University of Leicester

Founded in 1921 as Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland University College, the University of Leicester was established as a living memorial to those who made sacrifices during the First World War. Today, the University continues to honour this legacy through its commitment to innovation, inclusion, and social impact under its inspiring vision: “We change lives, we are Citizens of Change.”

The University of Leicester is recognised as one of the UK's leading universities for teaching and research excellence. It was proudly named the Daily Mail University of the Year 2025 and achieved an overall Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023, reflecting its outstanding student experience and graduate outcomes. Leicester is also ranked among the Top 30 universities in the UK for research quality according to Times Higher Education analysis of REF 2021.

Leicester is internationally renowned for its world-leading research across a wide range of disciplines. Its research in Clinical Medicine, History, and Sports & Exercise Science ranks 2nd in the UK, while Museum Studies ranks 3rd, Archaeology 5th, Media 7th, and English 11th nationally. The University's Archaeology and Biological Sciences research is ranked top in the UK for research impact, with 89% of its research recognised as either world-leading or internationally excellent.

The University has earned global recognition for groundbreaking discoveries and scientific contributions. It played a key role in the discovery of King Richard III's remains in 2012 and is home to Europe's largest university-based space research facility, contributing to major international missions including the Mars Rover and the James Webb Space Telescope.

Home to more than 20,000 students and 4,000 staff, the University has built a thriving international community supported by over 208,000 alumni across 198 countries. Its compact campus, located next to Victoria Park and just one mile from Leicester city centre, combines historic architecture with modern facilities. Backed by a £500 million investment in campus development, Leicester offers advanced laboratories, a state-of-the-art library, and a modern Student Village, providing an exceptional environment for learning, research, and student life.

The University of Leicester is committed to providing a supportive, inclusive, and student-focused environment through a wide range of professional services designed to help students succeed academically, socially, and personally. From international student guidance to career preparation and mental well-being support, the University ensures that every student receives the assistance they need throughout their academic journey.

The University's International Office offers comprehensive support specifically tailored for international students. From the moment students apply, the team provides expert assistance with visa applications, employment advice, financial guidance, and cultural adjustment, helping students settle confidently into university life and adapt smoothly to studying in the UK.

To strengthen communication and academic skills, Leicester offers both pre-sessional and in-sessional English language programmes. These courses are designed to improve academic English proficiency before or during studies, enabling students to perform successfully in lectures, assignments, research, and assessments.

Student well-being is a key priority at Leicester. The Student Welfare Service, based in the Percy Gee Building, provides practical support and specialist guidance for carers, care leavers, estranged students, mature students, asylum seekers, refugees, and students experiencing financial hardship. Student Welfare Officers offer advice on budgeting, student finance, benefits, and personal circumstances, ensuring students receive timely and effective support.

The University also provides comprehensive disability and mental health support through its AccessAbility and Student Wellbeing services. The AccessAbility team supports students with dyslexia, autism, sensory impairments, mobility difficulties, long-term health conditions, and mental health challenges. Meanwhile, the Student Wellbeing Service offers free mental health support, including short-term talking therapy, psychoeducation, wellbeing resources, specialist mentoring, study skills support, and referrals to NHS and specialist services where appropriate.

Leicester actively promotes an inclusive campus through its "Standing Together" initiative, which aims to tackle discrimination, harassment, and unacceptable behaviour while supporting affected students. The Global Lounge Help Hub further enhances the student experience by providing a welcoming space for guidance, cultural exchange, and community engagement. Throughout the year, students can participate in free activities such as quiz nights, games afternoons, cultural celebrations, and creative workshops.

The Careers and Employability Service supports students from their first year through to graduation by offering personalised career guidance, employability workshops, CV and interview support, employer events, and one-to-one appointments with experienced advisers. Leicester's strong commitment to graduate success has been recognised through awards from AGCAS and TargetJobs, reflecting the University's dedication to preparing students for successful global careers.

The University of Leicester is recognised as one of the UK's leading universities, renowned for its academic excellence, world-class research, outstanding teaching, and strong graduate employability. With consistent recognition across major national and international rankings, Leicester continues to strengthen its reputation as a globally respected institution for higher education and innovation.

The University performs strongly in leading global university rankings. It is ranked 192nd in the world and 25th in the UK in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026. Leicester is also placed 326th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2026, ranked within the 301–400 band globally in the Shanghai Ranking 2025, and holds a global position of 194th in the U.S. News & World Report Best Global Universities Rankings. Additionally, TIME's World's Top Universities 2026 ranked Leicester 20th in the UK and 115th worldwide, highlighting its growing international reputation.

Within the UK, Leicester continues to achieve strong national rankings. The University is ranked 28th in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026, 33rd in The Complete University Guide 2026, 34th in the Daily Mail University Guide 2026, and 40th in The Guardian University Guide 2026. It was also honoured as the Daily Mail University of the Year 2025 and shortlisted for both the Times Higher Education University of the Year 2024 and the Times and Sunday Times University of the Year 2025.

Leicester is internationally recognised for the quality and impact of its research. The University is ranked joint 26th globally and joint 5th in the UK for research quality in the THE World University Rankings 2026. More than 89% of its research is classified as either world-leading or internationally excellent, while 52% is recognised as world-leading for research impact. Research excellence is particularly strong in Clinical Medicine, History, Sports and Exercise Science, Archaeology, Museum Studies, Media, and English.

The University has also earned outstanding recognition for teaching excellence and student experience. Leicester achieved an overall Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023, receiving Gold for Student Outcomes and Silver for Student Experience. The University also performs strongly in the National Student Survey 2025, with excellent scores for academic support, course organisation, and student voice.

Leicester's commitment to graduate success is reflected in its strong employability outcomes. Recognised as a Top 20 UK university for career prospects, around 90% of graduates are in employment or further study within three years of graduation. Through its focus on academic excellence, research innovation, and industry engagement, the University continues to prepare graduates for successful careers across the globe.

Student life at the University of Leicester offers the perfect combination of academic excellence, cultural diversity, personal development, and exciting social experiences. Recognised as one of the UK's leading universities for student experience, Leicester provides a welcoming and inclusive environment where students can thrive both academically and personally.

Home to more than 20,000 students from across the globe, the University has built a vibrant international community that celebrates diversity and inclusion. Students have the opportunity to connect with peers from different cultures and backgrounds, creating lifelong friendships while benefiting from a truly global learning environment.

The Leicester Students' Union is at the heart of campus life, offering over 200 clubs, societies, and sports teams. Whether students are interested in sports, music, technology, volunteering, entrepreneurship, culture, or the arts, there are countless opportunities to get involved, develop leadership skills, and make the most of university life. The University's Global Lounge further enriches the student experience by hosting free cultural events, social activities, and networking opportunities throughout the year.

Located just one mile from Leicester city centre, the campus provides easy access to a wide range of shops, cafés, restaurants, entertainment venues, museums, theatres, and nightlife. Students can also enjoy live performances at the O2 Academy Leicester, situated on campus. Leicester is one of the UK's most multicultural cities and hosts more than 270 days of festivals each year, including one of the world's largest Diwali celebrations outside India and the vibrant Leicester Caribbean Carnival.

Sport plays a significant role in student life. Students have access to excellent sports facilities and can participate in recreational activities, competitive university sports, and Varsity competitions against De Montfort University. The city is also home to renowned professional teams, including Leicester City Football Club, Leicester Tigers Rugby Club, Leicester Riders Basketball Club, and Leicestershire County Cricket Club.

Leicester offers an excellent balance between vibrant city living and relaxing green spaces. Beautiful parks, nearby countryside, and the University's campus provide ideal places to study, exercise, and unwind. Its central location also offers excellent transport links, allowing students to travel easily to London, Birmingham, Nottingham, and Manchester by train.

The city is also recognised as one of the most affordable student destinations in the UK, with lower living costs compared to many major UK cities. Affordable accommodation, student discounts, part-time employment opportunities, and a wide range of budget-friendly entertainment make Leicester an excellent choice for international students seeking a high-quality university experience.

The University of Leicester offers a wide range of high-quality accommodation options designed to provide students with a safe, comfortable, and supportive living environment. Whether students prefer a peaceful residential setting or modern city-centre accommodation, Leicester offers a variety of choices to suit different lifestyles, preferences, and budgets.

The University guarantees a place in University-managed accommodation for eligible new first-year students who meet the accommodation application deadlines. From arrival onwards, dedicated accommodation teams and Residence Life staff help students settle into university life by providing support, guidance, and opportunities to connect with fellow students.

The Village offers a unique residential experience surrounded by green spaces and located next to the University's beautiful Botanic Garden. This accommodation is ideal for students looking for a quieter environment while remaining part of a vibrant student community. The Village includes four residence halls—Gilbert Murray, Beaumont, John Foster, and Stamford Hall—with a range of room types and price options to suit different budgets.

One of The Village's distinctive features is its collection of beautifully restored Edwardian villas, many of which retain original architectural details, landscaped gardens, and character-filled interiors. Students also have access to the Village Hub, dedicated study spaces, social areas, and outdoor green spaces that create an ideal balance between academic focus and relaxation.

To make travelling between accommodation and campus easy, the University operates a free Shuttle Bus service exclusively for University of Leicester students and staff. The Residence Life programme further enriches the student experience by organising wellbeing initiatives, community events, social activities, and peer support throughout the academic year.

Students who prefer to live closer to the city centre can choose The City accommodation, including Nixon Court and Freemen's Common. These modern purpose-built residences are located approximately a ten-minute walk from the main campus and offer convenient access to Leicester city centre, the railway station, the University Library, the Danielle Brown Sports Centre, shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Residents can also participate in activities organised across both accommodation sites using the free Shuttle Bus service.

In addition to University-managed residences, students can choose from a wide range of private accommodation options. Through Sulets, students have access to more than 150 student houses and purpose-built residences located near the University. Dedicated accommodation support is also available to help international students find suitable housing, understand tenancy agreements, and settle comfortably into their new home in Leicester.