Northumbria University

Northumbria University, located in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, is a prominent public research university with a rich history dating back to its founding as Newcastle Polytechnic in 1969. It became a university in 1992 and has since grown to accommodate approximately 38,300 students from over 130 countries. Northumbria University offers a comprehensive admissions process for both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Understand an overview of the critical aspects related to admissions with the help of this read. 

Things To Consider Before Applying

A carefully planned approach is crucial for a successful application to Northumbria University. Several key factors should be considered to ensure a seamless experience before the application process.

Entry Requirements For Indian Students 

At Northumbria University, they acknowledge a variety of international qualifications held by Indian students applying to the programmes. Below are the details of the current qualifications and the equivalencies we accept:

• International Year One (Business): Good High School Grades or equivalent; IELTS 5.5 with no element less than 5.5
• Postgraduate: Undergraduate degree; 55% (52% from Delhi/Mumbai/Pune Universities) for courses requiring a 2:2, 65% (60% from Delhi/Mumbai/Pune Universities) for courses requiring a 2:1
• Graduate Certificate: Masters degree; 55%
• Undergraduate degree (ordinary): 45% and above

You can understand the full Northumbria University entry requirements with the help of UniScholars. 

English Language Requirements

The English language requirements for academic courses at Northumbria University are outlined below. A recognised English language test, such as IELTS, PTE Academic, or an equivalent, is typically required. For precise English language requirements, please refer to the specific course page you intend to apply for. If your qualifications need to be listed, please contact bc.applicantservices@northumbria.ac.uk. Students can also connect with UniScholars experts to get their application going. 

Documents

To apply for admission to Northumbria University, applicants need to prepare a set of documents that vary slightly between undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Here is a general list of required documents:

Undergraduate Admissions

1. Completed Application Form: Submitted via UCAS.
2. Academic Transcripts: Official records of previous qualifications (e.g., A-levels, GCSEs, or equivalent).
3. Personal Statement: A written statement outlining your motivations for applying and relevant experiences.
4. References: Typically, one or two academic references are required.
5. English Language Proficiency: Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) if applicable.
6. Portfolio: Required for certain courses in arts and design.

Postgraduate Admissions

1. Completed Application Form: Submitted directly through the university's online portal.

2. Academic Transcripts: Official records of your undergraduate degree and any other relevant qualifications.
3. Personal Statement: A statement detailing your academic interests and career goals.
4. References: Usually, two academic or professional references are needed.
5. English Language Proficiency: Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, PTE) if applicable.
6. Writing Sample: Required for some programmes, particularly in creative fields.
7. Portfolio: Required for arts and design courses.
8. Interview: This may be required for certain programmes, especially in competitive fields.

Additional Notes

• Applicants should ensure that all documents are submitted in English and are accurate to avoid delays in processing.
• Specific programmes may have additional requirements, so checking the individual course details on the university's website is essential.

How To Apply To Northumbria University?

By adhering to these guidelines, you can effectively manage the application process for Northumbria University and get ready for your academic journey. Here's a comprehensive step-by-step guide to follow:

1. Choose Your Course:
   • Research and select your desired course on the Northumbria University website or consult UniScholars experts to begin applying.
2. Submit Your Application:
   • Undergraduate: Apply through UCAS by creating an account, completing the form, writing a personal statement, and paying the fee.
   • Postgraduate: Apply directly through the Northumbria University website by completing the online form.
3. Provide Supporting Documents:
   • Submit required documents such as academic transcripts, references, personal statements, and proof of English language proficiency.
4. Track Your Application:
   • Monitor your application status through UCAS Track (undergraduate) or the applicant portal (postgraduate).
5. Accept Your Offer:
   • If you receive an offer, follow the instructions to accept it and pay any required deposits.

Key Points

• Early Application: It is advisable to apply early to secure your place and organise any necessary funding or visa arrangements.
• Portfolio Requirement: For certain creative courses, a portfolio showcasing your work may be required.
• Contact for Queries: If you have questions during the application process, you can contact the applicant portal or the university's admissions team.

Deadlines & Decision Dates

Here are the admission deadlines for Northumbria University for the upcoming academic terms:

Undergraduate Admissions

• Application Period: September to July 30
• UCAS Deadline: For September entry, the UCAS application deadline is January 31. However, applications can be submitted by June 30 for late consideration.

Postgraduate Admissions

Fall Intake:

• International Applicants: June 30
• UK/Home Applicants: September 13

Spring Intake:

• International Applicants: November 15
• UK/Home Applicants: January 17

Additional Notes

• For specific programmes, Northumbria University deadlines may vary, so it is advisable to check the individual course details on the university's website.
• Early applications are encouraged to ensure sufficient time for processing and visa arrangements for international students.

Northumbria University Selection Criteria

The selection criteria for Northumbria University admissions are designed to assess a student's academic qualifications, English language proficiency, and other relevant factors that contribute to their ability to succeed in their chosen programme.

1. Academic Qualifications: Applicants must meet specific academic standards based on their previous education. This typically includes a minimum grade requirement in relevant subjects for undergraduate courses or a bachelor's degree with a certain percentage or grade for postgraduate programmes. Higher academic achievements may be necessary for some courses, particularly health, law, or engineering courses.
2. English Language Proficiency: Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency in English through recognised tests like IELTS, PTE Academic, or an equivalent. The required scores may vary depending on the programme, with some courses demanding higher scores due to the nature of the curriculum.
3. Work Experience (for certain postgraduate programmes): Relevant work experience is considered an important criterion for some postgraduate courses, particularly those in business, management, or professional studies. Applicants may need to provide evidence of their professional experience, which is often assessed alongside academic qualifications.
4. Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose: Many programmes require a personal statement or a statement of purpose as part of the application. This document allows applicants to demonstrate their passion for the subject, understanding of the course, and future career aspirations. It is an opportunity to highlight any unique skills, experiences, or attributes that make the applicant a suitable candidate for the programme.
5. Interview (for certain courses): Some programmes, especially those in healthcare, law, or teaching, may require an interview during the selection process. The interview assesses the applicant's communication skills, understanding of the field, and suitability for the profession.
6. Portfolio (for creative courses): Applicants may be required to submit a portfolio of their work for courses in art, design, architecture, and other creative fields. This portfolio is evaluated to determine the applicant's creative ability, technical skills, and potential for success in the programme.
7. References: References or letters of recommendation are often required, particularly for postgraduate applications. These should come from academic or professional sources who can vouch for the applicant's abilities and suitability for the course.

Northumbria University Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate for Northumbria University is reported to be 48%. This indicates moderate competitiveness in the admissions process, making it relatively easier to secure admission than other UK universities. The university has a diverse student body, with over 33,500 students, including 23% international students from more than 136 countries.

Some sources suggest a broader range for the acceptance rate, estimating it between 63% and 85.5%, which may reflect variations in competitiveness across different programmes or applicant pools.

Fees

The Northumbria University fees differ depending on the level of study and the student's residency status for various programmes. Here's a summary of the fees for the upcoming academic year:

Undergraduate Tuition Fees

• Arts, Design, Humanities, Social Science, Law, Nursing, Midwifery, and Health: £17,500 per year
• Business, Computer and Information Science, Engineering: £19,000 per year

Postgraduate Tuition Fees

• Arts, Design & Social Sciences: £17,500 to £38,000 per year
• Business, Finance, and Law: £12,300 to £22,000 per year
• Computing, Engineering, and Environment Courses: £19,000 to £22,000 per year
• Health, Education & Life Sciences: £17,500 to £38,000 per year

Additional Costs

• Living Expenses: The average cost of living in the UK for students is estimated to be around £28,992 per year, which includes accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal expenses.

Payment Options

Northumbria University offers flexible payment plans, allowing students to pay their fees in instalments. Scholarships and financial aid options are also available for eligible students to help cover tuition costs. This overview provides a clear picture of the Northumbria University fees associated with studying at Northumbria University.