Newcastle University

Established in 1834, Newcastle University is a prestigious, world-class institution with a history spanning more than 190 years. Its story began during the Industrial Revolution, when innovators and engineers from the North East were helping to transform the world. The University’s early foundations can be traced to the establishment of a School of Medicine and Surgery at the Barber Surgeons’ Company Hall in Newcastle. Today, Newcastle University continues this legacy through life-changing education, innovative research and a strong commitment to creating positive change.

As a founding member of the elite Russell Group, Newcastle University is recognised among the UK’s leading research-intensive universities. Its academic strength is reflected in its position among the global top 150 in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and the UK top 20 in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026. The University also achieved 5+ QS Stars for Overall Excellence in 2025, demonstrating the quality and breadth of its educational experience.

Research is central to Newcastle University’s mission. In the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF), the University ranked 15th in the UK for global research power. Its research power increased by 65% since 2014, while 42% of its research was rated world-leading, rising from 31% in 2014. Through research, creativity and innovation, the University works to address major global challenges in areas including health, data, energy and sustainability.

Newcastle University offers high-quality teaching and strong student support across a wide range of disciplines, including medicine, business, engineering and computer science. Its education and research aim to develop talented graduates, future leaders and innovative thinkers who can make a meaningful contribution to society.

With campuses in Newcastle, Singapore and Malaysia, the University has a truly global reach. These locations create opportunities for international collaboration and partnerships with communities and industry while extending the University’s academic expertise, research impact and student experience.

The Newcastle campus is a major hub for teaching, research and collaboration, located just minutes from the bustling city centre. Combining historic red-brick buildings with striking contemporary architecture and green spaces, the campus provides world-class facilities within a supportive community.

Situated in Newcastle upon Tyne, a welcoming, affordable and student-friendly UK city, Newcastle University offers students a dynamic environment enriched by excellent transport, cultural experiences and city-centre opportunities.

Newcastle University offers a comprehensive range of student services designed to support academic achievement, personal wellbeing, career development and a positive university experience. From the first days on campus to graduation, students can access guidance, practical resources and specialist support to help them settle into university life, develop essential skills and achieve their goals.

Academic support is available throughout a student’s studies. Undergraduate and postgraduate taught students are assigned an Academic Adviser, who can provide guidance when personal difficulties may affect attendance or academic work. Postgraduate research students can seek support from their supervisor or supervisors and the Doctoral College.

Every new undergraduate student is also assigned a Peer Mentor. Peer Mentors welcome new students to Newcastle University and help them make a smooth transition into their academic programme. Their guidance helps students understand what to expect and make the most of university life. For non-academic questions, students can contact the Student Engagement Team for additional support.

The University also provides an Academic Skills Kit, offering practical advice and resources to strengthen learning strategies and improve academic performance. Students can access Maths-Aid for mathematical queries, while language-learning resources support the development of language skills.

Student wellbeing is an important part of the Newcastle University experience. Student Wellbeing Advisers are based within academic schools and provide a listening and support service to help students gain the most from their time at university. They can also direct students to other relevant services, including the University’s central Student Health and Wellbeing services. Students can access counselling and other health-related support as part of the University’s commitment to promoting wellbeing.

The Careers Service helps undergraduate and postgraduate students prepare for future opportunities. Students can attend careers events and workshops, receive tailored guidance, explore work experience and part-time employment, and learn about the graduate recruitment market. Support is also available to help students understand recruitment processes and access resources designed for international students.

Careers talks and inductions are included in student timetables, while MyCareer allows students to book one-to-one support online or in person. The Career Navigator platform provides useful information for students seeking part-time work or planning their long-term careers and can be explored before arriving at the University.

Newcastle University libraries provide study spaces, learning resources and extensive opening hours. Students can use Library Search to find books, e-books and journal articles, access practical study resources through the Academic Skills Kit and receive help through Library Help.

All Newcastle University students automatically become members of Newcastle University Students’ Union (NUSU), an independent organisation run by students for students. Membership provides access to events, activities, clubs, societies and campaigns that aim to improve the student experience.

International students are also welcomed through International Welcome Week, which includes information sessions, social events and a Newcastle Airport meet-and-greet service to help them settle into life in the UK.

Newcastle University is recognised nationally and internationally for its academic excellence, research strength, sustainability leadership, graduate outcomes and student experience. Its strong performance across major university rankings highlights its position as a respected, research-intensive institution and provides prospective students with clear evidence of the quality and global reach of a Newcastle University education.

In the QS World University Rankings 2026, Newcastle University was placed among the global top 150 universities. The University also ranked in the UK top 20 in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, further demonstrating its standing among leading higher education institutions. In the latest QS World University Rankings 2027, published in 2026, Newcastle University was ranked 149th in the world. It also secured 144th place globally in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, published in 2025, and was ranked 105th in TIME Magazine’s World’s Top Universities of 2026.

The University’s overall quality is also recognised through its 5+ QS Stars for Overall Excellence 2025. In addition, Newcastle University received 5 QS Stars for Student Employability in 2024, reflecting its strong focus on preparing students for professional careers and future opportunities. Graduate outcomes are equally encouraging, with 94% of full-time graduates in employment or further study, according to the Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021–22.

Research is a major strength of Newcastle University. In the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF), the University ranked 15th in the UK for global research power. It achieved a sector ranking of 33rd for research quality, measured through Grade Point Average. These results demonstrate the quality, scale and impact of Newcastle’s research activity.

Sustainability is another important area of achievement. Newcastle University ranked 22nd in the UK and 64th in the world for sustainability in the QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2026. It was also placed 56th globally for sustainability and social impact in the 2025 edition and ranked 85th in the world for sustainable development in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2026. The University was further recognised in the People and Planet University League 2024/25, where it ranked 34th in the UK.

Across UK league tables, Newcastle University ranked 34th in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026, 35th in the Complete University Guide 2026, and 81st in The Guardian University Guide 2025. It also achieved a top-10 position for sport in the British Universities and College Sport (BUCS) rankings.

Beyond academic performance, Newcastle offers an attractive student environment. The city was ranked among the world’s top 50 and the UK’s top five student cities in the QS Best Student Cities 2026. Together, these rankings highlight Newcastle University’s strengths in education, research, employability, sustainability, sport and student life.

Student life at Newcastle University is welcoming, inclusive, supportive and full of opportunities. With a beautiful city-centre campus, a vibrant student community and one of the UK’s most popular student destinations on its doorstep, Newcastle offers an exciting environment where students can learn, connect, explore and feel at home.

Newcastle University is ranked among the global top 140 universities in the QS World University Rankings 2026, while Newcastle is recognised as a UK top-five and global top-50 student city in the QS Best Student Cities 2026. The University was also named Top for Student Life in the Uni Compare 2027 rankings, highlighting the quality and variety of experiences available to students.

The University’s campus is ideally located less than two minutes’ walk from Newcastle’s main city-centre shopping area. Students never have to travel far for lectures, seminars, cafés or places to enjoy a quick meal. The School of Computing and Newcastle Business School are based at Newcastle Helix, approximately a 15-minute walk from the centre of campus. This convenient location allows students to combine academic life with the energy, culture and entertainment of the city.

Newcastle University is home to more than 28,000 students from over 130 countries, creating a diverse and international community. Students are supported from their arrival in the UK through to graduation and beyond. Whether settling into a new country, meeting people or developing new interests, students can become part of a welcoming community while building experiences that support their future success.

There are more than 200 student-led groups to join, offering opportunities to continue existing interests or try something completely new. Students can enjoy social activities, meet people from different backgrounds and become involved in a wide range of clubs and societies.

Sport and fitness are open to everyone, regardless of experience or ability. From first-time exercise-class participants and all-weather rugby players to aspiring professional athletes, students can find activities that match their interests and goals. Newcastle is also a proud sporting city, with community-focused clubs and a wide choice of indoor and outdoor activities, supported by pitches, courts, parks, swimming pools, gyms and sports halls.

The city itself adds another dimension to the Newcastle University student experience. As the regional capital of North East England, Newcastle combines a rich history with multicultural communities, creativity and a lively atmosphere. Students can explore the NewcastleGateshead Quayside, a popular destination for music, art, food and nightlife, located around a 20-minute walk from campus. Grainger Town offers historic streets, the Grainger Market, local traders, artisan bakeries, street food and Newcastle’s Chinatown.

With more than 30 parks and open spaces, including Leazes Park, Exhibition Park and the Town Moor, students can enjoy green surroundings alongside city life. Newcastle also offers theatre, cinema, art, live music, seasonal events, cycling routes and walking opportunities.

Sustainability is an important part of the University community. Newcastle University declared a Climate Emergency and pledged to reduce its own net carbon emissions to zero by 2030. As only the second university in the UK to make this declaration, it demonstrates a clear commitment to sustainable development and environmental responsibility.

With its friendly atmosphere, diverse community, excellent location and wide range of social, cultural and sporting opportunities, Newcastle University provides a fulfilling and memorable student life experience.

Newcastle University offers a wide range of student accommodation designed to provide a safe, comfortable and supportive place to live. Whether you are an undergraduate, postgraduate, international student, exchange student, part of a couple or family, or require accessible accommodation, the University provides options to suit different needs, preferences and budgets.

With nearly 4,000 rooms available, Newcastle University accommodation includes en suite rooms, standard rooms, larger single rooms and studio apartments. Around 25% of University accommodation is catered, while self-catered residences usually provide shared kitchen facilities within student flats. This creates opportunities to enjoy independent living while becoming part of a welcoming and diverse student community.

The University takes pride in creating safe and vibrant communities across its student villages. Each residence has its own character, offering students a place to study, socialise and relax. The University’s campus is located in the heart of Newcastle, and residences are either based on campus or situated close to the city centre. Most are within walking distance of academic facilities, while others are easily accessible by public transport. This convenient location keeps students close to lectures as well as Newcastle’s shops, restaurants, bars, history and cultural attractions.

Students can choose from a variety of well-located residences. Bernicia is only a one-minute walk from the centre of campus and offers modern en suite and studio rooms. Byron Central provides en suite undergraduate accommodation with a strong community atmosphere, approximately 10 minutes from central campus. Grand Hotel is located on campus above the University bookshop, less than two minutes from the Students’ Union and under five minutes from the city centre’s main shopping street.

Other centrally located options include Newgate Court, which offers modern en suite rooms in the heart of the city, and The View and Verde, which provide high-quality en suite accommodation and are just over a 10-minute walk from central campus. Wellington St Plaza, located next to the Business School and close to St James’ Park, offers modern en suite rooms in shared flats.

For students seeking different living environments, Marris House provides more than 180 washbasin bedrooms arranged in six-bedroom flats, while Manor Bank offers en suite rooms in four- to six-bedroom flats. Windsor Terrace, located next to the University library, provides both washbasin and en suite rooms and is only a six-minute walk from central campus.

Accessible accommodation is available at Kensington Terrace, Park Terrace and Park View. Kensington Terrace consists of 10 converted Victorian houses accommodating between seven and 17 students. Park Terrace provides more than 200 en suite rooms, while Park View offers en suite, studio and accessible accommodation.

Postgraduate students, couples and families can consider Bowsden Court, located in South Gosforth and well connected by Metro and bus. Rosedale Court and Turner Court, situated in the distinctive Ouseburn area near the Quayside, provide additional accommodation options.

Newcastle University guarantees accommodation for international students during their first year of study, supporting a smooth transition to life in the UK. Students who prefer to live off campus can also receive free advice and support from the University’s Accommodation Service when searching for private rented accommodation in Newcastle.

With a broad choice of room types, locations and living styles, Newcastle University accommodation helps students find a convenient and welcoming home that supports both academic success and an enjoyable student experience.