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Studying at Lancaster University?

Lancaster University offers a great university experience.  Find out why our Caton Court residents love studying there.

University experience

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to Lancaster University, a respected institution known for its strong academics, diverse student community, and cultural significance.

Lancaster University opened in 1964 and since then has developed into a well renowned global institution. It is one of the few universities in the UK that have adopted a collegiate system, where students belong to a particular college within university, each with its own vibrant community.

About Lancaster University

Around 13,500 students study at the university from 142 countries who benefit from expert staff and a welcoming community.

Notable alumni include Sam Hodges, formerly Head of Communications for Twitter, TV presenter and journalist James May (best known for his role in TV series Top Gear) and Ranvir Singh TV presenter and journalist who is best known for news bulletins on ITV.

Rankings

As a highly ranked global university, Lancaster has some impressive achievements. It holds a Gold award in the 2023 Teaching Excellence Framework and is ranked among the top 125 universities worldwide according to the QS World Rankings 2024.

Why Choose Lancaster University?

Discover Lancaster University, where cutting-edge innovation meets a supportive and dynamic academic environment. Lancaster is a modern institution known for its strong community spirit, outstanding research, and commitment to student success. Here are key reasons to choose Lancaster University:

At Lancaster, you’ll experience a progressive education that combines academic rigour with practical application, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the future.

Lancaster is known for its friendly and inclusive atmosphere. You’ll join a tight-knit community that values collaboration and mutual support.

The university is a hub for pioneering research, with state-of-the-art facilities and a focus on solving real-world problems across various disciplines.

With four main faculties – Arts and Social Sciences, Health and Medicine, Science and Technology, and Management – Lancaster encourages interdisciplinary learning and research.

Lancaster welcomes students from over 140 countries, fostering a truly international community and offering a global perspective in all areas of study.

the Lancaster University alumni network includes successful individuals such as TV presenter James May and Sam Hodges, formerly Head of Communications for Twitter, showcasing the diverse paths their graduates take.

Lancaster’s strong industry connections and dedicated career services provide you with numerous opportunities for internships, placements, and networking, paving the way for a successful career.

With over 175 student-run societies, sports clubs, and a rich campus culture, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to pursue your interests and make lifelong friendships.

Your home in Lancaster

Experience stylish and modern student accommodation. Caton Court Lancaster lets you take in superb views from the sky lounge, relax in an ultra-modern student setup, and get to know like-minded people from around the globe.

Caton Court

5-15 Bulk Road, Lancaster, LA1 1DN

Benefit from a fully equipment gym, cinema room and loads of social and study spaces. Meet new residents via our full events programme featuring cooking classes, cocktail nights, yoga classes and more!

Find out more

Life at Caton Court

View life at aparto Caton Court, our events and what else our residents have been up to!

How to Apply to Lancaster University

For Undergraduate Study at Lancaster:

  • Submit your application through the UCAS website.
  • Provide required information: Enter your personal details, previous and current qualifications, an academic reference, and a personal statement.
  • Email supporting documents: If needed, email any supporting documents to the Lancaster admissions team.
  • Specific courses: For Medicine and Surgery, refer to Lancaster Medical School for specific advice.
  • Meet application deadlines (they can be found here).

For Postgraduate Study at Lancaster:

  • Create an Account: Go to the postgraduate application portal and create an account.
  • Log in to the portal to start your application.
  • Submit required documents: After submitting your application, upload the required supporting documents as listed in the portal.
  • Meet application deadlines (they can be found here).

Eligibility Criteria

Discover Lancaster University's eligibility criteria for undergraduate and postgraduate programs, ensuring you meet the qualifications needed for your desired course.

Undergraduate Entry Qualifications

1. General Requirements:

  • Based on A level grades, not UCAS tariff points.
  • Typically require the equivalent of three full A levels.
  • Some courses have specific GCSE subject requirements.

2. International Applicants: Accepted international qualifications are listed on the university’s website.

3. English Language Requirements: Refer to the English language page for accepted qualifications and proficiency levels.

4. Medicine and Surgery: Specific requirements are on the Lancaster Medical School pages.

Visit the Undergraduate Entry Requirements page for details.

Postgraduate Entry Qualifications

1. General Requirements:

Specific to each course, usually based on UK degree classifications:

  • First Class honours (1st)
  • Upper Second Class honours (2:1)
  • Lower Second Class honours (2:2)

2. Additional Requirements:

May include work experience or submission of written work.

3. International Qualifications: Check Bachelor’s degree equivalents and grades for many countries on the university’s website.

Visit the Postgraduate Entry Requirements page for details.

University Fees

Discover tuition fees, fee status, and payment options for Lancaster University students.

1. Annual Fees:

An annual tuition fee is required for all students, covering teaching, examinations, assessment, and graduation.

Fees are set for a 12-month session (October to September).

2. Course-Specific Fees:

Tuition fees vary by course. Visit the specific course pages for detailed fee information.

Pro-rata fees apply for visiting students studying for less than a year.

3. Fee Status: 

Your fee depends on whether you are classified as a home or international student. Check your fee status on the university’s website.

4. Additional Information

  • Deposit: Some postgraduate courses may require a deposit to secure your place.
  • Fee Increases: Tuition fees may increase each year for multi-year programs.

For more details on fees, funding, and payment options, visit Lancaster University’s Fees and Funding page.

Scholarships

Lancaster University offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support both home and international students. Here's a quick overview:

Undergraduate Scholarships:

  • Lancaster Scholarship: Up to £2,000 for the first year, based on entry grades.
  • Lancaster Opportunity Scholarship: Up to £1,000 per year for students with contextually lowered offers.
  • Lancaster Global Scholarship: For high-achieving international students.
  • Lancaster Bursary: Up to £1,000 per year based on household income.
  • Lancaster Sanctuary Scholarship: For refugees and those with humanitarian protection.
  • Cowrie Foundation Scholarship: For UK students of Black African or Caribbean heritage.

Postgraduate Scholarships:

  • Lancaster Master's Scholarship: For students with Home tuition fees.
  • Alumni Loyalty Scholarship: 10% off fees for Lancaster graduates pursuing Taught Master's degrees.
  • Lancaster Global Scholarship: For international students with a first-class degree.
  • Management School Master's Scholarship: For international Business Master's students.
  • Lancaster Sanctuary Scholarship: For refugees and those with humanitarian protection.
  • Lancaster Opportunity Fund: Full fee waiver and £18,000 stipend for high-achieving Black British students.
  • Management School MBA Scholarship: For full-time MBA students.

Additional Opportunities:

  • Faculty Scholarships: Offered by various faculties and departments.
  • Funded PhD Opportunities: Fully and partially funded PhD programs.
  • External Scholarships: Including GREAT Scholarships, China Scholarships Council, HESPAL, Fulbright Award, Commonwealth Scholarships, and Chevening Scholarships.

For more information and to find out which awards you could be eligible for, visit the Lancaster University Scholarships and Bursaries page.

Key Dates

Lancaster University’s academic year is divided into three terms, providing a structured timeline for your studies and campus activities. Each term has specific start and end dates, including breaks for holidays, to help you plan your academic and personal schedules effectively. For detailed information on term dates and degree ceremonies, visit the university’s website.

Student life at Lancaster University

Get involved at the student’s union where you can join clubs and take part in activities and events.

There are more than 175 societies covering a huge range of activities, hobbies and causes. From belly dancing, baking, football, volunteering and student media there is tons to get involved in.

Find out more

Is it Hard to Get into Lancaster University?

With an acceptance rate of 18.69%, gaining admission to Lancaster University can be quite competitive. Applicants need to meet the university's rigorous academic standards and fulfil specific entry requirements for their chosen courses. Achieving the necessary grades and presenting a strong application are essential for increasing your chances of acceptance.

Best Courses at Lancaster University

Lancaster University is renowned for its exceptional academic programs, consistently ranking among the top institutions in the UK. Their best courses are recognised for their academic rigour, innovative research, and outstanding faculty. These programs provide students with a robust education and prepare them for successful careers in their respective fields. Explore the best that Lancaster has to offer and join a community dedicated to academic excellence and global impact.

Undergraduate

Lancaster University

Lancaster University offers a diverse range of undergraduate courses, with several subjects ranked in the top 10 in the UK. Major programs include Social Work, Communication & Media Studies, Linguistics, Biomedical Sciences, and Architecture. These courses are designed to provide students with a strong foundation in their chosen fields, supported by world-class teaching and research.

Undergraduate Courses

Postgraduate

Lancaster University

Lancaster University's postgraduate courses are recognised for their academic excellence and global impact. The university boasts top 100 rankings in eleven subjects, including Linguistics, English Language and Literature, and Marketing, according to the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024. With a commitment to interdisciplinary research and real-world applications, Lancaster provides an ideal environment for advanced study in various disciplines, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for their future careers.

Postgraduate Courses

Lancaster University Address

Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4YW

Location

Lancaster University is situated in the historic city of Lancaster in North West England. It is conveniently located between the Lake District and the city of Manchester, offering both natural landscapes and urban amenities.

Lancaster University is a quick commute from the city centre in its own separate hub of activity. The campus is situated on a beautiful 560-acre parkland site with extensive libraries, study spaces and a museum and research centre. There is also a conference and events centre to house a variety of events and meetings. On campus you can find everything you need from banks, bookshops, hairdressers, supermarkets, charity shop and loads of places to eat and drink. You can even do a picturesque Woodland walk around campus if you feel like getting active!

Our student residence Caton Court in Lancaster offers an exceptional student living experience with superb views from its 11th-floor sky lounge and ultra-modern amenities. It’s more than just accommodation, it's a community where you can connect with like-minded individuals from around the world. Enjoy the stylish social spaces, including a cinema room, games area, private gym, study rooms, and an outdoor courtyard. Conveniently located, Caton Court is a 22 minute bike ride to Lancaster University.

    How to Get to Lancaster University

    Lancaster University is easily accessible by various modes of transport:

    By Car: Located just off the M6 motorway at junction 33, follow signs for Lancaster University. Ample parking is available on campus for visitors and students.

    By Train: Lancaster has a mainline railway station with frequent services from major cities such as London, Manchester, and Glasgow. From Lancaster station, the university is a short bus or taxi ride away.

    By Bus: Regular bus services (numbers 100 and 1A) run from Lancaster city centre and the railway station directly to the university campus. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes.

    By Bicycle: Lancaster University is accessible by bike, with dedicated cycling paths leading to the campus. Bike racks are available across the university grounds for secure parking.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Gaining admission to Lancaster University is competitive, with an acceptance rate of 18.69%. Meeting the university's rigorous academic requirements is essential.

    The acceptance rate at Lancaster University is 18.69%.

    Lancaster University is consistently ranked among the top universities globally and in the UK, frequently appearing in the top 150 of world university rankings.

    Yes, Lancaster University is highly regarded for its academic excellence, research output, and student satisfaction.

    Yes, Lancaster University is an excellent choice for international students, offering a welcoming environment and a range of support services tailored to their needs.

    To find accommodation near Lancaster University, you can explore options like Caton Court, which offers modern amenities and is conveniently located within cycling distance of the university.