Ulster University
Ulster University is a modern, research-led university combining world-class teaching, strong industry partnerships, and a welcoming, inclusive environment to help students succeed academically and professionally.
Why choose Ulster University
University of the Year 2024
A recognition of excellence across teaching, research and student experience (Times Higher Education Awards)
Lowest living costs in the UK
Northern Ireland has the lowest student cost of living in the UK (National Student Money Survey, 2025)
World’s top cities to visit
Belfast was named one of the world’s top 50 cities to visit (Time Out, 2025)
About Ulster University
Ulster University is a modern, research-led institution with a national and international reputation for excellence, innovation and regional engagement. With a welcoming community of students from over 70 nationalities, the University plays an important role in the economic, social and cultural development of Northern Ireland and beyond.
Driven by strengths in teaching and learning, widening access to education, research and innovation and knowledge transfer, Ulster University combines academic excellence with a strong focus on career-ready learning. Developed in collaboration with employers and industry partners, its programmes help students build applied skills, gain professional experience and develop the confidence to succeed in their future careers.
Study in the cultural heart of Belfast
Belfast is one of the UK’s most welcoming and affordable student cities. As one of the UK’s four capital cities, it offers a vibrant and friendly environment for international students. With a growing student population and a strong sense of community, it’s easy to feel at home while studying at Ulster University. Belfast has been awarded Purple Flag status, recognising the city as a safe, welcoming and vibrant place to enjoy both during the day and after dark.
Known for having the lowest student cost of living in the UK (National Student Money Survey 2025), Belfast allows students to enjoy high-quality accommodation, food and transport at a more affordable price compared to other major UK cities.
Named one of the world’s top 50 cities to visit (Time Out, 2025), Belfast combines rich history and culture with a modern, creative atmosphere. From the Cathedral Quarter’s cafés, restaurants and live music venues to festivals, shopping and cultural attractions, Belfast offers a truly unforgettable student experience.
Belfast is also a growing hub for global business, with over 1,500 international employers based in Northern Ireland, providing excellent opportunities for internships and future careers. The city is well connected, with two airports, offering flights to over 40 destinations across the UK, Ireland and beyond, supporting both local and international travel.
Offering a balance of affordability, opportunity and quality of life, Belfast is an ideal destination for students looking to study, explore and build their future.
York St,
Belfast BT15 1ED
Northern Ireland
Northland Rd,
Londonderry BT48 7JL
Northern Ireland
Cromore Rd,
Coleraine BT52 1SA
Northern Ireland
Meet Mian Dai , Ulster University International Student
I feel very supported by the staff at Ulster, everyone is so friendly and warm hearted. If I face any problems, they are patient and willing to help me. I love this city and I love Ulster University.
Your campus Life
At Ulster University, campus life is designed to help students feel connected, supported and part of a welcoming community from day one. Across its campuses, students benefit from modern learning environments, social spaces and dedicated support services that help them make the most of university life.
Ulster University has three campuses across Northern Ireland, each offering its own distinct atmosphere while delivering a connected student experience. International students begin their studies at the Belfast Campus and may progress to another campus to continue their degree.
Belfast Campus
Belfast campus is located in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter.
- Located in the cultural heart of the city, surrounded by art, music and restaurants
- State-of-the-art facilities and purpose-built teaching and study spaces
- Wide range of subjects including art, computing, engineering, business, law, hospitality and more
- High-quality student accommodation within easy walking distance
- Purple Flag status – a city that values safety, community and culture
Derry~Londonderry Campus
Derry~Londonderry’s city-centre campus is in the cultural capital of the North West.
- Located in the middle of Derry~Londonderry, close to coastlines and Donegal
- A dynamic, high-tech hub for health, innovation and the creative industries
- Wide range of subjects including medicine, nursing, law, business, drama, computing, engineering and more
- Walkable city location with shops, cafés and restaurants nearby
- Purple Flag status – a city that values safety, community and culture
Coleraine Campus
Coleraine offers a scenic coastal campus perfect for outdoor living and hands-on learning.
- Located by the Atlantic coastline, near Portstewart Strand, named Best Beach in the UK (2025)
- Ideal for students who enjoy outdoor activities and natural surroundings
- State-of-the-art sports facilities and industry-standard learning environments
- Courses focused on health, environment, hospitality and communication
Accommodation
Voted best student community in the UK and Ireland
Recognised for creating an outstanding student experience and a strong sense of belonging across its campuses (Global Student Living Awards, 2025).
Best student wellbeing, university housing and moving-in experience
Recognising the University’s commitment to student support, accommodation and helping students settle successfully into university life (Global Student Living Awards, 2025).
Ulster University offers a range of safe, modern and affordable student accommodation for international students in Belfast. Students can choose from university-managed residences or private accommodation, with many options located on or close to campus and within easy reach of local amenities and transport links. Options include shared apartments for a more social experience as well as private spaces for greater independence. With all-inclusive costs, 24/7 support, a strong student community and award-winning wellbeing provision, university-managed accommodation at Ulster is designed to provide a comfortable, secure and supportive home throughout your studies.
Ulster University Student Accommodation Highlights
All-inclusive, no hidden costs
24/7 support and security
Live minutes from class & friends
High-speed Wi-Fi
Pastoral and wellbeing support
Built-in student community & social events
Your experience at Ulster University
Student Support
For international students, going to university in another country is a big step, new studies, new surroundings and new experiences. It’s exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Ulster’s dedicated Student Wellbeing team support you every step of the way, helping you make the most of your student experience. The team offers friendly, expert advice on everything from academic support, managing your money and budgeting to disability services and wellbeing. All support services are free, confidential, and open to every student.
International students benefit from dedicated support services to help you settle in, adapt to university life and prepare for future career opportunities.
Students’ Union
Once you register to study with Ulster, you automatically become a member of the UUSU. UUSU is led by students, for students and offers a great support network. In addition to advice and guidance, membership creates opportunities to engage in student representation and take on leadership roles, enabling you to develop valuable skills and experience that enhance your CV.
With over 100 student-led societies, it’s easy to meet new people, explore your interests and build valuable skills outside your studies. From social events and live music to volunteering and student-led activities, there are plenty of ways to get involved and make the most of your university experience.
Ulster University School of International Education
Ulster University’s School of International Education is embedded within the Belfast campus, close to the city centre and with easy access to accommodation. From day one, you are fully part of the University community, with access to its spaces, facilities, and student life, alongside dedicated support for international students, including academic guidance, language support, and wellbeing services to help you settle in and succeed.
Study routes to Ulster University
You can choose from a range of entry routes designed to prepare you for your studies at Ulster University. Each programme combines academic learning with expert English language support, helping you build the skills and confidence you need to succeed at the right level for you.
International Foundation Year (IFY) / International Year Zero (IYZ): Represents the first year of a four-year undergraduate degree, designed specifically for international students who need additional academic preparation and English language support. It typically consists of a one-year foundation programme followed by a three-year undergraduate degree.
International Foundation Year – Students require separate visas for their pathway and then their degree study.
International Year Zero – Students require one visa for the duration of their study.
Entry route options:
– Business Management and Law
– Computing and Engineering
International Year One (IY1): An integrated first-year equivalent route for students with a stronger academic and English language qualifications, leading directly into Year 2 of a degree and typically completed as 1 year of study plus 2-year undergraduate degree (standard UK 3-year degree).
Entry route options:
– Business, Management and Marketing
– Computing Science and Software Engineering
– Engineering
Courses at the Ulster University
Undergraduate degrees
Explore the range of undergraduate degrees at Ulster University and start your journey to becoming a great graduate.
Student Tuition Fees
Tuition fees for available courses are shown below, with a breakdown by study option and
fee type where applicable.
| Study Route |
|---|
| No tuition fees available |
Frequently asked questions
For a course in the UK please use our UK Admissions Form and for a course in the USA please use our USA Admissions Form.
We process applications as quickly as possible but an offer may take up to 4 weeks during peak periods. Some decisions can take longer depending on the course and point of application.
One of our dedicated team of Student Advisors will support you through the application process and update you on every stage.
Our refund policy can be found here. All Refunds will be processed within 21 calendar days of receiving the completed Refund Request Form and relevant supporting documentation. For a copy of the refund request form please email [email protected].
Finance will only refund the account that the original funds came in from, and the same country of origin. In case of original account being closed, then the payee and country of origin must be the same.
To speed up the refund process students are required to provide evidence of the original payment made to OIEG along with their refund request form and visa refusal form/other relevant documentation.
Our colleges accept a variety of English language qualifications, including IELTS, Duolingo, and others. Please visit the pathway college for details. Or you can always contact our team.
You can still apply even if you haven’t yet received your final transcript or your Certificate of English proficiency. You will receive a conditional offer which will state what qualifications and grades you will need to achieve in order to meet our entry requirements. Our team will contact you during this process.
To be accepted onto a degree pathway course with us, you must meet our standard requirements. Our online entry requirements tool can help you find the minimum academic entry requirements for our pathway programmes.
You can easily pay your tuition and fees online via Flywire, our preferred payment partner. Flywire provides a secure global payment network that simplifies paying your fees from your home country and countries around the world. Payment options can include bank transfers, credit cards, e wallets and more, typically in your home currency for most countries.
A link to make your payment will be available on your offer letter.
To complete your online application, you will need the following:
– A copy of a valid passport
– A copy of your original qualification certificate and transcripts – certified translation (if possible)
– Any current & previous UK visas, CAS and copies of exit stamp. Please also include a copy of any previous visa refusal letters – if previously studied in the UK
– A valid copy of IELTS or Pearson PTE if the score is at 5.5 or above – only IELTS taken at UKVI approved centres can be used if the score is below 5.5 in any component
If you don’t meet the entry requirements you may be able to join one of our online pre-sessional courses.
We offer courses that last 6, 12 or 16 weeks, depending on the level you need for university admission.
Our team can guide you through this process, contact us now.