Durham University Acceptance Rate for Indian Students

Durham University is a prestigious public research university based in Durham, England. Harboring 27 academic departments, the university offers more than 200 undergraduate courses. It has ranked 89th in the World's Top 100 University Rankings 2025, 7th in the Complete University Guide, 5th in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide, and 6th in the Guardian University Guide 2025.  

Durham University has 17 colleges under it, each offering a distinct tradition, character, and culture. 

Also Read: Durham University Rankings 2025

Durham University Acceptance Rate 2025

The collegiate system and academic prospects of Durham University make it a popular choice amongst students from diverse backgrounds. Durham campus houses over 21,000 students out of which, over 4,500 are international students representing 156 countries. Durham University's acceptance rate is 41%, making it more selective than average. 

Durham University Acceptance Rate for International Students 

For the academic session 2023-24, out of the total applications received, international student applications comprised over 11,000. The number of applications accepted was almost 9,000. This implies that Durham University's acceptance rate for international students is at par with the overall acceptance rate of Durham University, meaning more intense competition for international students. 

Durham University Requirements for International Students 

The entry requirements for international aspirants per course are likely to differ, with some courses requiring prior study experience in certain subjects. The students can refer to the course database on the university's page to gain a better understanding of the prerequisites. 

Some of the general documents required are: 

• Passport and UK Student visa 

• UKVI Decision 

• CAS statement (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) 

• Financial documents with proof of funds 

• Accommodation specification documents 

• Four passport-sized photographs 

• Insurance documents (in case not using StudyCare) 
• Medical certificates and records of vaccination 

For UG admissions for Indian students, Durham University requires completion of standard XII. The average score requirement of the best four academic subjects ranges between 90% and 83%, varying based on the A-level equivalency. Moreover, Durham University only accepts entry for certain state boards, CBSE, and CISCE Board. Prospective students are recommended to visit the official website of the university to ensure they have all the qualifications. 

For PG students, Durham University requires a 3, 4, or 5-year bachelor's degree with a score of 60-70% from an authorized Indian University. 

In case a student fails to meet the requirements but shows potential, Durham University does not reject such applicants. Instead of offering direct admission to an undergraduate or postgraduate program, the students are offered a pathway program at the International Study Centre to help them familiarize themselves with the teaching style for future reference. 

Also Read: Durham University Admissions 2025

Tips to get selected at Durham University 

With an acceptance rate of 41%, Durham is a rather selective university, meaning students must have an exceptional profile and make informed decisions at every step of the process. These tips can help students in securing admission at a leading university like Durham: 

• Careful Consideration and Research: Different programs offered by the university come with different conditions and requirements, such as additional selection criteria. Students can refer to the guidelines provided on the official website to ensure these guidelines align with what the student has to offer. 

• Improve Command of the English Language- It is a prerequisite to showcase one's English language proficiency through an accepted English language test. Students must work on their comprehension and usage of the language for better chances at admission to Durham University. 

• Secure Good Grades- Durham University strictly does not compromise on its quality while evaluating applications, putting weight on candidates with good academic qualifications and achievements. Aspirants who want to apply for undergraduate programs should ensure their standard 12th marks are up to the mark. 

• Be Mindful of the Deadlines and Costs Involved: For the best chances of receiving an offer, students planning to apply for Durham University should adhere to the deadline assigned by the university. Moreover, studying abroad can definitely bring along better prospects, but it also comes with hefty expenses. Durham University asks its students to provide proof of funding. Thus, it is advised to thoroughly calculate the costs of accommodation, year-round tuition fees, and other fixed costs like a UK student Visa (requires depositing £524 or Rs. 58,700 approx.) 

Durham University Acceptance Rate vs Lancaster University Acceptance Rate 

Acceptance Rate of Lancaster University is around 18-19% as compared to Durham University’s acceptance rate of 41%. This suggests that Lancaster University is far more selective in its admissions criteria than Durham University, and students will be facing more intense competition if they want to enter Lancaster University.  

To increase the odds of selection at Lancaster University, students must work on their English skills, increase participation in extracurricular activities, and improve their academic credentials. Building an overall strong profile can help the students greatly with their admission criteria.