Student Reviews
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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).
2132 Student reviews
Great place
A great place to study
improved via, easier way to navigate around, different variety of food stalls/shops
I think it has definitely gone through tough times alongside other universities, but I do think there were times that made this university, in particular, receive the Times award. The facilities and feel of the campus are mostly highlighted through its beautiful brutalist library and its environmentalist business school, but there are still questionable architectural elements that dot the campus. Student support has unfortunately degraded since before my time, especially with the removal of Residence Assistance and many restaurants, such as Roost and Func, which initially provided the university with a diverse array of foods. The navigability of the classes also depends on the fact that classes in the squares are very anti-beginner-friendly to navigate their maze-like structure. Nonetheless, its students' union remains resilient and optimistic; the location near London makes it a perfect balance for both international and home students who want to commute there, and Colchester also acts as a small but serviceable city for basic needs and wants.
Wouldn’t change a thing! Great housing, teaching facilities, lecturers, websites and a great campus!
There are many events to socialise and meet new people, but one aspect that could be improved is the careers services. They basically just tell information you might already know so it’s not very useful especially when curating cv or finding placements
Really great for studying in such a unique place but at times the student experience is lacking.
one of the best aspects of essex university is the location, this is because it is surrounded by beautiful views and nature, as well as the stunning water fountain by the lakes. This makes studying at uni so much better and more enjoyable. The worst aspect of uni is the food selection, as there isn't a whole lot of food to choose from, speaking as someone who is a picky eater.
Better night life is needed
The grounds of the campus have a lot of nature. However its not walkable to the town which means you have to get a bus which costs and builds up.
18-24 years
N/a
The campus is very aesthetic, but there just isn’t much to do in terms of social life. Not enough social events with societies or clubs. It needs a variety of music in the campus club. Feels very repeated and could do with more spontaneous events.
The lectures have been great until the strike began
I do not feel safe around campus or at accommodation. The silver cloud mental health support is in shambles. The students union is good tho, I love their events.
There are so many international students, so it is easy for me to make friends
The su bar and club is amazing
The uni is very welcoming and it is easy to feel at home, the only problem is the constant noise in the accommodations
Everything


University of Essex is a great place to study because of the nature and diversity of its campus.
Okay