About

The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) is a state-run university in Preston, Lancashire, England, with additional campuses in Burnley, Westlakes (Cumbria), and even a satellite campus in Pyla, Cyprus. Its roots go back to 1828, when it was established as the Institution for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge, and evolved through different stages until it achieved university status in 1992. As a state-funded institution controlled by the UK government and empowered by the Privy Council, UCLan is now among the biggest universities in the UK, educating over 38,000–42,000 students from more than 100 countries. UCLan offers a wide range of over 300 undergraduate and 200+ postgraduate programs, in medicine, engineering, business, law, journalism, nursing, forensic science, veterinary medicine, and more. Institutional accreditations exist in various schools within the university, with professional recognition for its Journalism, Media and Communication school by institutions like Broadcast Journalism Training Council and NCTJ. The student body is very diverse: approximately 8–10% international on the Preston campus, and over 2,000 international students to study in the UK annually, alongside 3,000+ offshore students across global partner institutions. UCLan facilitates them through excellent services such as pre‑arrival airport pick‑up, orientation, English‑language support, visa advice, personal tutors, and a buddy scheme. On campus, overseas students can use faith and wellbeing facilities (including Oasis Multi-Faith Centre, health clinic, counselling), specialist careers and employability services, scholarships, and tailored accommodation including reserved halls with inclusive utility packages and adapted rooms for specific needs.

Features

Why University of central Lancashire

Modern Campus and £200 Million Investment-The university has recently completed a £200 million transformation of its Preston campus, including a new Student Centre, Engineering Innovation Centre (EIC), and Social Spaces to enhance student experience and learning infrastructure. 
Employment-Focused Teaching with Industry Links-UCLan offers over 400 undergraduate and postgraduate courses with a strong emphasis on employability, work placements, and professional accreditations. Many degrees are developed in collaboration with leading industry partners. 
Strong Research Output and REF Recognition-In the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF), 69% of UCLan’s research was rated world-leading or internationally excellent, especially in areas like Allied Health Professions, Engineering, and Media. 
Diverse International Community-With over 100 nationalities represented, UCLan fosters a vibrant international environment. It also has global campuses or partnerships in Cyprus, China, and Sri Lanka, expanding its global reach.
Award-Winning Student Support and Safety-UCLan has been awarded the Queen’s Anniversary Prize and recognized for top-tier student wellbeing services, safety, and support structures, including counseling, career guidance, and a 24/7 library. Preston is also considered one of the safest UK cities for students.

Scholarship Details

International merits based Scholarships for International Graduates and Undergraduates

The University of Lancashire (formerly UCLan) offers several merit-based scholarships for international undergraduate and postgraduate students to support high-achieving applicants. One of the most prestigious is the Vice-Chancellor’s International Excellence Scholarship, which awards up to £3,000 per year to students with excellent academic performance—typically requiring around 70% or above for undergraduates and 60% or above for postgraduates, along with an additional £1,000 International Bursary. The Merit Scholarship grants £2,000 per year to students meeting academic thresholds of approximately 65–70% for undergraduate and 58%+ for postgraduate levels. All self-funded international students are also automatically eligible for a £1,000 International Bursary, regardless of GPA. Additionally, students from partner institutions can receive the Articulation Scholarship worth £2,000–£3,000, and returning UCLan graduates enrolling in postgraduate taught programmes may qualify for the International Alumni Scholarship, offering a 20% tuition fee reduction plus the bursary.

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University Accreditation/ Recognition

General Medical Council (GMC)-UCLan’s School of Medicine is fully approved by the GMC to award UK primary medical qualifications (MBBS). It completed a five‑year quality assurance process, earning GMC endorsement to train UK and international doctors.
Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) – for Civil & Structural Engineering-The BEng Civil Engineering and MSc Construction Project Management programmes are accredited by the JBM. That includes leading institutions like the Institution of Civil Engineers, the Institution of Structural Engineers, Highway Engineers, and CIHT.
Institute of Hospitality-Ten programmes in hospitality, tourism, and event management—both undergraduate and postgraduate—received accreditation for five years, recognizing their quality in professional practice, staff expertise, and industry connections.
Joint Audio Media Education Support (JAMES)-UCLan’s School of Film, Media & Performance was designated a JAMES Integrated Learning Centre. Six courses (including Music Production, Media & TV, Animation, Games) earned this rare accreditation, praised as a national benchmark.
University Archaeology UK (UAUK) & Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA)-UCLan became one of just seven UK universities (and the only one in the North West) to gain this accreditation. It validates both undergraduate and master’s archaeology degrees, highlighting strong fieldwork and professional preparation.

Location

1 Fylde Rd, Preston PR1 2HE, UK

Financials

Descriptions	Subtotal
Avg Cost of Tuition/Year	GBP 17,604
Cost of Living/Year	GBP 7,345
*Application Fee	GBP 0 - GBP 25 *Charged once per application
Estimated Total/Year	GBP 24,949

University of Central Lancashire