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University of Stirling

Stirling, United Kingdom

  • Cost of Living£ 15,540
  • Tuition Fee From£ 7,575
  • Country Rank#52
  • 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.

University Name University of Stirling
Official Website https://www.stir.ac.uk/
Year of Establishment 1967
Average Living Cost £15,190 - £15,690
Total International Students 14,895
Country Rank 49
University Type Public
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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

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

Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate of the University in Sterling is 11%, which means that out of every 100 applicants, approximately 20 are offered admission. This figure provides insight into the competitiveness of admissions at the University of Stirling, indicating that it is selective in its admissions process. Applicants should strive to present strong academic records, compelling personal statements, and relevant extracurricular experiences to increase their chances of acceptance. Additionally, meeting or exceeding the university's admission criteria and requirements is essential for prospective students aiming to secure a spot at the institution.

 

Entry Requirements

Students applying for undergraduate studies can apply through UCAS and postgraduate students must apply through the Online Application portal. The application fee for UCAS users is £20 for a single course and £25 for multiple courses. The University of Stirling entry requirements are discussed below -

 

Official Transcripts:

  • Personal Statement
  • Test scores for studying in the UK (Optional)
  • Any additional requirements as per the course
  • Applicants from India are required to meet the requirements given below for admission:
    • 65% in Grade 12 is required for direct admittance into undergraduate programmes.
    • Admission to graduate programmes requires either 50% from Tier 1 Colleges/Universities or 55% from Tier 2 Colleges/Universities.
  • Along with the necessary paperwork, international students must also provide evidence of their ability in the English language.
  • Candidates who received a grade of 70% or higher in English in 12th grade are exempt from taking an English language competency exam. 

 

English Language Proficiency Requirements:

To ensure academic success and effective communication within the institution, applicants are required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. The table below outlines the minimum scores required for various English language proficiency tests, including the IELTS, TOEFL iBT, and the PTE Academic. Candidates must achieve the specified scores in each section of the respective tests to meet the institution's language proficiency criteria for admission.

 

 

Test

Overall Score

Reading

Writing

Listening

Speaking

IELTS

6.0

≥5.5

≥5.5

≥5.5

≥5.5

TOEFL iBT

78

≥18

≥17

≥17

≥20

PTE Academic

60

≥59

≥59

≥59

≥59

 

 

Fees

Check out some of the University of Stirling fees per year for top courses -

  • Accounting & Finance: £13,100 - £21,345
  • Medical & Pure Sciences: £18,800 - £23,325
  • Business Management & Entrepreneurship: £15,100 - £23,325
  • Computer Science & Technology: £16,734 - £21,345
  • Nursing & Medicine: £18,800 
  • Engineering: £18,800
  • Law & Legal Studies: £15,900 - £21,345
  • Psychology: £12,200 - £21,345

 

Placements

Within six months of graduating, 97% of Stirling undergraduates are employed or enrolled in more education, and 96% of postgraduate students are either employed or enrolled in more coursework. After graduation, the University of Stirling’s Placements & Career Centre assists students in locating internships and employment opportunities in the United Kingdom. Numerous career workshops, events, briefings, skill sessions, and other things are also hosted by them. According to the UK International Student Barometer (ISB) Benchmark and Global ISB Benchmark 2018, the university's career services are among the best in Scotland, in the top 5 in the UK, and among the top 15 worldwide.

 

Emolument reports that graduates in IT and software development from the university make the highest yearly pay, which is approximately £98,000 GBP (136,000 USD). Graduates with a Master's degree in finance can also find well-paying positions, with an average salary of £79,250 (110,000 USD). Additionally, the university’s Master's degree holders make about £67,000 (93,000 USD).

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