UNITED KINGDOM · BRIGHTON

University of Sussex

public · Founded 1961 · Languages: en

In short

The University of Sussex, located near the vibrant city of Brighton, is a research-intensive university ranked among the top globally and in the UK. It offers a diverse and interdisciplinary academic environment with a strong international community.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1961
Students: 13,725
International students: 5,500
Acceptance rate: 72%
Tuition (intl): €19–30k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: Brighton, United Kingdom

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 Sussex · United Kingdom

Anthropology BA (Hons)

This Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology offers a comprehensive exploration of human cultures and societies worldwide. You will investigate how diverse communities address contemporary global challenges such as climate change, health inequalities, discrimination, and human rights. The program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, encouraging you to draw on insights from fields like philosophy, law, and modern languages to tailor your studies and broaden your understanding. You'll learn from academics actively engaged in real-world issues, gaining skills applicable to careers in NGOs, media, research, and journalism.

University of Sussex · United Kingdom

Business and Management Studies (with a professional placement year) BSc (Hons)

This Bachelor of Science (BSc) with Honours degree in Business and Management Studies provides a comprehensive foundation for a career in business. You will develop critical thinking skills to analyse and solve complex business problems, with a strong emphasis on responsible and sustainable management practices. The course prepares you to drive positive change in global markets by fostering an international outlook and understanding of diverse business environments. You'll gain expertise in areas like digital transformation, business analytics, and people management, equipping you to navigate the evolving world of business.

University of Sussex · United Kingdom

Business and Management Studies BSc (Hons)

This BSc (Hons) in Business and Management Studies equips you with the skills and confidence to become a leader driving positive change. You will develop a comprehensive understanding of business principles with an international perspective, focusing on responsible and sustainable practices. The course emphasizes critical thinking to solve complex business challenges and prepares you for diverse roles in a globalized world. As part of the EQUIS and AMBA-accredited University of Sussex Business School, you'll learn from leading academics and engage with research on topics like the future of work and digital transformation. The curriculum incorporates sustainability, social responsibility, and equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), aligning with the Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME). You'll gain expertise in digital and data skills, essential for modern business environments. Graduates are prepared for both generalist and specialist management roles in areas such as marketing, human resources, and social enterprise, or can pursue entrepreneurship. The program fosters personal growth, enhancing confidence, adaptability, and critical thinking. You'll benefit from strong industry connections, state-of-the-art facilities, and dedicated careers support.

University of Sussex · United Kingdom

Chemistry BSc (Hons)

This Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Chemistry equips you with a comprehensive understanding of chemistry's fundamental principles and their applications. You will delve into physical, organic, inorganic, and computational chemistry, gaining practical laboratory experience and developing essential skills in data analysis, programming, teamwork, and time management. The course is designed to prepare you for a wide range of careers in science and technology, as well as roles outside of STEM fields, due to the high value placed on analytical and data-handling skills. You will learn from leading researchers whose work addresses global challenges, ensuring your education is aligned with the latest advancements and industry demands.

University of Sussex · United Kingdom

Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice BA (Hons)

This Bachelor of Arts degree focuses on understanding the diverse factors that shape the lives of children and young people. You will explore key concepts from disciplines such as sociology, psychology, anthropology, history, and law to gain a comprehensive view of child development, mental health, social influences, and inequalities. The program emphasizes ethical, rights-based practice and equips you with practical skills to support and improve the lives of young people. Learning is dynamic and participatory, incorporating seminars, workshops, and real-world placements.

University of Sussex · United Kingdom

Climate Justice, Sustainability and Development BA (Hons)

This Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree focuses on climate justice, sustainability, and development, addressing the urgent global issue of climate change through lenses of politics, activism, and human rights. It's designed for students passionate about taking action rather than solely focusing on natural sciences. The course explores the social equity, historical responsibilities, and economic transformations related to climate change, drawing on Sussex's expertise in development and social justice. You will learn about the roots of environmental justice conflicts, examine proposed solutions to the climate crisis, and collaborate with peers to design and propose approaches to address these challenges. The program emphasizes creative communication methods for climate change, such as podcasting and campaign design, and connects students with organizations and changemakers working in the field.

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 tuition fees for international students at the University of Sussex?

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International undergraduate students can expect to pay approximately GBP 19,000–25,000 per year. Postgraduate taught programs typically range from GBP 18,000–27,000 annually. These fees are subject to annual review.

What is the estimated cost of living for students at the University of Sussex?

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Students should budget around GBP 12,000–15,000 per year for accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses in Brighton. Brighton is considered more expensive than many UK cities outside of London.

What are the English language requirements for international students?

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For IELTS Academic, the requirement is typically 6.5 overall with no component below 6.0 for undergraduate study, and 6.5–7.0 for postgraduate programs. For TOEFL iBT, scores of 90 overall are generally required for undergraduate programs, with 95 for some postgraduate courses.

How is the University of Sussex ranked globally and in the UK?

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The University of Sussex is ranked #278 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026. It is also ranked 43rd in the UK by the Complete University Guide 2026 and 45th by the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026.

What kind of academic programs does the University of Sussex offer?

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Sussex offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, with a focus on interdisciplinary studies. Key research strengths include environmental sustainability, human flourishing, and digital futures.

University of Sussex

Why study here

Student life

For international students