International students

Welcome to the University of Derby, an applied university located in the heart of the UK. We are proud to welcome more than 2,000 international students from over 100 countries studying at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

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International students in the Atrium
Blue logo for Rolls RoyceDiscover our new International Business and AI degree, designed in collaboration with Rolls-Royce. A two-year course combining real-world experience and future-focused skills.Explore the degreeExplore the degree
Top20in the UK for teaching qualityThe Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024
Top25in the UK for overall student satisfactionComplete University Guide 2025
1stUniversity Housing (UK and Ireland)Global Student Living Awards 2023
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Derby Business School

Our portfolio of courses offers quality, flexibility, choice and meaningful practical experience for the aspiring business leader.

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Explore our Scholarships

Find details of the scholarships, bursaries and discounts available to international students which can be used together to reduce your tuition fees.

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Transform your future

Originally from the USA, Tyra, Senior Ministerial Visit and Events Manager for the Department for Work and Pensions, always aspired to live and study in the UK.

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Life at Derby

When you choose to apply here, you’re choosing much more than a course. You’re choosing to be part of our student community, you’re choosing Derbyshire as a place to live.

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Find your dream course

Use our course search to find the University of Derby course that's right for you.

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Online learning

We have been delivering online programmes for over two decades and have become a leading UK University for online education.

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International Foundation Programme

The International Foundation Programme is an introduction to university level study and to the UK. The programme will develop your academic writing, reading, listening and speaking skills, and give you a recognised English language qualification so you can progress onto your chosen degree.

Find out more about applyingFind out more about applying

We’re excited that you’re considering studying at the University of Derby; a much-loved second home to more than 2,000 international students from over 100 countries.

At the University of Derby, we are powering the next generation of industry thought leaders, policy makers and creative talents with one simple promise in mind - to make a positive impact. 

You will be taught by leading academics who specialise in research areas that are of critical importance now and for the future, including zero carbon, climate change and artificial intelligence.

You will graduate with in-demand skills, practical experience and valuable industry contacts that are needed to embark on a life-changing career. Your story starts in Derby, but your success will take you on a worldwide adventure.

As part of our commitment to our international student family, we are delighted to offer the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship for courses starting September 2025. Subject to conditions, you could be eligible for the award of £2,000, which will be deducted from your first-year tuition fee. This £2,000 scholarship is in addition to our existing Full Payment Discount whereby students who pay their annual tuition fee in full ahead of enrolment benefit from a £1,000 discount. Visit our scholarships webpage to check if you are eligible.

Derby is a diverse and welcoming city. The Purple Flag awarded the city of Derby as a safe and inclusive place where international students can immerse themselves in British culture and enjoy once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

So what are you waiting for? Find your dream course, apply now and begin your Derby adventure in September!

International student Ioana Batcu

Derby is a compact but versatile city, the ideal size. Located in the Midlands, it’s in the heart of the UK, so you can explore the rest of the country. Just get in the car, jump on the bus or take the train to start your new adventure.

Ioana Batcu
On where Derby is in the UK
A photo of international student Mohika Shankar

Studying in the UK is good value for money; the average cost is lower than studying in the USA or Australia. While living expenses are set by lifestyle, spending habits and accommodation, it has been estimated that students spend a minimum of £1,136 a month.

Mohika Shankar
On studying in the UK and the expenses to consider
A cartoon image of a document.The Graduate Route visa allows international students to work, or look for work, at any skill level for a period of two years after completing their courses in the UK.Find out moreFind out more
Journalism student Cristina
Guidance for International Applicants

If you are already an applicant, you can find out information about visa and welfare support, fees and finance, travelling here, accommodation and welcome events.

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Fees and finance

All the information you need to know about fees for University of Derby courses and the different ways you can fund your studies.

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Accommodation for international students

Our award-winning accommodation gives international students a safe, welcoming home away from home. We have 3 offers available across 7 halls, depending on your budget.

Region specific information

Discover more information about the entry requirements, scholarships available, student stories and how to contact our representatives in your region.

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Africa

Welcome to students from Africa. Find out more about scholarships and fees, entry requirements and what it's like to live and study in Derby.

A student from China at our International Welcome
China

Welcome to students from China. Find out more about scholarships and fees, entry requirements and what it's like to live and study in Derby.

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Europe

Welcome to students from Europe. Find out more about scholarships and fees, entry requirements and what it's like to live and study in Derby.

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India

Welcome to students from India. Find out more about scholarships and fees, entry requirements and what it's like to live and study in Derby.

Two international students
Middle East

Welcome to students from the Middle East. Find out more about scholarships and fees, entry requirements and what it's like to live and study in Derby.

Osama Qayyum Janjua, a student from Pakistan
Pakistan

Welcome to students from Pakistan. Find out more about scholarships and fees, entry requirements and what it's like to live and study in Derby.

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South East Asia

Welcome to students from South East Asia. Find out more about scholarships and fees, entry requirements and what it's like to live and study in Derby.

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USA

Welcome to students from the USA. Find out more about scholarships and fees, entry requirements and what it's like to live and study in Derby.

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Take a virtual tour

Can’t make it to our Open Day in person? Don’t worry, our virtual tour is the next best thing. Explore the University of Derby from wherever you are in the world and catch a glimpse of your new student life.

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Scholarships and discounts for international students

We have a range of scholarships and discounts available to international students which can be used together to offer a reduction in your tuition fees.

Find out more about scholarships for international studentsFind out more about scholarships for international students

Where is Derby?

An animated video about where the University of Derby is located in the heart of England.

View Where is Derby? video transcript

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Contact us

Our dedicated enquiry team can help to answer any questions you have about studying with us and can offer guidance and support with your application.

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Chat to our students

Want to know more about what it's like to be an international student at the University of Derby? Chat to one of our online ambassadors to find out more about life at Derby.

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Meet our international recruitment team

We have a team of recruitment officers, representatives and agents who can help you with your application and help answer any questions you have about studying and living in Derby.

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International student life

At Derby, we offer a warm welcome, lots of support and interesting places to discover – from bright, busy cities to peaceful countryside.

Supporting international students at a drop-in session
International student support

If you need support – either with your course or with life as an international student – we’ll make sure you get it. Our highly-rated international support services will be here for you.

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English language support

Derby English Language Centre (DELC) offers you the opportunity to develop your English language skills at one of the UK’s top performing universities for fair access.