University of Southampton

Overview

Based in a student-friendly and vibrant city, the University of Southampton offers innovative learning and modern facilities, together with a diverse global community and a lively student life scene, allowing students to make the most of their time at the university.

The University of Southampton is a founding member of the Russell Group with over 150 years of history, ranked in the top 100 universities in the world and the top 15 universities in the UK. The University is the 8th most targeted UK university by graduate recruiters, with 97% of graduates progressing to employment or further study*.

Southampton is a research-intensive university, and it is 7th in the UK for research impact, with continued substantial growth in research funding. 92 per cent of the University’s research is world-leading or internationally excellent (Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021).

Excellent Location and a Supportive Community

The University of Southampton is based on the South Coast of England, with six campuses in Southampton, one in Winchester and one in Malaysia, bringing together over 10,000 international students from more than 130 different countries. Southampton is a friendly and green city, located just over 90 minutes away from London, making it an excellent location for exploring the UK. The city is filled with parks, shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it the perfect place for socialising and making the most of your free time.

The vibrant student community at Southampton offers over 350 student-led clubs and societies, helping students pursue their passions and make new friends. With student support available 24/7 via the Student Hub, Southampton is a supportive and safe environment where everyone can get daily help and advice from a dedicated student support team. The university provides additional support for international students, with a dedicated Meet and Greet Airport Collection service and on campus welcome events to help students settle in.

Innovative Learning

The University of Southampton will help you develop the skills and knowledge to stand out in a changing global jobs market, challenge yourself and explore new concepts with renowned academic experts. As a founding member of the Russell Group, our experts use world-changing research to inform their teaching.

You will gain access to a number of specialist and modern facilities, such as the Financial Laboratory, where you get to experience real-world financial data; a dedicated centre for advanced 3-dimensional X-ray imaging; advanced fashion and textile workshops with access to industry equipment; driving simulators, providing an immersive driving experience for human factors research; the wind tunnel, for vehicle aerodynamic work and performance sport testing, and many more.

With libraries holding millions of books and journals, you will have access to bespoke study spaces for independent or group work. 

Many of Southampton’s courses are accredited by external professional organisations and can count towards professional qualifications. You will also be able to study through different learning experiences such as field trips, group projects and talks from industry experts.

Wide range of Scholarships

Southampton offers a wide range of scholarships for international students, for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Scholarships available cover merit and competitive scholarships based on academic achievements, as well as partner scholarships like the Chevening, Commonwealth, Fullbright scholarships, and many more.

Entry requirements and visa information

The University of Southampton welcomes applications from prospective students from all countries, with country-specific requirements available for all regions. All courses at the University of Southampton are taught in English. The minimum standard of English Language proficiency required by the University is a GCSE grade 4 or C (or equivalent) in English, this is a minimum requirement and some of our courses may require a higher grade or score. For students who need to improve their English language and study skills, there are pre-sessional or foundation courses available that can help students get ready for their future degrees.

Services for International Students

The University of Southampton runs a Meet and Greet Airport service for students arriving in Southampton, who are staying in university accommodation. The service includes a free pick-up from many London airports, support from staff members, and Welcome events designed to help students settle in. Southampton offers 24-hour-a-day support to all students via the on-campus Student Hub. Support includes finance, wellbeing, visa and immigration, and more. There is also further help through the Advice Centre at the Students’ Union, SUSU.

Ranking

• 19th in the Times University Guide 2025
• 22nd in the Guardian University Guide 2025
• 80th in the QS World University Rankings 2025
• 97th in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024
• 101st-150th in the Academic Ranking of World Universities 2024

The University of Southampton is one of the top 30 UK universities for graduate starting salaries and is ranked 17th amongst universities targeted by the largest number of top employers. According to the most recent Destination of Leavers survey, 94% of Southampton's full-time undergraduates who received their degrees were in employment or progressed to further study within six months of graduating.

Ninety-two per cent of the University's submissions were classed as 'world-leading' (4*) or 'internationally excellent' (3*), placing Southampton in the top 10 per cent of UK institutions in the REF2021.

Accommodation

Find your new home in the University’s student accommodation, offering options to live close to campuses or in the city centre, with affordable rooms to suit every budget and lifestyle. Every University of Southampton owned hall of residence has 24/7 reception and security, with free access to the Southampton UniLink bus network, which can take students around the city and to neighbouring Winchester.

The University offers guaranteed accommodation for first-year and international students (terms and conditions apply).

Location

Southampton is a vibrant and lively city just over 60 minutes from London. There are convenient transport links to other UK and European cities, and the tourist towns of Winchester, Salisbury and Bournemouth are nearby, as is the New Forest and the world-famous Stonehenge. The English south coast, upon which Southampton is located, offers one of the warmest climates in the UK.

Known throughout history as the ‘Gateway to the World’, Southampton remains a significant international port. Its marina has hosted high profile international boating events such as the Volvo and the BT Global Challenge Round-the-World yacht races. The population of approximately 221,000 includes some 40,000 students and accordingly, the city provides a wide variety of entertainment, sporting and leisure activities. 

Alumni

• Chris Packham – TV presenter and wildlife expert
• Sir Adrian Newey – Chief Technical Officer, Red Bull Racing F1
• John Inverdale – TV presenter
• Justine Greening – former Secretary of State for Transport
• John Nettles – Actor
• George Buckley – Chairman, President, and Chief Executive of 3M
• Stephen Payne OBE – Vice-President and Chief Naval Architect at Carnival Corporation
• Jon Sopel – Presenter of The Politics Show and a lead presenter on BBC News