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 #76 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 rankings have performed over the past three years:

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 2025

The university’s medical science 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:

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 admission intakes fall in September (autumn) and January (spring). The application deadline for the upcoming September 2025 intake for postgraduate students is 12 May 2025 (Closed). 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 acceptance rate 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 such as a letter of acceptance and a valid passport.

Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements for studying in the UK at the University of Birmingham:

Academic Qualification

Academic qualifications include meeting the UK 2:1 or 2:2 degree requirement for postgraduate degree 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 typical visa documents required for studying abroad:

Once you've got your documents and visa plan sorted, timing your application right becomes the next priority. Here's a look at intakes and key deadlines.

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

• MSc Management: Builds leadership, decision-making, and critical thinking skills for roles in global business, with a focus on operations, analytics, and organizational development.
• MBA in International Business: Equips students with expertise in global strategy, trade, and cross-border leadership, preparing them for senior roles in international markets.
• MEng Mechanical Engineering: Offers core training in thermodynamics, materials, and design, along with applied industry projects and research in areas like robotics or manufacturing.
• BA in Ancient History: Explores major ancient civilizations and their political, religious, and cultural systems through texts and archaeology, promoting analytical and historical insight.
• BEng Chemical Engineering: Combines chemistry, physics, and mathematics to solve industrial problems, with modules in process design, sustainability, and real-world lab experience.

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.

Living costs for students in the UK typically range between £10,000 and £15,000 (INR 11.7L to INR 15.6L) per year, depending on city and lifestyle.

The cost of living in London tends to be on the higher end due to housing and transport. Students should budget for essentials like food, books, travel, and personal expenses, especially if living off campus.

Here’s an overview of the average yearly cost of living for students:

Note: The currency conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

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.

The University of Birmingham fees vary by level of study. For example, studying a master’s in the UK, such as the MSc, may cost around £36,000 (INR 40.7L), while a bachelor’s 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.

With over £33 million allocated so far for scholarships and student support, the University of Birmingham continues to invest heavily in financial access and merit recognition. Support is available through both institutional funding and UK-wide awards.

Let’s explore the different types of UK scholarships below:

Internal Scholarships

The University of Birmingham scholarship includes subject-specific awards and need-based support, including full tuition waivers and living stipends. The Sanctuary Scholarship, for instance, offers comprehensive aid covering tuition, accommodation, and £5,000 (INR 5.8L) in annual living costs.

Here are some internal fully funded scholarships in the UK:

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:

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 in the UK at the University of Birmingham blends academics with active engagement. With 41 student groups on campus, students can explore a wide range of options, from cultural associations to career-focused societies, making it easy to find both community and opportunities.

Here are some popular activities you can be part of:

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 make the most of their university experience by participating 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 in the UK, 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 options after graduation and its 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 resume format and cover letter reviews, mock interviews, and career guidance customized 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 academic strength and industry connections make it a top choice for students seeking jobs in the UK across sectors like technology, finance, and automotive.

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

• Capgemini: Hires tech-focused graduates for roles in enterprise system integration, business intelligence, and client-specific digital transformation projects.
• Unilever: Offers leadership tracks in global brand development, procurement strategy, and innovation management across product categories.
• IBM: Recruits for hybrid roles that combine data science, software engineering, and cloud infrastructure consulting, often tied to client solutions.
• Deloitte: Brings in analysts and associates for specialized areas such as regulatory risk, forensic accounting, and tech-enabled audit services.
• Jaguar Land Rover: Offers placements in advanced manufacturing, autonomous vehicle systems, and materials engineering tied to electric vehicle R&D.

The University of Birmingham has 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:

Still weighing your options? Here’s how the University of Birmingham stacks up against Newcastle University and the University of Nottingham across courses, rankings, and affordability.

The University of Birmingham has established two campuses: Edgbaston and Selly Oak. Edgbaston is the main hub, home to most academic schools, research centres, and student services designed to support both learning and career goals.

Selly Oak hosts the School of Education and the Department of Theology and Religion, offering dedicated resources for academic growth and career planning in those fields. 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 the power of education and runs flagship programs for teachers across the country.

With a strong physical presence comes global recognition. Here's how the University of Birmingham fares across major global and national ranking platforms.

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.