Looking for a city that offers world-class education, affordable living, and a welcoming student environment? Then Glasgow, Scotland’s biggest and most vibrant city, is the perfect study destination for you.
Home to some of the oldest and highest-ranked universities in the UK, Glasgow is known for its academic excellence, creative energy and friendly people. For Indian students, the city offers high-quality degrees, affordable tuition and a strong Indian student community — all in a safe and lively environment.
Let’s explore the top universities in Glasgow, UK for 2025–26, their courses, fees, rankings, scholarships and what makes the city special for international students.
1. University of Glasgow
Global Rank (2025): Top 75 (QS World University Rankings)
Acceptance Rate: Around 73%
Type: Public Research University
Member of: Russell Group
Founded in 1451, the University of Glasgow is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. It’s part of the elite Russell Group, known for its excellence in teaching, research, and innovation.
The university has produced notable alumni including Adam Smith, the father of modern economics. It attracts over 35,000 students from 140+ countries, including many from India, who love its academic reputation and supportive community.
Top Courses
- Business, Finance & Economics
- Computer Science & Data Analytics
- Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical)
- Medicine & Life Sciences
- Law & International Relations
- Psychology
Tuition Fees (2025–26)
- Undergraduate: £23,000 – £32,000 per year
- Postgraduate: £25,000 – £36,000 per year
Scholarships for Indian Students
- University of Glasgow International Leadership Scholarship: £10,000
- GREAT Scholarships (India): £10,000
- Chevening Scholarships: Fully funded
- Commonwealth Shared Scholarships: Fully funded
Why Indian Students Choose It
- Prestigious Russell Group university
- Global recognition and employability
- Diverse, welcoming environment
- Beautiful, historic campus in a modern city
2. University of Strathclyde
Global Rank (2025): Top 300 (QS World Rankings)
Acceptance Rate: Around 42%
Type: Public Research University
Located in the heart of Glasgow, the University of Strathclyde is a leading technological and business-focused university. It’s well-known for Engineering, Business and Computer Science, and has been named “Scottish University of the Year” multiple times.
The university offers practical, industry-linked education with strong connections to companies like Rolls-Royce, Siemens and IBM.
Top Courses
- Mechanical & Electrical Engineering
- Business, Finance & Accounting
- Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence
- Law & Management
- Energy & Environmental Studies
Tuition Fees (2025–26)
- Undergraduate: £20,000 – £27,000 per year
- Postgraduate: £22,000 – £30,000 per year
Scholarships
- Dean’s International Excellence Award: £4,000 – £7,000
- Strathclyde Business School Scholarships: Up to £10,000
- GREAT Scholarship (India): £10,000
Why Indian Students Love It
- Top-tier Engineering & Business programs
- Great placement opportunities
- Central Glasgow location
- High student satisfaction
3. Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU)
Global Rank (2025): Top 700 (QS World Rankings)
Acceptance Rate: Around 65%
Type: Public University
Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) is one of Scotland’s most modern and career-oriented universities.
It focuses on employability, innovation, and sustainability, offering courses designed for global industries.
GCU has close ties with employers and offers excellent support for internships, placements, and graduate jobs.
Top Courses
- Business & Management
- Fashion & Luxury Brand Marketing
- Computer Science
- Health Sciences & Nursing
- Data Analytics
- Construction & Project Management
Tuition Fees (2025–26)
- Undergraduate: £17,000 – £21,000 per year
- Postgraduate: £18,000 – £25,000 per year
Scholarships
- GCU International Scholarship: £3,000 – £5,000
- South Asia Merit Award: £2,000
- Early Payment Discount: £1,000
Why Indian Students Love It
- Affordable tuition
- Industry-linked programs
- Modern campus in central Glasgow
- Excellent employability support
4. University of the West of Scotland (UWS)
Global Rank (2025): Top 1,000+
Acceptance Rate: Around 75%
Type: Public University
With a campus located just outside Glasgow, the University of the West of Scotland (UWS) is known for affordable education and practical learning.
It offers programs tailored to the needs of international students and has a supportive environment with a growing Indian student base.
Top Courses
- Business & Entrepreneurship
- Computer Science & AI
- Engineering & Technology
- Nursing & Health Studies
- Film & Creative Media
Tuition Fees (2025–26)
- Undergraduate: £14,000 – £18,000 per year
- Postgraduate: £16,000 – £22,000 per year
Scholarships
- UWS Global Scholarships: £2,000 – £3,000
- Commonwealth Scholarships: Fully funded
Why Choose It
- Affordable tuition
- Great student support services
- Excellent part-time job options
- Ideal for first-time international students
Cost of Living in Glasgow for Students
Glasgow offers a lower cost of living than London or Edinburgh, making it one of the best-value student cities in the UK.
| Expense | Average Monthly Cost |
| Accommodation | £500 – £900 |
| Food & Groceries | £200 – £300 |
| Transport | £40 – £70 |
| Utilities & Internet | £60 – £100 |
| Leisure & Personal | £100 – £200 |
| Total | £900 – £1,300 per month |
Students can save by choosing shared apartments or university-managed housing near campus.
Top Scholarships for Indian Students in Glasgow
| Scholarship | Offered By | Value |
| GREAT Scholarships (India) | University of Glasgow / Strathclyde | £10,000 |
| International Leadership Award | University of Glasgow | £10,000 |
| South Asia Scholarships | GCU / UWS | £2,000 – £5,000 |
| Chevening Scholarships | UK Govt | Fully Funded |
| Commonwealth Shared Scholarships | UK Govt | Fully Funded |
Apply early (by February 2025) for best scholarship opportunities.
Why Study in Glasgow?
Glasgow is more than just a student city — it’s a place full of energy, opportunity, and community.
From its famous universities to its warm people, Indian students find it both inspiring and affordable.
Top Reasons to Choose Glasgow
- Globally recognized universities
- Affordable cost of living
- Strong Indian student community
- Safe, diverse, and friendly environment
- Excellent post-study work opportunities
Bonus: Glasgow is just a 1-hour train ride from Edinburgh and well-connected to the rest of the UK.
Best Courses to Study in Glasgow 2025–26
- Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence
- Business & Finance
- Mechanical & Civil Engineering
- Medicine & Life Sciences
- Data Analytics & Cybersecurity
- Fashion & Brand Marketing
These programs offer strong career outcomes and align with the UK’s high-demand job sectors under the Graduate Route visa.
Conclusion
Glasgow is one of the UK’s most student-friendly cities, offering the perfect blend of academic excellence, affordability and quality of life.
Whether you aim for the University of Glasgow’s global prestige, Strathclyde’s industry focus, or GCU’s affordability, the city gives Indian students endless opportunities to learn and grow. If you’re planning to study in the UK 2025–26 intake, let Stubard guide your journey — from application and scholarships to visa and accommodation.
FAQs
1. What are the top universities in Glasgow, UK?
The top universities are University of Glasgow, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow Caledonian University, and University of the West of Scotland.
2. Is Glasgow good for Indian students?
Yes! Glasgow is affordable, safe, and home to many Indian students studying Engineering, Business, and IT programs.
3. How much does it cost to study in Glasgow?
Tuition fees range from £14,000 – £36,000 per year, depending on the university and course.
4. What is the cost of living for students in Glasgow?
Students spend around £900 – £1,300 per month, including accommodation, food, and travel.
5. Which university in Glasgow is best for Engineering?
The University of Strathclyde is among the top UK universities for Engineering and Technology programs.
6. Are scholarships available for Indian students?
Yes, universities in Glasgow offer GREAT, International Leadership, and South Asia Scholarships worth up to £10,000.
7. Can Indian students work while studying in Glasgow?
Yes! Students can work up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time during holidays under a UK Student Visa.