University of York

Established in 1963, the University of York is a high-performing, research-intensive university and a member of the elite Russell Group. York is the proud home of over 20,000 students from more than 150 countries, each contributing to its inclusive community.

York challenges students to dream big and think critically. Working in partnership with institutions across the world to pioneer solutions to society’s most pressing global challenges. These global connections and research activities are built into York’s teaching and co-curricular opportunities.

When you choose to study at York, you become part of a diverse community in a historic and beautiful city. Regularly ranked as one of the friendliest cities in the UK, York is safe and welcoming, it’s large enough to be lively, yet small enough to soon feel like home.

After you graduate, you become part of an active network of over 135,000 alumni, and the University will continue to support you through its York for Life platform.

Academic strengths and advancements

The University of York is a global top 150 university (Times Higher Education’s World University Rankings) with a reputation for excellent teaching and research, which is demonstrated in their high rankings.

York is one of only four UK universities who hold an overall rating of Gold under the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF, 2023) and are ranked in the top 10 of the Research Excellence Framework (REF, 2021).

At York, students study and learn with active researchers, conducting work on some of the most exciting and cutting-edge issues in current times. Their research feeds directly into teaching and course content, so students benefit from their tutors’ academic insights and professional expertise.

Well-being advantages

About the city of York

York is a contemporary, student-friendly city, renowned for its rich history and heritage. With a population of over 200,000, it’s a buzzing city with lots to try, from theatre shows and art exhibitions, to unique food venues and street festivals.

The University’s parkland campus is within walking distance of the bustling city centre, which means you can enjoy the best of both worlds. York’s central location is perfect for exploring other UK and European cities. London is only two hours away by train, and you can reach Edinburgh in two and a half hours. The beautiful Yorkshire countryside and coastline are also on York’s doorstep. The University of York Students’ Union (York SU) often arranges trips to cities, national parks and the coast.

Major retail chains and independent stores share York’s iconic medieval streets. And if you need something to eat, the city boasts a thriving street food scene, high-quality restaurants and quirky coffee shops.

On a sunny day, you can have a picnic in the Museum Gardens or stroll around Rowntree Park, and enjoy fantastic views of York Minster from Dean’s Park.

What’s on campus

Student accommodation

The University’s on-campus accommodation is centred around 11 colleges, with a variety of room types and options to suit every budget. Each college has a welcoming, supportive community so that you will soon feel at home. When you join York, you become a member of one of these colleges, whether you live on or off campus. Explore our accommodation

Shops and services

There are two convenience stores on site where students can pick up their groceries and essentials. York’s International Student Support Advisors can support you with a variety of things, such as visas, setting up a bank account or arranging free airport collection.

There’s a healthcare centre close to campus which offers GP appointments and a repeat prescription service. The Open Door team, consisting of mental health practitioners and student wellbeing officers, provide support to registered students experiencing psychological or mental health difficulties.

Bars, cafes and restaurants

The campus is packed with places to eat and drink and caters for a diverse range of dietary requirements. Two of the most popular food venues are the Link Cafe, which serves Asian-inspired meals, and the Kitchen at Alcuin, which specialises in bagels.

Library

The University of York main campus library holds more than one million print books, as well as printed and digital journals. It also offers a range of study areas, from silent study zones to collaborative thinking spaces.

Student activities

York SU has over 200 societies and more than 65 sports clubs on offer for students to join, so there are plenty of opportunities for you to re-visit old interests or to try something new.

To help students stay active, the University of York have two award-winning sports facilities on campus: York Sport Village and York Sport Centre. If you enjoy playing sports but don’t want the pressure of competing at University-level, you can join your college sports teams. Every week, there are regular training sessions and friendly matches for all ability levels, from beginner to seasoned professionals.

The colleges host regular events such as brunches, arts and crafts evenings, quizzes and parties. These events are perfect for you to catch up with friends, meet new people, and unwind after a day of studying. As well as music societies, you can join the College Music Scheme, which gives you access to the music facilities, instrument lending library and equipment hire.

Cost of living support

For the 2025/26 academic year, international tuition fees range from £22,200 to £33,700 per year. In the current academic year (2024/25), on campus accommodation costs between £99 and £238 per week, these prices may change for the 2025/26 academic year.

To support with the financial commitment of studying abroad, there are a range of scholarships available to international students. There are also financial support initiatives available to current students, including the student support fund, emergency loans and grants to cover the cost of joining some societies. For more information, visit the University of York cost of living hub

You might consider getting a part-time job to help cover your living expenses. The University has plenty of casual work opportunities for students, such as becoming an International Student Ambassador. In the city of York, there are lots of shops, cafes and restaurants which advertise part-time positions throughout the year.

Subject taught, degrees, or research areas that are popular or globally renowned

The University of York is home to three faculties: Arts and Humanities, Sciences, and Social Sciences, with many courses accredited by professional bodies.

Undergraduate

Popular Bachelors courses in each faculty for 2024/25:

Arts and Humanities

Sciences

Social Sciences

Postgraduate

Popular Masters courses in each faculty for 2024/25:

Arts and Humanities

Sciences

Social Sciences

Subjects taught, degrees, or research areas that can contribute to Thailand’s strategic directions

(i.e. the National Strategy of Thailand 2018 – 2037, 13th National Economic and Social Development Plan of Thailand 2023 – 2027, and Prime Minister’s vision “Ignite Thailand”) (Please see attachments details)

Food sustainability and security

Postgraduate

Mental Health

Public Health

Women’s Studies

Human Rights