Studying at the University of Bristol and looking for the perfect place to call home? Given Bristol’s large student population and the fast-paced nature of the rental market, we know this isn’t always easy.
With Student.com, you can browse a range of student accommodation in Bristol all in one place. We have plenty of options in popular areas like Clifton, Redland and Cofton, simplifying the process of finding high-quality housing.
Jump straight in and start browsing our University of Bristol accommodation at the top of the page – or continue reading to learn more about student life at the university and top tips for securing private accommodation...
Where is the University of Bristol located?
The University of Bristol’s main campus spans the leafy suburb of Clifton and extends southwards into the city centre, with most buildings located in the Tyndall’s Park neighbourhood.
It’s very much a ‘city’ campus in that university buildings are spread out over a large area rather than being contained in a single site. Generally, though, you’ll never be more than a 20-minute walk from the city centre.
The university also has a secondary campus in the village of Langford, roughly 14 miles south of Bristol, which occupies over 250 acres and serves as the home of Bristol Veterinary School.
Does the University of Bristol have a good reputation?
Part of the prestigious Russell Group, the University of Bristol enjoys a stellar reputation both at home and abroad. It regularly ranks among the ten best universities in the UK and the top 100 worldwide.
The university excels in engineering (particularly aerospace engineering), medicine, architecture, languages and social science, ranking among the best universities in the UK across all of these areas.
It’s also recognised for its excellent employment outcomes – University of Bristol graduates are highly sought-after by UK employers, with alumni also among the best-paid graduates in the country.
Courses at the University of Bristol
The University of Bristol has a huge academic programme, with a combined total of more than 500 undergraduate and postgraduate courses. These cover virtually all possible areas of study, from theatre and film to aerospace engineering.
The university is organised into three main faculties – Arts, Law and Social Sciences; Health and Life Sciences; and Science and Engineering – each encompassing numerous specialist schools into which students are enrolled.
Various courses (generally in STEM fields) include the option of a year-long industry placement, helping students build invaluable career skills. Most undergraduate students also get the opportunity to study abroad.
Student life at the University of Bristol
Beyond its academic prowess, the University of Bristol’s large community of roughly 30,000 students (including close to 10,000 international students!) and enviable location in one of the UK’s most vibrant cities make it an exciting place to study.
There are more than 300 clubs for students to get involved in, ranging from sports teams and academic societies to niche interest groups. The Students’ Union also hosts regular events like pub quizzes and karaoke, which are great for meeting new people.
The integrated campus makes it easy to explore the wider city, which has one of the best nightlife scenes in the UK, along with amazing theatres and live music venues, loads of great places to eat and a host of trendy independent shops.
How much does it cost to study at the University of Bristol?
Tuition fees at the University of Bristol vary based on your home country – UK students are charged around £9,500 per year of undergraduate study, while international fees range from £25,000–£30,000 per year. Postgraduate courses are typically priced higher.
The university estimates that students will need £9,000–£15,000 per year to cover living costs. In total, then, the annual cost of undergraduate study is likely around £18,500–£24,500 for UK students, and £34,000–£45,000 for international students.
Most UK students receive some form of financial support – either through loans or bursaries – to help alleviate these costs, and there are certain scholarships available to international students too.
Best areas to live near the University of Bristol
There are lots of good options for private accommodation near the University of Bristol, with the most desirable areas immediately surrounding the main campus. Clifton is known for its upscale cafes and ample green space, but it commands relatively high rents.
Redland, just north of campus, is another popular choice with leafy streets, several pubs and historic homes converted into student flats. To the east of the university, Cotham offers a similar vibe in a predominantly residential area.
If you’re looking for a faster pace of life, Stokes Croft delivers with its street art, trendy cafes and live music venues. Gloucester Road is another vibrant student hotspot known for having the UK’s longest stretch of independent shops.
Frequently asked questions
When should I start looking for private accommodation near the University of Bristol?
If you’re looking to rent private accommodation for the following academic year, you'll likely want to start searching around January when prime hunting season begins. The most desirable properties will generally only be available until March, however there should still be options on the market in April and May.
How much does student accommodation near the University of Bristol cost?
Student accommodation in Bristol is generally quite expensive, particularly in the areas immediately surrounding the University of Bristol, however you can still find good value if you’re willing to live further away from campus. The apartments we list near the university typically range from £250–£350 per week.
Where are some of the best areas to live near the University of Bristol?
The best areas depend on your priorities. For convenience, Clifton and Cotham can't be beaten — they're within walking distance and have lots of amenities but also come with higher prices. Students seeking nightlife often opt for Stokes Croft and Gloucester Road, though these are further away from campus.
Do I need a visa to study abroad at the University of Bristol?
If you’re looking to study at the University of Bristol as a non-UK citizen, you’ll need to apply for a student visa before starting your course. You can read about the requirements and application process here.
What if I didn’t find the answer to my question here?
For information on how the booking process works, click here. We also have answers to a range of other questions on our FAQ page. If you still haven’t found what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to contact us!