Quick Answer: Engineering degrees in Nottingham cost £19,500-£32,000 annually for international students in 2026, with University of Nottingham ranking 7th in UK engineering and Nottingham Trent offering competitive alternatives. IELTS 6.0-7.0 and strong maths/physics A-levels are typically required, with graduates earning average starting salaries of £28,000-£35,000.

Nottingham has established itself as a premier destination for engineering education in the UK, offering world-class facilities, industry connections, and a vibrant student community. Home to two major universities with strong engineering programs, the city provides international students with excellent opportunities to pursue their engineering dreams while experiencing authentic British culture.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about studying engineering in Nottingham, from university options and fees to living costs and career prospects. Whether you're interested in mechanical, electrical, civil, or aerospace engineering, Nottingham's universities offer pathways to successful engineering careers.

Top Universities for Engineering in Nottingham

University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham consistently ranks among the UK's top 10 universities for engineering, currently holding 7th position in the Complete University Guide 2026 rankings. The Faculty of Engineering comprises six schools offering comprehensive engineering programs.

Key Engineering Schools:

• Mechanical, Materials and Manufacturing Engineering
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Chemical and Environmental Engineering
• Computer Science and Information Technology
• Architecture and Built Environment

The university's engineering programs are accredited by relevant professional bodies including IMechE, IET, and ICE, ensuring graduates meet industry standards for chartered engineer status.

Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent University offers practical, industry-focused engineering programs with excellent employment rates. The School of Science and Technology provides modern facilities and strong industry partnerships, particularly valuable for international students seeking work experience.

Notable Features:

• 95% graduate employment rate within six months
• Integrated placement years with major employers
• Modern laboratories and workshop facilities
• Strong links with local engineering companies

Engineering Course Options and Specializations

Undergraduate Programs (3-4 Years)

Core Engineering Disciplines Available:

• Mechanical Engineering BEng/MEng
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering BEng/MEng
• Civil Engineering BEng/MEng
• Aerospace Engineering BEng/MEng
• Chemical Engineering BEng/MEng
• Computer Systems Engineering BEng/MEng

Emerging Specializations:

• Sustainable Energy Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering
• Robotics and Artificial Intelligence
• Environmental Engineering

Postgraduate Programs (1-2 Years)

Both universities offer extensive MSc programs for graduates looking to specialize or change engineering disciplines. Popular programs include Advanced Manufacturing Technology, Structural Engineering, and Renewable Energy Systems.

Tuition Fees for International Students 2026

University	Program Level	Annual Tuition Fee	Duration	Total Cost
University of Nottingham	BEng Engineering	£28,000	3 years	£84,000
University of Nottingham	MEng Engineering	£28,000	4 years	£112,000
University of Nottingham	MSc Engineering	£32,000	1 year	£32,000
Nottingham Trent	BEng Engineering	£19,500	3 years	£58,500
Nottingham Trent	MSc Engineering	£22,000	1 year	£22,000

Additional Costs:

• Application fee: £27 (UCAS) or £150 (direct application)
• Student visa: £490
• Health surcharge: £776 per year
• Engineering lab fees: £200-500 annually

Entry Requirements for International Students

Academic Requirements

Undergraduate Programs:

• A-levels: AAB-A*AA including Mathematics and Physics
• International Baccalaureate: 32-36 points with HL Mathematics and Physics
• Pakistani students: 85%+ in FSc Pre-Engineering or equivalent
• Indian students: 85%+ in Class XII with PCM subjects
• Nigerian students: Five credits in WAEC including Mathematics and Physics

Postgraduate Programs:

• Bachelor's degree in relevant engineering field
• Minimum 2:1 classification (or international equivalent)
• For career changers: Strong mathematics and science background

English Language Requirements

University of Nottingham:

• IELTS: 6.5 overall (6.0 in each component)
• TOEFL: 87 overall (20 in each section)
• Pearson PTE: 62 overall (55 in each component)

Nottingham Trent University:

• IELTS: 6.0 overall (5.5 in each component)
• TOEFL: 80 overall (18 in each section)
• Pearson PTE: 56 overall (51 in each component)

Application Process

1. Research Programs: Use platforms to explore courses and compare engineering specializations
2. Prepare Documents: Academic transcripts, English test scores, personal statement
3. Submit Application: Via UCAS for undergraduate or directly to universities for postgraduate
4. Interview: Some programs require technical interviews or portfolio reviews
5. Visa Application: Apply for student visa after receiving offer

Living in Nottingham: Student Life and Costs

Cost of Living (Monthly Estimates 2026)

Accommodation:

• University halls: £400-600
• Private shared house: £350-500
• Studio apartment: £600-800
• Homestay: £450-650

Living Expenses:

• Food and groceries: £200-300
• Transport (student discount): £45
• Utilities (if not included): £50-80
• Entertainment and social: £150-250
• Books and supplies: £50-100

Total Monthly Budget: £895-1,580 Annual Living Costs: £10,740-£18,960

Student Life and Culture

Nottingham offers an excellent student experience with over 60,000 students across its universities. The city combines rich history with modern amenities, providing international students with diverse cultural experiences.

Key Attractions:

• Nottingham Castle and historic city center
• Sherwood Forest (Robin Hood connections)
• Vibrant nightlife in Hockley and city center
• Regular international food festivals
• Strong Pakistani, Indian, and Nigerian student communities

Transportation

Nottingham's excellent transport system makes it easy for students to navigate:

Public Transport:

• NET tram system connecting both universities
• Comprehensive bus network with student discounts
• Annual student transport pass: £540
• Bicycle-friendly city with dedicated cycling lanes

Connectivity:

• 2 hours to London by train
• East Midlands Airport (20 minutes)
• Direct flights to major cities in Pakistan, India, and Nigeria

Career Prospects and Graduate Outcomes

Employment Statistics

Graduate Employment Rates (2025 data):

• University of Nottingham engineering graduates: 94% employed within 6 months
• Nottingham Trent engineering graduates: 95% employed within 6 months
• Average starting salary: £28,000-£35,000
• Salary after 5 years: £35,000-£50,000

Top Employers

Nottingham's engineering graduates are recruited by leading companies including:

Aerospace: Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems, Airbus Automotive: Jaguar Land Rover, Toyota, McLaren Energy: National Grid, EDF Energy, Siemens Consulting: Arup, Atkins, AECOM Technology: Dyson, ARM, Experian

Professional Development

Both universities maintain strong industry partnerships, offering:

• Placement years with major employers
• Guest lectures from industry professionals
• Career fairs and networking events
• Professional body memberships (IMechE, IET, ICE)
• Mentorship programs connecting students with alumni

Visa and Work Opportunities

International engineering graduates benefit from the UK's Graduate Route visa, allowing 2 years of post-study work. This provides excellent opportunities to gain UK work experience and potentially secure permanent employment.

Scholarships and Financial Support

University-Specific Scholarships

University of Nottingham:

• Engineering Excellence Scholarships: Up to £5,000 annually
• International Office scholarships: £2,000-£4,000
• Country-specific awards for Pakistani and Indian students

Nottingham Trent University:

• International Academic Excellence Scholarship: Up to £3,000
• Engineering and Technology bursaries: £1,500 annually
• Regional scholarships for South Asian and African students

External Funding

• Commonwealth Scholarships for eligible countries
• Chevening Scholarships for postgraduate study
• Industry-sponsored scholarships from major engineering companies

Nottingham offers an ideal combination of academic excellence, affordable living costs, and strong career prospects for international engineering students. With world-class facilities, diverse course options, and excellent graduate outcomes, studying engineering in Nottingham provides a solid foundation for a successful engineering career.

Key Statistics

🏛️ University of Nottingham ranks 7th in UK for engineering according to Complete University Guide 2026

💰 International engineering tuition fees range from £19,500-£32,000 annually in Nottingham universities

📊 95% of engineering graduates from Nottingham universities find employment within 6 months of graduation

🎓 Over 60,000 students study across Nottingham's universities, creating vibrant international community

💷 Monthly living costs for international students range £895-£1,580 including accommodation

✈️ East Midlands Airport is just 20 minutes from city center with direct flights to Pakistan, India, and Nigeria

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply for engineering programs in Nottingham universities?

Apply through UCAS for undergraduate programs or directly to universities for postgraduate courses. You'll need academic transcripts, English language test scores (IELTS 6.0-7.0), and a personal statement. Submit applications by January 31st for undergraduate programs and check individual deadlines for postgraduate courses. Some programs may require interviews or portfolio reviews.

What are the entry requirements for international students studying engineering in Nottingham?

Entry requirements include A-levels AAB-A*AA with Mathematics and Physics, or equivalent international qualifications (IB 32-36 points, Pakistani FSc 85%+, Indian Class XII 85%+). English requirements are IELTS 6.0-7.0 depending on the university. For postgraduate programs, you need a bachelor's degree in relevant engineering field with 2:1 classification or international equivalent.

How much does it cost to study engineering in Nottingham including living expenses?

Total annual costs range £30,240-£50,960 for international students. Tuition fees are £19,500-£32,000 depending on university and program level. Living expenses average £10,740-£18,960 annually including accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses. University of Nottingham is more expensive but higher ranked, while Nottingham Trent offers more affordable options.

What engineering specializations are available at Nottingham universities?

Nottingham universities offer comprehensive engineering programs including Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Aerospace, Chemical, and Computer Systems Engineering. Emerging specializations include Sustainable Energy Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Robotics and AI, and Environmental Engineering. Both universities provide BEng and MEng undergraduate options plus specialized MSc programs for postgraduate study.

What are the career prospects for engineering graduates from Nottingham?

Engineering graduates from Nottingham have excellent career prospects with 94-95% employment rates within 6 months. Starting salaries range £28,000-£35,000, rising to £35,000-£50,000 after 5 years. Top employers include Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems, Jaguar Land Rover, National Grid, and major consulting firms. The Graduate Route visa allows 2 years post-study work in the UK.

How does student life in Nottingham compare for international engineering students?

Nottingham offers vibrant student life with over 60,000 students from diverse backgrounds. The city provides excellent transport links via NET tram system, rich cultural attractions including Nottingham Castle and Sherwood Forest, and strong international communities. Engineering students benefit from modern facilities, industry networking events, and placement opportunities with major employers. The city is well-connected to London (2 hours) and has an international airport nearby.

Key Takeaways

✅ University of Nottingham ranks 7th in UK for engineering with fees of £28,000-£32,000, while Nottingham Trent offers quality programs from £19,500

✅ Entry requirements include strong mathematics and physics background with IELTS 6.0-7.0, varying by university and program level

✅ Total annual costs range £30,240-£50,960 including tuition and living expenses, with monthly living costs of £895-£1,580

✅ Excellent graduate outcomes with 94-95% employment rates and starting salaries of £28,000-£35,000 in top engineering companies

✅ Nottingham provides vibrant student life, excellent transport links, and strong international community support for overseas students