Manchester is home to some of the best universities in the UK, attracting over 100,000 students each year. Known as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, the city has evolved into one of Europe’s leading academic and research centres. Today, Manchester combines world-class education, strong graduate employability, and a vibrant student lifestyle. Whether you are an international applicant or planning undergraduate or postgraduate study in 2026, the city offers a wide range of institutions — from Russell Group excellence to specialist conservatoires. So, which are the best universities in Manchester 2026? Here is our expert guide.
Why Choose Manchester as Your Study Destination?
The appeal of Manchester extends far beyond its lecture halls. It is a city that lives and breathes music, football, and creativity. For international students, the city provides a welcoming, multicultural atmosphere where over 170 countries are represented. Economically, Manchester offers a significant advantage; the cost of living is approximately 30% lower than in London, particularly when it comes to Manchester accommodation.
From the world-class street art in the Northern Quarter to the high-tech media hubs at MediaCityUK, Manchester provides a backdrop that encourages both personal and professional growth. The city’s transport links are equally impressive, with a comprehensive tram network (Metrolink) and a major international airport, making it a gateway to the rest of the UK and Europe.
Universities in Manchester: Overview at a Glance
| Institution | Type | QS World Rank (2026) | Int’l Tuition (Approx.) | Best Known For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 University of Manchester |
Public / Russell Group
Research-Led
|
#35
#7 in UK
ARWU #46
|
£23,000–£40,000/yr
Varies by programme; Medicine at top end
|
Research & Science
Business (Alliance MBS)
Medicine
Engineering
25 Nobel Laureates
|
| 02 Manchester Metropolitan University |
Public · Modern
TEF Gold
|
#643
Guardian #33 UK (2026)
#1 Sustainability UK
|
£15,500–£21,000/yr
Triple-accredited Business School
|
Art & Design
Business
Technology
Architecture (world top 5)
Sustainability
|
| 03 University of Salford |
Public
Practice-Led
|
#901–950
THE #801–1000
|
£11,500–£16,000/yr
Sept & Jan intakes available
|
Media & Broadcasting
Engineering
Health Sciences
MediaCityUK campus
|
|
04
University of Bolton
(University of Greater Manchester)
|
Public
TEF Silver
|
Not globally ranked*
96.5% graduate employment
|
£11,250–£14,000/yr
UG from £13,500; PG £13,500–£16,500
|
Vocational & Technical
Visual FX
Motorsport Engineering
Dental Sciences
|
| 05 Royal Northern College of Music |
Conservatoire
Specialist HEI
|
Top 5
QS Music (Subject Rank)
Top 10 Perf. Arts
|
£23,000–£27,000/yr
Entry by audition, not grades
|
Classical Performance
Opera
Composition
Contemporary Music
|
| 06 University Academy 92 (UA92) |
Private HEI
Lancaster Validated
|
New institution
Est. 2019 · No global rank yet
|
~£14,500/yr
Degrees validated by Lancaster University
|
Business
Sport Management
Leadership
Class of ’92 Co-Founded
|
| 07 The Manchester College |
FE / HE College
Public
|
Not globally ranked
Ofsted Inspected
|
~£9,000/yr
HNC/HND & Foundation Degrees
|
Arts & Creative
Science
Engineering
Law Foundation
Vocational Pathways
|
| 08 BPP University |
Private University
TEF Bronze
|
Not QS ranked
96% PG employed (highly skilled)
|
£12,000–£33,000/yr
Avg UG ~£13,420; PG ~£18,990
|
Law (SQE / LPC)
Business & Finance
Nursing
Healthcare
FTSE 100 Training
|
| 09 BIMM University |
Private HEI
Specialist
|
Not QS ranked
83% work in creative industries (6 mo)
|
£13,500–£15,500/yr
Int’l £2,000 early-bird discount available
|
Modern Music
Music Business
Filmmaking
Performing Arts
Industry Masterclasses
|
Best Universities in Manchester
University of Manchester
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Location: Oxford Road
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World QS ranking: 35th
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Acceptance Rate: ~56%
-
Percentage of international students: ~40%
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Popular courses: Medicine, Engineering, Business
-
Tests Required: GPA: 3.0+
-
SAT: 1290+
-
TOEFL: 90+
-
IELTS: 6.5-7.0
-
The University of Manchester is one of the UK’s nine red brick universities and a founding member of the Russell Group, ranking among the best universities in Manchester. It ranked 35th globally in the 2026 QS World University Rankings. This research-intensive university boasts 25 Nobel laureates and is particularly renowned for its outstanding contributions to science and engineering – atomic fission research and the world’s first stored-program computer both originated here. Popular programmes include the MBA offered by Alliance Manchester Business School, alongside flagship disciplines such as medicine, physics, engineering, and international law. As one of the UK’s largest single-site universities, its campus stretches along Oxford Road, covering approximately 270 hectares. It comprises 229 teaching and research facilities, forming a highly concentrated academic and research hub.
For prospective students, selecting suitable student accommodation near the University of Manchester is equally crucial. Many undergraduates favour traditional student communities like Fallowfield and Rusholme, where living costs are comparatively lower, social life is vibrant, and campus access is swift via the Oxford Road transport corridor. Victoria Park offers a quieter environment, appealing to those prioritising a studious atmosphere. Meanwhile, Manchester city centre and the Oxford Road vicinity feature more modern flats and premium student accommodation, boasting short commutes and proving popular among postgraduate and international students. This prime location and diverse accommodation options ensure the University of Manchester excels not only academically but also in providing exceptional convenience for student life.
Manchester Metropolitan University
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Location: All Saints
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World QS ranking 2026: 643th
-
Acceptance Rate: ~80%
-
Percentage of international students: ~11-22%
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Popular courses: Architecture, Fashion, Art
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Tests Required: GPA: 2.8+
-
Other: UCAS 104+ points
-
TOEFL: 80+
-
IELTS: 6.0-6.5
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Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) has undergone rapid development in recent years, establishing itself as one of the UK’s most dynamic modern universities. Recognised by The Times and The Sunday Times as the UK’s top modern university for 2026, its national rankings continue to rise, demonstrating formidable comprehensive strength. In the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) assessment, MMU achieved a Gold rating, placing it among the UK’s highest-ranked institutions for teaching quality. In the 2025 National Student Survey, its student experience ranked seventh in England, fully reflecting the university’s strengths in teaching support and learning environments.
MMU is renowned for its industry-led programmes and strong emphasis on employability development, dedicated to preparing students for the real workplace. Its Business School holds the prestigious triple accreditation of AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS – a distinction held by fewer than 1% of business schools globally, signifying its international standing. Furthermore, MMU demonstrates significant strengths in fashion, food science, and education. As one of the UK’s largest universities by student numbers, MMU hosts over 44,000 students from more than 130 countries, fostering a diverse and inclusive international campus environment. For students planning to study here, MMU accommodation options range from modern city-centre halls to purpose-built student residences within walking distance of campus, offering convenient and well-connected living choices tailored to different budgets and lifestyles.
University of Salford
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Location: MediaCityUK
-
World QS ranking: 901st+
-
Acceptance Rate: ~48-70%
-
Percentage of international students: ~18-30%
-
Popular courses: Media, Creative Tech, Engineering
-
Tests Required: GPA: 2.5+
-
SAT: 1100+
-
TOEFL: 80+
-
IELTS: 6.0
-
The University of Salford is a British public comprehensive university, with its origins dating back to 1896 and receiving its royal charter in 1967. Located in Greater Manchester, its main campus adjoins Peel Park and features advanced teaching and research facilities, including an innovation centre for robotics and intelligent systems. Its MediaCity campus, situated adjacent to the BBC and ITV headquarters, offers unique industry resources for students in media, digital content, and creative industries. The campus boasts its own railway station, providing convenient access to Manchester city centre in approximately ten minutes.
Renowned for its practice-led approach and industry collaboration, the university emphasises real-world project experience and professional skills development. It consistently performs well in national teaching and student satisfaction assessments, with international student satisfaction ranking among the highest in the North West of England. Its Business School holds dual accreditation from AMBA and EFMD, while demonstrating particular strength in Arts and Media, Engineering, Computing, and Health Sciences. Ranked within the 801–1000 bracket in the QS World University Rankings, the institution maintains competitive domestic subject rankings across several disciplines. Overall, the University of Salford is well-suited for students seeking to combine academic study with industry-based practice.
University of Greater Manchester
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Location: Bolton
-
World QS ranking: N/A
-
Acceptance Rate: ~66-70%
-
Percentage of international students: ~30%
-
Popular courses: Health, Engineering, Business
-
Tests Required: GPA: 2.0+
-
SAT: 1000+
-
TOEFL: 80+
-
IELTS: 6.0
-
The University of Bolton, now named University of Greater Manchester, sits approximately 12 miles northwest of Manchester city centre, in the market town of Bolton. It is the smallest of the Greater Manchester universities but has built a distinct reputation in specialist vocational and technical disciplines — particularly those that sit at the intersection of creativity and applied engineering.
Bolton is among only a handful of UK universities offering undergraduate programmes in visual effects, motorsport engineering, and dental technology at this level. Its focus on small class sizes and high staff-to-student ratios delivers a style of education that larger institutions rarely replicate: genuinely personalised, heavily practice-oriented, and tightly linked to industry placement pathways.
The Royal Northern College of Music
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Location: Oxford Road
-
World QS ranking: 5th (Music-specific ranking)
-
Acceptance Rate: Selective (Audition-based)
-
Percentage of international students: ~33%
-
Popular courses: Music Performance, Composition
-
Tests Required: GPA: 3.0+
-
Other: Mandatory Audition
-
TOEFL: 80+
-
IELTS: 6.0-7.0
-
The RNCM is not a conventional university — it is a world-leading conservatoire, and one of only a handful of institutions globally that trains professional musicians at the highest level. Situated on Oxford Road directly adjacent to the University of Manchester, the RNCM produces graduates who go on to perform with leading orchestras, chamber ensembles, and opera companies worldwide.
Its specialist status means entry is through audition rather than academic grades alone, and the student experience is defined by intensive practice, public performance, and close mentorship from tutors who are themselves active professional musicians. The college hosts hundreds of public concerts each year, making it both an educational institution and a significant part of Manchester’s cultural life.
University Academy 92
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Location: Old Trafford
-
World QS ranking: N/A
-
Acceptance Rate: ~85%
-
Percentage of international students: ~20%+
-
Popular courses: Sports, Business, Digital
-
Tests Required: GPA: 2.5+
-
Other: IB 28 points
-
TOEFL: 80+
-
IELTS: 6.0
-
University Academy 92 (UA92) was established in 2019 as a relatively new higher education institution supported by Lancaster University and co-founded by members of Manchester United’s “Class of ’92”. Located in Greater Manchester, this smaller-scale institution emphasises practical skills, employability and personal development. Its programmes span business management, digital media, sports and computing, operating on a flexible term system with a focus on industry collaboration and real-world project experience. UA92 positions itself as a vocationally oriented higher education provider, catering to students seeking greater personalised support within a compact learning environment.
The Manchester College
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Location: Multiple Sites
-
World QS ranking: N/A
-
Acceptance Rate: High
-
Percentage of international students: Legacy/Specific Status
-
Popular courses: Arts, Science, Vocational
-
Tests Required: GPA: 2.0+
-
Other: Portfolio submission
-
TOEFL: 72+
-
IELTS: 5.5-6.0
-
One of the UK’s largest further and higher education colleges, The Manchester College offers foundation degrees, HNDs, and some full undergraduate programmes — particularly in arts, science, and professional trades. For students building towards a university-level qualification through a more gradual pathway, or those seeking vocational higher education at lower cost, it represents a well-resourced option with strong links to local employers.
BPP University
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Location: Oxford Road
-
World QS ranking: N/A
-
Acceptance Rate: ~60%
-
Percentage of international students: ~70%
-
Popular courses: Law, Business, Nursing
-
Tests Required: GPA: 2.5+ (Focus on professional background)
-
TOEFL: 80+
-
IELTS: 6.0-6.5
-
BPP University is a private institution focused on career-driven education, specialising in law, business, finance, accounting and health-related programmes. It has campuses in Manchester, London and several other major UK cities. BPP is known for its strong links with industry, particularly in law and accountancy, where its courses are closely aligned with professional qualification pathways. For students aiming to become solicitors, barristers or chartered accountanally be described as the best university in Manchester in terms of broad academic rankings, BPP ts, the university offers training designed to meet current industry standards. While it may not traditionstands out for students with clear career goals who want practical, application-focused learning and a direct route into professional sectors.
BIMM University
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Location: City Center
-
World QS ranking: N/A
-
Acceptance Rate: Moderate
-
Percentage of international students: ~3-8%
-
Popular courses: Music Production, Songwriting
-
Tests Required: GPA: 2.0+
-
Other: Audition required
-
TOEFL: 72+
-
IELTS: 6.0
-
BIMM University (British and Irish Modern Music Institute) is a specialist institution dedicated to modern music and creative industry education, with campuses across several UK cities including Manchester. The school primarily offers courses in popular music performance, music production, songwriting, music business and related creative disciplines. Teaching emphasises industry practice and the development of individual artistic styles, with active professionals from the music industry invited to contribute to the curriculum. BIMM positions itself within the contemporary music and creative industries sector, making it suitable for students aspiring to develop careers in popular music or creative fields.
Things to do in Manchester for Students
The city offers far more than just excellent universities; there are many things to do in Manchester for students. The city has a strong cultural identity, shaped by its industrial heritage, music scene and sporting legacy. Students can explore world-class museums such as the Science and Industry Museum and Manchester Art Gallery, or spend weekends browsing independent shops and cafés in the Northern Quarter.
For football fans, visiting Old Trafford or the Etihad Stadium is almost a rite of passage. Music lovers will appreciate Manchester’s legendary live scene, with venues ranging from small indie stages to large arenas hosting international artists. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with Deansgate Locks and the Northern Quarter offering a mix of bars, clubs and late-night eateries.
Green spaces like Heaton Park and Fletcher Moss Gardens provide a break from city life, while the nearby Peak District is perfect for hiking day trips. Whether you’re into culture, sport, food or outdoor adventures, Manchester offers a well-rounded student lifestyle beyond academics.
Cost of Living in Manchester
One of the most significant advantages of studying in Manchester is the balance between quality of life and affordability. While prices are rising across the UK, Manchester remains more accessible than the south.
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | £500 – £850 |
| Groceries | £150 – £200 |
| Transport | £50 – £70 |
| Socializing | £150 – £250 |
| Total Estimate | £850 – £1,370 |
How to Choose the Right Manchester University?
When deciding which universities in Manchester are best for you, consider your career goals and preferred learning style. If you are aiming for a career in academia or high-level research, the University of Manchester is the clear choice. However, if you prefer a modern, hands-on approach with strong industry connections, MMU or Salford may be more suitable.
For those in the creative arts, the RNCM or BIMM offer unparalleled networking opportunities within the music industry. Always check the UCAS tariff requirements and the specific module breakdowns for your chosen course, as the “Best University” is ultimately the one that aligns most closely with your personal ambitions.
FAQs About Best Universities in Manchester
The University of Manchester is consistently the highest-ranked institution in the city, placing 35th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and 56th in THE World University Rankings 2026. It is also the only Russell Group member in the city.
The University of Salford is the clear winner. Its dedicated campus at MediaCityUK sits right next to the BBC and ITV, offering students unparalleled networking opportunities and access to professional-grade studios.
There are five main universities in Manchester city:
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The University of Manchester
-
Manchester Metropolitan University
-
University of Salford
-
Royal Northern College of Music
-
University Academy 92
The University of Manchester has one of the strongest graduate employability reputations in the UK. Manchester Metropolitan University is also highly regarded for placement opportunities and career-focused courses.
The University of Manchester (Alliance Manchester Business School) is widely regarded as the strongest for Business and Management due to its global reputation and accreditation.
Compared to London, Manchester is very affordable. Students can expect to save around 30% on living costs, particularly in rent and transport. The average monthly budget for a student ranges from £850 to £1,370
Yes, most international students on a Student Visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays.
Yes, under the UK’s Graduate Route visa, international students can stay and work (or look for work) in the UK for two years after completing their degree (three years for PhD graduates). Manchester’s growing tech and media scenes make it an ideal place to start a career.
Absolutely. All major Manchester universities offer merit-based scholarships. For 2026, UoM offers the Global Futures Scholarship, while MMU and Salford provide specific international excellence awards ranging from £2,000 to £5,000.
