Durham University

Durham University in England is the third oldest university in England after Oxford and Cambridge. Known for its college-based system, it operates distinctly through 16 colleges and academic departments. Colleges are responsible for supporting students, while academic departments focus on teaching and research. Studying abroad is always exciting. If you plan to apply to one of the UK's best universities, like Durham, you should evaluate your chances and gather more information to make an informed decision.

Durham University admits students from over 150 countries, with a total student population of around 17,000. According to official university statistics, the undergraduate acceptance rate is approximately 74%. As a member of the prestigious Russell Group, Durham is particularly popular in the UK, celebrated for its unique college system and UNESCO World Heritage status. Many students who don't get accepted into Oxford or Cambridge choose Durham due to its similarities with these institutions.

Durham University Tuition Fees

The tuition fees at Durham University vary annually, usually increasing in line with inflation as determined by the government. For international undergraduate students, fees range from £19,000 to £33,000 per year. Postgraduate tuition fees for the current academic year are approximately between £24,000 and £30,000 per year.

Additional costs may apply for international students. For instance, the foundation year, which provides English language training and academic preparation, costs between £22,000 and £25,000. Pre-master’s programs, aimed at enhancing academic readiness and specialized English skills, cost around £20,000 to £26,000 for two or three terms. 

For students who meet all academic entry requirements except English proficiency, Durham offers an online English preparation program costing £2,100 for a 6-week course and £5,600 for a 16-week course. Other expenses, such as housing, food, transportation, and books, should also be considered alongside tuition fees.

Durham University Rankings

Durham University is ranked 78th globally according to the QS World Rankings 2024. As a member of the Russell Group, it is among the top 100 universities worldwide. The institution excels in education quality, with 19 of its 25 academic departments ranked in the global top 100.

Durham is especially renowned in fields such as Theology, Religious Studies, Archaeology, Classics, and Ancient History, ranking among the top 10 globally. Its Business School holds triple accreditation from prestigious organizations, and its MBA program is ranked 2nd globally by the Financial Times.

Over 99% of its research was deemed "international quality" in REF 2021, with 90% classified as "world-leading" or "internationally excellent." The university emphasizes employability, ranking 88th globally for graduate employment rates. Its career center actively enhances students’ technical skills, networking opportunities, and job prospects.

Durham University Admission Process

Durham University’s admission process is designed to be accessible and straightforward, ensuring all applicants can easily complete the steps to secure their acceptance letter. Each institution has a unique application process, so applicants must stay informed. Durham offers a comprehensive and streamlined process for both undergraduate and postgraduate admissions.

For undergraduate applications, students apply through the UCAS platform, which includes sections for personal information, academic records, course and university choices, personal statements, and more. Most postgraduate programs begin in September or October, and applications are generally accepted throughout the year.

For the current academic year, international applicants must submit their applications by July 31, while those not requiring a student visa have until August 31. Competitive programs, such as those in business administration, may have earlier deadlines. 

Most postgraduate applications are submitted through Durham’s online applicant portal, requiring documents such as transcripts, proof of English language proficiency, a personal statement, and scholarship-related materials (if applicable).