Study in Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Newcastle for students

Newcastle (or Newcastle-upon-Tyne), the largest city in north-east England is diverse, vibrant and welcoming.

Three universities featured in the QS World University Rankings® 2023 are located in or close to Newcastle. These include the nearby Durham University – about a half hour drive away – which is ranked 92nd in the world and is a member of the prestigious Russell Group (an association of leading research universities).

Right in the heart of Newcastle city centre, and in close proximity to one another, are Newcastle University and Northumbria University at Newcastle – both of which also feature in the world university rankings.

Best universities in Newcastle - QS Best Student Cities ranking: 42nd 

More about Newcastle 

Newcastle is home to three top universities featuring in the QS World University Rankings this year. Of these, Durham University performs the best, ranking 92nd in the world. Newcastle earns its highest score for student view, where it ranks 25th globally.

To find out how each of the above categories is calculated, view the methodology.

Why study in Newcastle?

Affordable living cost

The city ranks 92nd for affordability this year, due to an inexpensive cost of living compared to other UK cities. 

Interesting history

Newcastle Upon Tyne has a fascinating history dating back to the Roman period, which you can learn more about in its many museums.

Desirable city

Newcastle Upon Tyne ranks 58th globally in the desirability indicator; reflecting its high standard of living.

Cost of studying in Newcastle

Newcastle ranks 92nd for affordability this year. As with most English cities, tuition fees are expensive for international students, costing approximately US$24,000.

However, living costs are a lot cheaper than other English cities. Numbeo estimates that a single person's monthly costs will be around £600 plus an additional £655 for rent on a one bedroom apartment in the city centre - 65 percent lower than London. 

Life and culture in Newcastle 

Named after the Norman castle of the city centre, the city’s history spans from the Roman period to its time as an important industrial centre for coal mining, engineering and shipping during the 19^th century. Newcastle’s aptitude for engineering continues to this day, with award-winning structures such as the Gateshead Millennium Bridge.

The thriving cultural hub of the Quayside (the banks of the River Tyne) is home to many restaurants, bars, night clubs and public spaces, combining the best of the city and nearby town Gateshead.

The city also annually hosts the world's largest half marathon, the Great North Run. Residents from Newcastle and the surrounding area are dubbed ‘Geordies’, as is the distinctive local dialect, which is the closest language to 1,500-year-old Anglo-Saxon left in England.

Newcastle achieves a very high score (joint 20th) in the Student Mix indicator of the QS Best Student Cities ranking, thanks to its large student population and high percentage of international enrolments, making for a multicultural student experience.

Careers in Newcastle Upon Tyne

Newcastle Upon Tyne ranks 83rd for employer activity this year, showing that its graduates are highly respected by potential employers. Newcastle has a number of international companies with offices in its city centre, all of which are constantly on the lookout for promising graduates.