Why Brighton is the ultimate destination for a semester or year abroad

Each year, we welcome students from across the globe to Brighton for a semester or year-long study abroad programme.

Brighton is a special place to live. It’s stimulating, exciting, inclusive and friendly: big enough to be inspiring and small enough to feel like home. Find out why Brighton could be the place for your study abroad experience.

Why Brighton? 

The city of Brighton has built a reputation as one of the UK’s most welcoming cities for students. Ranked among the top 100 student cities worldwide and in the top 25 for student satisfaction (QS Best Student Cities 2026), it’s easy to see why.

Brighton is also listed among Time Out’s top 50 cities globally, named the happiest city in the UK and the joint third most diverse and inclusive city in the world (Time Out, 2025).

Whether you’re walking along the beach, wandering the winding streets of the Lanes, or relaxing in independent cafés, you quickly feel the energy and creativity that make Brighton unique.

A city like no other for students 

Brighton is a place where students can thrive and around 14% of its population are students, so there’s lots happening.

The city is a vibrant hub of creativity and self-expression, hosting many major events like the Brighton Festival for arts, Brighton Fringe for comedy and performance, Brighton marathon and the UK’s biggest Pride celebration. There’s something for everyone, whatever your interests.

 With so much to see and do, you’ll want to make the most of your time here.

Getting around Brighton 

Moving around the city and to your classes is simple and stress-free. There’s plenty of good public transport, including buses, trains and cycle routes – into the city centre and between Brighton’s three campuses.

Travelling to the rest of the UK is also just as convenient – Brighton is just an hour by train from central London and half an hour from London Gatwick Airport. You’ll be able to take advantage of this to explore other parts of the UK, or even hop on a cheap flight to Europe for a weekend adventure!

Study abroad in Brighton

The University of Brighton’s study abroad programme provides the chance to study at Brighton for either a semester, or for a full academic year.

During this time you can select classes from a variety of subjects across six diverse academic schools. You can choose modules in subjects that interest you, and also learn about British culture and history as part of your programme.

The British culture module deepens your understanding of British history and culturally significant events. You will gain theoretical and practical knowledge in cultural analysis, complemented by visits to famous castles, Roman palace ruins, and other local historical sites.

Beyond the classroom, you’ll become part of a welcoming international community. “When I first arrived, I was a little nervous. I was worried I wasn’t going to meet people. But then as I started to go to classes and open up a little bit, I made lots of friends,” says 2025 study abroad student Thomas Sinclair from Canada. “I had a great time. All my professors were very nice and I loved all my classes.”

Why study abroad students love Brighton

International students join our friendly and diverse student community, where you will be welcomed.

The university recognises that studying abroad is a big commitment, and where you choose to embrace this new learning experience should not only make you feel welcome but also inspire you. 

Brighton is that place! Jahla Wilson from Ohio, USA, completed the semester two study abroad programme here at the University of Brighton in 2025 and shares why she chose to study in Brighton: “I’ve always wanted to study abroad, and when looking at different programmes, I wanted to choose somewhere different from where I was from. In Ohio, I didn’t have access to a beach, and seeing the city has so much to do was a significant influence.

“Brighton is smaller than London, but not so small that I feel like everyone would know each other, and I would then be an outsider. There’s enough for me to see and do, so I won’t be bored and feel overwhelmed in a huge city.”

Hear from more of our study abroad students on what it’s like to study at Brighton in our video below.

The university understands that choosing to study abroad can be a daunting experience, so the Study Abroad Office is here to support you.

They can assist with immigration, accommodation, finances, and anything else you need to feel prepared and confident before you arrive.

If you are considering studying at the University of Brighton for a semester or year abroad, you can find out more about our study abroad programme on our website. Our friendly team are here to guide you through every step and answer any of your questions.