The University of the West of Scotland (UWS) is a modern public university situated in the west of Scotland, with campuses in Paisley, Lanarkshire, Ayr, Dumfries, and London. Established in 2007 through the merger of the University of Paisley and Bell College, UWS has a rich history dating back to 1897. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including business, computing, engineering, health, and social sciences. UWS is recognized for its strong emphasis on employability, with many programs incorporating work placements and industry collaborations. The university's commitment to research excellence is evident, with 90% of its research being classified as world-leading or internationally excellent in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework. UWS boasts a diverse student body, with over 19,000 students from more than 70 countries, creating a vibrant and inclusive academic community.
| Intakes | September,January |
|---|---|
| All Campuses | Paisley, Lanarkshire, Ayr, Dumfries, London |
| Website | www.uws.ac.uk |
| Monthly Living Cost | £800–£1,200 |
| Funds Requirements for Visa | £1,334 per month |
| Application Fees | £20 |
| Currency | £ |
| Is Lang Mendatory | Yes |
| Part Time Work Details | International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time, full-time during holidays |
Times Higher Education World University Rankings: Ranked 601–800 globally in 2025.
QS World University Rankings: Ranked 1161–1180 globally in 2025.
The Guardian University Rankings: Ranked 125th in the UK in 2025.
IELTS: Minimum overall score of 6.0, with no component below 5.5 for undergraduate programs. TOEFL iBT: Minimum overall score of 78, with no component below 19. PTE Academic: Minimum overall score of 59, with no component below 59. Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 100.
UWS offers various scholarships for international students, including: UWS Global Scholarships: Available for undergraduate and postgraduate students. Scotland’s Saltire Scholarships: For students from specific countries. Sport Scholarships: For students demonstrating excellence in sports. Progression Scholarships: For current UWS students progressing to further study. Scholarships are typically awarded based on academic merit and may cover partial or full tuition fees.
Undergraduate Tuition Fees: Approximately £12,000–£18,000 per year for international students.
Postgraduate Tuition Fees: Approximately £12,000–£18,000 per year for international students.
Living Costs: Estimated at £800–£1,200 per month, including accommodation, food, and personal expenses.
Undergraduate Applications: Apply through the UCAS system.
Postgraduate Applications: Apply directly via the UWS online application portal.
Required Documents: Academic transcripts, proof of English language proficiency, personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
Yes, UWS offers online applications for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs through its official website.
UWS provides comprehensive support for international students, including guidance on visa applications, compliance with UK immigration regulations, and orientation programs to help students settle into life in the UK.
The University of the West of Scotland (UWS) has its origins in the Paisley College of Technology, established in 1897. It achieved university status in 1992 and was renamed in 2007 to reflect its expanded role in higher education. UWS has grown into one of Scotland's largest modern universities, with a student population exceeding 15,000 across its campuses. The institution is committed to providing high-quality education and has developed strong links with industry and professional bodies, ensuring that its programs are relevant and career-focused. UWS's dedication to research and innovation contributes to its reputation both nationally and internationally.
Students choose UWS for its commitment to academic excellence, diverse range of programs, and strong industry connections. The university offers a supportive learning environment, with modern facilities and a focus on employability. International students benefit from comprehensive support services, including assistance with visas, accommodation, and cultural integration.
UWS comprises several academic faculties:
Faculty of Business and Creative Industries
Faculty of Education and Social Sciences
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences
Faculty of Science and Engineering
UWS London Campus
UWS offers various financial support options:
UWS Global Scholarships: Available for international students, providing partial tuition fee waivers.
Scotland’s Saltire Scholarships: Government-funded scholarships for students from specific countries.
Winning Students Scholarship: For students from Scotland, offering financial assistance.
Sport Scholarship: Supports talented athletes pursuing their studies at UWS.
UWS provides on-campus accommodation at its Paisley campus, including the Storie Street Residence. This facility offers ensuite rooms with shared kitchen and lounge areas, providing a comfortable living environment for students.
Off-campus housing options are available in the vicinity of UWS campuses, including private rentals and shared accommodations. These options offer flexibility and can be more affordable, depending on the location and amenities. Students are encouraged to explore local listings and university resources to find suitable accommodation.
CampusPaisley, Lanarkshire, Ayr, Dumfries, London
Entry Score5.5
Course LevelPostgraduate
Total Course Fee£ 1680
CampusPaisley, Lanarkshire, Ayr, Dumfries, London
Entry Score6.0
Course LevelUndergraduate
Total Course Fee£ 9250
CampusPaisley, Lanarkshire, Ayr, Dumfries, London
Entry Score6.0
Course LevelUndergraduate
Total Course Fee£ 9250
CampusPaisley, Lanarkshire, Ayr, Dumfries, London
Entry Score6.0
Course LevelUndergraduate
Total Course Fee£ 9250
CampusPaisley, Lanarkshire, Ayr, Dumfries, London
Entry Score6.0
Course LevelUndergraduate
Total Course Fee£ 9250
CampusPaisley, Lanarkshire, Ayr, Dumfries, London
Entry Score5.5
Course LevelPostgraduate
Total Course Fee£ 14500
United Kingdom