University of Stirling

United Kingdom

Do you want to study at a university famed for its sporting excellence?

The University of Stirling is world-renowned for research excellence in research, teaching, and offering a world-class student experience.

Over 30% of their student body is represented by international students, which is higher than the average percentage for a UK university.

140 nationalities are represented on campus and overall 91% of international students were satisfied with their experience at Stirling according to the International Student Barometer 2022.

According to the official Times Good University Guide 2023, highly rated courses at the University of Stirling include:

  • Criminology: top 5 in the UK, 1st in Scotland.
  • Economics: top 5 in Scotland.
  • Education: top 5 in the UK, 3rd in Scotland.
  • Communication and media: top 5 in the UK, 2nd in Scotland.
  • Geography and environmental science: top 5 in Scotland.

Concerned about settling into life in Scotland? Do you question if the degree you pursue is internationally recognised and valued in your home country, or globally? Are you unsure if you will be able to adapt to the cultural and language differences in a new country?

Discover why the University of Stirling might just be the place for you!

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The University of Stirling was founded by royal charter in 1967 and is based within the walled Airthrey Castle estate in the foothills of the Ochil Hills. It also has a campus in the United Arab Emirates and degree partnerships in Singapore, Oman and Vietnam. More than 17,000 students attend the University of Stirling, with 28% coming from more than 120 countries around the world.

It is ranked in the top 350 global universities by The Times Higher Education World University Rankings and the top 500 in the QS World University Rankings. It’s also in the top 50 UK universities in the Complete University Guide and guides from The Guardian and The Times/Sunday Times.

Why the University of Stirling?

  • More than 80% of Stirling's research is world-leading or internationally excellent.
  • Ranked 177th worldwide and 77th for Europe for sustainability by the QS World Sustainability rankings
  • 93% student satisfaction with career services support according to The International Student Barometer 2022

Do you wonder if you can find a supportive community and make friends easily in a foreign environment? Perhaps you need to feel confident that the quality of education and teaching methods at the university align with your learning style and academic goals. Are you worried about the financial aid options available to you?

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Become part of the global community of students who have found their future at the University of Stirling.

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Sports

If you are looking for a sporty university, Stirling is one of the best. It was named The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide's Sports University of the Year 2020. It was also 2nd in Scotland and 5th in the UK for sports facilities according to the UK International Student Barometer Benchmark.

Reputation

The University of Stirling has been awarded 5 Stars in the QS Stars University Ratings 2021 for its teaching, employability, research, internationalisation, facilities and inclusiveness. Meanwhile, 87% of the University's research has an outstanding or very considerable impact on society.

Location

Stirling is a small city surrounded by beautiful natural environments and green space, away from the hustle and noise of major cities. It has also been rated the safest student city in the UK. Colloquially known as the gateway to the Highlands, Stirling has stunning scenery and hills that are perfect for hiking activities. Well-known Scottish cities Edinburgh and Glasgow are also less than an hour away by public transport.

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Employability

The University of Stirling is ranked 1st in Scotland and 3rd in the UK for graduate employability according to the Higher Education Statistics Agency. It has also been ranked 1st in Scotland and Top 5 in the UK for its careers services in the UK International Student Barometer Benchmark and Global ISB Benchmark. 93% of its graduates were in employment or further study fifteen months after graduation according to the Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021. Its Careers and Employability Service helps students achieve their career goals, from deciding on a career, to making applications and getting a first job. Its expert staff can support with practical skills like CV writing and interview practice. They also work with international students whether they are looking to work back home or in the UK.

Alumni

Iain Banks

Author

Alan Bissett

Author and playwright

Grace Dent

English columnist and broadcaster

FAQs

The University of Stirling acceptance rate is 20%.

The University of Stirling employability rate is 93%.

The University of Stirling is ranked 471st in the QS World University Rankings, 28th in The Guardian University Guide and 301-350th in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings.

International students can apply for scholarships such as the Stirling International Postgraduate Awards (SIPA), which is merit-based and available to students from outside the European Union. The university also offers external scholarship programs such as the Chevening Scholarships and the Commonwealth Scholarships. These well-regarded scholarships aim to recognise academic excellence and contribute to the inclusive community at the University of Stirling.

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Approx. 30%

No. of international students

Ranking

  • by QS

    431st

  • by THE

    401–500th