York is a charming and captivating city immersed in history. With its fascinating Roman and Viking heritage, it is a city unlike any other. It is, in fact, the UK’s first and only UNESCO Creative City of Media Arts.
Whether you are a history buff, creativity and culture enthusiast or a chocolate fan, this student-friendly city has everything you need to make the most of your university experience. Learn more about the opportunities available in York for international students or book a free consultation with SI-UK India today.
Life in York for an International Student
Cosy and Charming City
York is full of tourist attractions, giving the students plenty to do on the weekends. It is stunningly beautiful, with its cobbled shopping streets, quaint Tudor buildings, and plenty of mediaeval magnificence. The city gives you plenty of Instagrammable spots.
For students who prefer a more relaxed environment, York has a welcoming atmosphere that can make them feel right at home. The city is known for its comfortable setting and the friendly, warm nature of its people.
There are several popular areas for students to live in York. The city centre is a lively area with plenty of restaurants and shops, while Bootham and Fulford are quieter residential areas with good transport links.
York is also an excellent starting point for exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Yorkshire. The Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors, two of the country's most beautiful national parks, are conveniently located just a stone's throw away.
Top Rated Universities in York
University of York
The University of York was founded in 1963 and is a research-intensive university located on a large, green campus on the outskirts of the city. It is known for its strengths in a variety of fields, including social sciences, sciences, humanities, and the arts.
The university's main library, the JB Morrell Library, is one of the largest academic libraries in the UK, offering access to over a million books, journals, and other resources. The library also has a range of study spaces, computer facilities, and support services.
- Acceptance Rate: 80%
- Popular Courses: Business/Management, Economics, Biology
York St John University
Founded in 1841, York St John University is a public university located in the heart of the city. It offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs in various subjects, with a focus on liberal arts, social sciences, education, and health-related fields.
York St John University is committed to sustainability and has a range of initiatives in place to reduce its carbon footprint, including renewable energy sources, energy-efficient buildings, and waste reduction programs.
The university is also known for its strong emphasis on inclusivity and diversity and was the first UK university to be awarded the Social Enterprise Gold Mark for its commitment to social responsibility.
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Popular Courses: Theology, Physiotherapy, Psychology
Askham Bryan College
Askham Bryan College is a specialist land-based college located just outside the city of York. It was founded in 1936 and offers a range of vocational courses and apprenticeships in agriculture, animal management, horticulture, and conservation.
The college has a working farm and extensive grounds where students can gain practical experience and is also home to a range of rare and endangered species, including red squirrels, dormice, and water voles, and has won numerous awards for its conservation work.
- Acceptance Rate: 60%
- Popular Courses: Agriculture, Horticulture, Animal Management
Chocolates to Curry
York is a paradise for food enthusiasts as its dining landscape is teeming with independent eateries and charming coffee houses.
To get a taste of authentic flavours from around the world, some must-try restaurants are Yak & Yeti for traditional Nepalese cuisine, Thai-style tapas at Phranakhon Thai, North African street food at Los Moros or Bombay Spice if you fancy a curry. Spark is an interesting community venue made entirely from old shipping containers. This bustling area is packed with fantastic local street food vendors and hosts frequent events such as live music performances, trivia contests, and creative arts-and-crafts sessions.
York is also a chocolate lover’s dream. It has had a long and fascinating history with it since the 18th century when the city became an important centre for the chocolate-making industry, including Rowntree, responsible for many iconic British chocolate products, including KitKat and Aero.
Today, visitors to York can explore the city's chocolate heritage at attractions such as York's Chocolate Story, a museum dedicated to the history of chocolate-making in the city.
Viking Warriors and Ghostly Tales
York is home to many historic sites, including York Minster, Clifford's Tower, and the City Walls. The city also has numerous museums like the Yorkshire Museum, housing some of Britain's most important Roman artefacts and the Jorvik Viking Centre offering a truly immersive experience with its life-size dioramas and ancient relics.
York is frequently referred to as the most haunted city in Europe, and in addition to the numerous ghost tours, there is also a shop called The York Ghost Merchants that offers a selection of handcrafted 'Ghosts' for sale.
When it comes to shopping, one cannot miss the world-renowned Shambles - York's own version of Diagon Alley, which is considered one of the best-preserved mediaeval shopping streets in Europe. This iconic street is lined with major fashion retail chains, independent stores and market stalls, giving you plenty to choose from.
Fitness and Fun
There are numerous sporting events to attend in York, whether you prefer to participate or watch. The highlight of the Sports calendar is, of course, the Roses Tournament, the largest inter-university sports competition in Europe. The contest is hosted alternatively by the Lancaster Students' Union and the University of York Students' Union, drawing hundreds of students to travel between campuses to compete, cheer and raise funds for charity.
Additionally, York features several public parks and open spaces that cater to outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy running, cycling, or taking a leisurely stroll.
Career Prospects
York has a diverse range of employment opportunities, with several large companies operating in the city across various sectors. The city offers a variety of career opportunities in fields such as creative arts, engineering, IT, and healthcare and also has a growing start-up scene with many innovative and ambitious businesses. Some of the major employers in York include Aviva, Nestle Rowntree, Network Rail, and Jarvis.
Study in York
Contact SI-UK India today if you are interested in learning more about studying in York or beginning your application for studying at one of its top universities.
Living and Studying in York FAQ
York University in the UK is recognized as a good choice for international students due to several reasons. The university maintains a strong academic reputation, with high-quality programs across various disciplines. With its cultural diversity, multicultural environment, and networking opportunities, it has become an ideal choice for students studying abroad.
Admission to York University, UK, for international students depends on the course and specific requirements. While the university maintains academic standards and a competitive application process, it is generally considered feasible for international students to gain admission.
The cost of studying at York University for international students may vary. While tuition fees are generally competitive, it is important for students to research and budget for expenses such as living costs, textbooks, and personal expenses. Scholarships, bursaries, and part-time jobs can help alleviate financial burdens.
In York, there are several desirable areas, such as Bishopthorpe Road, known for its independent shops and Fulford and Bootham, known for the peaceful residential setting near the river. The best area to live in depends on individual preferences such as amenities and atmosphere. It is recommended to explore the neighbourhoods and consider factors like proximity to work or study, transportation options, and personal preferences when choosing where to live in York.
I sincerely thank SI-UK for getting me accepted to UCL. The MSc in Urban Development and Planning is extremely competitive, but the right guidance provided by SI-UK made my dream of studying at University College London a reality. The services were exceptional from beginning to end. 
