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University of the West of England

Bristol, United Kingdom

  • Cost of Living£ 20,064
  • Tuition Fee From£ 9,250
  • Country Rank-
  • Batch Strength23,322
  • Global Diversity14%
  • Gender Ratio45:55

Overview

About

Bristol, England is home to the public research institution known as the University of the West of England (UWE). It shares a common ancestor with the Universities of Bristol and Bath, the Merchant Venturers' Technical College, which was established as a college in 1595 by the Society of Merchant Venturers. It later became UWE in 1992 after being granted university status. It is currently one of a very small handful of British institutions with a University Enterprise Zone housing over 70 enterprises, and it is home to the biggest robotics lab in Europe. In 2018, the university received a Gold rating from the Teaching Excellence Framework.

 

Since most of the school's courses are taught at the Frenchay Campus, it is the campus with the greatest number of students. Bower Ashton Studios, Arnolfini, Spike Island, and Watershed make form City Campus, which offers courses in the arts and culture. The college validates the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School's higher education programmes and is linked with it. The majority of the Faculty of Health and Applied Sciences is located on the Frenchay and Glenside campuses, with a second adult nursing cohort headquartered at the Gloucester campus. The Hartpury Campus offers education in horse sport, agriculture, conservation, and animal sciences.

Ranking

The University of the West of England holds a distinguished position among the world's most esteemed institutions. Its consistent presence in top university rankings underscores its reputation for excellence. According to THE (Times Higher Education), the university ranks between 501 - 600 in the 2024 University Rankings, maintaining its prestigious standing over the years. In the US News & World Report Global Universities, its ranking improved to 1027 in 2023, showcasing continuous enhancement from previous years. Similarly, the QS rankings reflect an upward trajectory, indicating improvement from 2021 to 2024. Look at the rankings of the University Of the West Of England in 2024: 

 

  • QS - World University Ranking: #701-750 
  • The Complete University Guide - University Ranking UK: #67 
  • The Guardian - University Rankings: #43  

 

Course Rankings:

The Complete University Guide placed UWE Bristol under the top 100 schools in the UK in its Accounting & Finance, Business & Management Studies and Marketing rankings. The Guardian has also ranked UWE Bristol within the top 100 schools in the UK in its Accounting & Finance and Business, Management & Marketing rankings. Take a look at some of the University of the West of England courses and their latest rankings in 2024 -

 

Business & Management Studies Courses

  • The Complete University Guide - Business and Management Studies UK: #57
  • The Guardian - Business and Management: #40
  • The Guardian - Guardian Economics Rankings: #23 

 

Nursing Courses 

  • The Complete University Guide - Nursing Rankings: #36 

 

Engineering Courses

  • The Complete University Guide - Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering: #21 
  • The Complete University Guide - Civil Engineering Ranking: #28
  • The Complete University Guide - Mechanical Engineering Ranking: #35 
  • The Guardian - Civil Engineering: #33
  • The Guardian - Electronic and Electrical Engineering: #33
  • The Guardian - Mechanical Engineering: #17 

 

Law Courses 

  • The Complete University Guide - Law Rankings: #65 
  • The Guardian - Guardian Law Rankings: #100  

 

Mass Communication & Media Courses

  • The Complete University Guide - Communication and Media Studies Ranking: #68 
  • The Guardian - Guardian Media and Film Studies Rankings: #49 

 

Humanities & Social Sciences Courses

  • The Complete University Guide - Psychology Rankings: #52 
  • The Guardian - Guardian Politics Rankings: #30 
  • The Guardian - Guardian Sociology and Social Policy Rankings: #54

 

Science Courses 

  • The Complete University Guide - Biological Sciences Rankings: #61 
  • The Complete University Guide - Computer Science: #47 

 

Accounting & Commerce Courses

  • The Complete University Guide - Accounting and Finance Ranking: #54
  • The Guardian - Accounting and Finance Rankings: #69

Year

QS Ranks

US News Ranks

2025

#741 - 750

-

2023

#801 - 1000

-

2022

#801 - 1000

-

2021

#801 - 1000

#1202

Facilities

Each of the three campuses, which are close to one another via bus, has something special to offer. The university has put £300 million into its cutting-edge facilities over the last five years by constructing the most efficient and empowering environment for their students and people's potential discovery. Take a look at some of the University of the West of England’s facilities below -

 

The Student Union: The UWE Students' Union (previously known as UWESU), which has its headquarters on the Frenchay campus, was founded in 1971. Five sabbatical officers who are chosen yearly from within the student body oversee it. The new Students' Union building, which houses a bar, a coffee shop, and two convenience stores on the Frenchay Campus, was finished in the summer of 2015. Glenside Campus and Bower Ashton Studios both have a bar and store run by the Students' Union. The student radio station broadcast from a studio on campus called Hub Radio.

 

Sport: The university's rowing club is called the University of the West of England Boat Club. UWE Bristol Sport offers a variety of facilities to join, rent, and visit with the best tools, amenities, and playing grounds. They hold a variety of events, from corporate fun days and children's parties to sports training and competitions, and the majority of the facilities are available for rental. For people who need privacy, the Centre for Sport now has three accessible changing rooms. 

 

Health Care Centre: The Old School Surgery in Fishponds, where many students are already registered, collaborates with the Frenchay Campus's Health Center. They strive to provide kids and staff with the best possible medical care.

Receiving Care Through The NHS: Information on receiving care on the NHS for students, including those studying abroad and in the European Union/European Economic Area.

Frenchay Campus Study Spaces:

 

  • Frenchay Library
  • Arts, Creative Industries and Education Resource Centre
  • The Forum
  • The Hive and Project Room
  • Synapse
  • The Works
  • The Base
  • S Block Study Lounge

Notable Alumni

Teo Nie Ching
Teo Nie Ching
Member of the Dewan Rakyat
Teo Nie Ching
Teo Nie Ching
Member of the Dewan Rakyat
Silas Adekunle
Silas Adekunle
Entrepreneur
Silas Adekunle
Silas Adekunle
Entrepreneur
Russell Howard
Russell Howard
Comedian
Russell Howard
Russell Howard
Comedian

Courses

Admission

The University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) is a prominent public higher education institution in Bristol, England. It was established in 1992, though its roots trace back to 1595. Known for its commitment to providing quality education, UWE Bristol offers various undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across multiple fields, including arts, business, engineering, and health sciences. With a student population exceeding 30,000, including over 8,500 international students from more than 140 countries, the university fosters a vibrant and inclusive community. 

UWE Bristol is recognised for its strong emphasis on employability, practical learning, and research, making it a significant contributor to the educational landscape in the South West of England. The university's state-of-the-art facilities and strategic industry partnerships enhance the academic experience, preparing students for successful careers in a globalised world.
 

Things To Consider Before Applying

One of the first steps before the application process is ensuring you’re prepared. This includes browsing the entry requirements, researching finances, collecting required documents, etc. All the information you need is in the following sections.

 

Entry Requirements

Prospective students must meet specific entry requirements based on their level of study and chosen programme to apply to Cardiff University. University Of The West Of England entry requirements vary for every student, considering their background, destination, and choice of courses.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements:

  1. Academic Qualifications:
    • Completion of Higher Secondary School Certificate/Indian School Certificate (standard XII) with a minimum of 65% overall, including grade C in at least five subjects.
    • For the English language, a minimum score of 70% is required.
  2. English Language Proficiency:
    • IELTS: Overall score of 6.0 (with no less than 5.5 in each band).
    • TOEFL: Overall 80 (with specific minimum scores in each section).
    • PTE: Overall score of 50 (with no communicative skills below 51).
  3. Supporting Documents:
    • Official academic transcripts.
    • Letters of recommendation (LORs).
    • A personal statement or statement of purpose (SOP).

Postgraduate Entry Requirements:

  1. Academic Qualifications:
    • An honours degree at 2.2 from a recognised institution in a relevant field.
  2. English Language Proficiency:
    • IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 (with no less than 5.5 in each band).
    • TOEFL: Overall 90 (with specific minimum scores in each section).
    • PTE: Overall score of 62 (with no communicative skills below 51).
  3. Supporting Documents:
    • Official transcripts.
    • Letters of recommendation.
    • A personal statement or statement of purpose.
    • Proof of financial sufficiency.

 

Documents

This is your first step to securing a place in the university of your choice. Gathering all the required University Of The West Of England documents and submitting them through your required portal will ensure success and a faster road to acceptance.

  1. Official Academic Transcripts: Applicants must provide official transcripts from their previous educational institutions, showing grades and courses completed.
  2. Proof of English Language Proficiency: This can be demonstrated through standardised tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE, with specific minimum scores required.
  3. Copy of Valid Passport: A clear passport copy is necessary for identification and visa purposes.
  4. Financial Documents: Proof of financial sufficiency to cover tuition and living expenses, such as bank statements or scholarship letters.
  5. Personal Statement: A statement outlining the applicant's motivations, experiences, and reasons for choosing the programme.
  6. Letters of Recommendation: Typically required for certain courses, these should come from academic referees.
  7. University Degree Certificate: A copy of the honours degree certificate if applicable.
  8. Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed CV outlining academic and professional experience.

 

How To Apply At The University Of The West Of England?

The University Of The West Of England application process may vary based on your programme, course and intake. However, the general process remains consistent. Follow the below steps for a successful application.

  1. Choose Your Application Method:
    • Undergraduate Applicants: Apply through the UCAS portal. The application fee is £20 for a single course and £25 for multiple classes.
    • Postgraduate Applicants: Use the UWE Bristol Application Portal. There is no application fee for postgraduate applications.
  2. Prepare Required Documents:
    • Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from your previous educational institutions.
    • Proof of English Language Proficiency: Accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE, with specific minimum scores required.
    • Personal Statement: A statement outlining your motivations and qualifications for the programme.
    • Letters of Recommendation: Typically required for specific courses, especially at the postgraduate level.
    • Proof of Financial Sufficiency: Documentation showing you can support yourself financially while studying.
    • Copy of Valid Passport: Required for identification and visa purposes.
  3. Submit Your Application:
    • Complete the application form and upload the required documents through the chosen application portal.
  4. Track Your Application:
    • After submission, you will receive an email confirmation. You can track the status of your application through the applicant portal.
  5. Receive Admission Decision:
    • Decisions for undergraduate programmes are typically communicated within a few weeks after the application deadline. For postgraduate programmes, decisions are usually made within 21 working days after receiving all documents.
  6. Accept the Offer and Apply for a Visa:
    • If accepted, follow the instructions to accept your offer and begin the student visa application process.

Students can use the help of UniScholars experts for all of the above steps to ensure a seamless application process. 

 

Deadlines

It is essential to follow the admission procedure as instructed by the university to the bone. Similarly, the University Of The West Of England's deadlines are often well-laid and crucial. Refer to the following pointers to find the critical events and their respective dates for undergraduate applicants in the fall and spring semesters.

Undergraduate Admission Deadlines:

  • UCAS Applications Open: January
  • UCAS Final Deadline: End of June
  • UWE Bristol Admission Deadline for Sep Intake: August 1

Postgraduate Admission Deadlines:

  • Applications for MBA: August 1 for Fall, December 1 for Spring
  • Applications for MSc Accountancy: August 1 for Fall, December 1 for Spring, April 1 for Summer
  • Other Graduate Programmes: Vary by programme. Some have specific deadlines.

Additional Deadlines:

  • Recommended Deadline for Competitive Scholarships: December 1 (Notification varies)
  • Merit Scholarship Consideration: February 1 (Rolling notifications after that)


 

Decision Dates

The decision dates for applications to the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) are structured around the academic calendar for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. For undergraduate applicants, the UCAS applications open in January, with a final deadline of June 30. Decisions are typically communicated within a few weeks after the application is submitted. 

Applications are currently open for postgraduate courses, and the university aims to provide decisions within 21 working days after all required documentation is received. Accepted students are encouraged to respond promptly to offers to secure their places for the September intake, with the final acceptance deadline set for August 1.
 

University Of The West Of England Selection Criteria

University Of The West Of England selection criteria are designed to assess the potential and qualifications of applicants for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

  1. Academic Qualifications:
    • Undergraduate Applicants: Must have a Higher Secondary School Certificate (Standard XII) with a minimum of 65% overall, including at least a grade C in five subjects from recognised boards such as CBSE or ICSE. For other state boards, specific requirements may vary, and applicants are encouraged to consult the International Development Office for guidance.
    • Postgraduate Applicants: Typically require a recognised honours degree with a minimum classification of 2.2. Specific percentage requirements may vary by programme.
  2. English Language Proficiency:
    • Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through standardised tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. Minimum scores generally required are:
    • IELTS: 6.0 for undergraduate and 6.5 for postgraduate programmes.
    • TOEFL: 80 for undergraduate and 90 for postgraduate programmes.
    • PTE: 50 for undergraduate and 62 for postgraduate programmes.
  3. Supporting Documents:
    • Submission of official academic transcripts, proof of English language proficiency, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation are typically required. Financial documentation to demonstrate the ability to support oneself during studies is also necessary.
  4. Holistic Review:
    • UWE Bristol employs a holistic review process, considering academic performance, extracurricular activities, personal statements, and letters of recommendation. This approach allows the admissions team to assess each applicant's overall potential and fit.
  5. Programme-Specific Requirements:
    • Some programmes may have additional requirements, such as interviews or specific coursework prerequisites.

These criteria ensure that applicants are well-prepared for the academic challenges at UWE Bristol and can contribute positively to the university community.


 

University Of The West Of England Acceptance Rate

The University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) 's acceptance rate is approximately 22.9%. This indicates that UWE Bristol is moderately selective, admitting around one in five applicants. The acceptance rate can vary based on the programme of study and specific entry requirements. Still, overall, the university has a relatively high offer rate, with about 71% of applicants receiving offers. This suggests that while academic qualifications are important, meeting the specified entry criteria can significantly enhance an applicant's chances of admission.

 

Fees

University Of The West Of England fees vary depending on the programme and level of study. For international students, the estimated fees for the academic year are as follows:

Undergraduate Tuition Fees:

  • General Courses: Tuition fees for international students typically range from £15,250 to £18,000 per year, depending on the specific course.
  • Example Fees:
    • BA (Hons) Business Management and Leadership: £15,250
    • BSc (Hons) Software Engineering: £15,850

Postgraduate Tuition Fees:

  • Tuition fees for postgraduate programmes generally start from £16,000 and can go up to £20,000 or more, depending on the course.
  • Example Fees:
    • MSc programmes: Starting around £16,870.

Foundation and International Year One Courses:

  • Foundation Certificate: From £15,660 for Business, Law, and Social Sciences and £16,570 for Science and Engineering.
  • International Year One: From £15,910 for Business and £16,820 for Computing and Engineering.

Scholarship

Some scholarships at The University Of The West of England Include: 

 

Scholarship Name

Eligibility

Amount Awarded

1st Formations Business Scholarship

Open to both undergraduate and graduate students applying for a course at Bristol Business School.

£600

Chancellor’s Scholarship

Available to postgraduate students. Recipients are required to undertake an internship within the International Office or other departments and engage in ambassadorial activities.

50% of tuition fee

Faculty of Art, Creative Industries and Education Dean’s Bursary

Offered to undergraduate applicants of Art, Creative Industries, and Education programs.

£1,000

Faculty of Health and Applied Sciences Dean’s Scholarship

Granted to postgraduate applicants of the Health and Applied Sciences department.

100% of tuition fee

International Sport Scholarship

Granted to high-performing athletes.

30% tuition fee discount and sport support package

Vice Chancellor’s Scholarship

Available to previous undergraduate UWE Bristol students continuing as postgraduate students.

50% of tuition fee

Finances

Most international students are obligated to show proof of sufficient funds 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 of the West of England (UWE Bristol) . 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 Bristol near University of the West of England that are fully equipped for your needs. Student accommodation near University Of The West Of England 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

Bristol's cost of living is somewhat less expensive than London's. Living in Bristol often costs roughly £1,166 - £1,490  per month, whereas living in London typically costs more. Students who plan on moving to this city must consider costs such as accommodation, transport, groceries, etc. To make it easier to create a budget, check out the table for the cost of living in Bristol below -

 

Item

Cost (Per Month)

Off-Campus Accommodation

£416

On-Campus Accommodation

£740

Transportation

£74

Food 

£290

Utility 

£200

Entertainment

£34

Groceries

£200

Clothes

£26

Total Cost of Living with Off-Campus Accommodation (Per Month)

£1,166

Total Cost of Living with On-Campus Accommodation (Per Month)

£1,490

Annual Cost of Living

£13,990

 

The above data is sourced from Cost of Living in Bristol on UniAcco.

FAQs