Durham University acceptance rate is around 41%, and the offer rate for the 2023/24 cycle is 72% (32995 applications, 23657 offers) according to the university’s newest official undergraduate admission statistics, denoting that it is relatively easier to get into compared with other top universities in the UK. Before making up your decisions, let’s check more about its rankings, fees, and other aspects together!
About Durham University
Founded by an Act of Parliament in 1832, Durham University (legally the University of Durham), is the third-oldest university in England, only after Oxford and Cambridge. As a member of the Russel Group universities, Durham University ranked 94th in the QS World Rankings 2026 and top 5 in the UK by Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026.
The University of Durham has long been recognised by its excellence in teaching, learning, and research, with nearly 2,000 dedicated and extraordinary staff providing world-class education. Every year, over 30,000 students in and outside the UK are attracted and apply to study here. The Durham University acceptance rate is around 41%, offering a balance between competitiveness and academic excellence.
| Durham University Overview | |
|---|---|
| Founded in | 1832 |
| Compus Size | 360 acres |
| QS 2026 | 94 |
| Employment Rate | 90-96% |
| Best Subjects | Law and Politics, Philosophy, Mathematics and Statistics, Computer Science, Business and Management, Humanities and Social Sciences |
| Top Recruiters | PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers), Deloitte, EY (Ernst & Young), KPMG, BBC, Goldman Sachs |
| Acceptance Rate | 41%(offer rate around 70%) |
| Tuition Fee | Around £28,000 to £35,000 per year for international students |
Durham University Ranking
Durham University’s world ranking has long been in the top 100 for many years in the QS World University, and the newest ranking in 2025 is 89th, which signifies its global impact and academic excellence. Notably, it also ranked 19th for sustainability and 65 for employer reputation by QS 2025.
Compared with other UK universities, Durham University is usually ranked in the top 10 by The Guardian and The Complete University Guide. Detailed Durham University ranking from 2023 to 2026 is as follows:
| Year/Ranking | QS | The Times UK | The Guardian | The Complete University Guide |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 94 | 3 | 5 | 5 |
| 2025 | 89 | 5 | 6 | 7 |
| 2024 | 78 | 7 | 7 | 8 |
| 2023 | 95 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
Durham University Acceptance Rate
Getting to know the Durham University acceptance rate is crucial if you plan to study here. Acceptance rate represents the percentage of students admitted to a university to the number of students who applied; an offer rate refers to the percentage of students who received offers and the number of students who applied.
Durham University acceptance rate is typically around 41%, while the offer rate can reach around 70%, with an increase from 67% to 72% from 2022/23 cycle to 2023/24 cycle.
Durham University Acceptance Rate 2023/24
According to newest official statistics by Durham University, the offer rate for the 2023/24 cycle is 72% for undergraduate study, meaning that 72 students can receive offers in every 100 who applied Durham University undergraduate programs.
Applicants in 2023/24 Cycle:
- Applications: 32,995
- Offers: 23,657
- Offer Rate: 72%
Home/Islands Applicants:
- Applications: 21,570
- Offers: 14,785
- Offer Rate: 69%
Overseas/EU Applicants:
- Applications: 11,425
- Offers: 8,890
- Offer Rate: 78%
Durham University Acceptance Rate by Course
Of course, Durham University acceptance rate varies greatly from course to course. Durham University offers a wide range of competitive programmes, with acceptance rates varying from 42% (Economics) to 98% (Natural Sciences). Popular programmes like Accounting, Finance, and Psychology have high offer rates, while more specialised areas like Economics and Management see lower acceptance rates.
Here is a detailed look for the Durham University official acceptance data of each course for home and international students during the 2023/24 cycle:
| Home/Islands Applicants | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Department | Number of Applications | Offered Programme Applied To | % Offered Programme Applied To | Offered Alternative Programme | % Offered Alternative Programme | % Made an Offer: Original or Alternative Programme Applied To |
| Accounting | 85 | 75 | 89% | 0 | 1% | 90% |
| Accounting and Finance/Mgmt | 720 | 400 | 56% | 0 | 0% | 56% |
| Anthropology | 240 | 225 | 93% | 0 | 0% | 93% |
| Archaeology | 235 | 210 | 90% | 10 | 4% | 94% |
| Biological & Biomedical Sciences | 800 | 590 | 74% | 0 | 0% | 74% |
| Chemistry | 470 | 450 | 96% | 0 | 0% | 96% |
| Classics & Ancient History | 635 | 440 | 69% | 15 | 2% | 72% |
| Combined Honours in Social Sciences | 380 | 365 | 96% | 0 | 0% | 96% |
| Computer Science | 1170 | 315 | 27% | 0 | 0% | 27% |
| Earth Sciences | 290 | 270 | 94% | 0 | 0% | 94% |
| Economics | 1165 | 235 | 20% | 0 | 0% | 20% |
| Education Studies | 75 | 70 | 97% | 0 | 0% | 97% |
| Engineering | 910 | 805 | 88% | 0 | 0% | 88% |
| English Studies | 995 | 950 | 95% | 10 | 1% | 97% |
| Finance | 505 | 190 | 38% | 0 | 0% | 38% |
| Foundation Centre 2 | 810 | 200 | 25% | 5 | 1% | 25% |
| Geography | 630 | 605 | 97% | 0 | 0% | 97% |
| Government & International Affairs | 845 | 315 | 37% | 0 | 0% | 37% |
| History | 1130 | 900 | 80% | 25 | 2% | 82% |
| Law | 1535 | 540 | 35% | 15 | 1% | 36% |
| Liberal Arts | 320 | 250 | 79% | 60 | 19% | 98% |
| Management | 815 | 310 | 38% | 0 | 0% | 38% |
| Marketing | 155 | 90 | 57% | 0 | 0% | 57% |
| Mathematical Sciences | 905 | 845 | 93% | 0 | 0% | 93% |
| Modern Languages & Cultures | 605 | 570 | 94% | 10 | 2% | 96% |
| Music | 225 | 215 | 94% | 5 | 1% | 96% |
| Natural Sciences | 845 | 825 | 97% | 0 | 0% | 98% |
| Philosophy | 380 | 270 | 71% | 50 | 14% | 85% |
| Philosophy, Politics & Economics | 375 | 340 | 91% | 0 | 0% | 91% |
| Physics | 925 | 705 | 76% | 0 | 0% | 76% |
| Primary Education | 210 | 105 | 49% | 0 | 0% | 49% |
| Psychology | 940 | 880 | 93% | 0 | 0% | 93% |
| Sociology | 370 | 330 | 89% | 0 | 0% | 89% |
| Sport and Exercise Sciences | 655 | 465 | 71% | 0 | 0% | 71% |
| Theology & Religion | 225 | 205 | 91% | 15 | 6% | 97% |
| Total | 21570 | 14550 | 67% | 235 | 1% | 69% |
| Overseas/EU Applicants | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Department | Number of Applications | Offered Programme Applied To | % Offered Programme Applied To | Offered Alternative Programme | % Offered Alternative Programme | % Made an Offer: Original or Alternative Programme Applied To |
| Accounting | 180 | 155 | 88% | 0 | 1% | 89% |
| Accounting and Finance/Management | 955 | 765 | 80% | 0 | 0% | 80% |
| Anthropology | 125 | 115 | 93% | 0 | 0% | 93% |
| Archaeology | 100 | 90 | 90% | 0 | 0% | 90% |
| Biological & Biomedical Sciences | 280 | 250 | 90% | 0 | 0% | 90% |
| Chemistry | 120 | 110 | 92% | 0 | 2% | 94% |
| Classics & Ancient History | 70 | 65 | 96% | 0 | 0% | 96% |
| Combined Honours in Social Sciences | 90 | 80 | 88% | 0 | 0% | 88% |
| Computer Science | 770 | 620 | 80% | 0 | 0% | 80% |
| Earth Sciences | 105 | 90 | 88% | 0 | 0% | 88% |
| Economics | 805 | 335 | 42% | 5 | 1% | 43% |
| Education Studies | 355 | 330 | 94% | 0 | 1% | 94% |
| Engineering | 400 | 315 | 79% | 0 | 0% | 79% |
| English Studies | 210 | 170 | 80% | 0 | 0% | 80% |
| Finance | 680 | 620 | 92% | 0 | 0% | 92% |
| Foundation Centre | 100 | 0 | 0% | 0 | 0% | 0% |
| Geography | 90 | 80 | 91% | 0 | 0% | 91% |
| Government & International Affairs | 430 | 370 | 85% | 5 | 1% | 86% |
| History | 135 | 125 | 92% | 0 | 0% | 92% |
| Law | 960 | 745 | 78% | 0 | 0% | 78% |
| Liberal Arts | 85 | 80 | 90% | 0 | 2% | 92% |
| Management | 1625 | 1035 | 64% | 0 | 0% | 64% |
| Marketing | 430 | 315 | 73% | 0 | 0% | 73% |
| Mathematical Sciences | 360 | 260 | 72% | 10 | 3% | 75% |
| Modern Languages & Cultures | 160 | 140 | 86% | 5 | 2% | 88% |
| Music | 50 | 45 | 90% | 0 | 0% | 90% |
| Natural Sciences | 125 | 125 | 98% | 0 | 0% | 98% |
| Philosophy | 115 | 100 | 88% | 0 | 2% | 90% |
| Philosophy, Politics & Economics | 295 | 240 | 81% | 0 | 0% | 81% |
| Physics | 275 | 230 | 83% | 0 | 0% | 84% |
| Primary Education | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA |
| Psychology | 485 | 430 | 89% | 5 | 1% | 89% |
| Sociology | 330 | 310 | 94% | 0 | 0% | 94% |
| Sport and Exercise Sciences | 85 | 80 | 95% | 0 | 0% | 95% |
| Theology & Religion | 25 | 20 | 77% | 0 | 0% | 77% |
| Total | 11425 | 8850 | 77% | 40 | 0% | 78% |
How to Increase Your Chances of Admission
Durham University is highly selective, and securing a place requires more than just meeting the basic entry requirements. By focusing on a few key areas, you can significantly increase your chances of being offered a place. Here’s how:
Choose a High-Demand Program: Some courses, like Accounting, Finance, and Psychology, have relatively high acceptance rates (around 80-90%). If you’re applying to competitive programmes, make sure your application stands out.
Achieve Excellent Academic Results: Durham looks for strong academic performance. Ensure your grades are above the required threshold for your chosen course. For highly competitive courses like Economics (42% acceptance), exceptional academic qualifications are crucial.
Craft a Strong Personal Statement: A well-written personal statement highlighting your passion, skills, and unique experiences is vital. Tailor it to reflect why you’re specifically interested in the programme you’re applying for.
Consider Applying to Less Competitive Courses: If your first-choice programme has a very low acceptance rate (e.g., Economics), consider applying to related or interdisciplinary courses with slightly higher acceptance rates, such as Business Management or Philosophy.
Highlight Extra-Curricular Achievements: Demonstrating involvement in leadership, volunteering, or relevant work experience can strengthen your application, especially for programmes that value diverse skills beyond academics.
Durham University Acceptance Rate Vs Other UK Universities
When compared with the acceptance rate of other top universities in the UK, you will get to know what the 67% Durham University acceptance rate stands for. Although not the highest, Durham University acceptance rate is only after the University of Southampton and the University of Bristol among listed universities, making it one of the easiest top universities to get into in the United Kingdom.
| University | QS 2025 | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Imperial College London | 2 | 11%-14% |
| University of Oxford | 3 | 16% |
| University of Cambridge | 5 | 16%-18% |
| University College London | 9 | 25% |
| University of Edinburgh | 27 | 9% |
| University of Manchester | 34 | 56% |
| King’s College London | 40 | 13% |
| London School of Economics and Political Science | 50 | 9% |
| University of Bristol | 54 | 67% |
| University of Warwick | 69 | 14% |
| University of Glasgow | 78 | 22% |
| University of Birmingham | 80 | 13% |
| University of Southampton | 80 | 84% |
| University of Leeds | 82 | 44-77% |
| Durham University | 89 | 67% |
Durham University Courses
Durham University courses are available in 300+ undergraduate and taught postgraduate degrees. The University provide research-led education, aimed to challenge and inspire students with emphasis on potential. Popular courses are Law, Finance, Psychology, Economics, Business, and Computer Science.
| Course | A Level | BTEC | International Baccalaureate | Fees for International Students |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Law | A*AA | D*DD | 38 | £28,250 per year |
| Finance | AAB | DDD | 36 | £29,500 per year |
| Psychology | AAA | DDD | 37 | £33,250 per year |
| Economics | A*AA | D*DD | 38 | £29,500 per year |
| Business | AAB | DDD | 36 | £29,500 per year |
| Computer Science | A*AA | D*DD | 38 | £35,000 per year |
Durham University Entry Requirements
Durham University entry requirements vary from course to course, but all courses require students to achieve certain grades in your qualifications. Some courses also require prior study on specific subjects, whether recommended or must. Students can find detailed entry requirements for your chosen course on the Durham University course database. Common requirements are:
- A level: Choosing your subjects at A level (or equivalent) is important, especially if you aspire to study at a leading university.
- Entry Requirements for International Students: Durham University has detailed requirements for qualifications outside the UK, which vary from country to country. Review their requirements before you apply.
- English Language Requirements: If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence of your ability to speak and write English. Standard tests like IELTS, TOEFL, CEP, and CAE are all recognised.
- Additional Criteria: Additional tests and interviews are also sometimes required by some courses. Most undergraduate courses do not require additional tests, but students applying for courses in Law and Mathematics are strongly encouraged to take the specific test.
Durham University Fees
Durham University tuition fees vary between courses but is around £9,250 per year for UK and Island students. While for EU and other international students, the cost is usually around £30,000. Detailed fees for some popular courses in Durham are listed:
| Course | Home students | EU students | Island Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Law | £9,535 | £28,250 | £9,535 | £28,250 |
| Finance | £16,000 | £35,500 | £16,000 | £35,500 |
| Psychology | £9,535 | £33,250 | £9,535 | £33,250 |
| Economics | £9,535 | £29,500 | £9,535 | £29,500 |
| Business Analytics | £35,000 | £35,000 | £35,000 | £35,000 |
| Computer Science | £9,535 | £35,000 | £9,535 | £35,000 |
| Accounting and Finance | £9,535 | £29,500 | £9,535 | £29,500 |
| Human Resource Management | £15,000 | £32,500 | £15,000 | £32,500 |
| Management | £15,000 | £32,500 | £15,000 | £32,500 |
| Marketing | £15,000 | £32,500 | £15,000 | £32,500 |
| Ancient History | £9,535 | £27,500 | £9,535 | £27,500 |
| Biological Sciences | £9,535 | £33,250 | £9,535 | £33,250 |
Apart from tuition fees, getting to know the living cost is also important for incoming students. The cost of living in the North of England is much lower than in the South, like London and Bristol. Below are some key expenses for studying and living in Durham:
| Category | Monthly Cost(£) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 800 |
| Food | 350 |
| Transport | 80 |
| Utilities | 120 |
| Others | 100 |
| Total Cost of Living | 1450 |
Durham University Student Accommodation 2025
Durham has several colleges where accommodation and catering packages are provided for students. On-campus university halls cost between £180 to £275 per week, varying from different room types, and catering packages cost around £3,000 for 31 weeks during the academic year.
| Undergraduate Residence Charges 2025/26 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Room Type | Number of Weeks | Weekly Charge | Total Charge | Catering Charge | Total Charge (Room + Catering) |
| Standard Room (shared bathroom facilities) | 38 (Returner Non-Finalist) | £183.23 | £6,962.55 | £2,984.10 | £9,946.65 |
| 39 (Fresher) | £183.23 | £7,145.78 | £3,087.00 | £10,232.78 | |
| 40 (Returner Finalist) | £183.23 | £7,329.20 | £3,087.00 | £10,416.20 | |
| Ensuite Room | 38 (Returner Non-Finalist) | £200.03 | £7,600.95 | £2,984.10 | £10,585.05 |
| 39 (Fresher) | £200.03 | £7,800.98 | £3,087.00 | £10,887.98 | |
| 40 (Returner Finalist) | £200.03 | £8,001.20 | £3,087.00 | £11,088.20 | |
| Studio Room (New Kepier Court – Offered at University College) | 38 (Returner Non-Finalist) | £229.95 | £8,738.10 | ||
| 39 (Fresher) | £229.95 | £8,968.05 | |||
| 40 (Returner Finalist) | £229.95 | £9,198.00 | |||
| Single Mezzanine Studio or Super Studio Room (New Kepier Court – Offered at University College) | 38 (Returner Non-Finalist) | £274.58 | £10,433.85 | ||
| 39 (Fresher) | £274.58 | £10,708.43 | |||
| 40 (Returner Finalist) | £274.58 | £10,983.20 | |||
Top 8 Off-campus Durham University Accommodations
Opting for off-campus Durham University accommodations is popular among more and more students. Compared to university-provided halls of residence, they usually come with more options and freedom so that you can choose your ideal home based totally on your own preferences. We listed the top 8 off-campus student accommodations near Durham University options that bring a perfect balance between quality life, affordability, and proximity to campus.
Durham University Notable Alumni
For alumni prominence, Durham University is 12th in the United Kingdom, 58th in Europe, and 175th in the world. Below are some notable alumni :
- Charlotte Riley: English actress, known for roles as Catherine Earnshaw in ITV’s adaptation of Wuthering Heights.
- Timothy Laurence: Retired Navy officer and husband of Anne, Princess Royal, the only sister of King Charles III.
- Justin Welby: British Anglican bishop who has served as the 105th archbishop of Canterbury since 2013.
- Gabby Logan: Welsh television and radio presenter, and a former rhythmic gymnast who represented Wales and Great Britain.
- Graham Hancock: British writer who promotes pseudoscientific theories involving ancient civilizations and hypothetical lost lands.
Final Thoughts
Durham University acceptance rate is around 41%, and its offer rate is about 70%, together with its reputation and relatively affordable cost of living, making it a perfect choice for many prospective students who are seeking a balance between academic excellence and competitiveness. Remember to check the detailed requirements of your specific course before applying, and you will surely get an ideal place at Durham!
FAQ
What is the Durham University acceptance rate?
Durham University acceptance rate is around 41%, and the offer rate can reach 60% to 70%. Specific Durham University acceptance rate vary by program, but generally it is much easier to get into Durham University than many other UK top universities.
How hard is it to get an offer from Durham University?
Getting an offer from Durham University can be competitive, especially for popular courses like Law or Medicine. Strong academic qualifications (A*AA/AAA for undergraduates), a well-written personal statement, and relevant experience or research are essential. Admission difficulty varies by program, with some being more selective than others.
What are the Durham University rankings？
The newest ranking for Durham in the QS World University 2025 is 89th, 6th by the Guardian, and 7th by The Comprehensive University Guide in the UK.
What are the admission requirements for Durham University?
Durham University has specific admission requirements that vary by course, but all courses require students to meet certain grade thresholds. In general, applicants must have completed qualifications such as A levels or their international equivalents, with some courses also requiring specific subject backgrounds. International students must meet country-specific qualification requirements, and non-native English speakers need to provide proof of English proficiency, typically through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Some courses, like Law and Mathematics, may also require additional tests or interviews.
How can I get admission in Durham University?
To get admission to Durham University, you need to meet the entry requirements for your chosen course and present a strong application. Focus on achieving excellent academic results, especially for competitive programs, and write a compelling personal statement that showcases your passion and qualifications. Additionally, extracurricular achievements such as leadership or relevant work experience can enhance your chances, particularly for courses that value well-rounded candidates.
What majors is Durham University known for?
Durham University is known for its strong programs in subjects like Law, Economics, Accounting, and Psychology. It is particularly renowned for its research and teaching excellence in these areas, attracting top-tier students and faculty. Additionally, Durham has a reputation for its interdisciplinary approach and high-quality programs in fields such as Business, Philosophy, and the Humanities.
Does Durham University offer scholarships for international students?
Yes, Durham University offers a variety of scholarships for international students. These include merit-based scholarships, as well as need-based financial aid for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Scholarships can cover partial or full tuition fees, and detailed eligibility criteria and application processes are available on the university’s official website.
What types of student accommodation are available at Durham University?
Durham University offers a variety of student accommodation options, including on-campus university halls and catered packages. Accommodation types range from standard rooms with shared bathroom facilities to ensuite rooms, studio rooms, and mezzanine studio apartments. Prices for on-campus rooms range from £183 to £275 per week, with catering charges adding an additional £3,000 for the 31-week academic year. Room and catering charges combined typically range from £9,946 to £10,983, depending on the room type and year of study.
Is Durham University accommodation expensive?
Durham university accommodation costs around £200 – £300 per week, depending on the room type and location you choose. Shared flats can be affordable for around £150/week, and studios and 1B will usually cost around £300/week.
What is the tuition fee for international students at Durham University?
The tuition fee for international students at Durham University is typically around £30,000 per year. However, the fee may vary depending on the course. For example, popular courses like Law, Finance, and Psychology charge £28,250 to £35,500 for international students. Some courses, such as Business Analytics, charge a flat fee of £35,000 for all students.
When are the Durham University term dates?
Durham University term times are divided into three: Michaelmas Term, Epiphany Term, and Easter Term. Every department will conduct teaching and research activities according to terms, and students are also expected to “Keep Terms.”
The term dates for Durham University in the academic year 2025-2026 are as follows:
- Summer vacation 2025: 28-Jun-25 to 28-Sep-25
- Induction Week 2025: 29-Sep-25 to 5-Oct-25
- Michaelmas Term 2025: 6-Oct-25 to 12-Dec-25
- Christmas vacation 2025-2026: 13-Dec-25 to 11-Jan-26
- Epiphany Term 2026: 12-Jan-26 to 20-Mar-26
- Easter vacation 2026: 21-Mar-26 to 26-Apr-26
- Easter Term 2026: 27-Apr-26 to 26-Jun-26
- Summer vacation 2026: 27-Jun-26 to 27-Sep-26
Which UK Uni has the lowest acceptance rate?
The UK university with the lowest acceptance rate is University of Oxford, followed closely by University of Cambridge. Both universities are highly selective, with Oxford’s acceptance rate typically around 17-18% and Cambridge’s around 21-22%. These rates fluctuate slightly each year based on application numbers and course popularity.
