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UNITED KINGDOM · BOLTON

University of Bolton

public · Founded 1982 · Languages: en

In short

The University of Bolton is a teaching-focused public university in Greater Manchester, known for high student satisfaction and a commitment to widening participation. It offers diverse programmes and affordable living costs with good transport links.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1982
Students: 11,000
International students: 1,800
Acceptance rate: 80%
Tuition (intl): €14–16k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: Bolton, United Kingdom

The University of Bolton, located in Greater Manchester, is a teaching-focused public university with a strong commitment to widening participation and student satisfaction. It offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and research degrees across disciplines including Business, Engineering, Health Sciences, Creative Arts, Law, and Computing. With roots going back to 1825, the university gained full university status in 2005. Bolton is consistently ranked among the top universities in the North West for student satisfaction, thanks to small class sizes and dedicated staff support. Its location gives students affordable study in a city well-connected to Manchester's employment market. The university also offers apprenticeships and Continuous Professional Development programmes, extending its educational reach into professional settings and making it a true community institution.

Why study here

High student satisfaction, consistently ranked 1st in North West by Times and Sunday Times.
Diverse academic programmes from traditional subjects to specialised fields like Film FX and Paramedic Sciences.
Affordable city location with excellent transport links to Manchester.
Comprehensive student support: welfare, career guidance, accommodation assistance.
Widening participation ethos welcomes mature, part-time, and first-generation students.

Student life

Life at the University of Bolton is designed to be inclusive and engaging. The university provides various student support services, including welfare and career advice. Students can take advantage of sports and wellness facilities, participate in activities organised by the student union, and benefit from a Rent a Room Scheme for accommodation assistance. Bolton's location means easy access to Greater Manchester's cultural and social scene.

Fees

InternationalInternational undergraduate tuition fees are approximately £14,000–£16,000 per year. Postgraduate fees are similar. Living costs in Bolton are lower than in central Manchester, typically £700–£900 per month.

HomeHome undergraduate tuition is capped at £9,535 per year (2025 entry).

LivingMonthly living costs in Bolton: approximately £700–£900 including accommodation, food, and transport.

Information on international and home student tuition fees, as well as living costs, is available on the university website. They also offer a 'Rent a Room Scheme' to help with accommodation.

Admissions

English languageIELTS 6.0 or equivalent

UndergraduateA-levels or equivalent international qualification

PostgraduateRelevant bachelor's degree (2:2 or above)

IELTS Academic6.0 overall, no band below 5.5 (most undergraduate courses)

Rankings

Times and Sunday Times1st in North West for Student Satisfaction

University scholarships

International Merit ScholarshipUp to £2,000 tuition reduction

Bolton Excellence AwardVaries by programme

Accreditation

University of Bolton is a recognised UK higher education institution; many programmes carry professional body accreditation from CIPD, BCS, and other bodies.

For international students

United Kingdom

Student 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.

SourcesGOV.UK — Student visa: money you need · GOV.UK — Student visa: working · GOV.UK — Graduate visa · UKCISA — Changes to the Student and Graduate rules · Fateh Education — IELTS requirements for UK universities (2026) · Fateh Education — UK living expenses for students (2026)

Programs

a selection

View top programs →

University of Bolton · United Kingdom

Accountancy & Business

University of Bolton · United Kingdom

Advanced search

This page provides access to advanced search functionalities within the university's repository. It is designed to help users find specific research outputs, publications, and other academic materials more effectively.

University of Bolton · United Kingdom

BSc (Hons) Business Management

University of Bolton · United Kingdom

BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care

University of Bolton · United Kingdom

Computer Science (BSc Hons)

This BSc (Hons) Computer Science degree is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the principles underpinning computer science. You will gain theoretical knowledge and practical skills in areas such as programming, software development, artificial intelligence, and data science. The course aims to equip you with the ability to design, develop, and evaluate computing systems, preparing you for a wide range of careers in the technology sector.

University of Bolton · United Kingdom

Continuous Professional Development

Scholarships

for United Kingdom

Browse all scholarships →

full funding

Wellcome 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.

The 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.

Skoll 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.

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.

Gates 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.

Africa 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.

Frequently asked questions

What are the estimated tuition fees for international students at the University of Bolton?

International undergraduate tuition fees at the University of Bolton are approximately £14,000–£16,000 per year. Postgraduate fees are generally similar. It's recommended to check the university website for the most current fee information.

What are the living costs like for students in Bolton?

Living costs in Bolton are considered lower than in central Manchester, with typical monthly expenses ranging from £700 to £900. This estimate usually includes accommodation, food, and transport.

Does the University of Bolton offer any scholarships for international students?

Yes, the University of Bolton offers scholarships for international students, such as the International Merit Scholarship, which provides up to a £2,000 tuition reduction, and the Bolton Excellence Award, with amounts varying by programme.

What are the English language requirements for international applicants?

For most undergraduate courses, international students typically need an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 overall, with no band below 5.5. Equivalent qualifications are also usually accepted.

What is the University of Bolton known for?

The University of Bolton is consistently ranked among the top universities in the North West for student satisfaction, according to the Times and Sunday Times. It is also recognised for its diverse academic programmes and commitment to widening participation.

Last updated 3 July 2026