Birkbeck, University of London

Birkbeck is proud to be among the top 350 research-intensive universities in the world. Most international students choose to study with Birkbeck because of its reputation as a world-class research and teaching institution based in central London.

Birkbeck award globally recognised University of London qualifications—a mark of quality and excellence. The University's graduates and staff include 74 Nobel Laureates, 52 presidents and prime ministers, and numerous international luminaries. Birkbeck joined the University of London 100 years ago and, in 2023, celebrated 200 years of providing higher education.  

Students from over 120 countries study at the University, so you’ll find yourself surrounded by committed, enthusiastic students from all backgrounds, careers and cultures, ages from 18 to 80 plus. Unique evening teaching means you can study alongside London’s working professionals and pursue internship or part-time work opportunities during the day. This will not only help you finance your studies but also means you can explore job opportunities and enhance your career prospects. You can use a professional recruitment service, Talent, which works with some of the UK’s top employers to help Birkbeck students find relevant work experience and advance in a competitive job market.

Birkbeck, University of London, organises a number of orientation events for international students, ranging from college-wide to department-specific. The general International Orientation Week runs for the first week of each year and features talks on study skills and trips around London. Pre-entry preparation and post-induction and support programmes are also available.

• 408th in QS World University Rankings 2025
• 301–350th in Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024

International students benefit from a guaranteed scheme for room allocations in halls of residence. Most halls are located in Bloomsbury, minutes away from the college, and offer a wide range of options, from catered to self-catered studios. 

Should you prefer to live in privately rented accommodation in London, you will have free access to the University of London’s professional Housing Service, which can help you find the best type of accommodation for you. To find out more, visit bbk.ac.uk/accommodation.