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Best of the best 2026

Whatuni Student Choice Awards

Student life 2026 - All UK

It can be tempting to look purely at the academic benefits that universities offer, but we highly recommend looking at all aspects of student life to get the full picture of what it'd really be like to study somewhere. From extra-curricular activities to the general feel of the campus, it all adds up to a great uni experience, which is what the Whatuni Student Choice Awards (WUSCAs) is looking for. Here are the top unis for student life!

Queen's University Belfast
1stQueen's University Belfast
Rating4.6
3999 reviewsNorthern Ireland

The university's newly upgraded students' union gets a lot of praise from reviewers, who speak about the busy programme of events and activities, as well as having a superb range of student services all under one roof. Student life is obviously a key feature of Queen's, and there are plenty of great clubs and societies for students to get involved with.

Review breakdown
5 star
66%
4 star
30%
3 star
4%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
What students love most
COURSESCAMPUSSTUDENT LIFECOMMUNITYCAREER PROSPECTUS
F
Finn
Queen's University Belfast
J
Jack
Queen's University Belfast
NW
Niamh wilkinson
Queen's University Belfast
HH
Hoi Yi Ho
Queen's University Belfast
NB
Nichola Barr
Queen's University Belfast
ED
Ella Dadon
Queen's University Belfast
CS
Chue Kyal Sin
Queen's University Belfast
University of Sheffield
University of Sheffield
2ndUniversity of Sheffield
Rating4.5
1994 reviewsNorth East England

Sheffield has a solid performance across all categories. It's one of the most well-balanced universities for quality of education, student experience, value, and opportunity. Key highlights include the quality of its academic programs and research, as well as an inclusive and supportive Students' Union. Student reviewers also note the friendliness of Sheffield locals, plentiful green areas within the city, and access to the Peak District national park.

What students love most
STUDENTS' UNIONLOCATIONLECTURERSCOURSESSTUDENT SUPPORT
Newcastle University
Newcastle University
3rdNewcastle University
Rating4.4
1112 reviewsNorth East England

Student reviews of Newcastle University were quick to point out the high quality student support and career advice made available. The campus was also frequently mentioned as being wonderful, and students often said that they enjoyed the practical course content in their modules.

What students love most
CAMPUSCAREER ADVICESTUDENT SUPPORTUNIVERSITY STAFFLOCATION
Liverpool John Moores University
Liverpool John Moores University
4thLiverpool John Moores University
Rating4.3
1188 reviewsNorth West England

Career prospects and support were high on the list for aspects of great aspects of studying at Liverpool John Moores University. They were also impressed with the location of campus being right in the city centre of Liverpool, meaning all the excellent parts of the city are right there after lectures. The uni's library was noted by several reviewers as being wonderful.

What students love most
FACILITIESCAREER PROSPECTUSCITY CENTRESUPPORTSTUDENT'S UNION
Nottingham Trent University
Nottingham Trent University
5thNottingham Trent University
Rating4.5
2539 reviewsEast Midlands

Recent reviews frequently mention the quality of support given by Nottingham Trent University and its team of course admins, particularly with regard to health and well-being, as well as support for international students. The university community is praised for being diverse and inclusive. Another major benefit seems to be the connectedness of the campus with the city centre and its amenities, as well as the conveniently short distance between university and halls of residence.

What students love most
STUDENT SUPPORTLOCATIONFACILITIESBLENDED LEARNINGDIVERSITY
Cardiff University
Cardiff University
6thCardiff University
Rating4.5
5143 reviewsWales

Cardiff University is a popular choice for students who want to enjoy a vibrant city life, supportive academic environment and diverse range of opportunities. The uni's research-based education is supported by world-class facilities and experienced staff. Cardiff University also offers many societies, events, and activities to enrich the student experience and foster a sense of community, with a buzzing Students' Union on campus.

What students love most
LOCATIONSTUDENTS' UNIONLECTURERSCOURSE CONTENTFACILITIES
University of Liverpool
University of Liverpool
7thUniversity of Liverpool
Rating4.3
1909 reviewsNorth West England

Students at the University of Liverpool love the vibrant student life, the supportive academic staff, and the variety of societies and events available. The uni offers up a welcoming atmosphere, and the modern facilities and its commitment to taking implementing student suggestions for improvement also stand out as great examples of what makes this uni brilliant.

What students love most
CITY LIFECULTUREFACILITIESTEACHING QUALITYSTUDENT SUPPORT
Teesside University
Teesside University
8thTeesside University
Rating4.4
935 reviewsNorth East England

The supportive community and the modern facilities, including the library and students' union, were highlight be many students reviewing Teesside University. The diversity and inclusiveness of the campus, as well as the range of courses offered, were also mentioned quite a lot too. The university's focus on practical skills and industry connections helped to enhance their educational experience.

What students love most
LEARNING OPPORTUNITIESSTUDENT SUPPORTFACILITIESDIVERSITYPRACTICAL COURSES
Manchester Metropolitan University
Manchester Metropolitan University
9thManchester Metropolitan University
Rating4.3
1690 reviewsNorth West England

Manchester Metropolitan University is known for its strong industry connections, providing students with practical experience and networking opportunities. Innovative programs and research initiatives contribute to its reputation as a forward-thinking institution. Additionally, the vibrant campus life and supportive learning environment enhance the overall student experience.

What students love most
DIVERSITYINDUSTRY CONNECTIONSSTUDENT SUPPORTFACILITIESEXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Aberystwyth University
Aberystwyth University
10thAberystwyth University
Rating4.4
1964 reviewsWales

Students at Aberystwyth University love the cosy coastal community and sea views from its hilltop campus. Student life is frequently mentioned as a highlight, with a supportive and active Students' Union, and lots of student groups and societies giving many opportunities to get involved. Additional aspects often mentioned include the low cost of living, and the quality of both university-owned and local libraries.

What students love most
LOCATIONSTAFFCOURSESCOMMUNITYFACILITIES
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