USA
We welcome applications from American students. Around 130 students from the USA currently study here, and we would love for you to join us.
Download your Bristol Guide
Get a quick introduction to the University of Bristol with our USA Country Guide 2025-26 (PDF, 682kB).
Application guidance
The following information is for guidance only. Competition for places at the University of Bristol is very strong, and the achievement of a specified qualification does not guarantee that an offer will be made. We aim to respond to your application as quickly as possible to help you plan your studies.
If your qualification is not mentioned or you have any further questions, please contact us for advice.
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International Foundation Programme
The International Foundation Programme (IFP) is delivered by the University of Bristol to prepare international students for a degree programme at the University through tailored English language units and academic subject units.
You can find more information through Kaplan International Pathways, our trusted education partner for applications and admissions to the International Foundation Programme.
Undergraduate entry requirements
You can apply for undergraduate courses through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Find out more from UCAS about applying to university in the UK. The UCAS institution code for the University of Bristol is BRISL B78.
Entry requirements vary for each course. Please check our undergraduate course listings for details of specific requirements.
We recognise that schools in the USA offer varied courses and methods of assessment. We therefore consider combinations of qualifications which demonstrate a high level of academic ability, including ACT, AP, SAT, Honors and dual enrolment courses, with varying grade requirements depending on the course you wish you study.
The following qualifications are accepted for entry onto our undergraduate degree courses:
High school diploma
We will consider applicants with a high school diploma (or equivalent) with a GPA of 3.2 minimum (3.4 for competitive courses) and three additional qualifications, which can be any of the following:
- SAT (evidence-based reading and writing section only) with a minimum of 650 or ACT with a minimum score of 28
- Honors level classes taken in both semesters in Grade 12
- Dual enrolment courses
- AP Tests with a score of at least 4 (more commonly 5)
- IB Higher Level courses
- A Levels
Specific subject requirements will need to be met through AP Tests, (or IB Higher Level courses or A Levels). For AP Test subject requirements:
- Any course asking for maths must have specifically AP Calculus BC at grade 5.
- If taking Physics we accept AP Physics 1, AP Physics 2, or both AP Physics C tests. These can be used where courses ask for an additional Maths/Science related subject (e.g. some Engineering courses)
AP and SAT results can be sent to Bristol via the College Board code 5371.
We will consider Honors-level classes when taken in both semesters of Year 12 to meet non-specific subject requirements
Foundation/bridging programme
Students who have successfully completed either the University of Bristol International Foundation Programme or an appropriate foundation/bridging programme such as those offered by our partners, and have met the entry requirements for their chosen degree, will be considered for admission to undergraduate courses.
Associate’s degree
An associate’s degree is acceptable for direct entry onto our bachelor’s degree courses.
- For courses with A-level requirements of A*A*A, a GPA of 3.5 or better is required.
- For courses with A-level requirements of A*AA, a GPA of 3.4 or better is required.
- For courses with A-level requirements of AAA, a GPA of 3.3 or better is required.
- For courses with A-level requirements of AAB, a GPA of 3.2 or better is required.
- For courses with A-level requirements of ABB, a GPA of 3.0 or better is required.
Check our undergraduate course listings for A-level requirements.
IB Diploma or A-levels
Applicants with the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma or A-levels will be considered for direct admission to our bachelor’s degree courses. Check our undergraduate course listings for specific requirements.
First year of university
Applicants who have successfully completed the first year of a US university degree will be considered for admission to the first year of our bachelor’s degree courses.
We do not generally require any standardised tests, but Law applicants will need to take the LNAT and applicants to Medicine and Dentistry are required to take the UCAT.
Study Abroad applicants
Students at university in the United States who are interested in spending one or two credit-bearing semesters as an undergraduate at Bristol should consult our Study Abroad pages for more details.
Study Abroad applications do not go through UCAS.
Postgraduate entry requirements
You should apply online for all our postgraduate programmes.
Entry requirements vary for each programme. Please check our postgraduate programme listings for details of specific requirements.
To be considered for admission to a master's degree programme at the University of Bristol, the minimum requirement for entry is typically an undergraduate degree from an acceptable institution that is equivalent to a UK upper second-class degree (also known as a 2:1).
- A CGPA of 3.3 or above is considered equivalent to a UK upper second-class degree.
- Applicants who hold a two-year US master’s degree or a one-year UK master’s degree will be considered for admission to PhD study. A research proposal is required. To investigate research opportunities, please visit the postgraduate prospectus.
Scholarships
The University provides a range of international scholarships, including our Think Big scholarships which can help fund your tuition fees.
Search our full list of funding to find more scholarships offered by the University of Bristol and external organisations.
Find more information about funding your studies on our student finances pages.
In addition to University of Bristol scholarships, funding opportunities for US students include:
- American Association of University Women - the largest source of funding for graduate women in the USA
- Fulbright Scholarships
- Marshall Scholarships
- Rotary Foundation Scholarships.
US loans are also accepted.
Student societies
Our student clubs include the International Students' Network and over 400 more catering to different interests and hobbies.
Our alumni
Our international alumni network includes near 3,500 students from or living in the USA, who are employed at organisations including the US Geological Survey, the Campaign for Youth Justice, EY, Facebook and the US Government and a range of prestigious universities.
Get in touch
If you are a prospective student or school counsellor and have a question about admissions or entry requirements, please contact our Americas Team:
Email: americas-office@bristol.ac.uk
For any other questions about studying with us, please contact our International Recruitment team:
Email: support@international.bristol.ac.uk
Phone: +44 (0)117 205 2644
British Council
The British Council can give guidance and information about higher education in the UK. Find out from their website if there is an office near you and what services are available.
Download an International Guide
Sign up for our email updates to receive exclusive information and download our International Guide.
My programme and the University have far exceeded my expectations. Bristol has a wonderful community feel that encourages you to get involved with a wide variety of clubs, activities and events. I received excellent support while preparing for my studies as an international student.
What our students say
Hear from some of our North American students talking about their academic experience and what makes studying at Bristol so special.
Visa advice
Our Student Visa Services Team provides extensive guidance on applying for your study visa.
Global Lounge
Celebrate cultural events, share experiences and connect with students from around the world at the Global Lounge.