In short
The University of York is a leading Russell Group research institution in a historic English city, offering a strong academic community and support for international students. Tuition fees for international students typically range from GBP 18,000 to 26,000 per year, varying by program level and subject.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1963
- Students
- 17,155
- International students
- 4,800
- Acceptance rate
- 82%
- Tuition (intl)
- €19–26k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- York, United Kingdom
The University of York is a Russell Group research university, founded in 1963 in the historic city of York, England. It ranked joint 10th in the UK for research excellence (REF 2021) and is among the top 170 universities in the world. Its eleven-college system provides students with close-knit communities within a large research-intensive institution. York combines academic rigour with a strong commitment to social purpose and public good.
Why study here
- Russell Group member with joint 10th place in REF 2021 — 92% of research rated world-leading or internationally excellent.
- Eleven-college system ensures personal pastoral support and a ready-made social community.
- Generous international scholarships, including up to GBP 10,000 off postgraduate fees.
- Historic, safe, and beautiful city with excellent rail links to London and Leeds.
- Strong social purpose mission: York graduates are equipped to be global citizens who drive positive change.
Student life
University of York fosters a strong sense of community through its unique college system. Each of the 11 colleges provides a welcoming environment with pastoral support. Students benefit from a personal supervisor and a dedicated Student Support Team with specialist International Student Support. The Open Door Team offers mental health support, and all students have access to TalkCampus, a 24/7 anonymous peer support platform. The campus lake, green spaces, on-site theatre, and sports facilities create a vibrant self-contained environment.
Fees
InternationalInternational (non-UK) undergraduate tuition fees at York are typically GBP 22,000–26,000 (~EUR 25,500–30,000) per year, varying by subject. Postgraduate taught programmes range from GBP 18,000–26,000 per year for international students.
HomeUK home students pay up to GBP 9,535/year for undergraduate programmes (2025-2026 regulated fee cap).
LivingLiving costs in York average GBP 900–1,200/month (~EUR 1,050–1,400) including accommodation, food, transport, and social activities.
If an organisation is funding your studies, they must be an approved financial sponsor. Country-specific funding options may also be available.
Admissions
International qualificationsA wide range of international qualification types are accepted; specific requirements depend on the chosen course and country of origin
UndergraduateA-level equivalent qualifications; specific subject requirements vary by degree
PostgraduateHonours degree (typically 2:1 or equivalent) in a relevant discipline
IELTS Academic6.5 overall (6.0 in each component, for most programmes)
TOEFL iBT87 overall (21 in each component)
Duolingo English Test115
PTE Academic61
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 2025169
Times Higher Education UK ranking 202417
Complete University Guide 2026 — Marketing7
Complete University Guide 2026 — Social Policy8
University scholarships
International Masters Achievement ScholarshipUp to GBP 10,000 off first-year postgraduate fees
Global Impact Masters ScholarshipGBP 5,000–8,000 for postgraduate students from selected countries
York Graduate Loyalty Discount10% tuition fee discount for York alumni on postgraduate programmes
Commonwealth ScholarshipFull scholarship via Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (UK FCDO funded)
Chevening ScholarshipFull scholarship for outstanding international students (UK government funded)
Accreditation
The University of York is a statutory university established by Royal Charter and is a member of the Russell Group of leading UK research universities. All programmes are subject to Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) oversight. Individual professional programmes hold discipline-specific accreditation (e.g., BPS for psychology, RICS for planning).
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 York · United Kingdom
BA (Hons) Business and Management with German (with a year abroad)
This four-year full-time BA (Hons) degree combines Business and Management studies with the German language, including a compulsory year abroad. You will gain a strong foundation in core business principles, explore ethical and sustainable management practices, and develop advanced German language and cultural proficiency. The interdisciplinary approach draws expertise from both the School for Business and Society and the Department of Language and Linguistic Science. Upon graduation, you will be equipped with a global perspective, excellent language skills, and the ability to work effectively in international business environments. The course is suitable for both beginners in German (ab initio) and those with prior A-level knowledge.
Bachelor's
Level
€31k
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
University of York · United Kingdom
BA (Hons) Business and Management with Italian (with a year abroad)
This four-year full-time BA (Hons) degree combines Business and Management studies with the Italian language. You will gain a strong foundation in business principles while developing fluency in Italian and an understanding of Italian-speaking cultures. The program includes an integrated year abroad during your third year, where you can choose to study business and management at an overseas university or undertake a work placement or internship in an Italian-speaking country. This immersive experience is designed to significantly enhance your language skills, cultural understanding, and employability in the international job market. Graduates will possess a unique interdisciplinary skill set, preparing them for a global career in business and management.
Bachelor's
Level
€31k
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
University of York · United Kingdom
BA (Hons) Business and Society (with a year in industry)
This undergraduate program explores the crucial intersection of business and society, focusing on how businesses and public policies can collaboratively address significant global challenges. You will examine how the private, public, and voluntary sectors can work together to promote sustainable growth, ethical practices, social justice, and effective democratic decision-making. The course integrates concepts and theories from business, management, social policy, and public policy to equip you with analytical skills for complex problem-solving.
Bachelor's
Level
€32k
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
University of York · United Kingdom
BA (Hons) Education and French (with a year abroad)
This four-year undergraduate degree offers a unique interdisciplinary approach, combining the study of Education with the development of French language and cultural proficiency. You will explore key concepts and academic theories in education, examining how teaching and learning interact with societal and cultural contexts from an international perspective. The course is designed to enhance your understanding of educational systems and practices globally, while also fostering fluency in French through dedicated language modules and immersion experiences. This program is ideal for students interested in the global dimensions of education and seeking to develop strong linguistic and intercultural skills. Please note, this degree does not lead to qualified teacher status but provides a strong foundation for postgraduate studies in education or related fields.
Bachelor's
Level
€31k
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
University of York · United Kingdom
BA (Hons) Education and Italian (with a year abroad)
This four-year full-time Bachelor of Arts degree combines the study of education with the Italian language and culture, including a compulsory year abroad. You will explore key educational concepts, theories, and research methods from an international and intercultural perspective. Alongside your education studies, you will develop proficiency in Italian, suitable for beginners or those with prior knowledge. The program aims to enhance your understanding of how teaching and learning can transcend cultural boundaries and empower individuals and societies. Upon graduation, you will have a global perspective on education and language, preparing you for diverse career paths or further postgraduate study.
Bachelor's
Level
€31k
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
University of York · United Kingdom
BA (Hons) English/History of Art
This BA (Hons) degree offers a unique interdisciplinary approach, combining the study of English literature and the History of Art. You will explore textual and visual materials from across history and around the globe, covering all periods from the classical era to the present day. The program encourages you to investigate how literature and art interact, fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to construct persuasive arguments. You will have the flexibility to tailor your studies to your interests and can potentially add a placement year or a study abroad experience to your degree.
Bachelor's
Level
€31k
Tuition
36 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 typical tuition fees for international students at the University of York?
+
International undergraduate tuition fees at York range from GBP 22,000 to 26,000 per year, depending on the subject. Postgraduate taught programs cost between GBP 18,000 and 26,000 per year for international students.
What are the English language requirements for international applicants?
+
For most programs, international students typically need an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each component. Other accepted tests include TOEFL iBT, Duolingo English Test, and PTE Academic.
What is the University of York's ranking and research reputation?
+
The University of York is a Russell Group research university that ranked joint 10th in the UK for research excellence (REF 2021) and is among the top 170 universities globally according to QS World University Rankings 2025.
What support is available for international students at the University of York?
+
The university offers dedicated International Student Support, a college system for pastoral care, and access to mental health resources like the Open Door Team and TalkCampus.
Where is the University of York located and what is the city like?
+
The university is located on a campus near the historic city of York in North Yorkshire, England. York is known for its rich heritage and offers excellent rail connections to major UK cities like London and Edinburgh.
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