Study at UWE Bristol from the USA
From entry requirements to visas and funding, find out all you need to know about studying at UWE Bristol from the United States of America.
Thinking of studying in the UK from the USA?
Each year, students from across the United States choose UWE Bristol to pursue their bachelor's or master's degree in the UK. Whether you want to experience one of England's most exciting cities, earn a globally recognised qualification in less time than a typical US degree or master's, or you simply want to see the world while you study – you're in the right place. If you have any questions, complete our short form and we'll be in touch.
Why study at UWE Bristol?
Earn a degree in three years- Complete a master's degree in one year
- Fund studies with US federal loans or private loans
- Lower cost tuition fees
- Scholarships available
- Guaranteed accommodation for first-year international students
Entry requirements
If you have questions about the suitability of your qualifications, the International Team can advise. Contact us at international@uwe.ac.uk.
Foundation
If you don’t yet meet the entry requirements for an undergraduate degree, you may still be able to join us through a foundation course.
If you hold a High School Graduation Diploma with a GPA of 2.5 out of 4, you can apply for one of our Art and Design foundation degrees at UWE Bristol.
For all other subjects, you can choose to study an international foundation or international year one course at our International College. When you pass your course, you’ll have guaranteed entry to an undergraduate degree at UWE Bristol.
Undergraduate
If you have a 3.2 GPA or higher, you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores.
Some degrees need specific subjects. You can show these through:
- AP tests
- Honors classes (Grade 11 or 12)
- College‑level classes
You can apply for first‑year entry with a 2.8 GPA in your High School Graduation Diploma plus one of the following:
- SAT score of 1050 or above
- ACT score of 19 or above
- One AP test with a score of 3 or higher
- Two AP, Honors or College‑level classes with B grades or better
- 30 Community College credits with a minimum 2.5 GPA
You can send AP scores directly through the College Board using code 7409.
Transfer students
You may be considered for advanced entry if you have:
- An Associate Degree or 60 Community College credits with a 2.7 GPA
- Two years of university study with a 2.7 GPA
These are our minimum entry requirements. Some competitive courses may ask for higher grades.
If you don’t meet the entry requirements
You can still join us. Our International College offers foundation and preparation courses that help you progress to a UWE Bristol degree.
Postgraduate
You can apply for a master’s degree if you have a minimum GPA of 2.7 out of 4.0 in a four‑year bachelor’s degree.
If UWE Bristol has an academic agreement with your institution, the entry requirements for undergraduate or postgraduate study may be more flexible. These details will be set out in the agreement.
How to apply
Apply via UCAS or Common App for undergraduate courses or direct to UWE Bristol for postgraduate courses.
As a US citizen studying in the UK, you will need a UK Student visa (previously called a Tier 4 visa). To apply for a visa, you'll need a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from UWE Bristol, which we issue once you have accepted your offer.
Ask an adviser
Funding and scholarships
USA scholarship
The UWE Bristol USA scholarship provides you with a tuition fee discount for your first year. If you receive a scholarship, you'll also take part in ambassador activities during your studies.
How to apply
If you have a conditional or unconditional offer from UWE Bristol, you can apply by sending us a short video.
Start your video by stating your name, country, and UWE Welcome ID.
Then explain to us:
- Why did you choose UWE Bristol
- What you’re most looking forward to
- How we could attract more students from your country
Send your video via WeTransfer to americas@uwe.ac.uk.
Deadlines
- 31 May for September entry
- 31 October for January entry
You can also explore other funding options through international scholarships from UWE Bristol and external organisations.
US federal loans
UWE Bristol is approved to offer Federal Direct Loans for eligible U.S. students.
We cannot accept Pell Grants due to U.S. Government regulations.
How to apply
Read our US federal loans guide for full details about how to apply. Include our school code G21948 on your FAFSA.
If you have any questions, email us.loan@uwe.ac.uk.
Veteran Affairs (VA) funding
We are recognised by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. You can check for our eligibility on the Veterans Affairs website using 'University of the West of England'.
Tuition payments are sent directly to UWE Bristol and any surplus will be credited to you.
How to apply
If you think you’re eligible, contact the Department of Veterans Affairs first.
- Tel: +1 888 442 4551
Your course must be approved before benefits can be paid. Approval can take up to three months, so you’ll need to:
- Hold an offer from UWE Bristol
- Tell us by 31 May that you want to use Veterans Affairs funding
If you have any questions, email americas@uwe.ac.uk.
"Bristol is really fun. The night life is amazing, there's always something to do or somewhere to go. There are so many restaurants and food stands and some really nice historical sites to visit if that's interesting to you.
"
Nina BSc(Hons) Architecture (U.S student)
Get in touch
International team
Contact our International Enquiries team with any questions about the application process.
- Course content, modules, and what you’ll study
- How to apply and key deadlines
- Student visa guidance and immigration steps
- Accommodation options, campus facilities and student support services.
US Regional Manager
Contact Rob Alexander with your questions about coming to the UK for study.
- Your U.S. qualifications and how they match our entry requirements
- Funding options for U.S. students, including federal loans and scholarships
- Upcoming events in the U.S.
- What it’s really like to move from the U.S. to Bristol.
Meet Cecilia
Cecilia, originally from Boston, is an international student at UWE Bristol studying BA(Hons) Interior Architecture. She speaks about the benefits of studying shorter, more specialised degrees and what life is like in Bristol.
Student life in Bristol
Making the move to the UK is a big decision - but Bristol has a way of making it feel like the right one. You'll study in one of the UK's most vibrant and creative student cities and become part of a truly international community of students from more than 140 countries.
Student accommodation
Explore student accommodation on campus and in the heart of the city - guaranteed in your first year. You'll feel at home from the moment you arrive.
Campus life
160+ student societies and clubs means you can meet new people, explore your interests and get involved in the sport and cultural activities that matter to you.
Discover Bristol
Life in Bristol attracts international students with its welcoming vibe, creative energy and globally recognised cultural scene.
Sport
High quality sports facilities, a performance sport programme, and 40+ clubs means we can support all ambitions, from elite athletes to complete beginners.
"The teaching style at UWE Bristol is great, with a more hands-on vs. theory balance. There’s also been plenty of help provided and signposted throughout my course."
Nathaniel MEng Aerospace Engineering (U.S student)
Meet David
David, originally from the USA, is an international student at UWE Bristol studying MSc Information Technology. He talks about studying the subject he loves and the support he has received from his professors.
You may also be interested in
International student support
Help and support for international and European students to help you settle in and make the most of the opportunities on offer at UWE Bristol.
Visas and immigration
Visa and immigration advice and guidance for international students coming to or continuing their studies at UWE Bristol.
International applications
Our international application guide will guide you through the process of applying to UWE Bristol.
Scholarships and bursaries
View our range of scholarships on offer for undergraduate and postgraduate applicants.