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Top 10 Universities in Manchester UK for International Students

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Ruchi Khanted
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According to The Economist, Manchester is crowned the UK's most liveable city, with its diverse offerings that cater to everyone. The city offers a wide range of beauty, music, sport, and culture, from quaint to cosmopolitan. Outside of London, Manchester has the largest economy in the UK, with a GDP of £134.59 billion. As a result, it has earned a stellar reputation among international students willing to study in the UK.

The universities in Manchester are research centres of excellence and concentrated clusters of knowledge. They have a great academic past and are home to a plethora of world-renowned academics and professors, including 25 Nobel Laureates. 

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Why Study in Manchester UK?

As per the QS Best Student Cities 2024, Manchester has gained the 30th position. Besides music halls, sports, and fantastic nightlife, studying in Manchester is highly advantageous because of the following reasons:

  • Great Connectivity: The Magic buses running on Oxford Road, one of the busiest routes in Europe, are often a major highlight of Manchester city. This city is located around two hours away from London by train. On the other hand, its tram network is constantly expanding, making it easier for the students to reach their universities in Manchester on time.
  • Vibrant Festivals: Manchester is also known for monsoons, but dark clouds don’t disrupt the festivals of Mancunians. There is a ‘Pride festival,’ which is hugely celebrated for supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Manchester International Festival is also organised where leading artists show their best artworks. The local and abroad students can celebrate various festivals like Sounds of the City and Parklife.
  • Student-Friendly City: With such a vast population of international students, Mancunians are always ready to cater to their needs. The students can try different types of cuisines without burning their pockets. The street markets are available throughout the city, giving the best discounts to the students. There are certain areas dedicated only to universities in Manchester UK, like Oxford Road, which is home to Fallowfield, has three different universities and multiple residence halls for international students.

Suggested: Best Cities for International Students in UK

Different Types of Universities in Manchester City

There are two types of universities in Manchester, UK; public and private. Let’s get insights about them in detail.

Private Universities

The private universities aren’t run by the British government but are approved by the state government. The degree options in private universities are often vast compared to those at public universities in Manchester. Private universities often get funding from the government for scholarships to study in the UK. On the other hand, private universities in Manchester, UK, charge higher tuition fees than public universities.

Public Universities

As the British government runs the public universities, the study options are vast, and tuition fees are much lower than in private universities. On the other hand, public universities in the UK often provide on-campus student accommodation, which is affordable and safe. Language isn’t a barrier because all the courses require UK English language proficiency. As a result, the public colleges in Manchester have become highly suitable for international students.

Suggested: Best Courses to Study in UK!

Next, let’s explore the best universities in Manchester city.

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List of Top 10 Universities in Manchester, UK

The top universities in Manchester are the University of Manchester, University of Salford and the University of Bolton. Manchester's top universities provide world-class education and a vibrant campus experience.

Explore our curated list of universities in Manchester for international students.

  • University of Manchester
  • University of Salford
  • University of Bolton
  • Manchester Metropolitan University
  • The Royal Northern College of Music
  • The Manchester College
  • BPP University
  • The University of Law
  • Arden University
  • BIMM

Let us now take a look at this list of universities in Manchester in detail:

1. University of Manchester

Established in 1824, the University of Manchester is a renowned public institution located on Oxford Road. As a Russell Group member, it offers over 1,000 diverse courses to 40,000 students and boasts 25 Nobel laureates, reflecting academic and research excellence.

Location

Oxford Rd

Type

Public

Manchester University World Rankings 2025

34

Intake Season

Fall/Spring

Acceptance Rate

59.3%

Placement Rate

94%

Annual Fees

INR 19 Lakhs (GBP 19,000)

2. University of Salford

Established in 1967, the University of Salford is a distinguished public institution on Prestwood Road. Offering over 190 courses across seven schools to approximately 3,000 international students, it boasts innovative research facilities, creative environments, and celebrated alumni with global acclaim.

Location

Prestwood Road

Type

Public

Salford World Ranking 2025

901

Intake Season

Fall/Spring

Acceptance Rate

4.8%

Placement Rate

86%

Annual Fees

INR 11 Lakhs (GBP 11,100)

3. University of Bolton

Founded 40 years ago, the is a reputable public institution on Deane Road. It offers 30 accredited courses spanning traditional and innovative subjects, and recently earned the Silver TEF award, demonstrating its commitment to high-quality teaching globally.

Location

Deane Road

Type

Public

QS Ranking

120

Intake Season

Fall/Spring

Acceptance Rate

60%

Placement Rate

82%

Annual Fees

INR 11.25 Lakhs (GBP 11,250)

4. Manchester Metropolitan University

Manchester Metropolitan University, based at All Saints Building, is a distinguished public institution attracting over 40,000 students from 130 countries. It offers a wide array of courses in art, business, marketing, and technology, and boasts modern facilities and notable alumni.

Location

All Saints Building

Type

Public

MMU World Ranking 2025

601

Intake Season

Fall/Spring

Acceptance Rate

80%

Placement Rate

94.6%

Annual Fees

INR 15.5 Lakhs (GBP 15,500)

5. The Royal Northern College of Music

The , located on Oxford Road, is a prestigious conservatoire celebrated for excellence in classical music and arts. With over 800 dedicated students, it provides rigorous courses in performance, chamber music, and arts, producing acclaimed alumni.

Location

Oxford Rd

Type

Public (Conservatoire)

QS Ranking

5

Intake Season

Fall/Spring

Acceptance Rate

18%

Placement Rate

90%

Annual Fees

INR 26.6 Lakhs (GBP 26,600)

6. The Manchester College

Established in 2008, The Manchester College is a leading private institution with several campuses across Manchester. It delivers diverse courses in arts, sciences, engineering, and law, providing modern facilities, hands-on training, and exceptional student satisfaction, ensuring academic and career success.

Location

Several campuses in Manchester

Type

Private

QS Ranking

-

Intake Season

Fall/Spring/Autumn

Acceptance Rate

76.1%

Placement Rate

94.6%

Annual Fees

INR 9 Lakhs (GBP 9,000)

7. BPP University

Established in 1992 as part of the BPP Professional Education Group, BPP University is a renowned private institution offering professional courses in law, business, technology, health, and nursing. Its state-of-the-art campus features mock courtrooms and dedicated study zones for excellence.

Location

Oxford Street

Type

Private

QS Ranking

246

Intake Season

Fall/Winter/Spring

Acceptance Rate

85%

Placement Rate

98%

Annual Fees

INR 15 Lakhs (GBP 15,000)

8. The University of Law

Established in 2012, The University of Law is a distinguished private institution on New York Street, specializing in law and business studies. It offers state-of-the-art libraries, interactive workshops, and collaborative spaces to prepare students for professional legal careers with excellence.

Location

New York Street

Type

Private

QS Ranking

-

Intake Season

Fall/Spring

Acceptance Rate

20%

Placement Rate

78.4%

Annual Fees

INR 14.6 Lakhs (GBP 14,600)

9. Arden University

Founded in 2015, Arden University is a progressive private institution offering flexible online courses in business, computing, IT, psychology, and sociology. Enrolling over 23,000 students, it is celebrated for its innovative teaching methods and global reach, ensuring outstanding academic success.

Location

Minshull St. & Dickinson St.

Type

Private

QS Ranking

-

Intake Season

Fall/Spring/Autumn

Acceptance Rate

64%

Placement Rate

91%

Annual Fees

INR 12.15 Lakhs (GBP 12,150)

10. BIMM

Established in 2001, BIMM is a dynamic private institution specializing in modern music, performing arts, and filmmaking. Operating across multiple campuses, it offers innovative courses, industry sessions, and live gigs, and has produced several renowned musicians for exceptional creative excellence.

Location

Great Marlborough St. & Bank Chambers

Type

Private

QS Ranking

-

Intake Season

Fall/Spring

Acceptance Rate

83%

Placement Rate

100%

Annual Fees

INR 14.25 Lakhs (GBP 14,250)

Suggested: How to Obtain a 2-Year Work Permit in the UK?

Life in Manchester as an International Student

If you want to study in Manchester, that’s a great choice. Life in Manchester is affordable and lively, so you won't feel spaced out. With around 40,000 students from all over the world, you'll be surrounded by different cultures. Even rented shared flats cost around INR 52,000–INR 73,000 (£500–£700) monthly, cheaper than London. Manchester also has excellent transport facilities that welcome individuals and ease settling.

Eligibility Requirements for International Students to Study at Universities in Manchester

To study in Manchester, you must meet certain academic, language, and financial requirements to qualify for admission.

Academic Qualifications

  • Undergraduate: Completed 12th grade with good scores

  • Postgraduate: A relevant bachelor’s degree with required grades

English Language Proficiency

  • IELTS: Usually 6.0–7.0

  • TOEFL: Around 80–100

  • Some universities may accept alternatives like PTE or Duolingo

Proof of Funds

  • You must show enough savings to cover tuition and living expenses

Student Visa (Tier 4):

  • Offer letter from a UK university

  • CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies)

  • Health surcharge payment and valid passport

Document Requirements for Universities in Manchester

If you wish to study at the universities in Manchester City, then ensure to achieve an overall standard of 65% for graduate and 80-95% for undergraduate courses. Check the official websites of universities in Manchester for international students for exact eligibility requirements.

Next, let’s check the list of documents to be presented along with the application form.

  • Coloured passport size photographs

  • A valid passport

  • The reference number, along with other documents required to obtain CAS

  • Proof of financial stability

  • Assessment documentation

  • Details of your travel plans and where you are about to reside

  • Health checkup report

  • English Proficiency Test scores

Application Process of Universities in Manchester City

Applying to universities in Manchester City involves a systematic, multi-step process designed to ensure that your application is complete, competitive, and submitted on time. Follow these key steps:

  • Research Programs: Identify courses, review eligibility criteria, and note specific application deadlines for your chosen programs.

  • Prepare Documents: Gather academic transcripts, recommendation letters, personal statements, CV/resume, and proof of English proficiency.

  • Online Application: Complete the university’s application form accurately and upload all supporting documents.

  • Submission: Pay the required application fees and submit your application before the deadline.

  • Follow-Up: Monitor your application status regularly and respond promptly to any additional requests or interview invitations.

Cost of Studying in Manchester

The cost of studying in Manchester is around INR 15 lakhs per year, including the tuition fee and living expenses. Manchester is relatively affordable compared to other major UK cities, making it a popular choice among international students. Accommodation, food, and transportation costs can vary, but budgeting effectively ensures a comfortable stay while enjoying the city’s vibrant cultural and social scene.

Expense

Approx. Monthly Cost

Accommodation

INR 40,000 – 90,000 (GBP 400 – 800)

Food

INR 15,000 – 20,000 (GBP 150 – 200)

Transport

INR 7,000 – 10,000 (GBP 70 – 100)

Miscellaneous

INR 8,000 – 12,000 (GBP 80 – 120)

Scholarships in Manchester

Manchester offers a range of competitive scholarships to help international and domestic students meet tuition and living costs. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, and professional potential. 

The table below outlines the top five scholarships available in Manchester.

Scholarship Name

Provider

Eligibility

Award Amount

Notes

Global Futures Scholarship

University of Manchester

Outstanding international students across programs

INR 3 lakhs (GBP 3,000)

Partial tuition fee waiver; highly competitive

International Excellence Scholarship

Manchester Metropolitan University

International students with strong academic records

INR 2.5 lakhs (GBP 2,500)

Merit-based award; offers partial fee relief

Salford International Scholarship

University of Salford

Selected programs for international applicants

INR 2 lakhs (GBP 2,000)

Supports tuition fees; based on merit and need

Chancellor Scholarship

University of Bolton

High-achieving postgraduate international applicants

INR 1.5 lakhs (GBP 1,500)

Recognizes academic excellence; covers part of tuition

BPP Merit Scholarship

BPP University

International students with strong professional potential

INR 1 lakh (GBP 1,000)

Awarded based on merit; available for select courses

Average Salary in Manchester

The average salary after graduating from Manchester is INR 35 lakhs - INR 35 lakhs. Considering the low cost of studying at Manchester, this is an excellent ROI. 

While earnings depend on qualifications and experience, the city generally provides solid entry-level wages and many growth opportunities, making it an attractive destination for professionals seeking career advancement.

Sector

Approx. Annual Salary

Technology

INR 35–50 Lakhs (GBP 35,000 – 50,000)

Finance

INR 40–55 Lakhs (GBP 40,000 – 55,000)

Healthcare

INR 28–38 Lakhs (GBP 28,000 – 38,000)

Education

INR 22–32 Lakhs (GBP 22,000 – 32,000)

Retail & Hospitality

INR 20–28 Lakhs (GBP 20,000 – 28,000)

From the Desk of ±¬ÁϳԹÏÍø

Manchester has an outstanding reputation among international students not only for its highly valued degree worldwide but also for the great returns and vibrant culture for the overall development of the students. 

As you’re aware of the best universities in Manchester, learn more about other admission requirements to study in the UK, the student visa process, and more.

Now that we have explored all important aspects for studying in Manchester, it's your turn to make an informed decision. However, if you get confused at any step, you are already at the right place.

±¬ÁϳԹÏÍø Premium comes with a dedicated counsellor for you; get your profile built by top-of-the-field counselors; get your queries resolved in just one click; and make a strong application that will get you the admission you are looking for.

Frequently Asked Questions about Universities in Manchester

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