UNITED KINGDOM · CRANFIELD
Cranfield University
public · Founded 1946 · Languages: en
In short
Cranfield University is the UK's only wholly postgraduate university, specializing in science, engineering, technology, and management with strong industry partnerships. It offers a uniquely applied and professional postgraduate environment with world-leading research and a triple-accredited School of Management.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1946
- Students
- 4,825
- International students
- 2,500
- Acceptance rate
- 40%
- Tuition (intl)
- €14–42k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Cranfield, United Kingdom
Cranfield University is the UK's only wholly-postgraduate university, founded in 1946 in Bedfordshire, England. Specialising in science, engineering, technology, and management, it partners with over 1,500 organisations globally and produces industry-relevant research in aerospace, defence, energy, manufacturing, and business. Cranfield School of Management is triple-accredited (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS) and its MBA ranks in the Financial Times Top 60 globally. With 88% of research rated world-leading (REF 2021), Cranfield offers a uniquely applied and professional postgraduate environment.
Why study here
- The only wholly-postgraduate university in the UK—every resource is focused on master's and doctoral-level education.
- Triple-accredited School of Management (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS)—a distinction held by fewer than 1% of business schools globally.
- Deep industry links: 1,500+ partner organisations deliver real-world challenges and excellent placement outcomes.
- 88% of research rated world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021); cutting-edge facilities including own airfield.
- Dedicated Careers and Employability Service with sector specialists for engineering, management, and defence industries.
Student life
Student life at Cranfield is professional and internationally diverse, reflecting its postgraduate-only focus. Most students are mid-career professionals from around the world. Social and professional networking events, industry visits, and guest lectures are integral to the experience. The campus in Bedfordshire offers accommodation, sports facilities, and easy rail access to London (approx. 1 hour) and Birmingham. The close-knit cohort structure fosters strong peer networks that last throughout careers.
Fees
InternationalInternational student tuition varies by program: MSc programs range from approx. GBP 13,000–26,000 (EUR 15,000–30,000) per year; the full-time MBA is approximately GBP 36,000 (EUR 42,000) for the full program.
HomeUK/domestic fees for MSc programs range approximately GBP 12,000–23,000. Some programmes offer part-time options with lower per-year costs.
LivingEstimated monthly living costs at Cranfield: approx. GBP 900–1,200 (EUR 1,050–1,400) including campus accommodation, food, and transport.
Tuition fees are reviewed annually. Scholarships and funded research studentships are available. Cranfield works with external funding bodies including Commonwealth Scholarships and GREAT Scholarships.
Admissions
Bachelor's DegreeMinimum 2:1 undergraduate degree (or international equivalent) for most taught master's programs
Professional ExperienceRelevant work experience required or preferred for management and executive programs
ReferencesTwo academic or professional references required
Personal StatementRequired for all applications
IELTS AcademicMinimum 6.5 overall, no band below 6.0
TOEFL iBTMinimum 92 overall
PTE AcademicMinimum 65
Rankings
Financial Times Global MBA Ranking 202655th globally, 6th in UK
Financial Times European Business School Rankings 20255th in UK, 29th in Europe
Financial Times Masters in Finance Rankings 20258th in UK, Top 50 worldwide
QS World University Rankings: Masters in Finance 202670th globally
QS International Trade Rankings 20262nd in UK, 5th globally
University scholarships
Cranfield Merit ScholarshipsPartial tuition reduction; available for selected MSc programs
ASEAN-UK: Women in STEM ScholarshipsFull scholarship for eligible female students from East Asia in STEM master's programs
Commonwealth Master's ScholarshipsFull scholarship; offered by Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
GREAT ScholarshipsGBP 10,000+ bursary for students from select countries
Accreditation
Cranfield School of Management holds triple accreditation from AACSB International, AMBA (Association of MBAs), and EQUIS (EFMD Quality Improvement System)—one of fewer than 100 business schools globally with this distinction. Cranfield also holds Small Business Charter accreditation. Engineering programs are accredited by relevant professional bodies including the Royal Aeronautical Society and Institution of Mechanical Engineers.
For international students
United KingdomStudent visa & funds
International students apply for the UK Student visa, which replaced the former Tier 4 (General) route. You need an unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor and must show maintenance funds held for at least 28 consecutive days. As of November 2025 the requirement is £1,529 per month (for up to nine months) for courses in London and £1,171 per month for courses elsewhere, on top of tuition. Students who have already held a UK visa for 12 months, and nationals of certain low-risk countries, are exempt from evidencing the funds.
Working while you study
On a degree-level course at a licensed higher-education provider, you may work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official vacation periods; sub-degree courses are capped at 10 hours per week. There is no distinction between on-campus and off-campus work, but self-employment and working as a professional sportsperson or coach are not permitted. Once you have completed all course requirements you may work full-time until your visa expires.
After you graduate
Graduates of an eligible UK degree can apply for the Graduate visa (the Graduate Route) without needing an employer sponsor. As of 2026, bachelor’s and master’s graduates receive two years of open work permission and PhD graduates receive three years. Under the 2025 immigration reforms, applications made on or after 1 January 2027 will grant 18 months instead of two years for non-doctoral qualifications, while PhD holders keep three years.
English tests
- IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; competitive/Russell Group courses up to 7.0–7.5
- TOEFL iBTUG 80–90; PG 90–100; top research universities 100+
- PTE AcademicUG 51–65; PG 59–75
Main intakes
SeptemberJanuary
Typical living cost
€1,400/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
Programs
a selectionCranfield University · United Kingdom
Advanced Lightweight and Composite Structures MSc
This Master of Science (MSc) program focuses on the design and application of advanced lightweight and composite structures. It equips students with specialized knowledge and skills crucial for developing next-generation materials and components that reduce weight, improve fuel efficiency, and lower carbon emissions. The course addresses critical sustainability challenges across industries like aerospace, automotive, motorsport, marine, and renewable energy. Graduates will be prepared for roles in design, stress analysis, research and development, and numerical simulation, contributing to net-zero goals and technological advancements.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
12 mo
Duration
Cranfield University · United Kingdom
Advanced Materials: Engineering and Industrial Applications MSc
This Master of Science (MSc) program focuses on the discovery, development, and application of advanced materials, which are crucial for engineering innovation. You will gain a deep understanding of material properties, selection, processing, and advanced design techniques, informed by close collaborations with industry. The course is designed for graduates with science, engineering, or related degrees, as well as professionals seeking to enhance their qualifications or advance their careers in the field of materials science and engineering. Cranfield University has a strong history in advanced materials research, with applications ranging from gas turbine engines to supercars.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
12 mo
Duration
Cranfield University · United Kingdom
Advanced Mechanical Engineering MSc
The Advanced Mechanical Engineering MSc is designed for high-calibre engineers who want to deepen their technical expertise and analytical skills to tackle complex, real-world engineering challenges. The program is built on rigorous mechanical engineering principles, with a significant focus on energy engineering, a critical area for global industry. You will gain advanced proficiency in modelling, analysis, and system-level design, applying these skills through industry-relevant modules and research projects. The aim is to equip you to move confidently between theory, simulation, and practical application in demanding engineering settings. Beyond technical development, the course fosters professional and leadership skills essential for contributing effectively to complex engineering projects and multidisciplinary teams. Cranfield University, ranked in the UK's top 5 for mechanical engineering, offers a specialized postgraduate environment with strong industry connections and a focus on applied engineering at scale. You will have access to advanced experimental and computational facilities, supported by academic staff with extensive industrial and research experience.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
12 mo
Duration
Cranfield University · United Kingdom
Advanced Motorsport Engineering MSc
The Advanced Motorsport Engineering MSc is designed for graduates in engineering, mathematics, physics, or applied sciences who are motivated to work in the motorsport industry. This intensive program focuses on honing your skills and expertise through rigorous teaching and practical project work, immersing you in the dynamic world of motorsport innovation. You will delve into cutting-edge advancements in materials science, aerodynamics, engine development, and data analysis, preparing you for a successful career at the forefront of motorsport technology. Cranfield University has a long-standing history of research and consultancy in motorsport, boasting facilities like the FIA-approved Cranfield Impact Centre and Cranfield Motorsport Simulation, which collaborate with leading F1 and motorsport companies. The course is highly respected by the industry due to this established track record and its focus on the fundamental scientific, engineering, and managerial principles essential for motorsport and high-performance technology. Through this MSc, you will gain a deep understanding of the design, construction, and operation of competition vehicles, alongside critical aspects of materials science, aerodynamics, structural analysis, vehicle systems, and motorsport-specific management techniques. The program emphasizes developing the skills needed for planning, executing, and reporting on motorsport projects, providing practical experience with Cranfield's specialized equipment and opportunities to engage with industry practitioners.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
12 mo
Duration
Cranfield University · United Kingdom
Advanced Motorsport Mechatronics MSc
This Master of Science (MSc) program focuses on the integration of mechanical and electronic systems within motorsport to create intelligent, adaptive systems for racing environments. It provides a strong foundation in the scientific, engineering, and managerial principles essential for a career in motorsport or high-performance engineering. The course emphasizes the mechatronics aspect, covering advanced control systems, multi-domain computer modeling, in-vehicle communication networks, electromechanical and embedded systems, hardware-in-the-loop validation, and systems integration. Cranfield University has a long history of research and consultancy in motorsport, working with leading F1 and motorsport companies, and boasts facilities like the FIA-approved Cranfield Impact Centre. The curriculum is developed in collaboration with an industry advisory board, ensuring its relevance to current industry needs.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
12 mo
Duration
Cranfield University · United Kingdom
Aerospace Computational Engineering MSc
This MSc program focuses on applying state-of-the-art computational methods to aerospace engineering challenges in the digital age. It's designed to equip you with advanced software engineering skills and mathematical analysis techniques demanded by the evolving aerospace industry. The course emphasizes fully integrated digital design, enabling you to understand and implement numerical methods on various computing platforms for aerospace applications. You will gain expertise in computational fluid and solid mechanics relevant to aerospace, fostering cross-disciplinary learning and knowledge transfer. This program is ideal for those with backgrounds in mathematics, physics, computer science, or engineering, including those seeking to enhance their computational skills with relevant industrial experience.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
12 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for United Kingdom
full fundingWellcome Trust
Wellcome Discovery Awards
Open to established researchers and research teams with a proven record of research delivery who are based at, or will be hosted by, an eligible not-for-profit organisation in the UK, the Republic of Ireland, or an eligible low- or middle-income country (excluding India and mainland China). Projects must propose bold, transformative research aligned with Wellcome's mission to improve health. The award does not cover the lead applicant's own salary, and a researcher may lead only one active Discovery Award submission.
full
Funding
€4000k
Max
Nov 25, 2026
Deadline
full fundingThe Alan Turing Institute
Open Source AI Fellowship (UK)
Open to AI professionals and researchers who are legally eligible to work in the UK without sponsorship, have resided in the UK for at least 5 years (a security check is required), are employed by a UK-based organisation willing to support a 12-month secondment, and hold a PhD or equivalent professional experience in AI or a related discipline.
full
Funding
€98k
Max
17d left
Deadline
full fundingSkoll Foundation / University of Oxford Saïd Business School
Skoll Scholarship for the Oxford MBA
Open to applicants of any nationality admitted to the full-time one-year Oxford MBA at Saïd Business School who can demonstrate a track record of entrepreneurial action creating positive social or environmental impact, and for whom the cost of the programme is a significant financial burden.
full
Funding
€95k
Max
Jan 8, 2027
Deadline
full fundingRhodes Trust
Rhodes Scholarship
For talented young people from around the world to undertake postgraduate study at the University of Oxford. Around 100 scholars are selected each year from more than 60 countries and constituencies; applications are made in your home country or constituency, each with its own age and eligibility rules.
full
Funding
€70k
Max
Sep 30, 2026
Deadline
full fundingGates Cambridge Trust
Gates Cambridge Scholarships
Open to citizens of any country outside the United Kingdom applying for a full-time postgraduate degree (PhD, MSc/MLitt, or one-year master's) at the University of Cambridge. Selection weighs academic excellence, a strong fit with the chosen Cambridge course, a clear commitment to improving the lives of others, and leadership potential.
full
Funding
€70k
Max
Dec 3, 2026
Deadline
full fundingAfrica Initiative for Governance (AIG), tenable at the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford
Africa Initiative for Governance (AIG) Scholarships at the University of Oxford
Open to West African nationals (for example from Nigeria and Ghana) seeking to study the Master of Public Policy at the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford. Applicants are generally aged between 25 and 45, hold a strong undergraduate degree (typically second-class upper or above), demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to Africa's public sector, and intend to apply their learning in their home country's public service.
full
Funding
€65k
Max
Jan 9, 2027
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the estimated tuition fees for international students at Cranfield University?
+
International student tuition fees for MSc programs at Cranfield range approximately from GBP 13,000 to GBP 26,000 per year. The full-time MBA program is approximately GBP 36,000 for the entire course.
What are the living costs for students at Cranfield University?
+
Estimated monthly living costs at Cranfield are approximately GBP 900–1,200. This estimate includes campus accommodation, food, and transportation.
Does Cranfield University offer scholarships for international students?
+
Yes, Cranfield University offers various scholarships, including Cranfield Merit Scholarships, ASEAN-UK: Women in STEM Scholarships, Commonwealth Master's Scholarships, and GREAT Scholarships.
What academic qualifications are required for master's programs at Cranfield?
+
Most taught master's programs require a minimum of a 2:1 undergraduate degree or its international equivalent. Relevant work experience may also be required or preferred for management and executive programs.
What English language proficiency tests are accepted by Cranfield University?
+
Cranfield University accepts IELTS Academic (minimum 6.5 overall, no band below 6.0), TOEFL iBT (minimum 92 overall), and PTE Academic (minimum 65).
Last updated