University of Exeter: Complete Student Guide 2025

TL;DR:

• University of Exeter ranks 155th globally (QS 2026). 
• Russell Group member since 2012 
• 87% acceptance rate and 92% graduate employment rate. 
• Three beautiful campuses in Streatham, St Luke’s, Penryn 
• Strong in humanities, business, and physics. 
• Tuition: £9,535 (UK), £25,000-27,000 (international). 
• Total students: 29,549. 
• Brilliant student life, sports, and green campuses.

The University of Exeter isn't just another UK university. It's where academic growth meets research excellence. This Russell Group institution sits in beautiful Devon and Cornwall. Students here get world-class education in some of the UK's most gorgeous settings.

Founded in 1855, the University of Exeter has grown into an educational powerhouse. The numbers speak for themselves. The university is ranked 155th globally according to QS World Rankings. The university’s reputation is just one part of the story. Students love the community feel and the vibrant campuses. The university also has a range of supportive services for students. You can also find plenty of cosy Exeter student accommodation located nearby. 

Whether you're from the UK, Asia, or Europe, the university welcomes international students. The university promises global perspectives and a multicultural community. Your journey here will be transformative. Let's explore everything you need to know.

Rankings and Reputation: Why the University of Exeter Should Be on Your List

Global and UK Rankings

Let’s be real: academic reputation is a major dealbreaker for many students. It is important to understand the global standing of a university before applying for admission. Here’s why students consider this institution as one of the top universities in Exeter:

These rankings reflect real academic quality. Exeter climbed 14 places in the QS rankings recently. That's significant upward momentum. The THE Impact Rankings position shows Exeter's commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Academic Strengths

The University of Exeter is best known for its intensive academic programme. The research initiatives are some of the best worldwide. Students are also assured of practical teaching methods and industry exposure. The university partners with companies like Rolls-Royce, IBM, and Deloitte. Students benefit from these connections as indicated by the high graduate employment rates.

Top-Ranked Subjects:

• Business and Management
• Politics and International Relations
• English Literature
• Psychology
• Physics and Astronomy
• Geography and Environmental Science

Research Excellence:

• 98% of research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
• £8 million+ investment from international partners
• Strong industry connections with major employers

Campus Life and Locations

The University of Exeter is spread across three campuses. The main campus is located in Streatham. St. Luke’s Campus has a more traditional and cosy vibe. The Penryn campus, located in Cornwall, is best known for its coastal atmosphere.

Three Distinct Campuses

Streatham Campus (Main Campus)

• Location: Exeter, Devon
• Size: 300+ acres of parkland
• Students: ~15,000
• Features: Historic buildings, modern facilities, green spaces

Streatham feels like studying in a botanical garden. The campus has rolling hills, ancient trees, and modern academic buildings. This city-based campus is best known for its state-of-the-art facilities and academic programmes. The library is stunning and the sports facilities are world-class.

St Luke's Campus

• Location: Exeter city centre
• Focus: Education, Sport and Health Sciences, Medicine
• Features: Modern facilities, close to city amenities
• Transport: Easy bus connections to Streatham

St Luke's has a different and more urban vibe. Located in the city centre, it is perfect for students who prefer city energy. It is a popular choice among students pursuing health, medicine or sports science programmes. The medical school here is particularly impressive.

Penryn Campus (Cornwall)

• Location: Cornwall, near Falmouth
• Students: ~4,000
• Features: Coastal setting, purpose-built facilities
• Unique: Combined with Falmouth University

The University of Exeter - Cornwall campus offers something special. It offers a laidback vibe for students who enjoy surfing between lectures. This campus is best known for courses on environmental sciences and marine biology. The Camborne School of Mines is legendary in engineering circles.

Campus Facilities

Libraries and Study Spaces:

• Multiple libraries across campuses
• 24/7 study areas during exams
• Silent and group study zones
• Modern IT facilities with the latest software

Sports and Recreation:

• Russell Seal Fitness Centre
• Olympic-standard athletics track
• Tennis courts, football pitches
• Water sports at the Cornwall campus

Exeter ranks #1 for sports in southern England and Wales. The facilities are some of the best, catering to a wide range of athletes. These athletics centres serve everyone from beginners to professional athletes.

Courses and Academic Programmes

Undergraduate Programmes

Exeter offers 280+ undergraduate courses. The business school has triple accreditation, which puts it in the top 1% globally. The Liberal Arts departments have amazing reputations. These departments have small class sizes, which means students enjoy personal attention. The university has cutting-edge science facilities, and research opportunities exist from the first year.

Popular choices include:

Business School:

• Business Management
• Economics
• Accounting and Finance
• International Business

Liberal Arts:

• English Literature
• History
• Modern Languages
• Philosophy

Sciences:

• Physics and Astronomy
• Computer Science
• Mathematics
• Psychology

Specialised Programmes:

• Medicine (at St Luke's)
• Mining Engineering (at Cornwall)
• Education
• Sports Science

Postgraduate Options

Master's Programmes:

• MBA (highly ranked)
• MSc programmes in various fields
• MA degrees in humanities
• Professional qualifications

Research Degrees:

• PhD across all faculties
• Research councils' funding available
• Industry partnerships for applied research

Entry Requirements

Exeter isn't the hardest to get into. The 87% acceptance rate proves that. But the academic standards remain high. The university wants motivated students, not just high grades. Here are a few entry requirements students need to apply to the University of Exeter.

Student Life and Experience

Exeter has an inviting and student-friendly environment. The quality of life and unique educational opportunities make Exeter the ideal study destination. As a member of the Russell Group, the University of Exeter allows students to excel and grow in their chosen field. Here’s how the University of Exeter creates a positive and welcoming environment for students:

Student Body Demographics

The University of Exeter is popular among the international student community. That means students attending this uni are exposed to new cultures, experiences and unique individuals from different parts of the world. This diversity creates an amazing campus culture. It’s one of the best things about student life in Exeter. You'll meet people from everywhere, and your perspective will broaden naturally.

• Total students: 29,549 (2023-24 academic year)
• International students: 6,901 (23% from 150+ countries)
• Applications received: 40,000+ annually
• Undergraduate/postgraduate split: 70/30
• Gender split: Roughly equal
• Student growth: 17% increase from the previous year

Societies and Clubs

The University of Exeter has 300+ student societies. You will find a student society or academic club for every interest. There are over 50 sports clubs for athletically inclined students. You will even find cultural and language exchange societies at the University of Exeter. Something for everyone:

Academic Societies:

• Subject-specific groups
• Debate societies
• Model UN
• Professional associations

Special Interest:

• Drama and music groups
• Volunteering societies
• Environmental groups
• Gaming and tech clubs

Nightlife and Social Scene

The University of Exeter has an absolutely booming social scene. There are plenty of spots for a fantastic night out, from the best clubs in Exeter to on-campus venues. You can hit student guild bars for an amazing night out with friends. There are also regular events and parties where you can mingle and make friends.

Exeter City Nightlife:

• Timepiece (legendary student club)
• Various pubs and bars
• Live music venues
• Comedy nights

Cornwall Campus:

• Beach parties (seriously!)
• Outdoor adventure activities
• Falmouth nightlife access
• Coastal walks and surfing

Support Services

The University of Exeter takes student wellbeing seriously. Students can get everything from academic support to access to wellbeing services. If you’re struggling with your studies, you can ask the university for a personal tutor or attend a study skills workshop. The support here is genuinely comprehensive, so students don't fall through the cracks. 

Wellbeing Services:

• Counselling and mental health support
• Disability services
• Faith and reflection centres
• International student support

Career Services:

• CV and interview training
• Work placement coordination
• Graduate job fairs
• Industry networking events

Accommodation Options Near the University of Exeter

Booking your Exeter student hall should be high on your to-do list. Most first-year students prefer university halls, while many returning students prefer private housing located on campus or nearby. In these cases, purpose-built student accommodation is the ideal choice. This type of student housing is well placed near the University of Exeter and the city centre.

Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) offers:

• Modern facilities with a gym and study areas
• All-inclusive rent with utilities
• Central locations near campus
• Professional management and security
• Social spaces and events programs

Private Studio Apartments:

• Complete independence
• £150-300 per week
• Good for mature students
• Central locations available

Find out more about student accommodation perks in our PBSA Glossary.

Accommodation Tips

Students must begin the booking process as early as possible, before all the best properties are snapped up. Here are a few more things to consider before booking student accommodation. 

For First Years:

• Apply early for university halls
• Consider catered options to ease transition
• Join accommodation Facebook groups
• Visit during open days if possible

For Returning Students:

• Start house hunting in January
• Budget for deposits and bills
• Check transport links carefully
• Consider proximity to your department

Costs and Financial Planning

Students must plan for the high cost of living in Exeter. Rent, food, travel and tuition expenses add up to quite a sum. Students should create a budget to avoid stressing over every financial transaction. Here’s a quick breakdown of student finances that you must keep in mind before enrolling.

Tuition Fees 2025

Important: UK fees increased from August 1, 2025. These fees apply to both new and returning students.

Living Costs Breakdown

Monthly Budget (Student estimates):

Visa Requirement: International students must show £1,023 per month (£9,207 for 9 months) for living costs. Find out more in our blog on the financial requirements for a UK student visa.

Financial Support

For UK Students:

• Student loans cover tuition and living costs
• Maintenance grants for low-income families
• University bursaries and scholarships
• Work-study opportunities

For International Students:

• Merit-based scholarships available
• Country-specific funding programs
• Research assistantships for postgrads
• Part-time work (20 hours/week permitted)

Scholarship Opportunities:

• Academic excellence awards
• Sports scholarships
• International student bursaries
• Subject-specific funding

Don't assume you can't afford it. Explore every funding option available.

Employment and Career Prospects

The University of Exeter shines when it comes to employability. The connections with major industry players expose students to better opportunities. The university prides itself on its practical teaching. This methodology ensures that students are career-ready when applying for top professional opportunities in Exeter.  

Graduate Employment Statistics

• Employment rate: 92% within 6 months
• Average starting salary: £25,000 - £30,000
• Graduate school rate: 15% continue to postgrad study
• Top employers: Deloitte, Rolls-Royce, IBM, NHS, civil service

Industry Connections

These numbers reflect the University of Exeter's strong industry connections. Career services actively help students succeed. You can also learn on the go while pursuing part-time jobs in Exeter. 

Business and Finance:

• London financial district recruitment
• Big Four accounting firms
• Management consulting
• Banking and investment

Public Service:

• Civil service fast track
• NHS graduate programs
• Teaching and education
• Local government

Technology:

• Software development
• Data science
• Engineering consultancy
• Tech startups

Media and Creative:

• BBC graduate schemes
• Publishing houses
• Marketing agencies
• Creative industries

Work Placement Opportunities

Most courses offer optional work placements. Many students return to placement companies after graduation. It's an excellent pathway to employment. 

Benefits include:

• Year-long industry experience
• Reduced tuition fees during placement
• Often leads to graduate job offers
• Real-world application of studies

International Student Experience

Why International Students Choose the University of Exeter

Academic Quality:

• Russell Group prestige
• World-class research
• English-taught programs
• Internationally recognised degrees

Support Systems:

• Dedicated international office
• Airport pickup services
• Orientation programs
• Ongoing support throughout studies

Visa and Application Process

Student Visa Requirements:

• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
• Financial evidence (tuition + £1,334/month living costs)
• English language proficiency
• Academic transcripts

Application Timeline:

• UCAS deadline: January 26th (undergraduate)
• Direct application deadlines vary (postgraduate)
• Apply early for the best accommodation options
• Allow 3-4 months for visa processing

Application Process and Tips

Undergraduate Applications

Through UCAS:

1. Choose up to 5 university courses
2. Write a compelling personal statement
3. Obtain academic references
4. Submit by the January deadline
5. Attend interview if required (rare)

Personal Statement Tips:

• Show genuine interest in your subject
• Mention relevant experience or reading
• Explain why you chose Exeter specifically
• Demonstrate future career aspirations

Postgraduate Applications

Direct Application:

1. Choose a specific program
2. Prepare academic transcripts
3. Write research proposal (if applicable)
4. Obtain academic/professional references
5. Submit before the deadline

Rolling admissions mean earlier applications often have better chances.

Application Success Strategies

Stand Out from the Crowd:

• Research specific professors and their work
• Mention Exeter's unique programs or facilities
• Show how you'll contribute to the university community
• Demonstrate international perspective

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Generic personal statements
• Missing application deadlines
• Insufficient English language scores
• Weak academic references

Comparing Exeter to Other Universities

Against Russell Group Rivals

The University of Exeter offers a better campus environment than most. The location is genuinely special. It's renowned for its close-knit community and high student satisfaction. 

Practical Tips for Prospective Students

Before You Apply

Research Thoroughly:

• Visit campus if possible (virtual tours available)
• Attend online information sessions
• Connect with current students through university channels
• Research specific course modules and requirements

Prepare a Strong Application:

• Start personal statement early
• Get teachers to review references
• Practice English language tests
• Gather all required documents

Once Accepted

Accommodation:

• Apply for university housing immediately
• Join Facebook groups for your accommodation
• Consider meal plans carefully
• Budget for setup costs

Pre-Arrival Preparation:

• Attend online orientation sessions
• Research the local area and transport
• Open a UK bank account if possible
• Pack appropriate clothing for the British weather

Conclusion: Is the University of Exeter Right for You?

The University of Exeter offers something special. It combines academic excellence with stunning natural beauty. You get Russell Group prestige without losing the personal touch. Consider the University of Exeter if you value campus life over city excitement. 

This university works best for students who want:

• High-quality education in beautiful surroundings
• Strong sense of community
• Excellent sports and outdoor opportunities
• Good career prospects with major employers

Don’t forget to book your accommodation to truly enjoy your university years. There are several benefits of living in Exeter student accommodation. Look out for stunning properties with modern amenities. Contact Best Student Halls for safe and fully furnished rooms in Exeter!

Your university choice shapes your future. Exeter could be the perfect launch pad for your dreams. The University of Exeter is waiting for students who want to thrive. Begin the process today and unlock a magnificent future.