The University of Leicester is a prestigious learning institution which offers ambitious students a diverse and inclusive educational environment in which they are encouraged to become citizens of real-world change. Students’ personal and professional development is at the forefront of the courses offered by the university, which are powered by world-leading research.
The University of Leicester is ranked in the top 40 best overall UK universities (The Complete University Guide 2023) and recently achieved an overall rating of Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework 2023. Renowned for world-class research and education standards, the university offers a diverse array of courses across the sciences, humanities, law, medicine, the arts and business.
A degree from the University of Leicester is a highly respected qualification which is recognised internationally. The university prepares its students with innovative and socially conscious courses, which are designed by experts in their fields to enhance graduates’ long-term career prospects.
Students can choose from over 150 different degree programmes spanning 30 subject areas. Many courses offer an optional study year abroad, with students able to choose from one of 27 prestigious global learning institutions to widen their horizons.
Based in the UK’s most multicultural city, the University of Leicester encourages students to enact social change, giving them the space and support to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to have successful and fulfilling future careers. The university community numbers around 20,000 students, and over 80 countries are represented within its student body.
University of Leicester students on Whatuni say:
“Love the course, staff are amazing and the content, facilities and people are fantastic.”
“Made good friends and there’s always something to do on campus and academic support is always given when necessary.”
“The content of study is interesting and impactful overall my uni experience is great.”
The University of Leicester offers more than 150 different degree courses which span 30 subject areas. Most programmes include an optional year abroad and/or placement year. Courses are designed and taught by expert staff who are globally recognised in their fields for innovative research. All courses are designed to reflect the university’s commitment to social change on both a local and global level. Students are well supported throughout their studies by attentive tutors and lecturers.
Leicester’s research output continually seeks to challenge accepted norms by breaking new ground in global fields. Staff build undergraduate courses at the University of Leicester around the most up-to-date knowledge and developments in teaching.
Environmental and social sustainability is at the core of all teaching and research at the University of Leicester. Every course has a built-in sustainability module that encourages students to explore how they might affect real social change in their future areas of expertise.
Leicester students have access to state-of-the art learning facilities which are consistently being invested in. Space Park Leicester is a world-leading community facility for innovative industry professionals, students and alumni to drive growth in the space industry. The university’s Brookfield campus is home to Leicester’s Business School and offers state-of-the art teaching facilities with include a Harvard-style lecture theatre, a ULSB trading room and 16 dual-screen Bloomberg terminals.
University of Leicester students on Whatuni say:
“Love love love my course. Love the staff, the people, love every lesson.”
“I would like to specifically commend the study abroad experience that Leicester offers.”
“Very interesting course with engaging and helpful professors.”
Entry requirements for the University of Leicester vary on a course by course basis, and there is no single pathway to admission. The university’s admissions team considers each application on its individual merits. Anyone with the desire to study at the university is encouraged to get in touch with the admissions team, or the department who organise the course, to discuss potential pathways to enrolment.
Students studying at undergraduate level at the University of Leicester are generally required to have a level 3 (sixth form level) qualification, such as A-levels or BTECS. The university also accepts Access to Higher Education courses on many of its undergraduate programmes. Prospective students can find information on specific entry requirements for each course on the individual course pages on the university website.
International applicants will be required to demonstrate a minimum level of English language proficiency and certain courses may require additional submitted material with the application, such as an essay or portfolio of work.
UCAS TARIFF CALCULATORSend a message directly to the uni to learn more about their entry requirements.
ASK A QUESTIONRooms in university managed accommodation are priced from £69 per week (as of January 2024). University managed accommodation is guaranteed for all first year students who apply before 1st September.
Students can choose to live in one of two purpose-built accommodation facilities The Village is located 10-minutes away from the main campus via a free shuttlebus and is a popular choice of accommodation among first year students. The City accommodation is comprised of modern housing blocks which are conveniently located 10-minutes on foot from the main university campus. Both locations have a 24-hour reception and security details.
University of Leicester students on Whatuni say:
“Good value for money and the placement is perfect for in the mornings for catching the bus.”
“Good wifi with the opportunity to pay extra if you need really fast wifi. Safety in the actual building is good.”
“Living in university halls is really fun and there are events on every night and 24/7 security.”
The University of Leicester has invested over £500 million to make its campus the very best it can be. There are a variety of study spaces, including bookable rooms for group study, quiet zones, and computer labs. The David Wilson Library is open 24 hours, 7 days a week in term time and houses millions of books, journals and learning resources. The Danielle Brown Sports Centre is located in the heart of the university’s main campus, offering a range of facilities including a fully equipped gym and swimming pools.
University of Leicester students on Whatuni say:
“Decent facilities for what was paid for.”
“Campus is very good and facilities are also good”
“Best part is the study room and access to tutors when necessary.”
Find out more about the accommodations and facilities in person at the uni.
BOOK OPEN DAYWhat's it like to study at this institution? Current students and alumni share their opinion...
VIEW 1291 REVIEWS WRITE A REVIEWP Pauline Reviewed 18 Feb 25 English Literature MA Great university for international students. Lot of social events to meet new people and socialise.... READ FULL REVIEW
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The University of Leicester offers a range of support services to assist students through any difficulties they may experience while at the university and works tirelessly to aid students in fulfilling their full potential.
A dedicated student support service provides advice and guidance on finance, childcare, benefits, and personal issues. The wellbeing service offers students confidential counselling and support, with various one-to-one and group therapy sessions available throughout the year.
The students’ union offers an additional ‘crisis cafe’ every Monday for students, which is a free mental health service situated within a welcoming, comfortable, non-judgmental, and non-clinical environment. This is a walk-in service and students do no need to be referred to access it.
The chaplaincy provides students with spiritual support and advice during their time at the University of Leicester. It is a safe space for students of all faiths and beliefs, with specialist advisors on hand for different faiths.
University of Leicester students on Whatuni say:
“Welcoming atmosphere and great mental health support for students, everyone here is nice and a refreshing change to what school used to be like where I grew up.”
“Such supportive staff and really helper me navigate university life. I've never had to wonder who to go to if I had a problem.”
“I love the student support, there is so many people willing to help you adjust to university life.”
Find out more about the student support offered on the university’s website.
VISIT WEBSITEThe University of Leicester is well-known for its long-standing connections with the global research community and for the strength of its research output. In the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021), Leicester had 89% of its overall research output assessed as world-leading (4*) or internationally excellent (3*).
Leicester was ranked in the top five best universities on a national level at which to study the following subjects:
The University of Leicester is renowned for the quality of its courses across multiple other fields, most notably social sciences, engineering, medicine and healthcare, and space research.
The university has strong and diverse connections with industry partners and these well-established links offer major employment opportunities for graduates. The Leicester Innovation Hub fosters expertise across a wide range of research areas, with a focus on space-based services, medical and pharmaceutical services, and business support services.
University of Leicester students on Whatuni say:
“What makes the University of Leicester a good place to study is the amount of resources available to students to do the best in your respective degree.”
“There are regular meetings for feedback and the staff always take it on board.”
“The lessons are engaging and interesting with a good amount of academic support for those that want/need it, as well as lovely lecturers and well-organised lectures.”
Leicester’s students’ union (SU) is led by students and champions empowerment, innovation, and inclusivity for its student body. The SU organises a diverse programme of events throughout the year, while providing support and opportunities for personal development.
University of Leicester students on Whatuni say:
“Student union are very supportive and there's lots of society's to get involved with.”
“It is very diverse and there is support for whatever help you may need”
“Best bits would be the atmosphere and SU.”
The university offers a range of more than 150 clubs and societies covering all areas from arts to faiths and national cultures, politics and campaigning to general interest hobbies. There are a number of sports groups at Leicester who regularly compete both nationally and internationally.
Students are encouraged to establish new societies where they do not already exist, and organisational assistance and funding is offered through the students’ union.
Leicester is a diverse and multicultural city with a rich cultural history. The city has a large student population and offers an array of shops, cafés and restaurants, clubs, pubs, and theatres. The city hosts a number of annual festivals and celebrations including the largest Diwali celebrations outside of India and a colourful Caribbean Carnival.
Leicester is served by good transport links and is surrounded by the historic countryside of Leicestershire.
See the campus and city for yourself in person by booking an open day place.
BOOK OPEN DAYThe careers and employability service at Leicester offers a range of support to help students build their CV and gain valuable experience and knowledge. The careers and employability service supports students in building their confidence through services such as CV building workshops, mock interviews, and one-to-one consultations.
Friendly staff encourage students to maximise their potential by assisting them in sourcing part-time work and applying for industry placements. The university also runs a recruiter in residence programme during their careers festival, which gives students access to volunteering opportunities and industry and alumni mentoring.
The University of Leicester’s students are well equipped for future success in their chosen specialist fields. The Graduate Outcomes Survey (run by the Higher Education Statistics Agency) reported that 94% of graduates from the university were either in employment or further study six months after graduating.
Students are able to use the university’s online employment hub, MyCareers Portal, to organise career plans, browse job listings, and access workshops and training courses. MyCareers Portal is accessible even after graduation and connects alumni with job opportunities in their specialist fields.
The University of Leicester understands that the cost of funding a university education is a significant investment, and as such provides accessible funding opportunities to all students. Fee discounts, full fee waivers and scholarships of up to £5,000 are available across various subject areas. Full details and specifics can be found via the university’s scholarships, bursaries, and funding page.
There are dedicated sports scholarships to support talented and performance-focused athletes and a sanctuary scholarship designed to support asylum seekers. The ‘Citizens of Change’ scholarship also offers bursaries to students who are passionate about social change, invention, and activism.
Funding opportunities vary by subject. Prospective students are advised to visit the university’s website to familiarise themselves with the relevant application criteria and deadlines for submission dates.
Undergraduate fees vary on a course-by-course basis and students are encouraged to consult individual course pages for the most up-to-date tuition costs.
Standard UK fees for undergraduate degrees tend to be £9,250 per year for students starting in 2024/25. Standard international fees for undergraduate degree courses are priced between £17,450 and £21,515 per year for 2024/25.
Send a message directly to the uni to learn more about their scholarships and bursaries.
ASK A QUESTION
You'll be shocked by the number of clubs and societies on offer at University of Leicester. There's something for everyone! As well as being able to pick different clubs and societies, most courses let you choose modules at different points through your degree.
As well as personalising your course through optional modules, you may have the chance to do a work placement during your studies. Developing your professional skills through work placements is a great way to add to your CV and boost your employability.
If you want a job you love (and who doesn't?), getting a job in a field you're passionate about is a great place to start. By studying a subject you really enjoy, you'll be qualified for a range of jobs relating to that subject, which you'll hopefully love.
For those who aren't ready to give up on education after an undergraduate degree, you'll have the opportunity to progress to postgraduate study such as a master's or even a PhD.
University of Leicester's accommodation is designed to be as straightforward and stress-free as possible. All your bills are included in your rent, you'll have free WiFi and your rent also includes security and maintenance.
You'll have access to communal areas like kitchen and dining facilities, where you can socialise with other students you're living with. Disabled students will find several rooms adapted in accessible halls to suit a range of access requirements.
