University of Birmingham

The University of Birmingham is a top-tier institution, ranked among the top 100 universities in major global rankings. It is placed at #80 in the QS Rankings and #93 in the Times Higher Education (THE) rankings. In the US News ranking, it holds the #94 position, further reinforcing its international reputation.

Here’s how the University of Birmingham performs across different global rankings:

Apart from overall rankings, subject-specific performance highlights the university's academic strengths in particular fields. Let’s take a look at how it performs across different disciplines.

Top Course-wise Ranking 2024/25

The university’s medical programs rank well, placed at #66 in the THE rankings, while arts and humanities hold a strong position at #55 in the US News rankings. However, engineering (#119) and business (#143) in the QS rankings show moderate performance and have room for improvement.

Here is the subject-wise performance:

Not sure if the University of Birmingham is the right fit for your higher studies? Check out the University of Birmingham Rankings 2025 to see how it compares globally and within your field!

After exploring the University of Birmingham's academic performance across different programs, let’s take a look at the admission requirements.

The University of Birmingham is fairly competitive, with an acceptance rate of around 13% to 14%. This means that out of every 10 applicants, fewer than 2 are admitted. Understanding the admission requirements can help you avoid common mistakes, such as missing a CV submission or not meeting the English language criteria.

Below are the admission requirements for studying at the University of Birmingham:

Admission Requirements

The University of Birmingham requires a minimum UK degree for postgraduate admission, while undergraduate applicants may need qualifications such as the IB Diploma. It is a test-optional university and does not require scores like the SAT or GMAT. 

However, international students must submit English language proficiency scores, such as IELTS. To study in the UK, a student visa is required, which can be obtained by providing documents like a letter of acceptance and a valid passport.

Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements to study at the University of Birmingham:

Academic Qualification

Academic qualifications include meeting the UK 2:1 or 2:2 degree requirement for postgraduate programs. Applicants must submit official academic transcripts. Other required documents typically include a CV, reference letters, and a statement of purpose.

Here are the academic qualifications required:

Language Proficiency

The University of Birmingham accepts major English language proficiency tests, including IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL. It also recognizes qualifications like the Cambridge English Test. Students from English-speaking countries, such as Jamaica, may be exempt from submitting test scores.

Here are the English language requirements:

Note: Competitive scores for the University may vary depending on the number of applications received.

Competitive Exams 

The University of Birmingham is a test-optional university. However, you may choose to submit ACT, SAT, GRE, or GMAT scores if applying to competitive programs, such as the MBA.

Here’s a look at the minimum recommended scores:

Note: Requirements vary with programs. Check the official website of the university for the latest news.

Visa Requirements 

Once you receive your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), you need to apply for a UK Student visa. As part of the application, you may need to submit documents such as a valid passport, financial proof, and other supporting materials.

Here are the visa requirements:

Not sure if your academic profile meets the admission requirements for University of Birmingham? Visit the University of Birmingham Admission Page for all the details on eligibility and criteria.

Now, let’s discover the admission intakes and application deadlines for students.

Application Deadline and Intakes

The University of Birmingham offers intakes in September (autumn) and January (spring). The application deadline for the upcoming September 2025 intake for postgraduate students is 12 May 2025. For undergraduate students, the deadlines for this intake have already closed.

Here are the intakes and deadlines for different levels of study:

Now that you’ve covered the admission requirements and intake details, let’s take a look at the popular courses offered at the University of Birmingham.

The University of Birmingham offers 480 courses, including 350 undergraduate programs, spanning fields such as engineering, biosciences, business, and management, among others. Here are some popular programs at the university:

• MSc Management: Develops leadership and management skills in a global business context.
• MBA in International Business: Focuses on advanced business strategies, preparing students for global leadership roles.
• MEng Mechanical Engineering: Offers in-depth knowledge of mechanical engineering principles and practical applications.
• BA in Ancient History: Examines ancient civilizations, cultures, and histories, providing critical insights into the past.
• BEng Chemical Engineering: Application of chemistry, physics, and mathematics to solve real-world engineering problems.

Now, let’s check out the tuition fees for popular programs like MSc and MBA at the University of Birmingham.

According to U.S. News and World Report, the University of Birmingham acceptance rate is 13%. This means that for every 100 applicants, only 13 are accepted into the university. Overall, the University of Birmingham accepted 38,000 students for fall 2023 enrollment. 34% of them are international students. 

Tuition fees can make up 40% to 75% of your total budget for studying at the University of Birmingham. Knowing the costs in advance can help you plan for part-time jobs, scholarships, or education loans.

Here’s the tuition cost for some popular courses:

Note: 

• Fees may vary depending on the specialization. Please refer to the official University website for the most up-to-date information.
• The currency conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

Students will also need to cover additional costs such as transport, books, and study materials, in addition to accommodation. Let’s explore these expenses.

The cost of living in the UK depends on your lifestyle and location. If you’re staying in London, accommodation costs can be significantly higher. 

Generally, you will need to budget for housing, food, academic resources, and personal expenses. If you live off campus, transport costs may also add up.

Here are the other costs involved:

Students can access discounts through platforms like UNiDAYS and Student Beans. Many places also offer a 10% discount on food and drink purchases with a valid student ID.

Students at the University of Birmingham have access to both internal and external scholarships to help reduce their financial burden. Let’s find out more.

Tuition fees vary by level of study. For example, a master’s program, such as the MSc, may cost around £36,000 (INR 40.7L), while an undergraduate degree, like a BSc, can cost approximately £28,130 (INR 31.8L). Be sure to check your nationality, as tuition fees differ for UK, EU, and international students.

Here are the tuition fees for some popular programs:

Note: 

• Fees may vary depending on the specialization. Please refer to the official University website for the most up-to-date information.
• The currency conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

Beyond tuition, students should also account for living expenses such as accommodation, food, and transport. Let’s take a look at these associated costs.

The University of Birmingham has invested £33 million to date in student support and scholarships. It also provides guidance on securing funding and managing your finances.

Here are some internal and external scholarships available:

Internal Scholarships

Internal scholarships are funded by the university from its own resources or endowment. The University of Birmingham offers internal scholarships, such as the Brockhouse and Sanctuary Scholarships, for its students.

Here are some internal scholarships:

Apart from the university’s own scholarships, you can also look for external options based on your country of origin.

External Scholarships

External scholarships are typically funded by governments or foundations. Students at the University of Birmingham can explore UK government scholarships such as Chevening (fully funded) and Commonwealth Scholarships (fully funded).

Below are some external scholarship options:

Want to explore more scholarship options? Check out the University of Birmingham’s scholarships page for details on funding available for international and UK students.

The placement rates at the University of Birmingham reflect its outcome-based education and academic quality. Let’s take a closer look at the details.

Student life at the University of Birmingham is dynamic and well-rounded. It includes 41 student groups offering a strong blend of academic, cultural, recreational, and professional development opportunities.

Here are some activities for students: 

1. Academic Facilities

• The Collaborative Teaching Laboratory (CTL) brings together STEM subjects under one roof, offering innovative lab-based learning experiences.
• Extensive libraries and study spaces, including the Main Library and the Alan Walters Building, provide a supportive environment for academic success.

2. Sports and Fitness

• The university’s Sport & Fitness Centre is one of the best in the region, featuring:
  • A 50-metre Olympic-length swimming pool (the first of its kind in the area)
  • A 200+ station gym
  • A 2,000m² indoor arena
  • Over 180 sport and fitness classes each week
• Students can also join one of over 50 sports clubs, from football and rowing to martial arts and ultimate frisbee.

3. Arts and Culture

• The Barber Institute of Fine Arts houses works by renowned artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso.
• The Bramall Music Building hosts a variety of concerts, student performances, and professional events throughout the year.
• Students can also participate in various cultural societies, theatre groups, and music ensembles.

4. Career Opportunities

• The Careers Network provides support through CV reviews, interview preparation, employer networking, and internship placements.
• Opportunities include part-time jobs, summer internships, volunteering, and global work experiences.
• One-to-one mentoring is available through alumni and employer connections, helping students prepare for careers in the UK and abroad.

5. Student Support and Societies

• The Guild of Students offers over 300 student-run societies covering interests from academics to pop culture and global causes.
• Dedicated support services include mental health counseling, academic support, financial advice, and international student assistance.

The University of Birmingham is an alma mater of several renowned personalities, including Stanley Baldwin. Let’s take a look at some of its notable alumni.

The University of Birmingham stands out for its strong career outcomes and focus on real-world learning. Whether you're aiming for a role in the UK or globally, the university helps you prepare with meaningful, career-aligned experiences.

With 87.2% of graduates employed or in further study within 15 months, the placement track record reflects the university’s commitment to career success.

Here’s how the University of Birmingham supports your placement journey:

• Career Services: One-on-one sessions for CV and cover letter reviews, mock interviews, and career guidance tailored to your goals.
• Employer Networking: Regular career fairs, company visits, and recruitment events to connect students with top UK and global employers.
• Global Opportunities: International work placements and study-abroad options enhance your profile with a global edge.
• Placements by Subject: Courses like Business, Computer Science, and Engineering offer strong industry collaborations for placements.

With strong placement support, the University of Birmingham continues to attract leading employers from around the globe. Let’s take a look at some of the top recruiters who hire graduates from the university.

Top recruiters

The University of Birmingham is ranked among the top universities globally and holds 11th place in the UK for graduate employability. Its strong reputation and academic quality make it a popular choice for top employers across various industries, including technology, finance, and automotive.

Here are some of the top recruiters and the types of roles they offer:

• Capgemini: Hires for roles in IT consulting, software development, and business analysis.
• Unilever: Offers graduate roles in marketing, supply chain, finance, and research and development.
• IBM: Recruits for jobs in data analytics, cloud computing, software engineering, and consulting.
• Deloitte: Brings in graduates for positions in audit, tax, consulting, and risk management.
• Jaguar Land Rover: Offers roles in engineering, manufacturing, product design, and logistics.

In addition to strong graduate employability and industry connections, the University of Birmingham also supports students in gaining practical experience through internships.

Internship and Co-op Opportunities

The University of Birmingham offers opportunities like B-Enterprising and The Birmingham Project. This helps students gain valuable experience, enhance employability, and develop practical skills through internships, volunteering, and mentoring.

Here are some internships and practical learning opportunities:

• Careers Network
  • It helps students find, secure, and finance work experience opportunities.
  • Includes diverse options, such as conservation projects in China and working with social enterprises in the UK.
• The Birmingham Project
  Provides collaborative group projects with employers that allow students to develop problem-solving skills and enhance their professional experience.
• B-Enterprising
  • Provides support for students who want to start their own business or social enterprise.
  • Offers mentoring, training, and start-up funding.
• Volunteering
  • 93% of student volunteers report increased employability.
  • Opportunities available through the Guild of Students, including working with organizations like Oxfam and the British Red Cross, or setting up personal projects.
  • InterVol sends students abroad for global projects, focusing on areas like sexual health and maternity care.
• Mentoring

One-to-one mentoring with high-profile University of Birmingham alumni, providing career guidance and professional insight.

The University of Birmingham has campuses at Edgbaston and Selly Oak. Let’s explore the features of these campuses.

University of Birmingham Campuses

The University of Birmingham has established two campuses: Edgbaston and Selly Oak. Edgbaston is the main campus, hosting the majority of academic schools, research centres, and student facilities. Selly Oak primarily houses the School of Education and the Department of Theology and Religion.

Here are the salient features of these campuses:

• Edgbaston: The Edgbaston campus is known for:
  • Advanced Research Facilities: Includes the Centre for Human Brain Health, the Henry Wellcome Building for Biomolecular NMR Spectroscopy, and a campus node of the Alan Turing Institute.
  • Cultural Assets: Home to the Barber Institute of Fine Arts, Lapworth Museum of Geology, and the Bramall Music Building.
  • Host of the 2022 Commonwealth Games: Served as the athletes' village and venue for events such as squash and hockey.
  • Old Joe: Houses the iconic Joseph Chamberlain Memorial Clock Tower (Old Joe), the tallest free-standing clock tower in the world.
• Selly Oak: The features of the Selly Oak campus include:
  • School of Education: Home to the School of Education, consistently ranked among the top 10 in the UK (Complete University Guide 2024).
  • Interfaith Research: Houses the Edward Cadbury Centre for the Public Understanding of Religion.
  • Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues: Influences UK policy on moral education and runs flagship programs for teachers across the country.

To determine whether the University of Birmingham aligns with your career goals, it's important to compare it with other similar institutions. Let’s examine how it compares to universities such as Newcastle University.

University of Birmingham V/S Newcastle University V/S University of Nottingham: Which is Better?

Choosing a university abroad is a decision that requires thorough research, including factors such as cost, available courses, and employability. 

For instance, comparing the University of Birmingham with Newcastle University, it’s evident that Birmingham offers a higher graduation salary of £30K (INR 34L), compared to Newcastle’s £26.1K (INR 29.6L).

For a better understanding, let’s compare how the University of Birmingham performs in relation to the University of Nottingham and Newcastle University.

Note: The tuition fee is calculated as the average for top courses.

The University of Birmingham ranks highest among the three, with a QS 2025 rank of #80, compared to Nottingham at #108 and Newcastle at #129. 

While tuition fees are similar across all three, Birmingham offers better value at the postgraduate level when balanced against its average graduate salary of £30K (INR 34L). 

Birmingham also offers a strong range of 468 courses, including sought-after programs like MSc Economics and BEng Chemical Engineering. 

After understanding how University of Birmingham compares to similar universities, let’s take a look at student life at the university.

The University of Birmingham boasts a global alumni network of over 400,000, with more than 70,000 members residing overseas. Its alumni include influential figures ranging from politicians like Stanley Baldwin to business leaders like Jim Ratcliffe.

Here are some of the university’s notable alumni: