Is Durham University hard to get in?

Wondering how difficult is it to get into Durham University? This guide specifies Durham University’ step-by-step application process, minimum entry requirements, practical tips to strengthen the application, and more.

Durham University is the UK’s leading Russell Group University. In the UK-based rankings, Durham is ranks among the Top 10 Universities in 2027. In the Guardian Rankings and Complete University Guide rankings, it is placed at #6 in 2027.

Due to Durham’s academic excellence and rankings, it is no surprise that many students may ask the question time and again: is it actually hard to get into? With around 42,000 applications in the current  cycle and 25% increase in the applications, Durham University is selective but not out of reach like Oxbridge. In this guide, we break down Durham’s entry requirements, acceptance rate, application process, and more.

Why choose Durham University?

Over 4,500 international students from 156 countries are at Durham University. As per the stats, there are over 400 students from Central and South Asia.

• Top ranking university – Durham University is one of the leading universities in the world and ranks among the Top 100 in the QS rankings in 2027. It is ranked at #85 in the QS world university rankings 2027.
• Unique collegiate system – The collegiate system at Durham University is exceptional. Every college at this university has its own traditions. There are 17 colleges at Durham University.
• Scholarships – Durham University offers a no. of scholarships for international students. International students at Durham are offered the Inspiring Excellence Undergraduate Scholarships and International Excellence Postgraduate Scholarship. The tuition fee discount ranges between GBP 5,000 – GBP 10,000
• Post Study Work Visa – After completing studies at Durham Uni UK, the students can apply for a Graduate Visa to stay in the UK for work purposes. Those who have completed Bachelor’s and Master’s degree can stay in the UK for 18 months after Jan 2027. PhD holders, on the other hand, can stay in the UK for 3 years.

What is Durham University Acceptance Rate?

As such there is no exact figure for Durham University’s acceptance rate. Over a few unofficial sources, the acceptance rate of Durham University is around 41%. While a few other unofficial sources cite that Durham’s acceptance rate is around 72%. Durham University is moderate to competitive university.

Is Durham University getting more competitive?

Yes, as per the 2025/26 facts, Durham University received around 42,000 applications. The university has quoted that the university has seen a 25% increase in applications in 2025/26 admissions cycle.

Statistics for UG students at Durham University for 2025 is given below-

Durham University Entry Requirements for Indian Students

Given below are the entry requirements that Indian students have to meet for admission to Durham University-

Undergraduate – The students must have passed Class 12 from CBSE / ISC / State Board with a minimum of 80% - 89%.

Postgraduate – For admission to PG courses of Durham University, the students are required to have a Bachelor’s degree with 55% - 65%, depending on the institution

English Language Requirements at Durham Universit

Durham University accepts the test scores of IELTS / TOEFL / PTE / Duolingo from international students. The minimum scores required in these tests vary as per the courses. For direct entry bands, the range of English language tests is as follows-

How to apply to Durham University? UCAS Deadlines and Application Process

The applications for Postgraduate courses remain open all year round, but for a few courses, the application deadlines are applicable. For the Undergraduate courses of Durham, here are the application deadlines-

Durham University Application Process

To apply to Durham University, for UG courses, the students can apply via UCAS. Whereas, for the PG courses, the students can apply via the direct applicant portal of the university. Step-by-step process to apply to Durham is give below-

1. Select and pick the Durham Uni program first
2. Check the application deadlines and entry requirements
3. Apply via UCAS or direct university portal. Upload the documents with the application for Durham such as transcripts, CV, reference letters, etc.
4. Accept the admission offer and pay the tuition fee deposit

Documents required to apply

Here are some of the documents that Indian students require for admission to Durham University-

• Personal statement
• Transcripts or certificates
• Academic reference
• Resume
• English Language proficiency certificate

How to strengthen your application at Durham University?

Here are some of the applications tips for students to enhance their application to Durham University –

• Apply early – For some courses of Durham, entry is competitive, so it is advised to apply as early as possible. Apply before the application deadline. Try not to wait until the last minute
• Craft a good personal statement – Try to create a course-specific personal statement. Students must explain why they chose the particular course and department
• Get strong LORs – Students must try to get good references. Make sure this is not a generic one

What does Durham University look beyond the grades?

While the academic record can set you apart at the time of admission to Durham University. But there are certain things that Durham may consider while offering admission.

• A good personal statement: Students must be very specific in their personal statement. They can skip the clichés and mention that they are the best match for the program at Durham. Students can also mention about their hobbies, work experience, and achievements outside of their studies in the personal statement
• References: Durham also gives weightage to the teacher’s referenes
• Independent achievements: Students can also mention the things in which they have participated such as any research projects or Olympiads

Download Free PDF to know what an applicant profile for Durham University must look like