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

University of York

York, England

  • TEF Gold
  • Russell Group
  • #158 QS World
  • #20 UK
#158QS World Ranking
#20UK Ranking
GoldTEF Rating
82%Satisfaction
80.2%Employment
£28,500Avg. Salary

About University of York

Founded in 1963 with just 230 students, York rapidly became one of the UK's most respected universities. University of York is a Russell Group research university based in York, holding a Gold Teaching Excellence Framework rating. York's lakeside campus and college system create a distinctive experience. It's particularly strong in the humanities and social sciences, and the historic city of York — voted the UK's best place to live — is extraordinary.

In the latest rankings, University of York is positioned #169 in the QS World Rankings 2026; #154 in the THE World Rankings 2026; #20 in the Guardian University Guide (UK).

The university has approximately 22,345 students, with a diverse international community representing 97 nationalities. The largest international cohorts come from China, India, and United States.

University of York currently lists 213 courses on CourseOptions, spanning 72 undergraduate and 141 postgraduate programmes. There are 7 scholarships available for international students.

Graduate outcomes are excellent: 90% of graduates go into employment or further study within 15 months, and the median graduate salary is £28,500, rising to £34,700 after five years.

Student satisfaction is strong, with an NSS teaching satisfaction score of 86% and a continuation rate of 91%.

Medieval city, modern campus, friendly atmosphere. A small city with a huge sense of history.

Founded1963
Total Students22,345+
Campus TypeSuburban

What is University of York's Ranking in 2026?

University of York is ranked #158 in the world by QS World University Rankings 2026 and #20 in the UK by the Complete University Guide.

Ranking SystemPosition
QS World University Rankings 2026#158
Times Higher Education 2026#154
Guardian University Guide (UK)#20
The Complete University Guide (UK)#20

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

What Percentage of Graduates Get Jobs?

80.2% of graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation.

80.2%Employed
8.8%Further Study
13.1%Studying & Working
5.1%Unemployed

Salary Progression

Time After GraduationMedian SalaryUK AverageDifference
15 months£28,500£26,220+9%
3 years£29,600£27,232+9%
5 years£34,700£31,924+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 82% overall satisfaction rate according to the National Student Survey (NSS) 2025.

82%Overall
Teaching Quality87.1%
Learning Resources90.4%
Academic Support89.9%
Assessment72.6%
Organisation77.9%
Student Voice73.7%

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?

18.6% of students are international, representing 97+ countries. Total international students: 4,150.

4,150International Students
18.6%of Student Body
97+Countries
CountriesStudentsPercentage
China1,83044.1%
India3007.2%
United States2355.7%
Hong Kong1804.3%
Korea (South)902.2%
United Arab Emirates801.9%
Canada751.8%
Saudi Arabia751.8%
Malaysia701.7%
Thailand651.6%

Source: HESA official data.

Courses at University of York

View All 532+ Courses →

Scholarships for International Students

We found 3 scholarships you may be eligible for based on your location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick Facts

TypeUniversity
Founded1963
Total Students22,345+
International Students18.6%

Similar Institutes

Compare University of York 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