Birkbeck, University of London
Birkbeck is a constituent college of the federal University of London, historically known for evening-taught programmes designed around working students. It offers a genuine University of London degree with generally accessible postgraduate entry requirements.
Institution size
Mid-sized
Min. CGPA floor
2:2 (Lower Second)
Tuition / yr
£15k–£19k
Type
Public university (University of London federal college)
Key Facts
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | London, England, United Kingdom |
| Type | Public university (University of London federal college) |
| Institution size | Mid-sized |
| Rankings | As a constituent college of the federal University of London, Birkbeck benefits from association with one of the world’s most recognised university systems, though it is assessed separately in UK league tables, generally outside the top 40 nationally. |
| Notable feature | Evening-taught format; part of the University of London federal system |
| Official website | bbk.ac.uk |
Admission Requirements for Low CGPA and Backlog Applicants
- Standard postgraduate entry: 2:2 (Lower Second) honours degree or recognised international equivalent
- Applies across most taught master’s programmes
- Professional experience considered alongside academic qualifications in some departments
Tuition and Fees
| Item | Approximate Range |
|---|---|
| Postgraduate tuition (international) | £15k–£19k per year |
| Living costs (London) | High; among the most expensive UK cities |
Figures are indicative and reviewed annually by the institution. Confirm current rates directly with the university before budgeting.
Programmes Offered
- Business and Management
- Psychology
- Law
- Politics and International Relations
- Computer Science
- Creative Writing
Degree Levels Offered
- Diploma / Certificate: Offered
- Undergraduate (Bachelor’s): Offered
- Postgraduate (Master’s / MSc / MA): Offered
- Doctorate (PhD): Offered
- Post-Doctoral Fellowship: Not offered at this institution
- Short Courses: Offered
Availability of Short Courses and Post-Doctoral Fellowship positions can vary by department and is not always centrally advertised; confirm current openings directly with the relevant faculty.
Scholarships and Funding
- Institutional scholarships available for international postgraduate applicants; competitive and require separate application
- Birkbeck-specific bursaries reviewed annually; confirm current offerings with the international office
Application Process
- Confirm the specific CGPA, GPA, or classification requirement for the target programme directly with the admissions office
- Complete required English proficiency testing (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent) if applicable
- Prepare transcripts, statement of purpose, recommendation letters or references, and a resume or CV
- Submit the application through the university’s official admissions portal and pay the application fee
- Await the admission decision and, once accepted, pay any required deposit
- Apply for the relevant student visa or study permit using the offer letter and financial documentation
Admission Outlook
Birkbeck offers a genuine University of London credential at a more accessible entry point than many of its central London counterparts, though London’s living costs remain a significant factor regardless of tuition level.
Campus Life
Based in Bloomsbury, central London, Birkbeck gives students direct access to London’s job market and academic resources, offset by the city’s high cost of living.
International students generally have access to a dedicated international student office, orientation programming, and student clubs and societies. Housing options typically include on-campus or university-affiliated accommodation alongside private rental options; applicants should apply for housing as early as possible after accepting an offer, since availability varies by intake and city.
Other Essential Information
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Typical intakes | September is the primary intake for most postgraduate programmes; some universities also offer a January intake with reduced course availability. |
| English language requirement | IELTS overall band 6.0-6.5 (with no component below 5.5-6.0) is typical for postgraduate admission. |
| Student visa type | Student Visa (formerly Tier 4) |
| Post-study work options | The Graduate Route visa allows up to 2 years of post-study work in the UK (3 years for PhD graduates). |
Official Resources
- University homepage: bbk.ac.uk
Compare Birkbeck, University of London against other accessible universities on our Find a Course page, or contact us for help confirming eligibility.