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Welcome to Belfast
No matter where your journey begins, getting to Belfast is straightforward and stress-free. Belfast is well connected, making it an easy and welcoming destination for students from around the world. There are many convenient and affordable routes to reach Belfast and begin your student journey.
Arriving by Air
Most students travelling to Ulster University fly into London Heathrow or Gatwick and then take connecting flights to Belfast.
It is important to check information about Heathrow as it is a large international airport and can feel overwhelming for new arrivals. The link above provides helpful details about navigating the airport.
You’ll also find information on Heathrow’s terminals, how to transfer between them for your Belfast connection, and what to expect at Border Control.
London Gatwick is also a major international airport, so reviewing arrival, border control, and connection details is equally useful.
Some students may choose to fly to Belfast from other UK airports such as London Stansted, London Luton, Manchester, or Glasgow.
Flights from most UK airports to Belfast take about an hour, with regular services throughout the day depending on your departure airport and airline.
The cost of flights varies, so it is worth checking prices with several airlines before booking.
Belfast Airports
Belfast International Airport (BFS)
Belfast International Airport is around 30 km (18 miles) from the city centre and offers a wide selection of low-cost and international routes.
Destinations include Amsterdam, Paris, Faro, Kraków and Malaga, with approximately 25 short-haul international routes operating year-round.
Airlines serving the airport include easyJet, Ryanair and Jet2.com.
To reach the city, the Airport Express 300 runs to Belfast Europa Buscentre roughly every 20 minutes, taking around 35–40 minutes.
A 24-hour taxi service is available outside the terminal, with journeys to the city centre taking about 30 minutes.
George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD)
Located just ten minutes from the city centre, Belfast City Airport is the most convenient option for students studying in central Belfast.
It offers frequent flights to major UK and European cities including London, Manchester, Birmingham and Amsterdam.
Over 190 one-stop global connections are available through hubs such as Heathrow and Schiphol.
Airlines include British Airways, KLM, easyJet and Aer Lingus.
The Airport Express 600 bus runs every 15–20 minutes to Belfast city centre, taking around ten minutes.
Sydenham rail halt provides fast connections to central stations, and taxis typically cost £10–£15 depending on traffic.
Pre-Departure Travel Plans
Preparation is the key to a smooth transition to life at Ulster.
To ensure the best possible support, please upload your travel details to CAS Shield as early as possible.
Arriving in the UK
The “valid from” date on your visa indicates when you can legally arrive in the UK.
For students staying six months or longer, this is usually one month before your course begins.
If you are studying for less than six months, you may arrive up to one week before your course start date.
Arriving early allows you time to settle in, explore your surroundings, and arrange accommodation before teaching begins.
Arriving on Campus
About one month before semester begins, the International Student Advisory Service (ISAS) will contact you about your arrival in Northern Ireland.
You will receive details about International Student Orientation and information on travelling from local airports to campus.
The University operates a meet and greet service from Belfast City Airport and Belfast International Airport only.
Immigration Control
When you arrive at a UK airport, you must pass through Immigration Control.
There are separate queues for EEA/British passport holders and for all other passport holders.
Please check whether you are eligible to use an eGate, as this can speed up your entry into the UK.
Ensure the following documents are in your hand luggage:
- Passport
- Visa
- Letter from the University (short-term student visa)
- A copy of your CAS (if you are a Student Visa holder)
You may also be asked for your offer letter and evidence of financial support.
Medical documents may be required if recommended during your visa application.
Under UK Home Office rules you may be interviewed on arrival. You could be asked about your course, finances, or study plans — this is routine.
The Immigration Officer will date-stamp your passport. If you experience difficulties, contact the International Student Advisory Service.
Travelling Locally
Getting around Northern Ireland is simple and affordable thanks to excellent bus and rail networks.
Translink operates Metro and Glider buses within Belfast and Ulsterbus and NI Railways services across the region.
Frequent train services run between Belfast, Derry~Londonderry, Bangor, Lisburn, Portadown and Newry.
Students can access discounted fares with the yLink card, which offers up to 50% off standard tickets.
Glider services provide fast and frequent links between Belfast city centre, Ulster University’s Belfast buildings, and major student accommodation areas.
Reliable timetables, affordable fares and extensive routes make exploring Northern Ireland easy during your studies.
Travel Tips for Students
- Plan ahead: Check bus and coach schedules in advance, especially if you’re arriving late at night.
- Choose the best route for your needs: Belfast City Airport is closest to the city, while Belfast International offers more international flights.
- Book online: Many coach services offer discounted student fares for online bookings.
- Allow time for connections: If transferring through Dublin or another hub, factor in time for customs, baggage collection and onward travel.
- Carry local currency: While many taxis and buses accept cards, small cash amounts can be useful for fares and snacks on arrival.
