UNITED KINGDOM · LUTON
University of Bedfordshire
public · Founded 2006 · Languages: en
In short
The University of Bedfordshire is a public institution in England offering career-focused undergraduate and postgraduate courses. It boasts a diverse international community from over 100 countries and provides comprehensive student support services.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 2006
- Students
- 20,000
- International students
- 6,500
- Acceptance rate
- 65%
- Tuition (intl)
- €16–19k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Luton, United Kingdom
The University of Bedfordshire is a public university located in England, with its main campuses in Luton and Bedford. Established in 2006 through a merger, it builds on a rich history of higher education in the region. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional development courses across diverse fields, including business, law, education, health, science, and creative arts. Committed to providing a high-quality, practical, and career-focused education, the University of Bedfordshire aims to equip students with the skills needed for the modern workforce. It fosters a vibrant and diverse student community, attracting individuals from over 100 countries worldwide. Beyond academics, the university emphasizes a comprehensive student experience. This includes access to on-campus accommodation, a supportive Students' Union (Beds SU), dedicated career services, and extensive library and faith support facilities. The institution also maintains an active alumni network and a Research Graduate School for those pursuing advanced degrees.
Why study here
- Offers a wide range of career-focused undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional courses.
- Provides a vibrant and diverse student community with international representation from over 100 countries.
- Emphasizes practical education to prepare students for the modern workforce.
- Features dedicated student support services, including careers, accommodation, and a Students' Union.
Student life
The University of Bedfordshire offers a comprehensive student experience with various facilities and support. Students can find on-campus accommodation, engage with the active Students' Union (Beds SU), and utilize resources such as libraries and career services. The university also provides faith support and opportunities to connect with an alumni network.
Fees
InternationalInternational undergraduate and postgraduate tuition is typically around GBP 14,500-16,500 (about EUR 16,000-19,000) per year depending on the course.
HomeHome (UK) undergraduate tuition is capped at the standard national rate of GBP 9,250 per year.
LivingBudget roughly GBP 9,000-12,000 (about EUR 10,500-14,000) per year for accommodation, food and personal costs in Luton or Bedford.
The university offers a range of bursaries and scholarships to support students during their studies. Specific fee details are provided on a course-by-course basis.
Admissions
Undergraduate entryRecognised secondary qualifications equivalent to UK A-levels or a relevant Access/foundation programme.
Postgraduate entryA recognised bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject; some courses require relevant work experience.
IELTS AcademicScores vary by course, generally 6.0 with no band less than 5.5 for undergraduate and 6.5 with no band less than 6.0 for postgraduate.
Rankings
Times Higher Education World University Rankings1201+ band
University scholarships
Bursaries and ScholarshipsVaries
Accreditation
Recognised UK higher education institution with degree-awarding powers, regulated by the Office for Students (OfS).
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 selectionUniversity of Bedfordshire · United Kingdom
BA (Hons) Education
Bachelor's
Level
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University of Bedfordshire · United Kingdom
BA (Hons) Marketing
Bachelor's
Level
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University of Bedfordshire · United Kingdom
BSc (Hons) Psychology
Bachelor's
Level
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Tuition
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University of Bedfordshire · United Kingdom
CPD Short Courses
Certificate
Level
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Tuition
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Duration
University of Bedfordshire · United Kingdom
Degree Apprenticeships
Master's
Level
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Tuition
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University of Bedfordshire · United Kingdom
Higher Apprenticeships
Master's
Level
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Tuition
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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 approximate tuition fees for international students at the University of Bedfordshire?
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International undergraduate and postgraduate tuition fees are typically around GBP 14,500-16,500 per year, depending on the specific course. The university also provides information on bursaries and scholarships to assist students.
What are the living costs for students at the University of Bedfordshire?
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You should budget approximately GBP 9,000-12,000 per year for accommodation, food, and personal expenses in Luton or Bedford. These estimates are for guidance and can vary based on individual spending habits.
What are the English language requirements for international students?
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For undergraduate programs, the university generally requires an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 with no band less than 5.5. Postgraduate programs typically require a score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0.
What academic qualifications are needed for admission?
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For undergraduate entry, recognized secondary qualifications equivalent to UK A-levels or a relevant Access/foundation program are required. Postgraduate entry usually necessitates a recognized bachelor's degree in a relevant subject.
Does the University of Bedfordshire offer scholarships or financial aid for international students?
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Yes, the university offers a range of bursaries and scholarships. Specific details about available financial aid and how to apply can be found on the university's fees and funding page.
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