinical/Health Programs | £35,000+ |
| MBA/Postgraduate Business | £28,000 – £35,000 |
Living in Glasgow is cheaper than most major UK cities. Expect monthly expenses of £950–£1,300, including rent, groceries, travel, and social activities.
Scholarships for International Students
The University of Glasgow offers several generous awards to help cover tuition and living costs. Some are automatic, others need a separate application.
Key Scholarships in 2025:
1. World Changers Global Excellence Scholarship
- Up to £7,000/year (automatic for UG applicants with strong grades)
2. Postgraduate Leadership Scholarship
- £10,000 fee waiver for outstanding PG students
3. African Excellence Award
- Full-fee waiver for eligible African nationals in select PG courses
4. College-Specific Awards
- Business School, Law, Engineering each offer additional grants
Also, Glasgow supports access to Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships, which cover full tuition + living.
Accommodation in Glasgow
Finding housing in Glasgow is manageable and the university offers a good mix of options:
On-Campus Residences:
- Fully furnished, close to campus, includes bills
- Single rooms, ensuite, or shared flats
- Costs: £110–£180/week depending on room type
Private Rentals:
- Shared apartments or studios across the city
- Use apps like Rightmove, SpareRoom, or Unite Students
- Rent: around £450–£700/month per student
UofG guarantees accommodation for first-year international undergrads if you apply on time.
Conclusion
Absolutely. If you’re aiming to study abroad in the UK, the University of Glasgow offers a rare mix: prestige without pretension, quality without the London price tag, and global recognition without losing local support.
The university supports you with everything — world-class teaching, modern housing, funding opportunities, and a safe, welcoming city. It’s a place where academic tradition meets modern innovation, and where your future can really take shape.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the acceptance rate at the University of Glasgow?
The University of Glasgow has an estimated acceptance rate of 60–70%, depending on the course and year. Some programs like Medicine or Law are more competitive than others.
2. Is the University of Glasgow highly ranked internationally?
Yes, it consistently ranks among the top 100 globally — #78 in QS 2025 and #87 in THE Rankings. It’s also part of the UK’s elite Russell Group.
3. Does the University of Glasgow accept international students?
Absolutely. Over 46% of students at Glasgow come from overseas. The university offers strong visa support, dedicated services, and a diverse, welcoming campus.
4. What are the English language requirements for Glasgow?
International students need to submit scores like IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL iBT 90+, or Duolingo 115+. Some programs may require higher scores in specific skills.
5. How can I apply to the University of Glasgow?
Undergraduate students apply through UCAS, while postgraduate applicants use the Glasgow online portal. Be sure to check college-specific deadlines and documents.
6. When is the application deadline for international students?
For undergraduate programs, the UCAS deadline is January 31. Postgraduate deadlines vary but applying 4–6 months before intake is strongly recommended.
7. What courses is Glasgow University known for?
Glasgow excels in Law, Medicine, Life Sciences, Psychology, Engineering, and Social Sciences. It ranks in the global top 50 for several of these fields.
8. How much is the tuition fee for international students at Glasgow?
Undergraduate tuition ranges from £22,600 to £31,800 per year, depending on the subject. Postgraduate and clinical programs may cost more.
9. What is the cost of living in Glasgow for a student?
Students typically spend around £950 to £1,300 per month, including housing, food, transport, and leisure. Glasgow is more affordable than London.
10. Does the University of Glasgow offer scholarships for international students?
Yes. Scholarships like World Changers (£7k), Leadership (£10k), and African Excellence (full tuition) are available for eligible students.
11. Is accommodation available for international students at Glasgow?
Yes, and it’s guaranteed for first-year international undergrads. On-campus housing ranges from £110 to £180 per week, including utilities.