How to apply

Many countries have a different education system to the UK. Below you will find information on the different study options available to you.  

If you need to improve you English language ability before commencing your studies, we offer Presessional English courses. For more information on our English and pre-sessional programmes, please visit our English for International Students Unit website.

Foundation programmes

The University of Birmingham offers a range of foundation pathways as part of our Birmingham International Academy for international students who require a further year of study before beginning an undergraduate degree programme.

Discover Foundation Pathways

Undergraduate students

Applications for undergraduate programmes in the UK are made through an organisation called the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Prospective students make their applications online and UCAS forward the application on to the relevant universities on the student's behalf. You are able to apply via UCAS from the September previous to the year that you want to start. Please visit the UCAS website for more detailed information or find out how to apply on our undergraduate pages.

Search for an undergraduate course

Direct entry pathways into studying at Birmingham

Are you an undergraduate or masters student studying at one of our partner universities overseas? You may be eligible to join a degree programme here as a 2nd or 3rd year undergraduate or as a Masters student, depending on the arrangement the University of Birmingham has with your home institution. This means that after beginning your degree in our partner university, you can continue your studies here and graduate with a degree from the University. 

Postgraduate students

Postgraduate applications are made directly to the University. Some programmes may charge an application fee and you can find out more on our Postgraduate Taught courses.

Doctoral research students

Doctoral Research applications are made directly to the University. The University of Birmingham does not charge application fees for its postgraduate degrees. Find out more on Doctoral Research opportunities.

Study abroad and exchanges

Please see the Study Abroad and Exchanges section to find out how to apply for the Birmingham Study Abroad Programme or the Exchange student programme.