University of the West of England

The University of the West of England, known as UWE Bristol, has roots reaching back to a Merchant Venturers' school recorded in 1595 and to the Bristol Trade and Mining School of 1856. It later became Bristol Polytechnic and gained university status under its current name in 1992. The university is based across three campuses in Bristol: Frenchay, four miles north of the city centre, where most students study; City Campus, the home of its creative and cultural industries provision; and Glenside, which specialises in nursing, midwifery and allied health.

With more than 36,000 students, UWE Bristol is the largest provider of higher education in the South West of England. Its academic structure spans three colleges covering business and law, engineering and computing, arts and creative industries, education, and health and applied sciences. The university has a strong focus on professionally accredited, practice-based courses, placements and partnerships with employers, with particular breadth in engineering, health and creative subjects.

Information for International Students

UWE Bristol welcomes students from more than 160 countries and regions. A Global Student Support Team offers information, advice and social activities for international students, and dedicated guidance covers Student visa applications, arrival in the UK, maintaining visa compliance and working during and after study, including the Graduate Route. The university offers an airport pick-up service for international students and an International Student Orientation alongside course induction, supported by a free online transition course.

Undergraduate degrees usually require IELTS 6.0, and postgraduate degrees IELTS 6.5, with higher scores for some courses. A Pre-sessional English Programme of 5, 10 or 15 weeks is available, and students on the longer options may qualify for a combined CAS covering both the pre-sessional course and the degree. UWE Bristol's International College, operated by Kaplan International Pathways on Frenchay Campus, offers a Foundation Certificate, International Year One programmes in business, computing and engineering, and Pre-Master's courses, with guaranteed progression for students who meet the required level. Accommodation is available both on and off campus.