Queens University Belfast

Queen’s University Belfast offers a comprehensive range of student services designed to support every aspect of university life, from academic success to personal wellbeing and career development. These services ensure that students are fully supported throughout their journey, enabling them to achieve their full potential in a globally competitive environment.

International students benefit from dedicated, end-to-end support. The International Student Support team provides guidance before arrival and throughout studies, including a meet-and-greet service at Belfast International Airport and George Best City Airport. An International Welcome and Orientation Week helps students transition smoothly into university life, offering sessions on academic skills, cultural adaptation, and exploring the city of Belfast.

Academic support is a core strength at Queen’s. The Learning Development Service delivers workshops, one-to-one guidance, and online resources to help students strengthen essential academic skills such as time management, exam preparation, academic writing, referencing, and research. In addition, the Academic English Service supports non-native English speakers, while in-sessional English language programmes delivered in partnership with INTO further enhance language proficiency during studies.

Student well-being is prioritised through free and accessible services for all registered students. The Student Wellbeing team offers confidential support, including a Drop-In Service available both on and off campus. For students with disabilities or long-term conditions, Accessible Learning Support ensures equitable access to all aspects of university life.

Career development is strongly embedded within the student experience. Career Services provides tailored guidance, internships, and job placement opportunities, supported by initiatives such as Degree Plus, which recognises extracurricular achievements. Queen’s ranks at the top of the Russell Group for employment and further study outcomes (91.1%), with a low unemployment rate of 4.0%, and is ranked 9th in the UK for graduate prospects (Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026).

Additional essential services include Immigration Support for visa guidance, Student Registry for enrolment and academic records, and Student Finance for fee management and financial advice.

Queen’s offers advanced academic facilities across key disciplines, featuring interdisciplinary research hubs that promote innovation and practical learning. The £50m McClay Library provides modern study spaces, IT resources, and a Language Centre, while One Elmwood brings together student services, the Students’ Union, and social spaces in one central, collaborative hub.

The Students’ Union further enriches student life. Ranked No. 1 in the UK (WhatUni Student Choice Awards 2025), it offers impartial advice, over 240 clubs and societies, and entrepreneurial programmes such as InnovateHer and QUB Dragons’ Den. With 99% international student satisfaction, it plays a central role in creating a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive campus community.

Queen’s University Belfast is globally recognised for its academic excellence, research strength, and outstanding graduate outcomes. Ranked 199th in the world and 70th in Europe (QS World University Rankings 2026), the university consistently places among the top 200 universities worldwide in both QS and Times Higher Education rankings 2026. As a member of the prestigious Russell Group, Queen’s stands among the UK’s leading research-intensive institutions.

The university’s subject performance is equally impressive. Queen’s has 21 subjects ranked in the world’s top 200 (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025), with five subjects in the global top 100 (QS 2026): Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Nursing, English Language and Literature, Performing Arts, and Social Policy and Administration. Additionally, the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU 2024) places 15 subjects in the top 200 globally, further reinforcing its academic depth.

Research excellence is a defining strength. Queen’s is ranked 13th in the UK for research intensity (Complete University Guide 2026), and 99% of its research environment is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021). Subject-specific achievements include 1st in the UK for Agriculture, Food and Veterinary Sciences, 4th for Allied Health Professions, Dentistry, Nursing and Pharmacy, and 8th for Law. Notably, 96% of Engineering research meets world-leading or internationally excellent standards.

Graduate success is another key indicator of quality. 93% of graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months (HESA Graduate Outcomes 2022/23). The university ranks 9th in the UK for graduate prospects (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026 and Complete University Guide 2026), and 1st in the UK for career prospects in multiple disciplines, including Pharmacy, Biomedical Science, Engineering, Medicine, and Midwifery (Guardian University Guide 2026).

Queen’s also excels in global outlook, ranking 5th in the world for international outlook (THE 2026), and maintains a strong reputation for sustainability, being placed in the top 100 globally in both QS Sustainability Rankings 2026 and THE Impact Rankings 2025. It is also ranked 9th globally for SDG15 Life on Land (THE Impact Rankings 2024).

Entrepreneurship and innovation rankings further distinguish Queen’s. It has been ranked 1st in the UK for entrepreneurial activity (2019 and 2020) and 2nd in 2022 (Octopus Ventures Impact Rankings), as well as 2nd in the UK for entrepreneurial impact (i2i University Spinout Ranking 2024). The university is also placed among the top 10 UK universities for spin-out companies (Royal Academy of Engineering and Beauhurst 2025).

Complementing these achievements, Queen’s is a seven-time winner of the Queen’s Anniversary Prize, ranks 1st in the UK (StudentCrowd University Awards 2025), and is 4th among UK universities for social facilities (International Student Barometer 2024). These rankings collectively position Queen’s University Belfast as a globally competitive, research-driven institution committed to academic excellence, employability, and societal impact.

Student life at Queen’s University Belfast extends far beyond lectures, offering a dynamic and enriching experience in one of the UK’s most welcoming and affordable cities. Located at the heart of Belfast, the university is surrounded by a vibrant cultural, social, and artistic scene, giving students the perfect balance between academic focus and an exciting lifestyle. The campus itself is highly regarded, ranked 3rd in the UK for Campus and Facilities (StudentCrowd University Awards 2025), reflecting the quality of the overall student environment.

A central part of student life is the Students’ Union, ranked No.1 in the UK (WhatUni Student Choice Awards 2025), as well as 2nd in the UK and 4th globally, with 99% international student satisfaction (International Student Barometer 2024). As the largest single-campus union in Ireland, it plays a vital role in student engagement. It offers confidential advice services, represents student voices, and supports a thriving community of over 240 clubs and societies. These groups cover a wide range of interests, from sports and music to academic and cultural activities, helping students build friendships and explore new passions.

Creative opportunities are abundant. Students can join societies dedicated to live music, musical theatre, arts, writing, photography, and fashion, allowing them to express their talents and collaborate with like-minded individuals. Academic societies across disciplines such as law, engineering, history, and psychology also provide opportunities to deepen subject knowledge and network beyond the classroom.

Sport and physical wellbeing are integral to life at Queen’s. With over 50 sports clubs and more than 75 weekly fitness classes, students can participate at all levels, from recreational to competitive. Activities range from traditional sports like rugby to unique options such as underwater hockey and quidditch. The Physical Education Centre (PEC) offers modern facilities, while programmes like Active Campus encourage students to stay active and social. Personalised support through the MyWellness app helps students track and achieve their fitness goals.

Belfast itself enhances the student experience. Known for its friendly atmosphere and rich heritage, the city offers a wide range of activities, from cultural festivals and live music to dining and shopping. It is also one of the most affordable student cities in the UK, with Northern Ireland having the lowest student living costs (Save the Student National Student Money Survey 2025). The city’s thriving international food scene ensures students can easily find cuisine from around the world, particularly around Botanic Avenue near campus.

With a lively campus, diverse opportunities, and a supportive community, Queen’s University Belfast provides a truly engaging and well-rounded student life experience.

Queen’s University Belfast offers a wide range of high-quality accommodation options designed to suit different lifestyles, budgets, and preferences. Whether students prefer a lively city-centre setting or a quieter village-style environment, the university provides comfortable, secure, and well-connected living spaces. Importantly, Queen’s guarantees accommodation for all international students in their first year, ensuring a smooth transition into university life.

The Elms accommodation portfolio is a popular choice among students. Elms BT9 offers a traditional student village experience just 15 minutes from campus, with modern facilities and a strong sense of community. For those who prefer city living, Elms BT1 and Elms BT2 are located in the heart of Belfast, surrounded by shops, cafés, and restaurants, and within a short walk or bus ride to the university.

In addition to Elms, Queen’s provides a variety of newly developed residences. Willow Walk features contemporary apartments and studios, offering flexible living arrangements just 15 minutes from campus. Weavers’ Hall is ideal for students seeking a central location, only a 14-minute walk from the university and close to city amenities. College Gardens places students just two minutes from the main campus, right at the centre of student life.

Other options include Grant House, located near Elms BT9 and just 10 minutes from campus, offering a balance between independence and accessibility. Guthrie House is particularly suited for postgraduate students, with close proximity to the main campus, the Medical Biology Centre, and the City Hospital. Mount Charles, situated off Botanic Avenue, provides a vibrant living experience just two minutes from campus, while 76 Malone Road offers convenient access to both the university and Belfast city centre via main transport routes.

All university accommodation is self-catered, giving students flexibility and independence. Options include en suite and standard rooms, with pricing based on facilities and room type. Each residence is well-connected to the campus and city, ensuring easy access to classes, shopping, and public transport.

For students considering private accommodation, Queen’s Students’ Union offers dedicated support through its Housing Advice Guide, providing practical information on renting and tenant responsibilities. Overall, Queen’s accommodation combines convenience, comfort, and community, creating a supportive home environment for students..