What the Russell Group Universities Offer

If you’re exploring higher education in the UK, you’ll often hear about the “Russell Group”. But perhaps you aren’t sure what it means. Here we explain what the Russell Group is and what its application process looks like.

What is the Russell Group of Universities?

The Russell Group is an association of 24 research-intensive universities across every region and nation of the UK, established in 1994. These institutions believe that people and ideas are the key to meeting global challenges and through world-class research and education they contribute to a dynamic economy, stronger communities and a better future for the UK.

Through collaboration, advocacy and partnership with government and industry, the Russell Group works to advance and champion the positive economic, societal and cultural impacts of UK research-intensive universities.

Which universities are in the group? 

There are currently 24 universities that are part of the Russell Group:

1. University of Birmingham
2. University of Bristol
3. University of Cambridge
4. Cardiff University
5. Durham University
6. University of Edinburgh
7. University of Exeter
8. University of Glasgow
9. Imperial College London
10. King’s College London
11. University of Leeds
12. University of Liverpool
13. London School of Economics & Political Science
14. University of Manchester
15. Newcastle University
16. University of Nottingham
17. University of Oxford
18. Queen Mary, University of London
19. Queen’s University Belfast
20. University of Sheffield
21. University of Southampton
22. University College London
23. University of Warwick
24. University of York

What makes this group of universities unique?

• Together the members generate approximately  £37.6 billion every year for the economy in the United Kingdom. 
• Over ¾ of a million students study at this group of universities. 
• 77% of the UK’s doctors and dentists are trained at the Russell Group.

Why choose a Russell Group university?

• They offer a diverse range of academic programmes, enabling students to pursue specialisms across politics, finance, public health and more, thus giving strong alignment with different career paths.
• With strong international links and top talent from around the world, these universities help students develop a global perspective and impact, preparing them to tackle global challenges.
• Around 68% of the UK’s world-leading research is produced by these institutions, where students are immersed in an environment that nurtures critical thinking and creativity.

How do you apply to universities in the Russell Group?

Russell Group universities can be applied to through the same central system that all UK universities can be applied to – UCAS. The application portal allows students to apply to up to any five universities in the UK. 

It is recommended to visit the official websites of the specific universities you’re interested in to find detailed information about their admissions process for international students and the programmes that they currently offer. 

Conclusion

While the Russell Group is known for prestige and research funding, non-Russell universities offer exceptional value and quality education too, especially for certain courses and career paths. Students must consider what fits them best and carry out careful research to ensure they get the right environment for their goals. 

Source: Russell Group website