USA

We welcome applications from American students. Around 150 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 2024-25 (PDF, 120kB).

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.

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.

The following qualifications are accepted for entry onto our undergraduate 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 an undergraduate (bachelor’s) 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:

US loans are also accepted.

Education representatives

The University has agreements with many education representatives (also known as agents) around the world who can assist you with your application. Using a representative does not put your application at any advantage or disadvantage, and independent applications will be considered on an equal basis.

Please use the services of only one representative to avoid administrative complications. We strongly advise you to only work with a representative listed below.

Our registered representatives in your country:

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 have any questions about applying to Bristol, please contact our International Recruitment team:

Emailsupport@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.

Cover of the International Guide: the words 'Start your Bristol story' with images of the campus and city. Download an International Guide

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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.

Edythe (MSc Global Wildlife Health and Conservation), USA

Headshots of four North American students 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.

Watch the video

Join our virtual events

Discover what it's like to study at Bristol with our live chats, online events and virtual campus tour.

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.

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