Study in Northern Ireland
Should I stay or should I go?
As a young person, when you think about going to university, you probably imagine a new adventure in a different city, your future career, and the prospect of an exciting social life.
But did you know you don't have to move away to experience all of that?
From an outstanding global reputation to low-cost, high-quality living and a vibrant social scene, discover why staying in Northern Ireland and studying at Queen's University Belfast could be the perfect choice for you.
Why should I apply to Queen's University Belfast?
By staying in Northern Ireland, you can receive a world-class education right on your doorstep.
Queen's University is the only university in Northern Ireland that is a member of the prestigious Russell Group, meaning you’ll be taught by world-leading academics who are at the forefront of their disciplines.
Top employers target our graduates because they know we're home to some of the brightest students in the UK. In fact, 93% of Queen’s graduates were in employment and/or further study 15 months after completing their course (HESA Graduate Outcomes, 2020/21).
Northern Ireland is also a fantastic place to build your career—top companies from around the world have offices here, maintain links with Queen's, and offer excellent graduate schemes, placement opportunities, and internships.
The Cost of Going to University
Choosing to study in Northern Ireland offers significant financial benefits.
For example, your tuition fees will be just £4,750 per year, compared to around £9,250 in the rest of the UK. This means that by studying at Queen's University, you'll have a smaller student loan to repay once you start earning above the threshold.
Belfast, the vibrant capital of Northern Ireland, has been recognised as the UK's most affordable student city (Natwest Student Living Index 2024). Students here enjoy more affordable accommodation and private rental prices compared to other cities across the UK, making it an even more attractive option for your studies.
Find out how Queen's compares to other universities in the UK.
Find Your Independence Right Where You Are
University is an exciting time and it gives you the opportunity to become more independent.
It's a chance to move away from home, learn to cook, manage finances, budget, and take care of yourself for the first time.
Whether you live in university halls or share a private rental with friends, you'll still have plenty of freedom, just like you would if you went to university outside of Northern Ireland.
Many students from Northern Ireland choose to live at home while studying, but that doesn't mean you won't gain independence. You can still fully embrace the university experience, make new friends, and enjoy everything university life has to offer, even if you're living at home.
Belfast is the Ultimate Student Destination
By staying in Northern Ireland for university, you get the best of both worlds.
You'll remain close to your support network of family and friends, which can make a big difference during your studies, while also exploring everything that Belfast and Northern Ireland have to offer.
You can focus on your studies, work, and enjoy student life, all while having some of the most beautiful scenery right on your doorstep. Northern Ireland is rich in culture, with countless festivals, museums, theatres, music, and comedy venues to explore.
Plus, by staying local, you're not just helping yourself—you’re also supporting and contributing to the local economy, helping it grow and thrive for the future.
Stay Connected
One of the biggest perks of staying in Northern Ireland for university is staying close to the community, family, and friends who matter most to you.
Studying at Queen's is a big change, but having familiar places and people around can make it easier to settle into university life.
Queen's also welcomes international students every year who choose to make Belfast their home away from home. This creates a fantastic opportunity to make new friends and help others feel at home too.
