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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
My UNI experience is Great. Campus is Big, Facilities are Amazing, and the atmosphere is euphoric
No legal responses or obligation to deter via their zero tolerance policy. No engagement Council or Police, or the community. Overall no safety aside from institutional responses.
Best aspect needs to be the amount of support there is in the campus. The worst is finding classrooms because the way the faculities are numbered.
The community and feel of the campus. feels like family. Worst is the lack of bookshelves sport facilities, no pool.
The people, the inclusivity!
Nicer facilities
Improve policies of submiting deadlines especially when you are sick. Because creating late form and not telling that you still have time deadline and after telling to do an extending circumstances where my medical report is not applicable because it’s not including being sick with fever and not including that I still have life and lectures and in 7 days I need to write an literature esaay for 2k words kinda hard. Or I need to ignore my classes and life to write it or I need to no sleep what I did to write the most part of essay and still I was late because I’m sorry I’m human and the assignment is hard.
18-24 years
Somehow all the people on my course(and most of East 15) have ended up in the same flats in student accommodation, which has been really lovely and meant the living situation has been great beside the LOUD building works. Our studios are lovely and always free to book out in the evenings. Also my course is BRILLIANT, we’re all having the best time!! The whole uni is rubbish at communication - particularly when we were new. They’re also not very updated on trans-inclusivity but I’m working on that and I hope to stay another three years so will get changes properly made.
I am based on the Southend campus, it's a great place to study. The lecturers are really supportive and accesible. Lectures are interesting and easy to follow. The library services and the skills sessions are brilliant as well as the 24/7 access to the forum. I would say that it is lacking in facilities for the social side of uni, being a mature student, this doesn't affect me but for younger students looking for the whole uni life package, they would probably be more suited to the Colchester campus.
Accommodation is overpriced and not fit for purpose.
SU is rly not good, have made my life hell especially of false advertisement of job roles
its good
I love Essex they really do the most for their students, sometimes engagement is low but they try really hard for students. The feedback we received on coursework could be better, and the dorms are overpriced
Only good if your a local
good
Great welcoming for international student, amazing life on campus. You'll always find something to do !
It has great facilities to study at within close range so it would feel differenr
25-34 years
First gen student
As an older student, my last memories and understandings of education are from over 18 years ago when i finished secondary school at 15. as such, I wasn't sure what to expect. Thankfully, I could never have imagined how good it is at the University of Essex. i wish i had done this so much sooner. From being able to use any of the facilities almost 24/7, all of which are top-notch - especially the library, ive never seen one like it. You're never more than 50m from a computer lab or a toilet, all of which are clean to the highest standards. I haven't experienced them in my course, but the media rooms, sports science rooms, and healthcare wings are also of the very highest grade. the staff are amazing, none of which treat it as just a job and all of which are happy to help and support in any way, and everyone on the campus has their own email and are only a message away. the students are all happy to be here, and who wouldn't be, the classes are engaging, the lectures are informative and helpful, the services are plentiful and the opportunities are everywhere. after only 6 months, I've become a student rep, helping bridge the gap between the faculty and my student cohorts, I've been to several clubs, extra-curricular revision classes, watched sports, attended activities and events in the club and bars, and met plenty of great people. i have my own home and family off-campus, but sometimes it envy those who spend all their time on site!
What Makes the University of Essex a Great Place to Study? Strong Academic Reputation: Essex is known for its research excellence, particularly in social sciences, humanities, and data science. It ranks highly in fields like politics, sociology, and economics. It is part of the prestigious Russell Group, which highlights its commitment to high-quality research and teaching. Diverse and Inclusive Community: The university has a highly international student body, with students from over 140 countries. This diversity fosters a multicultural environment and global perspectives. It has a strong commitment to inclusivity and support for underrepresented groups. Innovative Teaching and Research: Essex emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and encourages students to think critically and creatively. The university is home to cutting-edge research centers, such as the Institute for Analytics and Data Science and the Human Rights Centre. Campus Facilities: The Colchester Campus is known for its beautiful green spaces and modern facilities, including state-of-the-art libraries, labs, and study spaces. The campus is self-contained, creating a close-knit community feel. Student Support and Employability: Essex offers robust support services, including academic advising, mental health resources, and career guidance. It has strong links with employers and provides opportunities for internships, placements, and networking. Vibrant Student Life: The Students' Union is active and offers a wide range of societies, sports clubs, and events, ensuring a lively social scene. The university hosts festivals, guest lectures, and cultural events that enrich the student experience. Location: The Colchester Campus is located in England’s oldest recorded town, offering a mix of history and modern amenities. It is within easy reach of London, making it convenient for students to access career opportunities and cultural experiences.


Great Uni overall :)
The Lecturers try but sometimes the topic being quite boring or difficult can hinder the enjoyment and engagement of a lecture, seminar and the topic itself.