University of Southampton

All courses are taught in English. Each course sets its own English level, expressed as a band from A to I with an IELTS equivalent; the offer letter states the band required. Applicants from majority English-speaking countries need no test but must meet a minimum academic standard, usually GCSE English Language at grade 4 or C.

• Accepted tests include IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, Pearson Test of English Academic, Cambridge English C1 Advanced and the Duolingo English Test
• Test results must be no more than 2 years old at the course start date
• For undergraduate degrees, some UK, European and international school qualifications in English are also accepted
• Pre-sessional English courses are available

Undergraduates can apply for UK government loans and financial support (student finance) and for the Southampton Undergraduate Bursary, which helps certain students with the cost of their studies. Scholarships and awards for undergraduates are offered by governments, external organisations and the university. Separate funding information is available for taught postgraduate and research degrees.

The university's halls of residence are close to campus or in Southampton city centre and offer a range of room types, prices and catering options. All university-managed halls have 24/7 reception and security, and residents of university-owned halls get free use of the UniLink bus network. Single rooms are guaranteed for most first-year students who apply by the deadline; there is also accommodation for postgraduates, international and pre-sessional students, and couples or families.

For 2026 entry, Mayflower Halls are closed from summer 2026 for essential work and the remaining halls are full, so offer holders are advised to look for private accommodation.