University of Manchester Overview – Courses, Rankings, Fees & Student Life

The University of Manchester stands among the best public universities in the UK, featuring one campus divided into two academic areas: the Oxford Road Campus (South Campus) and the Sackville Street Campus (North Campus). 

The Oxford Road Campus hosts the famous Manchester Academy, which has welcomed high-profile acts like Muse, Blur, Pink Floyd, Oasis, and Nirvana. Both campuses offer rich cultural events, historic buildings, and spirited student life.

Below is an overview of key highlights from both campuses.

• Oxford Road Campus (South Campus)
  • Manchester Academy music venues: Four-tier performance sites (Academy 1–3, Club Academy) run by the Students’ Union. High-profile acts like Muse, Blur, Pink Floyd, Oasis, and Nirvana have played here.
  • Steve Biko Building: The SU hub, modernized in 2012 and again in 2023, with student cafés, outlets, food stalls and a hair salon, built around student social life.
  • Pangaea Festival: Europe’s largest student-led music and arts carnival on Oxford Road. Held thrice yearly, with around 6,000 participants celebrating exams and Freshers.
  • Alan Gilbert Square & Brunswick Park: A signature green social space created in 2018, nestled between key study hubs.
  • Public-facing cultural events: ‘Star Lectures’ and open festivals like Universally Manchester with corridor-wide culture showcases.
  • Manchester Museum & Whitworth Art Gallery: City-centre galleries hosting interactive programming including moving Egyptian statues and live amphibian exhibits.
• Sackville Street Campus (North Campus)
  • Sackville Street Building: A Grade II listed gem with ornate stained glass and high ceilings, built partly over a former church graveyard. Often compared to a “church of learning.”
  • Godlee Observatory: Rooftop observatory with two century-old Grubb telescopes and one of only two remaining papier-mâché domes in the UK.
  • Blue plaque tour: Campus-wide plaques mark significant researchers, Nobel winners, and social pioneers across historic science buildings.
  • Science festivals:
    • Pint of Science public discussions hosted across departments
    • Annual Dragon Boat Race hosted by the Confucius Institute
    • Manchester Science Festival with ball pools and citizen science projects like HookedOnMusic
  • Bogle Stroll: A student-run, long-standing 55-mile charity challenge across Greater Manchester organized by Rag and North Campus clubs.

Now that you have a detailed picture of the University of Manchester campuses, let’s review its rankings among the best public universities in the UK.

The University of Manchester is continually recognized as a world-class institution. The year's QS World Rankings saw Manchester ranked 35th in the world for 2026. The year before it was ranked 34th for the 2025 QS World Rankings, and ranked 53rd for THE World Rankings. The U.S. News ranking moved from 67th for 2024 to 68th for 2025.

Let’s look at the previous three years of rankings for Manchester:

Now that you have an overview of its rankings, let’s review Manchester’s top subject-wise positions.

Top Subject-Wise Rankings 2025/26

Manchester ranks impressively in multiple subjects. Nursing is 10th and Sociology 20th in QS 2026. Arts and Humanities, including master’s in arts and humanities, stand at 43rd in THE 2025. Surgery and Engineering rank near 100 in U.S. News 2025.

Here are the top subject-wise rankings:

Want to know where the university stands on the subject of you choice? Explore the University of Manchester Rankings to get a complete overview of global, regional, and subject-wise rankings. 

Now that you’ve seen the subject rankings, let’s move on to University of Manchester admissions for 2025.

University of Manchester Admissions 2025

University of Manchester received 2,305 applications from home and overseas for 2025 admissions, including 1,601 domestic and 704 international applicants. 

The university offers a range of bachelor’s degrees, master’s, and doctoral programs, each with specific academic, language, exam, and visa requirements. Meeting these criteria is essential for a successful application.

Here’s a detailed look at the admission requirements:

Admission Requirements

University of Manchester applicants must meet specific academic, language, exam, and visa criteria to qualify. The university expects official transcripts listing modules, credits, grades, and GPA or weighted average for all applicants. 

The average IELTS score varies by level but generally ranges from 6.0 to 7.0, depending on the program. Visa applicants should apply up to six months in advance to allow time for processing.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of all admission requirements:

Academic Qualifications

Manchester sets clear academic standards for postgraduate and transfer applicants. A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is expected, with preference for 3.3 or higher. Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree with at least a 2:2 honours classification or its international equivalent.

Here are the detailed academic qualification requirements:

Note: The information listed above is overall. The actual requirements might be different in specific programs.

ELP Requirements

English language proficiency varies by level, with foundation courses accepting scores as low as IELTS 6.0 overall, while undergraduate and postgraduate programs typically require between 6.5 and 7.0. Higher scores, such as TOEFL 100, are often expected for master’s and LLM programs.

Here are the average accepted scores:

Note: The information listed above is overall. The actual requirements might be different in specific programs.

Competitive Exams

For MBA and other programs, Manchester accepts various standardized tests with defined average scores. The GMAT average score for full-time MBA applicants is 600, with GRE scores considered equivalent. The MAT is also accepted as an alternative for MBA admission.

Here are the typical average scores:

Note: The information listed above is overall. The actual requirements might be different in specific programs.

Visa Requirements

The University of Manchester requires international students enrolling in full-time courses over six months to obtain a student visa (formerly Tier 4). 

Applicants must apply up to six months before the course starts, and the process typically takes around three weeks. Financial evidence showing cleared funds is mandatory for the Confirmation of Acceptance (CAS) issuance.

Here are the key visa requirements and responsibilities:

Now that you understand the visa requirements, let’s review the application dates and deadlines.

Application Dates & Deadlines

The University of Manchester has strict deadlines that are programme and intake specific. Applications for a PhD or MPhil beginning January 2026 will be closed on 30th September 2025; likewise, applications for September 2026 would be closed by 30th June 2026. While applications through UCAS for undergraduate courses can be submitted up until the final late deadline of 30th June 2026, the Medicine and Dentistry deadlines for undergraduate applications are earlier deadlines of 15th October 2025. 

Important deadlines to know:

Looking to know the deadline for the subject you’re interested in? Check out the University of Manchester Admission to understand eligibility criteria, deadlines, and scholarships.

Now that you know the application deadlines, let’s explore the programs and courses offered at the University of Manchester.

The University of Manchester offers an extensive selection of over 700 programs across undergraduate, postgraduate, and research levels. These programs span diverse fields, giving you numerous options to align your studies with career goals. 

Here are some of the main program categories available at Manchester:

• STEM Programs: Covering engineering, computer science, mathematics, and natural sciences, these programs emphasize research, innovation, and practical skills.
• Law: Offers LLB and specialized postgraduate law degrees with strong ties to legal practice and global law networks.
• Business and Economics: Includes Bachelors, Masters, and MBA programs focused on finance, management, and economics with global perspectives.
• Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences: Encompasses subjects like history, politics, languages, and sociology, with rich cultural and research opportunities.
• Health and Medicine: Courses in nursing, medicine, dentistry, and allied health professions, integrating clinical practice and academic learning.
• Education and Social Work: Programs designed to prepare students for careers in teaching, social work, and community development.

Now that you have an overview of the diverse programs, let’s examine the program fees at the University of Manchester.

Program Fees at the University of Manchester

Tuition fees vary across programs, with the full-time MBA at Alliance Manchester Business School costing £49,000 (INR 57.58L) annually. Science and technology courses such as MSc Artificial Intelligence are priced at £37,500 (INR 44.06L) per year, reflecting their advanced curriculum.

Here’s a detailed list of annual tuition fees:

Note: INR Conversions are approximate and are subject to change. 

Now that you have an idea of the program fees, let’s look at the overall cost of studying at the University of Manchester in 2025.

The cost of studying in the UK at the University of Manchester varies by program level. Doctoral research programs at Manchester range from £22,000 to £27,000 (INR 25.85L to INR 31.72L) per year, reflecting the investment in advanced study and research. Tuition fees for master’s and bachelor’s degrees are set according to their academic requirements.

Here is a detailed breakdown of annual tuition fees:

Note: INR Conversions are approximate and are subject to change. 

Now that you understand tuition costs, let’s review the cost of living in the UK for students, including those enrolled in PhD programs.

Cost of Living in the UK

Managing your budget for the cost of living in the UK is crucial when studying at the University of Manchester. Accommodation, especially self-catered, is the largest expense at around £7,875 (INR 9.25L) annually. 

Other regular costs include groceries, transport, and social activities, all of which contribute to a balanced student lifestyle.

Here is an overview of typical annual living expenses:

Note: INR Conversions are approximate and are subject to change. 

Now that you have an idea of living costs, let’s explore scholarships available for the University of Manchester in 2025.

The University of Manchester offers valuable study abroad scholarships to support international students financially. The Global Futures Scholarship provides £8,000 (INR 9.40L) per year toward living costs, while the GREAT Scholarship offers a £10,000 (INR 11.75L) tuition fee waiver for eligible master’s applicants.

Let’s discover some of the most notable University of Manchester scholarships offered by the University of Manchester. 

Internal Scholarships

The University of Manchester offers several internal scholarships to help reduce the cost of study. The Global Futures Scholarship provides £8,000 (INR 9.40L) per year toward living costs for eligible undergraduates and master’s students. 

Other awards like the GREAT Scholarship offer £10,000 (INR 11.75L) in tuition fee waivers, easing the financial burden for international applicants.

Here are key internal fully-funded scholarships available:

Now that you know about internal scholarship options, let’s explore external scholarships offering fully-funded scholarships.

External Scholarships

The University of Manchester offers several prestigious external scholarships that provide comprehensive financial support to international students. For instance, the Chevening Scholarship covers full tuition fees, living expenses, and return airfare, making it a fully-funded opportunity for eligible applicants. 

Here are some key external scholarships available:

Now that you are aware of the scholarship options, let's explore placement opportunities at the University of Manchester.

The Graduate Market 2024 report states that the University of Manchester is in second place in total, making it one of the most targeted universities by employes in the UK. The Careers Service can help you with one-to-one advice, CV checks, as well as employer fairs with 600+ exhibitors and 20,000 + attendees annually.

An unbelievable 94% of full-time UK first degree graduates are in employment or study within six months of graduating. 

Some great placement statistics and support information are as follows:

• The Careers Service supports students and graduates with one-to-one advice,  practice interviews and CV checks, the CareerConnect platform for jobs and internships,  and employer fairs featuring over  600 exhibitors and 20,000 attendees annually.
•  The university is among the most employer‑targeted in the UK, ranking 2nd in the Graduate Market 2024 report and among the top 5 UK institutions by employer reputation .
• 94% of full‑time UK first‑degree graduates were working or studying within six months of graduation. 
• Average salaries 15 months post‑graduation for select programmes:
  • Chemical Engineering: £30,763 (INR 36.15L)
  • Physics & Astronomy: £28,435 (INR 33.42L)
  • Computer Science: £40,000 (INR 47.00L)
  • Mechanical Engineering: £29,750 (INR 34.97L)
  • Materials Science: £30,000 (INR 35.25L)
  • Electrical & Electronic Engineering: £30,000 (INR 35.25L)
  • Chemistry: £28,700 (INR 33.71L)
• Placement Year & Internship Support
  • Varied placements from 1-week insights to 8–12 month industrial sandwich years.
  • Many programs (e.g., Mathematics, Engineering, Arts & Humanities) offer a dedicated placement year with academic credit.
  • Placement advising includes weekly bulletins, CV clinics, interview workshops, employer drop-ins, and school-level placement teams.

Now that you understand placement support, let’s look at the top recruiters at the University of Manchester.

Top Recruiters at The University of Manchester

The University of Manchester has strong ties with leading employers across multiple industries. These partnerships provide graduates with excellent job and international internship opportunities. 

Many top companies, like Google, actively recruit from Manchester’s diverse talent pool, ensuring students gain access to dynamic career paths.

Below are some of the top recruiters and their key focus areas:

• PwC: A global leader in professional services offering roles in consulting, auditing, and finance.
• Siemens: Major player in engineering and technology sectors recruiting for STEM and management roles.
• KPMG: International accounting and advisory firm with opportunities in audit, tax, and consulting.
• IBM: Tech giant offering roles in software development, data analytics, and IT consulting.
• Deloitte: Provides careers in consulting, risk management, and financial advisory services.
• Amazon: E-commerce and cloud computing leader hiring across tech, operations, and business functions.
• Ernst & Young (EY): Offers positions in assurance, tax, advisory, and transaction services.
• Arup: Global design and engineering firm recruiting civil, structural, and environmental engineers.
• Goldman Sachs: Investment banking and financial services firm with roles in finance, analytics, and technology.
• Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust: Largest NHS Trust in the region, recruiting healthcare professionals and administrators.

Having reviewed top recruiters, you are now ready to explore student life at the University of Manchester.

The University of Manchester has a network of over 500,000 alumni worldwide who have made significant contributions across various fields. These distinguished individuals highlight the university’s rich legacy in science, arts, leadership, business, and social impact.

Here are some notable alumni and their key achievements:

Now that you know about Manchester’s notable alumni, let’s compare the University of Manchester with the University of Bristol and University of Warwick to see which suits you best.

The University of Manchester ranks 35th in the QS World Rankings 2026 and offers over 700 programs, making it the largest among the three universities compared here. 

With tuition fees ranging from £9,000 (INR 10.58L) to £37,000 (INR 43.48L), Manchester provides a broad spectrum of options across disciplines. The university also boasts a 94% placement rate, matching Bristol and closely rivaling Warwick.

Here is a detailed comparison:

The University of Manchester stands out for its high program variety and strong global ranking. Consider your preferred courses, budget, and career goals to choose the best fit for you.

The application deadlines for the MSc management courses are December, March, May, and July at the University of Manchester. All undergraduate courses commence in September. The application process for September 2026 entry begins in early September 2025, with various deadlines throughout the year. 

Applications submitted after the respective deadlines will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis, provided space is available in your desired program.

The following table shows all the application deadlines for different programs and the intake they fall under.

Now that you’ve reviewed the admission requirements and application deadlines for studying at the University of Manchester, let’s take a look at the different programs offered.

The University of Manchester acceptance rate is 76%. Manchester University admissions officers view a student's GPA as a critical academic component. This means 76 out of 100 applications are accepted by the University. Therefore, admissions in Manchester University is less competitive. Manchester University admissions officers place a great deal of weight on letters of recommendation and, if available, an applicant's high school class rank. 

The total estimated cost of living in the UK for Indian students is £565 (INR 56K). Beyond tuition fees, living expenses like transport, housing, food, and course materials add to the overall living cost. The amount spent on living expenses can vary depending on the city. 

Here are the additional costs associated with studying at the University of Manchester.

Note: All INR (Indian Rupee) conversions are provided for reference only and are based on the current exchange rate.

To help ease the burden of tuition costs, the University of Manchester offers scholarship opportunities for eligible students. Let's check out some popular scholarships.

The MSc in Advanced Computer Science at the University of Manchester has a tuition fee of £37,500 per annum (INR 44.04L). The program lasts for one year and requires 180 UK credits, including 90 credits from taught course units.

Additionally, a £1,000 (INR 1.17L)deposit is required for international applicants before the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies Letter (CAS) is issued. 

These figures represent the annual tuition cost, excluding additional expenses such as housing, health insurance, and course materials.

Note: INR Currency conversions are approximate and reflect the current exchange rate. 

Let us now take a look at the aspects that break down the total estimated cost for international students, including housing, health insurance, and other essential expenditures.