Quick take: Northampton is among the UK’s more affordable student towns. Waterside Campus centralises teaching, housing, and social spaces, making life convenient for international students.
Admissions for International Students
Entry Requirements
Undergraduate (UG)
- High school qualification equivalent to UK A-Levels
- Typical entry: 60–75% (CBSE/ISC India), WAEC, IB Diploma, or equivalent
Postgraduate (PG)
- Recognised bachelor’s degree (UK 2:2 equivalent or higher)
- Some programs (e.g., MBA) may require relevant work experience
English Language Requirements
- IELTS: 6.0 overall (no band below 5.5)
- TOEFL iBT: 80+
- PTE Academic: 56+
👉 Pre-sessional English and foundation courses are available if you need to improve your scores.
Application Process
- Choose your program (UON offers 100+ UG and 80+ PG degrees)
- Apply via UCAS (UG) or UON online portal (PG)
- Submit transcripts, statement of purpose, references, CV (for PG), and English scores
- Receive conditional/unconditional offer and accept
- Pay the deposit and receive your CAS
- Apply for your Student Route visa
Visa Requirements (2025)
- CAS issued by the University of Northampton
- Proof of funds: £1,023/month (up to 9 months) as Northampton is outside London
- Proof of tuition fee payment
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
- Valid passport & biometrics
💡 Apply at least 3 months before your program starts to avoid delays.
Life at the University of Northampton
Campus
Waterside Campus (opened 2018) brings teaching spaces, student housing, libraries, labs, and social areas together on a modern site, a short walk from Northampton town centre and about 1 hour from London by train.
Accommodation
- On-campus halls at Waterside Campus
- Private rentals available nearby
| Type | Average Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| On-campus halls | £450–£650 |
| Private housing | £400–£600 |
Cost of Living in Northampton
| Category | Estimated Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent | £400–£650 | Depends on room type and location |
| Food | £150–£220 | Cooking at home reduces cost |
| Transport | £50–£70 | Compact town—many students walk or cycle |
| Utilities/Internet | £60–£80 | Often included in halls |
| Social & Leisure | £120–£180 | Varies by lifestyle |
👉 Overall, Northampton is cheaper than London, Manchester, or Birmingham.
Student Life
- Students’ Union (SUN): 50+ clubs, sports teams, and cultural societies
- Events: Freshers’ Week, international festivals, and networking
- Sports & Fitness: On-campus gym and sports centre
- Town Life: Cafes, shops, nightlife, and fast access to London
Support for International Students
- Pre-arrival: Visa webinars, airport pickup, and induction programs
- Academic: Study skills workshops, English language support, one-to-one tutoring
- International Student Services: Visa, housing, and financial guidance
- Wellbeing & Counselling: Free counselling, wellbeing workshops, peer support
- Careers & Employability: Changemaker Hub—CV workshops, interview prep, internships, placements
Why Choose Northampton?
- Affordable tuition and cost of living
- Modern Waterside Campus with excellent facilities
- Strong focus on employability and entrepreneurship
- 1 hour from London with easy access
- Recognised for comprehensive international student support
FAQs
What are tuition fees at UON?
UG: £13,000–£15,000/year • PG: £14,000–£17,500/year (program dependent).
Can international students work while studying?
Yes. Up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time during official breaks, subject to visa conditions.
Are scholarships available?
Yes. The University offers International Scholarships typically worth £2,000–£3,000 based on academic merit.
Is Northampton affordable for students?
Yes. It is among the UK’s more affordable university towns, especially compared with London and larger cities.
What is UON best known for?
Business, Health Sciences, Education, and Social Impact initiatives.