QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY BELFAST, BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND
Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) is a member of the prestigious Russell Group and ranks among the top 200 universities worldwide. Located in the heart of Northern Ireland’s capital, the campus blends historic red-brick architecture with modern academic facilities, all within a walkable city known for its affordability and friendliness. For American students seeking a high-quality, internationally recognized education in an English-speaking country, Queen’s may offer a compelling alternative to the traditional US college experience
QUICK STATS
• Public
• Undergraduate enrollment: Approx. 16,000
• Admit rate: Not formally published; generally high for qualified US applicants
• Financial Aid forms required: FAFSA not applicable; international students can apply directly for scholarships
• Retention rate: ~90% first-year retention
• Average Class Size: Varies by course of study
• Student to faculty ratio: Approx. 14:1
CURRICULUM
• Strongest/Popular majors: English, Business, Law, Biomed, History, Film
• Strong connections with local film studio (i.e., Derry Girls, Game of Thrones, How To Train Your Dragon)
• Unique/Specialty majors: Peace Studies, Irish Studies, Cyber Security, Archaeology, and Actuarial Science
• Curriculum: Highly structured; students specialize in their chosen course from day one; project-based learning and placements (co-ops) are encouraged
• Experiential Learning: Students can study abroad and participate in work placements aka co-ops/internships
• Cross over schools may include: University of Edinburgh, University of Glasgow, University College Dublin, University of St Andrews, King’s College London, Trinity College Dublin
STUDENT BODY
• Type of students who thrive here: Independent, globally curious, academically focused, eager for cultural immersion
Criteria they’re looking for: Academic preparedness (via GPA/APs/IB), maturity, and interest in subject area
Weekend life: Active student unions, on-campus clubs, Belfast nightlife (40% of city centre are under 40), outdoor adventures in nearby landscapes (check out the Giants Causeway!)
• Types of students looking for: Those who want international perspective, lower costs, and earlier career entry
• Percentage draw outside of area: 34% international (including Republic of Ireland, EU, USA, Asia)
• LD Support programs: Disability and Wellbeing Service offers academic support for students with diagnosed needs
• Geographic diversity: Students from over 80 countries; small but growing US population
• Queens tries to make US students feel at home with special events like Friendsgiving
• Real focus on globalization with international companies recruiting (IBM, Deloitte, Allstate, many law firms)
• Relationships with US based institutions including Northeastern, College of Charleston, and Ohio State (online)
ADMISSIONS PROCESS
• Apply through UCAS
• How do you read applications? Based on academic credentials; US students apply with APs, SAT/ACT (optional), or IB
• Is fit to major considered? Yes – applicants must show academic preparation for their intended course
• Interview: Not required for most programs (exceptions: Medicine, Dentistry)
• UK schools do not track Demonstrated Interest
FINANCIALS
• Merit and Need-based aid: Merit scholarships available for US students (e.g., Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship) however these can be single year only
• International students receive a discount if they choose to continue with their master’s
• COA: Estimated annual cost (tuition + living): approximately $32,000 USD
Additional fees can vary by program as in the US
photo courtesy Queen’s University Belfast
