How study abroad places are allocated

When you apply to Bristol Abroad, you can list up to 5 universities where you can study your subject in English. You will need to list the universities in order of preference. We will aim to offer you one of your 5 choices. We can't guarantee you a specific destination as places are limited.  

Year abroad place allocations

For students applying to study abroad in 2027/28, we allocate study places based on first-year grades. 

We compare first-year average grades of all students in the academic department; the higher your average in relation to your department’s average, the higher priority you are given in the allocation process. 

Semester abroad place allocations

We review all applications to study abroad for a semester and rank them based on how many points you score. You can earn:

• motivation points for your answers to motivation questions on the online application form (up to 70 points)

Motivation points

Semester abroad students can gain motivation points for their answers to the motivation questions on the application form:

• What do you hope to gain from studying abroad? (up to 20 points)
• Why have you chosen the universities abroad noted in your application? (up to 30 points)
• Describe a time you felt outside of your comfort zone. (up to 20 points)

 

Live information sessions (online)

• Applications and Destinations, Wednesday 7 October, 1pm - 2pm
• Fees, funding and budgeting (online recording)

You must attend the online session and review the recording in advance of the in-person events. Both sessions provide lots of useful information and guidance regarding the study abroad application process. 

Study abroad panel (in-person)

Attend the official Study Abroad Panel to listen to a group of your peers who have recently returned from studying abroad, find out more about your potential destinations and ask the questions that matter to you.

After the student panel and Q&A session there will be an opportunity to chat to students who have returned from studying abroad and the Bristol Abroad team. 

Please note that these are not drop in events and it is important you arrive on time to ensure you hear the student panel. 

Date: Wednesday 14 October

Time: TBC

Location: TBC

Other contributing factors 

When we consider your application, we may also speak with your Study Abroad Academic Director and study abroad support staff within your department. Your attendance and engagement with your academic department may also be considered. 

We do not allocate places on a first come, first served basis. We reserve the right to make small adjustments to the allocation process, to maximise the number of Study Abroad spaces offered to students.

We cannot offer extensions, and will not consider any applications received after the deadline.