University of Stirling Featured Image
  Universities  United Kingdom  University of Stirling
University of Stirling Logo

University of Stirling

Stirling, United Kingdom

  • Cost of Living£ 15,540
  • Tuition Fee From£ 7,575
  • Country Rank-
  • Batch Strength9,749
  • Global Diversity11.2%
  • Gender Ratio37 : 63

Overview

About

The University of Stirling was established by the royal charter in 1967 and is a public university in Stirling, Scotland. It was constructed inside the walled grounds of Airthrey Castle and is situated in Scotland's Central Belt. The Stirling University Innovation Park and the Dementia Center are both located on the university campus, which spans about 360 acres (1.5 km2) in total. The International Council on Monuments and Monuments named the university and the landscape of the Airthrey Estate as two of the top 20 20th-century heritage sites in the UK in 2002. 

 

The university is a member of the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) and has earned accreditation from the Association of MBAs (AMBA). It is one of the twenty institutions recognised with the Queen's Anniversary Prize in 2014. Additionally, the university was acknowledged for its reputable sports programmes in 2018 by the Which University Student Survey.

Ranking

The University of Stirling is a public university located in Stirling, Scotland, known for its beautiful campus and strong academic programs. Some of its top courses include Sports Science, Psychology, Environmental Sciences, Media and Communications, Business and Management, and Aquaculture. Regarding rankings, in 2025, the University of Stirling is positioned 452nd globally in the QS World University Rankings and 54th in the UK according to The Complete University Guide. For 2024, it ranks 730th in the US News & World Report Global Universities rankings, 401st in the Times Higher Education (THE) rankings, and 61st in the Guardian University Rankings. Looking back to 2023, Stirling held the 501st position in the QS World University Rankings, was 653rd in the US News & World Report rankings, 351st in the THE rankings, and 50th in The Complete University Guide. These rankings indicate that while the University of Stirling has maintained a consistent presence in global and national rankings, it has experienced some fluctuations in its positions across different ranking systems over the past few years.

 

University of Stirling - QS Ranking 2025

In the QS World University Rankings for 2025, the University of Stirling is ranked 452nd globally. It was 431st in 2024 and 501st in 2023.

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

Europe

-

203

-

World University

501

431

452

 

University of Stirling - US News & World Report Ranking

In the US News & World Report Global Universities rankings for 2024, the University of Stirling is ranked 730th. It was 653rd in 2023 and 689th in 2022.

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Global Universities

689

653

730

 

University of Stirling - THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking 2024

In the Times Higher Education (THE) rankings for 2024, the University of Stirling is ranked 401st. It was 351st in 2023 and 301st in 2022.

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

University

301

351

401

 

Learn More About: University of Stirling Admission

 

University of Stirling - The Guardian Ranking 2024

In The Guardian University Rankings for 2024, the University of Stirling is ranked 61st. This is a slight decline from its 59th position in 2023 and its 49th spot in 2022. The university has experienced a gradual shift in its ranking over the past three years.

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

University

49

59

61

 

University of Stirling - The Complete University Guide Ranking 2025

In The Complete University Guide rankings for 2025, the University of Stirling is placed 54th in the UK. It was ranked 51st in 2024 and 50th in 2023. The university has experienced a slight drop over the past year but remains within the top 55.

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

UK University

50

51

54

 

University of Stirling - QS Ranking 2025

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

Biological Sciences

601

-

-

Communication and Media Studies

151

201

-

Medicine

551

601

-

Sociology

251

301

-

 

University of Stirling - THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking 2024

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Arts and Humanities

251

251

251

Clinical and Health

401

401

401

Life Sciences

151

176

251

PG Business and Economics

201

251

301

Psychology

201

301

251

 

University of Stirling - The Guardian Ranking 2024

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Accounting and Finance

54

62

76

Business and Management

23

50

72

Economics

4

6

15

Journalism

9

21

11

Law

38

39

27

Media and Film Studies

20

8

14

Politics

37

32

8

Sociology and Social Policy

63

63

59

 

University of Stirling - The Complete University Guide Ranking 2025

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

Accounting and Finance

27

42

37

Biological Sciences

33

37

37

Business and Management Studies UK

32

46

44

Communication and Media Studies

23

18

21

Computer Science

60

54

59

Law

22

34

26

Nursing

60

63

63

Psychology

43

44

49

Sociology

25

26

31

 

Course Ranking

B.A.

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

The Guardian - Sociology and Social Policy

63

63

59

The Guardian - Politics

37

32

8

The Complete University Guide - Sociology

-

25

26

 

B.E. / B.Tech

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

The Complete University Guide - Computer Science

60

54

59

 

B.J.M.C.

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

The Guardian - Media and Film Studies

20

8

14

The Guardian - Journalism

9

21

11

The Complete University Guide - Communication and Media Studies

-

23

18

 

B.Sc.

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

The Complete University Guide - Biological Sciences

33

37

37

The Complete University Guide - Psychology

43

44

49

 

BBA

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

The Guardian - Business and Management

23

50

72

The Guardian - Accounting and Finance

54

62

76

The Complete University Guide - Accounting and Finance

-

27

42

The Complete University Guide - Business and Management Studies UK

-

32

46

The Guardian - Economics

4

6

15

 

BSN

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

The Complete University Guide - Nursing

60

63

63

 

LL.B.

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

The Guardian - Law

38

39

27

The Complete University Guide - Law

-

22

34

 

M.A.

Ranked by

2021

2022

2023

QS - Sociology

-

-

251

QS - Communication and Media Studies

-

151

151

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Political Sciences

201

201

201

THE (Times Higher Education) - Arts and Humanities

-

251

251

 

Learn More About: University of Stirling Courses

 

MIM

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Accounting and Finance

301

-

-

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics

201

251

301

 

MS

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Biological Sciences

551

601

-

THE (Times Higher Education) - Life Sciences

151

176

251

 

Others PG

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Medicine

501

551

601

THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology

201

301

251

THE (Times Higher Education) - Clinical and Health

401

401

401

 

Accounting & Commerce

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Accounting and Finance

301

-

-

The Guardian - Accounting and Finance

54

62

76

The Complete University Guide - Accounting and Finance

-

27

42

 

Arts ( Fine / Visual / Performing )

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - Arts and Humanities

251

251

251

 

Business & Management Studies

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

The Guardian - Business and Management

23

50

72

The Complete University Guide - Business and Management Studies UK

-

32

46

The Guardian - Economics

4

6

15

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics

201

251

301

 

Humanities & Social Sciences

Ranked by

2021

2022

2023

QS - Sociology

-

-

251

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Political Sciences

201

201

201

The Complete University Guide - Psychology

-

-

43

THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology

-

201

301

The Guardian - Sociology and Social Policy

-

63

63

The Guardian - Politics

-

37

32

The Complete University Guide - Sociology

-

-

25

 

Law

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

The Guardian - Law

38

39

27

The Complete University Guide - Law

-

22

34

 

Mass Communication & Media

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Communication and Media Studies

151

151

201

The Guardian - Media and Film Studies

20

8

14

The Guardian - Journalism

9

21

11

The Complete University Guide - Communication and Media Studies

-

23

18

 

Medicine & Health Sciences

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Medicine

501

551

601

THE (Times Higher Education) - Clinical and Health

401

401

401

 

Nursing

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

The Complete University Guide - Nursing

60

63

63

 

Science

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Biological Sciences

551

601

-

The Complete University Guide - Biological Sciences

-

33

37

THE (Times Higher Education) - Life Sciences

151

176

251

The Complete University Guide - Computer Science

-

60

54

 

Biology

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Biological Sciences

551

601

-

The Complete University Guide - Biological Sciences

-

33

37

THE (Times Higher Education) - Life Sciences

151

176

251

 

Business Economics

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

The Guardian - Economics

4

6

15

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics

201

251

301

 

Computer Science

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

The Complete University Guide - Computer Science

60

54

59

 

Politics

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

The Guardian - Politics

37

32

8

 

Accounting

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Accounting and Finance

301

-

-

The Guardian - Accounting and Finance

54

62

76

The Complete University Guide - Accounting and Finance

-

27

42

 

Journalism

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

The Guardian - Journalism

9

21

11

 

Political Science

Ranked by

2021

2022

2023

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Political Sciences

201

201

201

The Guardian - Politics

-

37

32

 

Psychology

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

The Complete University Guide - Psychology

-

43

44

THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology

201

301

251

 

Sociology

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Sociology

-

251

301

The Guardian - Sociology and Social Policy

63

63

59

The Complete University Guide - Sociology

-

25

26

Year

QS Ranks

US News Ranks

2025

#452

-

2023

#501 - 510

#653

2022

#471

#653

2021

#471

-

Facilities

Stirling was ranked first in the UK for its campus environment in the International Student Barometer 2016 and is frequently referred to as one of the most beautiful campuses in the world. It is located on the grounds of the ancient Airthrey estate, which also features the Hermitage Woods, Airthrey Loch, and Airthrey Golf Course in addition to the 18th-century Airthrey Castle, which was designed by Robert Adam. A bookstore, a bank, and a general store are among the University of Stirling facilities in the atrium of the Andrew Miller Building. The MacRobert Arts Center, the Cottrell Facility, and the on-campus student apartments are all connected by bridges in this building, which also connects the Library and the Robbins Centre Students' Union.

 

Over 500,000 books and more than 9,000 journals are kept at the library. The Library, which houses the archives of both the novelist Patrick McGrath and the director Norman McLaren, reopened in August 2010 following a significant renovation project. A modest theatre and movie theatre complex called the MacRobert Arts Centre is accessible to both university students and the general public. The Pathfoot Building is home to the university's sizeable fine art collection, which includes over 300 paintings, tapestries, and sculptures.

Notable Alumni

Jack McConnell
Jack McConnell
Member of House of Lords of the United Kingdom
Iain Banks
Iain Banks
Scottish Author
Grace Dent
Grace Dent
English Columnist

Courses

Admission

The University of Stirling, established in 1967, is a distinguished institution nestled within the scenic Airthrey Castle estate in Scotland. Renowned for its stunning 360-acre campus, which has been recognised as one of the UK's top heritage sites, Stirling offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern academic excellence. With a commitment to innovative teaching and research, the university provides a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, fostering an inclusive environment that values ability over background.

 

Things To Consider Before Applying

Applying to your University Of Stirling requires a significant amount of effort on your part, even before you begin the formal application process. Preparing essential documents and ensuring your degree percentages meet the requirements can greatly influence your next steps.

Entry Requirements:

University Of Stirling entry requirements differ for every programme. They include specific academic qualifications, submitting a portfolio of your work, or attending an audition. Reviewing the entry requirements for your chosen program and confirming that you meet them before applying is crucial. 

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

  • Academic Qualifications:
    • For direct entry to the first year, Indian students must have a cumulative score of 65% or above from recognised boards such as CBSE, ISC/ICSE, or major state boards. Students from other state boards require a minimum of 75%.
    • For advanced entry to the second year, a cumulative score of 75% or above from the same recognised boards is required.
  • English Language Proficiency:
    • If English is not the applicant's first language, they must provide evidence of their English language skills through tests like IELTS, with specific score requirements depending on the course.

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

  • Academic Qualifications:

    • Applicants should have a relevant undergraduate degree with a minimum score of 50% from a Tier 1 college or university in India.
  • English Language Proficiency:
    • Similar to undergraduate requirements, proof of English language proficiency is necessary if it is not the applicant's first language.

 

Documents

Gathering all necessary University Of Stirling documents in advance can help streamline your application. Ensuring all required documents are ready before the application process can prevent delays and complications.

Undergraduate Application Documents

  • Completed Application Form through UCAS or the University's online portal

  • Personal Statement outlining your motivations and relevant experiences
  • Official High School Transcripts showing your grades and cumulative score
  • English Proficiency Test Results like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE or Duolingo English Test
  • Copy of Passport

Postgraduate Application Documents

  • Completed Online Application Form

  • Official Transcripts and Degree Certificates from previous studies
  • Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose
  • CV/Resume
  • One Letter of Recommendation (for some programmes)
  • English Proficiency Test Results if applicable
  • Copy of Passport

Additional Documents for PhD Applications

  • Academic CV highlighting your research experience and publications

  • Research Proposal outlining your proposed area of study
  • Writing Sample of 3000 words for Arts and Humanities programmes
  • Academic References

Some other helpful documents that can be submitted include:

  • Financial Documentation to prove you have sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses
  • Proof of parental/guardian consent if you are under 18 years old

 

Eligibility

University of Stirling eligibility criteria might vary depending on nationality, residency status, and specific programme requirements. Verify these criteria to determine your eligibility and avoid issues during the application process. 

Undergraduate Eligibility

  • Academic Qualifications:

    • For direct entry to the first year, Indian students must achieve a cumulative score of 65% or above in Class XII from recognised boards. For advanced entry into the second year, a minimum score of 75% is required.
  • English Language Proficiency:
    • If English is not the applicant's first language, they must provide evidence of their English language skills, typically through tests like IELTS, unless they have a score of at least 70% in English in Class XII.

Postgraduate Eligibility

  • Academic Qualifications:

    • A relevant undergraduate degree with a minimum score of 50% from Tier 1 colleges or universities in India (e.g., University of Delhi, University of Mumbai, University of Calcutta) is required. For Tier 2 universities, a score of 55% is necessary.
  • English Language Proficiency:
    • Similar to undergraduate requirements, proof of English language proficiency is necessary if it is not the applicant's first language.

 

How To Apply At University Of Stirling?

The University Of Stirling admission process is rather streamlined, with distinct procedures for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. If you aim to pursue either, the application processes are distinct but straightforward. Here is a step-by-step process for applying for both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes:

Undergraduate Applications

  1. Application Portal:

    • Submit your application through the UCAS portal if you are applying for a full-time undergraduate course. If you prefer to apply directly to the University, you can do so for certain courses or for January entry.
  2. Key Documents Required:
    • Completed Application Form: Via UCAS or the university's direct application form.
    • Personal Statement: A statement outlining your motivations and relevant experiences.
    • Official High School Transcripts: Showing your grades and cumulative score.
    • English Language Proficiency Test Results: Such as IELTS, unless exempted due to prior English education.
    • Copy of Passport.

Postgraduate Applications

  1. Application Portal:

    • Apply directly through the University of Stirling's online application system.
  2. Key Documents Required:
    • Completed Application Form: Available on the university's website. Students can check with UniScholars website for the updated document list or connect with one of our experts!
    • Official Transcripts: From previous studies.
    • Personal Statement: Detailing your academic interests and career goals.
    • CV/Resume: Highlighting relevant experience.
    • One Letter of Recommendation: Required for most postgraduate programmes.
    • English Language Proficiency Test Results: If applicable.
  • Once your application is submitted, the university typically processes it within 8 weeks. You will be notified via email regarding the outcome of your application.

 

Deadline

Understanding the University of Stirling deadlines is essential to ensuring your submission is considered. 

Undergraduate Deadlines

  • Main Application Deadline: January 31 for September entry.
  • Common Application Deadline: June 30 for applicants from the USA.

Postgraduate Deadlines

  • Applications are accepted year-round, but it is recommended to apply at least 8 weeks before the course start date to ensure timely processing.

Study Abroad Applications

  • Autumn Entry or Full-Year Applications: April 30.
  • Spring Entry Applications: October 15.

 

Decision dates

The University of Stirling typically announces admission decisions within two to six weeks after receiving applications. However, the timing of decisions may vary based on when the application is submitted; applications submitted closer to deadlines may experience delays due to higher volumes.

Undergraduate Admissions

  • Main Decision Notification: For applications submitted by the January 31 deadline, applicants can expect to receive decisions by late March to early April.

  • Late Applications: If applications are submitted after the deadline, decisions will be communicated on a rolling basis, typically within 8 weeks of submission.

Postgraduate Admissions

  • The University of Stirling aims to notify applicants of decisions within 6 to 8 weeks after the application is submitted, although this may vary depending on the programme and application volume.

 

University Of Stirling Selection Criteria

The selection criteria for admission to the University of Stirling emphasise a holistic assessment of applicants, focusing on both academic merit and personal potential. The university is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive community, welcoming students from various backgrounds and experiences.

Key Selection Criteria

  1. Academic Qualifications:
    • The university considers both predicted and actual academic achievements, including specific subject requirements for certain courses. For undergraduate programmes, typical entry requirements are published in the university prospectus and online. Applicants must meet the general entrance requirements, and some programmes may have additional subject or grade-specific criteria.
  2. Personal Statement and References:
    • A personal statement is crucial, allowing applicants to express their motivations and relevant experiences. References from teachers or academic advisors are also considered to assess the applicant's suitability for the chosen programme.
  3. English Language Proficiency:
    • For non-native speakers, proof of English language skills is required, typically through tests like IELTS or equivalent qualifications. Certain exceptions may apply based on previous education in English.
  4. Additional Factors:
    • The selection process may also consider work experience, interviews (if applicable), and contextual information regarding the applicant’s educational background. The university aims to reduce barriers to admission and ensure a transparent and consistent selection process.

Overall, the University of Stirling seeks to admit students who demonstrate the potential to succeed academically and contribute positively to the university community, aligning with its commitment to inclusivity and diversity in higher education.

 

University Of Stirling Acceptance Rate

The University of Stirling’s acceptance rate is around 11-20% suggesting a highly competitive admission process. This means that for every 100 applicants, only about 11 are offered a place at the university. The low acceptance rate highlights the selectivity of the admissions process at the University of Stirling, as it carefully evaluates each applicant to ensure they meet the institution's high standards. Students who match their requirements will be guaranteed a seat in this university. 

 

Fees

The University Of Stirling fees vary depending on the level of study and the specific programme chosen. 

Undergraduate Tuition Fees

  • Home Students: £9,250 per year
  • International Students: Approximately £17,200 per year, though some programmes may range from £17,000 to £21,000 depending on the course.

Postgraduate Tuition Fees

  • Postgraduate Taught Courses: Fees vary by programme, generally around £17,300 to £25,600 per year for international students, depending on the specific course.

  • Postgraduate Research Courses: Fees for full-time international PhD students are typically around £4,712 per year, with a registration-only fee applicable for subsequent years.

Additional Costs

Students should also budget for living expenses, which can range from £12,000 to £15,000 annually, depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices.

Scholarship

Given below are some of the notable scholarships offered at the University of Stirling: 

 

Name of Scholarship

Eligibility

Amount

Postgraduate India Scholarship

Full-time, on-campus, self-funding applicants who are either Indian nationals or residing in India at the time of application.

4,000 GBP

International Undergraduate Scholarship

Applicable to students enrolling directly in a full-time undergraduate degree programme.

2,000 GBP/year

INTO Sterling Progression Scholarships

Available to students transitioning from a programme offered by the INTO University of Stirling joint venture to a University of Stirling undergraduate or postgraduate taught programme.

4,000 GBP

Postgraduate International Excellence Scholarship

Open to first-year Master’s degree students with full-time, self-funding international fee status.

4,000 GBP

Finances

Most international students are obligated to show proof of sufficient funds in order to obtain a visa. While some students may have the opportunity to make use of scholarships, not all students cut the eligibility to get a scholarship or a grant. Moreover, not all scholarships cover 100% of your study abroad expenses. At such times, most students resort to acquiring education loans to avoid the financial hassles associated with studying at the university. For Indian students, UniCreds is the ideal education loan marketplace if you’re looking for low-interest rates and free consultation services!

Accommodation

There are several student accommodations in Stirling near University of Stirling that are fully equipped for your needs. Student accommodation near University Of Stirling offers a wide choice of affordable yet elegant student flats, halls of residence, studios, ensuites, and more! You have the option of staying on campus in the university halls of residence or a private residence. Because of their proximity to the university, on-campus housing options may be ideal; nevertheless, they tend to fill up fast and are more expensive.

UniAcco simplifies the process of finding student housing and offers a variety of options. As a result, students can select from an array of available student accommodations near the university, such as luxury studios, en-suites, and shared apartments that are inexpensive and fully furnished with 24/7 staff support.

Cost of Living

Stirling is also referred to as the "Gateway to the Highlands," is the ideal location for academic pursuits. It mixes the allure of an old city with the energy of a modern neighbourhood. 20% of Stirling's 100,000 inhabitants are between the ages of 16 and 29. Students can benefit from low living expenses, which average from £1,241 - £1,417 per month. Even though some cities, like Glasgow, can be more expensive, then the overall expenses will mostly rely on the student's lifestyle and the kind of housing they choose. Here is a breakdown of the cost of living in Stirling -

 

Particulars

Cost (Monthly)

Off-Campus Accommodation 

£ 620

On-Campus Accommodation

£ 448

Transportation

£ 40

Food Cost

£ 420

Entertainment

£ 37

Groceries

£ 120

Clothes

£ 58

Total Cost of Living with Off Campus Accommodation 

£ 1,295

Total Cost of Living with On Campus Accommodation 

£ 1,123

Annual Cost of Living

£ 15,540

FAQs