University of Essex

QS Ranking 2024: Not Ranked
QS Ranking 2025: Not Ranked

THE University Ranking 2023: 301-350
THE University Ranking 2024: 301-350

Established:
1964

Famous for:
Social Sciences, Business, Human Rights, Economics

Distance from London:
Approximately 60 miles (1 hour by train)

Fees:
£16,050 - £20,000/Year

The University of Essex is home to a dynamic community of over 17,000 students from more than 140 countries, making it one of the most internationally diverse universities in the world. Established in 1964, Essex is known for its commitment to challenging conventional thinking, fostering a culture of curiosity, and pushing academic boundaries. The university's motto is about questioning why, not just learning how.

At Essex, students are taught by world-leading academics in a research-intensive environment. They are encouraged to explore new ideas and think critically. The university's trailblazing research has had a transformative impact on society for over 50 years, earning Essex a reputation for academic excellence and research innovation.

With Colchester, Southend-on-Sea, and Loughton campuses, students can choose between studying in a historic parkland setting, a lively city centre, or a stately home. Essex offers a flexible approach to learning, allowing students to tailor their courses to their interests and passions. The university's global network of over 100,000 alums includes Nobel Prize winners, astronauts, actors, and world leaders, all embody the Essex spirit of curiosity, courage, and innovation.
The University of Essex is dedicated to providing comprehensive support services to ensure international students have a smooth transition and a rewarding university experience. Accommodation is guaranteed for international undergraduate students for the duration of their studies and international postgraduate students in their first year, provided they meet the application deadlines.

The Student Support team assists students with a wide range of issues, including visas, accommodation, and employment. A welcome week is held before the start of each term, offering pre-arrival information, orientation sessions, and a variety of social events to help students settle in. At the beginning of the academic year, an airport pick-up service from selected London airports to the Colchester campus is available.

The university also offers a wealth of resources online, covering topics like immigration, finances, study skills, and travel, tailored to meet the needs of international students. Additionally, Essex provides free academic support through its English language programme, offering classes on grammar and academic speaking. Students can also benefit from the Languages for All initiative, which offers free language courses, and the Data Science for All programme, allowing students to enhance their data skills for free.
The University of Essex holds a strong reputation for academic excellence and research. In the Times University Guide 2024, Essex ranks 56th in the UK, while the Guardian University Guide 2024 places it at an impressive 30th. Also, Essex ranked 39th in the Complete University Guide (CUG) 2023 and 472nd globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025.

The university excels in specific disciplines, ranking 9th in the UK and within the top 50 globally for Politics and International Studies, 9th in the UK, and 55th globally for Sociology in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022. Essex is also recognized as a top 10 UK university for Social Sciences by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2023.

In the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021, Essex ranks 3rd in the UK for modern languages and linguistics research quality, 6th in the UK for politics and international studies, 7th for sociology, and 8th for economics and econometrics. These rankings underscore the university's commitment to groundbreaking research and academic achievement across various fields.
Course Name Fees Duration IELTS Score Course Level Intake Degree Awarded Enquire Now
MSc in Psychology GBP 21,700/year 12 Months IELTS: 7 Masters Jan, Sep MSc Enquire Now ➤
BSc in Accounting GBP 19,530/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BSc Enquire Now ➤
BSc in Accounting and Finance GBP 19,530/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BSc Enquire Now ➤
BSc in Accounting and Management GBP 19,530/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BSc Enquire Now ➤
BSc in Accounting with Economics GBP 19,530/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BSc Enquire Now ➤
BSc in Banking and Finance GBP 19,530/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BSc Enquire Now ➤
BSc in Finance GBP 19,530/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BSc Enquire Now ➤
BSc in Finance and Management GBP 19,530/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BSc Enquire Now ➤
BSc in Finance and Mathematics GBP 19,530/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BSc Enquire Now ➤
BA in Financial Economics and Accounting GBP 19,530/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BA Enquire Now ➤
BA in Acting GBP 20,500/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BA Enquire Now ➤
BA in Acting and Contemporary Theatre GBP 18,585/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BA Enquire Now ➤
BA in Acting and Stage Combat GBP 18,585/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BA Enquire Now ➤
BA in Creative Producing (Theatre and Short Film) GBP 18,585/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BA Enquire Now ➤
BA in Stage and Production Management GBP 18,585/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BA Enquire Now ➤
BA in World Performance GBP 18,585/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BA Enquire Now ➤
BSc in Actuarial Science GBP 19,530/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BSc Enquire Now ➤
BA in Social Sciences GBP 18,585/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BA Enquire Now ➤
BSc in Economics and Mathematics GBP 19,530/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BSc Enquire Now ➤
BSc in Economics with Mathematics GBP 19,530/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BSc Enquire Now ➤
BA in Art History GBP 18,585/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BA Enquire Now ➤
BA in Art History and History GBP 18,585/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BA Enquire Now ➤
BA in Art History and Modern Languages GBP 18,585/year 48 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BA Enquire Now ➤
BA in Art History with Modern Languages GBP 18,585/year 48 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BA Enquire Now ➤
BA in Film Studies and Art History GBP 18,585/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BA Enquire Now ➤
BA in Literature and Art History GBP 18,585/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BA Enquire Now ➤
BA in Philosophy and Art History GBP 18,585/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BA Enquire Now ➤
BSc in Biochemistry GBP 21,050/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BSc Enquire Now ➤
BSc in Biological Sciences GBP 21,050/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BSc Enquire Now ➤
BSc in Biomedical Science GBP 21,050/year 36 Months IELTS: 6 Bachelors Oct BSc Enquire Now ➤
Scholarship Name Enquire Now
Student life at the University of Essex is vibrant, diverse, and filled with opportunities for personal growth and social engagement. With over 160 clubs and societies, there is something for everyone, whether you are passionate about sports, the arts, culture, or academic interests. The university's Students' Union (SU) plays a central role in organising events, social activities, and campaigns that enhance the student experience, from Freshers' Week to cultural festivals and themed nights.

Essex encourages students to get involved in volunteering, student media, and student representation, offering valuable opportunities to make a positive impact on campus and beyond. The university's commitment to promoting well-being is reflected in the wide range of support services and facilities, including wellness programmes, mental health support, and on-campus fitness centres.

The university's location in Colchester - one of the UK's oldest towns - adds a unique cultural dimension to student life. With a rich history, local cafes, parks, and cultural events, students have plenty to explore outside the classroom. Additionally, Essex's proximity to London, just an hour away, provides access to world-class cultural and professional opportunities, allowing students to enjoy both city life and a peaceful campus environment.
The University of Essex guarantees on-campus accommodation for all international students for their studies, ensuring a safe and supportive living environment. The accommodation is arranged in flats, housing up to 16 students, with shared kitchens. Over half of the rooms available are en suite, providing added comfort for students.

The university's accommodation has been highly rated by students, receiving the International Accommodation Quality Mark with a 90% satisfaction rate among international residents. The university has also been recognized in the National Student Housing Survey, where it finished as a runner-up in 2010 and 2011 and won the award in 2009.

Living in the University of Essex accommodation provides students with a convenient and social environment close to academic buildings and university facilities. The welcoming atmosphere and high-quality services help students settle into university life and focus on their studies while enjoying a comfortable living experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here is some of the frequently asked questions about the University of Essex

Q. What are the top-ranked courses at the University of Essex?

The University of Essex is renowned for its Politics and International Studies, Sociology, Economics, and Human Rights programmes. These subjects rank highly nationally and internationally, with Politics and Sociology in the top 10 in the UK and top 50 globally in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022.

Q. What research opportunities are available at the University of Essex?

Essex is a research-intensive university focusing on impactful, interdisciplinary research. The university excels in Social Sciences, Modern Languages, Linguistics, Economics, and Political Studies, ranked highly in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021. Students have access to cutting-edge research opportunities across various fields, including human rights, health, data science, and digital innovation.

Q. What type of visa do I need to study at the University of Essex?

International students will need a Student Visa (previously Tier 4 visa) to study at the University of Essex.

Q. Can I work part-time while studying at the University of Essex?

While studying at University of Essex, international students on a Student Visa are allowed to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during university holidays.

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