University of Glasgow: What it's really like

Looking for a large university in a city with loads to see and do? The University of Glasgow could be for you!

Glasgow at a glance:

Charlie Potter, Student Recruitment Officer at the University of Glasgow, shares why you should apply to the university and her top tips for a strong application.

What is the University of Glasgow?

The University of Glasgow is the fourth oldest university in the English-speaking world, and a Russell Group university. The main campus is based in the west end of the city of Glasgow, with the Dumfries campus in the south west of Scotland.

The campus is very photogenic - its cloisters are one of the most Instagrammed places in the whole of Scotland! The campus has also been featured as a set in TV series such as Outlander and films including Cloud Atlas.

Why apply to the University of Glasgow?

The university offers an impressive variety and flexibility of degrees. There are over 700 degrees on offer, and you have the option to try out different subjects alongside your original preference. The option to combine degree subjects also means you gain a dual qualification after graduating, which many employers see as an advantage.

Whilst the university’s degrees in Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary medicine offer less flexibility, they are all accredited, putting you in a good position to get a job after graduating.

As Glasgow follows the standard Scottish degree format, most of its undergraduate degrees take four years to complete. But to avoid being disadvantageous to students coming from the rest of the UK - who might have expected to graduate after three years - there is a discount, so they can enjoy a four-year course for the price of three!

Who isn’t the right fit for Glasgow?

Although the university is a campus university, it is based in the biggest city in Scotland, so there’s a busy atmosphere. If you're looking for a smaller, more rural feel, the campuses in Glasgow itself may not be the right fit - but make sure to check out the courses at the Dumfries campus instead. And of course, don't forget to visit, to get a feel for the university and make your own decision.

What’s the location like?

Glasgow has been named the friendliest city in the UK, as well as the UK’s top cultural and creative city. There are five universities across the city, plus lots of art galleries and museums (many of which are free), so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet other students in your spare time. 

Glasgow is also the European capital of sport for 2023, and is home to renowned rival football teams, Celtic and Rangers FC. And as a UNESCO City of Music, you can find up to 130 live gigs per week in Glasgow. You’re unlikely to get bored in Glasgow!

Any application tips?

Firstly, be sure to do loads of research - including looking at modules. Universities offer different modules even if their degrees have the same name, so have a look at the online prospectus and check if the degree you are interested in is the right fit for you.

Keep a look out for specific entry requirements. For example, although the university doesn’t require an interview for most of its degrees, the university’s Medicine degrees require that you pass the UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test).

Finally, don’t leave your personal statement to the last minute! Have a plan, and be prepared to write a few drafts. Chat to friends and family about what they think are your key skills. Showcase the best version of yourself, but make sure to be true to who you are too.

Want to explore more UK universities? Remember, Unifrog’s Shortlisting tool can help you put together a list of great potential courses.