Quick Answer: Leicester offers excellent engineering programs at universities like University of Leicester (£32,500 international fees) and De Montfort University (£15,750). Entry requirements typically include IELTS 6.0-6.5, A-levels in Maths/Physics, with graduates earning £28,000-£45,000 starting salaries.

Leicester has emerged as a premier destination for engineering students in 2026, combining world-class academic institutions with vibrant student life and excellent career prospects. The city's strategic location in the heart of England, coupled with its rich industrial heritage and modern technological advancements, makes it an ideal place to pursue engineering studies.

Whether you're interested in mechanical, electrical, civil, or aerospace engineering, Leicester's universities offer comprehensive programs designed to meet industry demands. This guide explores everything international students need to know about studying engineering in Leicester, from university options and fees to living costs and career opportunities.

Top Universities for Engineering in Leicester

University of Leicester

The University of Leicester stands as one of the UK's leading institutions for engineering education. The university's School of Engineering offers cutting-edge programs with state-of-the-art facilities and strong industry connections.

Engineering Programs Available:

• Mechanical Engineering (BEng/MEng)
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Aerospace Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Software Engineering

The university maintains excellent industry partnerships with companies like Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems, and Airbus, providing students with valuable internship and placement opportunities. Their engineering graduates achieve a 94% employment rate within six months of graduation.

De Montfort University (DMU)

De Montfort University has built a strong reputation for practical, industry-focused engineering education. The Faculty of Technology offers innovative programs with emphasis on real-world applications and professional skills development.

Specializations Include:

• Mechanical Engineering
• Electronic Engineering
• Computer Systems Engineering
• Energy and Sustainable Engineering
• Product Design Engineering

DMU's engineering facilities include advanced laboratories, CAD suites, and a dedicated Engineering Innovation Centre worth £35 million, completed in 2025.

Leicester College

For students seeking alternative pathways, Leicester College offers Foundation and HND programs in engineering that can lead to university progression. These programs are particularly valuable for international students who need additional preparation for degree-level studies.

Entry Requirements for Engineering Programs

Academic Requirements

For Undergraduate Programs:

• A-levels: AAB-BBB typically required
• Essential subjects: Mathematics and Physics
• Additional science subject preferred
• International Baccalaureate: 32-36 points

For Postgraduate Programs:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field
• Minimum 2:1 classification (or equivalent)
• Relevant work experience advantageous

English Language Requirements

IELTS Scores Required:

• Undergraduate: 6.0 overall (5.5 in each component)
• Postgraduate: 6.5 overall (6.0 in each component)
• Some specialized programs may require 7.0

Alternative Qualifications Accepted:

• TOEFL iBT: 80-90
• Pearson PTE: 54-62
• Cambridge English: 169-176

Additional Requirements

• Personal statement demonstrating interest in engineering
• Letters of recommendation (2-3 for postgraduate)
• Portfolio for design-related programs
• Interview may be required for competitive courses

University Fees and Costs 2026

Tuition Fees

University of Leicester:

• UK/EU students: £9,250 per year
• International students: £32,500 per year
• Postgraduate programs: £28,000-£35,000

De Montfort University:

• UK/EU students: £9,250 per year
• International students: £15,750 per year
• Postgraduate programs: £16,500-£18,000

Additional Academic Costs

• Registration and administrative fees: £200-£500
• Laboratory fees: £300-£800 per year
• Software licenses: £150-£400
• Field trips and industry visits: £200-£600
• Graduation ceremony: £100-£200

Living in Leicester: Student Life and Costs

Cost of Living

Leicester offers one of the most affordable student lifestyles among UK cities, with living costs approximately 25% lower than London.

Monthly Living Expenses (2026):

• Accommodation: £400-£800
• Food and groceries: £200-£350
• Transportation: £50-£100
• Utilities (if not included): £80-£120
• Entertainment and social: £100-£200
• Books and supplies: £50-£100

Total Monthly Budget: £880-£1,670

Accommodation Options

University Halls of Residence:

• On-campus accommodation: £120-£180 per week
• En-suite rooms: £140-£200 per week
• Self-catered apartments: £130-£190 per week

Private Accommodation:

• Shared houses: £300-£500 per month
• Studio apartments: £500-£700 per month
• One-bedroom flats: £600-£900 per month

Transportation

Leicester's compact size makes it highly walkable, with most university facilities within 20 minutes' walk. The city offers excellent public transport connectivity:

• Bus Services: Comprehensive network covering the city and surrounding areas
• Train Connections: Direct links to London (1 hour), Birmingham (45 minutes), and other major cities
• Student Discounts: Up to 30% off public transport with student ID
• Cycling: Extensive cycle paths and bike-sharing schemes available

Student Life and Activities

Leicester provides a vibrant student experience with numerous opportunities for personal and professional development:

Engineering Societies and Clubs:

• Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) student chapter
• IEEE Student Branch
• Formula Student racing team
• Robotics and Automation Society
• Engineering Women's Network

Cultural and Social Opportunities:

• Leicester is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the UK
• Annual festivals including Diwali celebrations and Caribbean Carnival
• Rich history with attractions like Leicester Cathedral and King Richard III Visitor Centre
• Thriving nightlife and restaurant scene

Career Prospects and Industry Connections

Employment Opportunities

Leicester's strategic location in the East Midlands places it at the heart of England's manufacturing and engineering sector. The region hosts numerous major employers actively recruiting engineering graduates.

Major Engineering Employers in the Region:

• Rolls-Royce (aerospace and automotive)
• Caterpillar (heavy machinery)
• Next plc (logistics and automation)
• University Hospitals of Leicester (biomedical engineering)
• Various automotive suppliers and manufacturers

Graduate Salary Expectations

Starting Salaries (2026):

• Mechanical Engineers: £28,000-£35,000
• Electrical Engineers: £30,000-£38,000
• Aerospace Engineers: £32,000-£42,000
• Civil Engineers: £26,000-£33,000
• Software Engineers: £35,000-£45,000

Career Progression:

• Mid-level (5-8 years): £40,000-£60,000
• Senior level (10+ years): £55,000-£85,000
• Management positions: £70,000-£120,000+

Professional Development

Leicester universities maintain strong relationships with professional engineering institutions, helping students achieve chartered status:

• Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE)
• Institution of Electrical Engineers (IET)
• Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE)
• Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS)

Many programs are accredited by these professional bodies, providing a direct pathway to professional recognition.

Application Process and Timeline

Application Deadlines 2026

Undergraduate Applications (via UCAS):

• Early deadline: October 15, 2025 (for competitive courses)
• Main deadline: January 29, 2026
• Late applications: June 30, 2026 (subject to availability)

Postgraduate Applications:

• Priority deadline: March 31, 2026
• Final deadline: July 31, 2026
• International students advised to apply by May 31, 2026 for visa processing

Application Steps

1. Research and Course Selection: Compare programs and requirements across universities
2. Prepare Documents: Academic transcripts, English language certificates, personal statement
3. Submit Application: Through UCAS for undergraduate or directly to university for postgraduate
4. Track Progress: Monitor application status and respond to university communications
5. Visa Application: Apply for student visa once you receive an offer

When exploring your options, you can search for courses on our platform to compare different engineering programs and find the best fit for your academic goals and budget.

Conclusion

Leicester presents an exceptional opportunity for engineering students seeking high-quality education, affordable living costs, and excellent career prospects. With its combination of prestigious universities, industry connections, and vibrant student life, Leicester continues to attract students from around the world in 2026. Whether you're interested in traditional engineering disciplines or emerging fields, Leicester's engineering programs provide the foundation for a successful career in this dynamic industry.

Key Statistics

📊 94% of University of Leicester engineering graduates find employment within 6 months

💰 International tuition fees range from £15,750 to £32,500 annually in Leicester

🎓 Leicester's cost of living is 25% lower than London, averaging £880-£1,670 monthly

📈 Engineering graduate starting salaries range from £28,000 to £45,000 in Leicester

🚀 Leicester universities offer 15+ specialized engineering programs across all major disciplines

🌟 Over 8,000 international students choose Leicester for engineering studies annually

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply for engineering programs in Leicester?

Apply through UCAS for undergraduate programs by January 29, 2026, or directly to universities for postgraduate courses by July 31, 2026. You'll need academic transcripts, IELTS scores (6.0-6.5), personal statement, and letters of recommendation. International students should apply by May 31, 2026 to allow sufficient time for visa processing.

What are the entry requirements for engineering in Leicester?

Undergraduate programs typically require A-levels AAB-BBB with Maths and Physics, or IB 32-36 points. IELTS 6.0 overall (5.5 each component) is required. Postgraduate programs need a 2:1 engineering degree and IELTS 6.5 (6.0 each component). Some specialized courses may have higher requirements.

How much does it cost to study engineering in Leicester?

International tuition fees range from £15,750 at De Montfort University to £32,500 at University of Leicester annually. Additional costs include living expenses of £880-£1,670 monthly, laboratory fees of £300-£800, and academic materials costing £150-£400 per year.

What engineering specializations are available in Leicester?

Leicester universities offer comprehensive engineering programs including Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Aerospace, Software Engineering, Computer Systems Engineering, Energy and Sustainable Engineering, and Product Design Engineering. Both traditional and emerging disciplines are covered with modern facilities and industry partnerships.

What career prospects do engineering graduates have in Leicester?

Engineering graduates in Leicester enjoy excellent career prospects with 94% employment rate within 6 months. Starting salaries range from £28,000-£45,000 depending on specialization. Major employers include Rolls-Royce, Caterpillar, and various automotive companies. The region's strong manufacturing base provides numerous opportunities for career growth.

How does the cost of living in Leicester compare to other UK cities?

Leicester offers one of the most affordable student lifestyles in the UK, with living costs approximately 25% lower than London. Monthly expenses range from £880-£1,670, including accommodation (£400-£800), food (£200-£350), and transportation (£50-£100). This makes it highly attractive for international students.

Key Takeaways

✅ Leicester offers engineering programs from £15,750-£32,500 annually with excellent industry connections

✅ Entry requirements include IELTS 6.0-6.5 and strong math/science background for most programs

✅ Cost of living is 25% lower than London, making Leicester highly affordable for international students

✅ Graduate employment rate of 94% within 6 months with starting salaries £28,000-£45,000

✅ Strategic location provides access to major engineering employers like Rolls-Royce and Caterpillar

✅ Apply by January 29, 2026 for undergraduate or July 31, 2026 for postgraduate programs

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