The University of Manchester is a highly ranked international institution. Its current rankings include 40th in the QS World University Rankings 2027, 56th in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, and 22nd among the world’s most international universities in the THE 2026 rankings.
For graduate employability, the university is ranked 56th globally and fifth in the UK in the 2026 Times Higher Education Global Employability University Ranking. It was also ranked the most targeted university by the UK’s top 100 graduate employers in The Graduate Market 2026 report. How challenging is it to get into this reputed institution? Follow this article to learn about the acceptance rate at the University of Manchester and other factors to consider before submitting your application.
University of Manchester Acceptance Rate
UCAS defines an acceptance rate as the number of acceptances divided by the number of applicants. Using the latest UCAS-standard data for the 2025 cycle, the University of Manchester had 10,785 acceptances and 93,195 applicants, which gives an applicant-level acceptance rate of 11.57%.
This remains a competitive figure, but it should not be read as a simple rejection rate. UCAS records multiple application choices per applicant, and an acceptance or placed applicant is different from an offer. In the same 2025 UCAS-standard data, Manchester had 62,535 offers from 99,610 applications, giving an offer rate of 62.78%. International applicants should also note that requirements vary by course, qualification, and country, so they should check the entry requirements for their chosen program before applying.
Preparing for the University of Manchester
Knowing the acceptance rate of a university is helpful when estimating how competitive admission may be. However, other factors such as the admission process, required educational qualifications, tuition fees, and scholarships are also important when preparing a strong application. In the following sections, we will discuss some of them.
Admission Requirements
Both general entry requirements and the requirements for your chosen course must be met. Many overseas qualifications are acceptable for entry to the University of Manchester, but applicants should check the accepted qualifications for their country and the specific requirements listed for their program. Applicants also need to provide evidence of the required level of English language ability.
Tuition Fees
Aside from admission requirements, finances are also something you should consider early. Tuition fee status is determined using the information submitted in your application, and international students should plan for university fees, scholarships, and living costs in Manchester. Course fees can vary, so always check the latest fee information for your specific program.
Scholarships
The University of Manchester offers a number of merit-based scholarships for international students at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Scholarship availability, eligibility, and deadlines vary, so review the details before applying. Receiving or applying for a scholarship does not guarantee admission to a program.
The University of Manchester ranks among the world’s top 100 universities and is one of the best universities in the UK. While its UCAS-based acceptance rate is competitive, getting into this school as an international student is possible if you meet the requirements for your chosen course. We hope this article gives you a head start on applying to this reputed university.
We hope this article on the University of Manchester’s acceptance rate has been helpful. To learn more about studying in the United Kingdom, feel free to check out our Study in the UK and Programs in Europe for International Students!
