Skip to main content
University of Southampton campus
University of Southampton logo

University of Southampton

Southampton, England

  • TEF Silver
  • Russell Group
  • #111 QS World
  • #15 UK
#111QS World Ranking
#15UK Ranking
SilverTEF Rating
83%Satisfaction
82.1%Employment
£28,500Avg. Salary

About University of Southampton

A leading research university with particular expertise in engineering, computing, and ocean science. University of Southampton is a Russell Group research university based in Southampton, holding a Silver Teaching Excellence Framework rating. Southampton's optoelectronics and web science research is world-leading — Sir Tim Berners-Lee holds a chair here. The university has deep roots in maritime and aerospace engineering.

In the latest rankings, University of Southampton is positioned #87 in the QS World Rankings 2026; #129 in the THE World Rankings 2026; #16 in the Guardian University Guide (UK).

The university has approximately 25,785 students, with a diverse international community representing 103 nationalities — 35% of the student body. The largest international cohorts come from China, India, and Malaysia.

University of Southampton currently lists 249 courses on CourseOptions, spanning 123 undergraduate and 126 postgraduate programmes. There are 16 scholarships available for international students.

Graduate outcomes are excellent: 91% of graduates go into employment or further study within 15 months, and the median graduate salary is £28,500, rising to £37,200 after five years.

Student satisfaction is strong, with an NSS teaching satisfaction score of 87% and a continuation rate of 93%.

Coastal city with major port, strong student community, excellent links to London.

Founded1862
Total Students25,785+
Campus TypeSuburban

What is University of Southampton's Ranking in 2026?

University of Southampton is ranked #111 in the world by QS World University Rankings 2026 and #15 in the UK by the Complete University Guide.

Ranking SystemPosition
QS World University Rankings 2026#111
Times Higher Education 2026#129
Guardian University Guide (UK)#16
The Complete University Guide (UK)#15

Source: QS, THE, CUG, Guardian — Updated January 2026

What Percentage of Graduates Get Jobs?

82.1% of graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation.

82.1%Employed
7.7%Further Study
9.3%Studying & Working
5.5%Unemployed

Salary Progression

Time After GraduationMedian SalaryUK AverageDifference
15 months£28,500£26,220+9%
3 years£31,800£29,256+9%
5 years£37,200£34,224+9%

Source: HESA Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) 2025

Official Data

These figures represent institution-wide averages across all subject areas and study modes. Actual graduate outcomes vary by course and cohort. For course-specific data, visit Discover Uni at Discover Uni.

How Satisfied Are Students?

Has an 83% overall satisfaction rate according to the National Student Survey (NSS) 2025.

83%Overall
Teaching Quality87%
Learning Resources88.6%
Academic Support88.2%
Assessment77.6%
Organisation80.8%
Student Voice77.4%

Source: National Student Survey (NSS) 2025.

Official Data

These figures represent institution-wide averages across all courses and may not reflect satisfaction for a specific course. For course-level data, visit Discover Uni at Discover Uni.

How Many International Students Study Here?

35.1% of students are international, representing 103+ countries. Total international students: 9,060.

9,060International Students
35.1%of Student Body
103+Countries
CountriesStudentsPercentage
China5,75063.5%
India4354.8%
Malaysia2552.8%
Saudi Arabia2352.6%
Hong Kong2252.5%
Cyprus (European Union)1301.4%
Germany1101.2%
Taiwan1001.1%
Thailand951%
United Arab Emirates800.9%

Source: HESA official data.

Courses at University of Southampton

View All 545+ Courses →

Scholarships for International Students

We found 52 scholarships you may be eligible for based on your location.

Showing 5 of 52 scholarships

View all 52 scholarships at University of Southampton →

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick Facts

TypeUniversity
Founded1862
Total Students25,785+
International Students35.1%

Similar Institutes

Compare University of Southampton with other universities

Side-by-side on fees, rankings, satisfaction and graduate outcomes.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Explore courses, compare universities, and find scholarships at CourseOptions.com

Explore All Courses