Information for International Students

The School is host to students from around the world who have an interest in studying applied social sciences subjects. Many of our staff undertake research on international topics (ranging from international social work to Sports Policy) and have a long track record of excellent supervision of students coming from Southern Africa, China, Korea, Saudi Arabia, USA – to name but a few of the home countries of our current students. Some students undertake fieldwork in their own countries whilst studying at Durham. Please contact us if you want to discuss the viability of your topic and the practicalities of study at Durham, and check out the International Office website for issues about living conditions, visas and language requirements and the Graduate School website for further information about all aspects of postgraduate study at Durham.

Language Proficiency

English language: We welcome applications from overseas applicants, including those who do not speak English as a first language. Because our teaching is in English you will need to be proficient in both written and spoken English and provide evidence of this with an IELTS score of 6.5 or above or a paper-based TOEFL score of 573 or above with a TWE score of 4.5. For the computer based TOEFL test, a score of 230 or above with an essay rating of 4.5 or above is required. The university English Language Centre offers pre-sessional (summer) courses of one, two or three months duration each year for those who have not attained the required standard, or for those who would like to improve their English further. The English Language Centre also offers in-sessional support to students once they are registered.

Fees and Scholarships

Durham University offers various studentships, some of which are available for overseas students. Further details of sources of funding can be found on the University Fees and Finance page. It is also recommended that you visit the British Council website for information on other sources of funding available to international students to study in the UK.