It is one of the UK's largest universities, with more than 23,000 students enrolled, including around 2,000 international students from over 100 countries. Its roots go back to the Plymouth Maritime School, founded in 1862 and officially granted full university status in 1992. Plymouth was awarded the Queen's Commemorative Award in 2012 for its global reputation for marine and marine research and education, and 11 courses. More than 12,000 Plymouth students benefit from internships each year. This is currently the only university since 1992 to have its own medical school and forge close cooperation with other universities and organisations in the Southwest. Various faculties have seen many developments in recent years, including the library and student union, the faculty of health and education, the faculty of social science and the marine sciences. The University of Plymouth's programmes in Computing, Civil Engineering, Geography and Environmental Sciences, and Art and Design are also nationally prominent.

There are many scholarships available to qualified international students. The International Student Advisory Service organises year-round orientation programmes as well as a pick-up service from Heathrow Airport. Orientation covers the campus and departments as well as general information about the UK region and culture. The School of Tourism organises a weekly Language Café, where students can meet in an informal setting to chat with native speakers of different languages.

All new university students are guaranteed accommodation at the university during their first year of study. There are six rooms available on campus and six more off campus. Most rooms have private bathrooms and are in apartments for 3–11 people with shared kitchens. Many halls also have studios, and all are located on the main campus, downtown, or within walking distance. Plymouth is a city on the south coast of England with a long history as a port and shipbuilding city, and it is now home to the largest naval base in Western Europe. Entertainment in the city centre includes many clubs, bars, restaurants, and theatres. The town's seaside location also makes it very popular for water sports, including surfing in the summer months and sailing.