Founded in 1955, the University of Exeter is one of the UK's leading Russell Group research universities. Located in Exeter, Devon, with additional campuses in Cornwall, the university is consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK and is recognised globally for its research excellence, outstanding teaching, and strong graduate employability. The University of Exeter is home to approximately 30,000 students, including over 7,000 international students from more than 150 countries. It offers a welcoming, globally diverse learning environment with modern campuses and excellent student support services. Exeter is particularly renowned for its strengths in Business, Finance, Economics, Computer Science, Engineering, Environmental Science, Climate Change, Law, Psychology, Medicine, and Data Science. As a member of the Russell Group, the university combines world-class research with industry-focused education, making it a popular choice for international students planning to study in the UK. Whether you're planning to pursue a bachelor's degree, master's programme, MBA, or PhD, this guide provides an overview of University of Exeter admissions, available courses, scholarships, admission requirements, and career opportunities for international students.
| Label | Value |
|---|---|
| Location | Exeter, Devon |
| Program Levels | UG · Master's · MBA · PhD |
Which Program Level Fits You?
The University of Exeter offers undergraduate, postgraduate, professional, and research programmes across a wide range of disciplines.
| Program Level | Overview |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's (Undergraduate) | Undergraduate programmes in Business, Economics, Computer Science, Engineering, Law, Psychology, Environmental Science, Medicine, Humanities, and Social Sciences. |
| Master's (Postgraduate Taught) | Advanced master's programmes in Business, Finance, Data Science, Engineering, Climate Science, Public Health, Education, and more. |
| MBA | The Exeter MBA focuses on leadership, sustainability, innovation, entrepreneurship, and responsible business. |
| PhD (Research) | Research-intensive doctoral programmes supported by internationally recognised faculty and world-class research centres. |
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary depending on the programme and level of study. Applicants must meet programme-specific academic and English language requirements.
| Requirement | Typical Requirement |
|---|---|
| Academic Qualifications | Programme-specific entry requirements |
| GPA / Academic Scores | Competitive programme-specific requirements |
| IELTS | Generally 6.5+ (programme dependent) |
| TOEFL iBT | Accepted for eligible programmes |
| PTE Academic | Accepted for eligible programmes |
| Other Requirements | |
| Academic transcripts, personal statement, references, and programme-specific documents |
Cost of Attendance
The University of Exeter tuition fees vary depending on the programme and level of study. Students should also budget for accommodation, food, transportation, health expenses, books, and personal living costs while studying in Exeter or Cornwall. Compared with London, Exeter offers a more affordable cost of living, making it an attractive destination for international students.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
The University of Exeter invests more than £7 million annually in scholarships for international students and offers a wide range of funding opportunities across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Popular scholarship opportunities include:
- Exeter Excellence Scholarships
- Exeter Excellence Undergraduate Scholarships
- Exeter Excellence Postgraduate Scholarships
- India Undergraduate Scholarships
- India Postgraduate Taught Scholarships
- GREAT Scholarships
- Faculty and Department Scholarships
- Research Council Funding
- Research Assistantships
- External scholarships and government-funded awards
Many postgraduate research students also receive funding through doctoral studentships, research grants, and faculty-specific scholarships.
Campus Life & Student Experience
The University of Exeter offers an outstanding student experience across its modern campuses. Students benefit from:
- More than 250 student clubs and societies
- Modern libraries and research facilities
- Excellent sports and fitness centres
- Career counselling and employability support
- Study abroad and exchange programmes
- Entrepreneurship and innovation initiatives
- Volunteering opportunities
- Beautiful green campuses close to beaches, countryside, and national parks
Exeter is consistently recognised as one of the UK's best student cities, offering a safe, welcoming environment with excellent quality of life.
Research & Global Reputation
The University of Exeter is internationally recognised for research excellence and teaching quality. Highlights include:
- Member of the prestigious Russell Group
- Ranked among the Top 150 universities worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2026
- Research rated highly in the Research Excellence Framework
- Strong research in Climate Change, Environmental Science, Renewable Energy, Business, Economics, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Medicine, Psychology, and Health Sciences
- Global partnerships with universities, research institutes, healthcare organisations, and industry leaders
- Strong graduate employability with excellent employer connections across the UK and internationally
Visa & Post-Study Work
International students admitted to the University of Exeter generally require a UK Student Visa after receiving their Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies. Eligible graduates may stay and work in the UK through the Graduate Route Visa, allowing international students to gain valuable work experience after completing their degree, subject to current UK government immigration regulations.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Student Visa | International students generally require a UK Student Visa after receiving a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). |
| Graduate Route | Eligible graduates may apply for the UK Graduate Route, allowing them to remain and work in the UK after completing their degree, subject to current UK Government regulations. |
How to Apply
Every study level follows a similar application process, although deadlines, admission criteria, and required documents vary depending on the programme.
- Undergraduate — choose your programme — Choose your preferred programme. Apply through UCAS.
- Undergraduate — submit documents — Submit academic transcripts and supporting documents. Meet English language and programme-specific requirements.
- Undergraduate — accept your offer — Receive and accept your admission offer.
- Postgraduate — apply online — Apply through the University of Exeter online application portal. Upload academic transcripts and supporting documents.
- Postgraduate — meet requirements and accept — Meet programme-specific admission requirements. Receive your admission decision. Accept your offer and begin your UK Student Visa process.
- Apply for your UK Student Visa — After accepting your offer, apply for your UK Student Visa.
FAQs About Studying Here
Is the University of Exeter good for international students?
Yes. The University of Exeter is a leading Russell Group university offering globally recognised degrees, excellent research opportunities, generous scholarships, and a welcoming international student community.
Does the University of Exeter offer scholarships for international students?
Yes. Exeter offers Exeter Excellence Scholarships, country-specific scholarships, GREAT Scholarships, postgraduate scholarships, faculty awards, and research funding worth more than £7 million annually for international students.
What English language tests does the University of Exeter accept?
The university accepts IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and other approved English language qualifications, depending on the programme.
How do I apply to the University of Exeter?
Undergraduate applicants apply through UCAS, while postgraduate applicants apply through the University of Exeter's online application portal.
Can international students work after graduating from the University of Exeter?
Yes. Eligible graduates can apply for the UK Graduate Route Visa, allowing them to remain and work in the UK after completing their studies.
Does the University of Exeter provide career support?
Yes. Exeter offers career counselling, internships, employer networking events, placement opportunities, entrepreneurship support, and dedicated employability services to help students prepare for successful careers.
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