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The overall ranking is decided by students from this institution rating them in a 2026 Whatuni review. This forms the basis of the Whatuni Student Choice Awards (WUSCAs for short).
2171 Student reviews
Really nice campus grounds, amazing library and lots of good food stalls too. Very involved student union always setting up new events.
Best: sense of community on campus and activities from SU. Worst: limited options when it comes to studying outside of lectures, there's little support classes for those struggling or they aren't advertised well enough.
It's very freshers friendly and the campus is not too complicated to navigate. The university really takes student feedback into consideration and make it matter. The campus is beautiful and accessible. Most things are available on campus, from stores, restaurants, cafés to bars, nightclubs and gyms.
As a student at the University of Essex, I have had a nuanced experience that warrants a balanced review. While the university excels in certain areas, there are undeniable drawbacks that detract from the overall learning environment. The Need for Revitalization: Outdated Study Spaces One of the most pressing concerns is the outdated decor and infrastructure of the library and various study spaces across campus. The worn-out furniture, faded carpets, and lackluster aesthetic create an uninspiring atmosphere that fails to foster productivity and focus. A revamp of these spaces is long overdue, and a fresh coat of paint would be a welcome starting point. A Quiet and Focused Learning Environment Despite the outdated facilities, I have found the overall atmosphere on campus to be generally quiet and conducive to studying. This has allowed me to focus on my academic pursuits without undue distractions. Conclusion While the University of Essex has its strengths, the need for modernization and revitalization of its study spaces cannot be overstated. With a bit of investment and renovation, the university could provide a truly exceptional learning environment that matches the level of its academic programs. As it stands, the university is a solid choice for students seeking a quiet and focused atmosphere, but it falls short of being a truly outstanding institution due to its outdated infrastructure.
The location of the uni having the lakes and all the nature is really nice, creates a calming peaceful space away from the more noisy and busy areas of the uni. I also really like the library
Best aspects are the societies and the events that the Student Union put on. The worst part is the architecture and the handling of complaints about student conduct.
The campus itself is very spacious with a balance between the lecture theatres/class rooms and the nature aspect. I think it could be in someway refurbished and spruced up however, as in some places it does seem a bit grey and sad looking. Student activities could involve summer fetes, and more appealing events like a sausage and cider festival/octoberfest. There could also be a different food options more suitable for those with dietary needs.
How easily accessible everything is, how well the teachers communicate and the on campus SU bar.
The student life here is great, a ton of societies and activities to partcipate in, all organised by students. While the location is a bit inconvenient, the faculty and student union make up for that plenty.
Add more things to do for students, it gets very boring and listen to what students have to say more.
Campus is really nice especially when sunny. More help with mental health.
I think we need more range of societies and clubs.
The university does really well in allowing for a lot of social and student life with both societies and activities every week. It also has a lot of areas for social gatherings like the bar and things like that. However, at times it feels as though there is too much going on and you never know if you are doing enough
I thing everything its good.No need for a change
The ambience and the esthetic of the Univeristy is really nice and that is probably the best thing abt the uni and also the teaching is good as well. The weather is bad however and wish it was much better.
The student union is amazing and so supportive, the same with lectures they want to support you and make sure you understand the concepts
Worst aspects: The uni shop is the only shop for 2 miles and they take liberators with the expensive prices of food. We’re in a cost of living crisis. The Student union does hold events but in my opinion they’re very lacklustre and immature for example, Subzero had a Disney themed night where they played Disney songs. They seem to hold the same events every week with little tweaks to make it seem different.
The union always is there for students to help with both the work aspect but also fun aspect. Wish there was more food events like they used to do the year before.


A lot of nature around campus which is good but somehow makes travelling harder
mostly in-person lectures whcih is good, I feel lecturers can explain things clearer
I like the size and layout of room, I dont like the desk and chair for study