If you're looking for somewhere to study in the UK, you might like the sound of an award-winning university. If so, the Whatuni Student Choice Awards have picked out plenty. These coveted prizes highlight the hard work and high quality of some fantastic institutions – and are based on the views of their students. Following the announcement of this year's winners, we show you where to find the universities most loved by their learners.
What are the Whatuni Student Choice Awards?
The Whatuni Student Choice Awards (WUSCAs) are the biggest annual awards for UK universities decided by students. Each year, undergraduates and postgraduates across the country review their institution, rating its strength in a range of areas that matter to them. Those with the best scores in each category win an award, with 12 given in total.
This year, the awards were based on more than 36,000 reviews from students at almost 100 universities. That makes the WUSCAs a thorough measure of quality, and a great indicator of a great place to study abroad. Below, we round up some of the 2025 winners.
University of the Year
For the first time, the University of Suffolk is the Whatuni Student Choice Awards University of the Year. Based in the major port town of Ipswich, this modern institution has become an award winner at a rapid pace. Since attaining university status in 2016, it has been an important part of education in the east of England, and a star in the eyes of both UK and international students.
To understand why Suffolk received the award, take a look at these recent five-star student reviews.
"The University of Suffolk has a beautiful waterfront location, modern facilities, and supportive lecturers who create a personalised learning experience. I appreciate the small class sizes, which make it easier to build strong relationships with professors and get the academic support I need."
"The sense of community at the university is strong. There are numerous clubs, societies, and events that provide opportunities to meet new people and develop friendships. This has made my time at university socially enriching and fun."
"[Suffolk] has provided me and my peers with incredible support, offering resources and clear communication on any issues we have faced during our time studying. The library offers a range of spaces for group, individual and silent study, as well as the opportunity to book private study rooms."
Competition for this award was strong. London-based Middlesex University was the worthy runner-up, ahead of Queen's University Belfast. Both institutions took prizes in other categories.
International University of the Year
The University of Chester was first for international students for a second year in a row. Renowned for teacher training, the institution is a clear study abroad favourite, combining a historic location with modern facilities. Last year, it opened its brand new School of Education.
"The University of Chester is a great university for international students like me. I got all the help I needed in adapting to my new environment from my course leader and the school."
Following close behind were the University of Suffolk and Middlesex University.
Chester is just one of the Whatuni Student Choice Awards winners you can explore on Student Q&A, our home of real insights into university life. Read and watch what students from around the world have to say about their experiences.
Student support
The support services offered by the University of Suffolk are one of the key reasons why it is the University of the Year. Unsurprisingly, then, it also took the award for best student support. Whatever challenges you face while studying at the institution, you can be sure that you are in a place with a caring reputation.
"The lecturers are incredible and the support team really try to help you in the best way they can. There are so many centres you can go to for anything you would need as a student, to name a few: Wellbeing, Academic Development, DSA, Student Experience, Careers, and so on."
Great consideration for students was also recognised at second-place Birmingham Newman University, and International category winner Chester.
Discover exactly how to get support at university.
Career prospects
Rural institution Harper Adams University is a powerful force in this category. It places first for career prospects for the ninth time in a row. Undoubtedly, if you are looking to work in an agricultural or veterinary role, this is a great place to be.
"I like that you get first-hand experience from those in the industry and the placement year really helps to put the knowledge we learn into practice."
Other institutions recognised for their employability-enhancing expertise include runners-up the University of Surrey, and the third-place University of Staffordshire.
Discover how to become a vet around the world.
University halls and student accommodation
The place where you live is one of the most important parts of your university experience – and sometimes one of the best. If you're looking for study abroad accommodation that feels like home, Bishop Grosseteste University is a good place to start. Found in the cathedral city of Lincoln, this welcoming institution is the WUSCA winner for halls and student accommodation.
"While not on campus, the accommodation is an easy walk down the road, meaning a peaceful environment while still being easy to get to uni. The accommodation is amazing, so much so that me and my friends returned there for our last year. The value for money is great, decent-sized room and really comfortable shared living spaces that make it easy to socialise with other students."
Students also found great places to stay at the University of Strathclyde and Coventry University, which followed just behind.
Many students come to Bishop Grosseteste for its expertise in teacher training. Find out more with our guide to specialist universities in the UK.
Students’ union
From the fun and friendship of societies to help with housing, health and more, students' unions are a huge source of support at university. This year, students at Queen's University Belfast are the most proud of theirs, resulting in a much-deserved award.
"One of the best things about my university is the social side, specifically the students' union. It is a brilliant place to meet new people and study/hang out. It has many fun initiatives and events and encourages students to get out."
"The students' union at QUB is a building with brilliant facilities and supportive staff - in particular the wellbeing and accessible learning team go above and beyond to support students."
Well-regarded unions can also be found at second-place Cardiff University and the third-place University of Sheffield. The latter won this award seven times in a row before its streak was broken this year.
Take our advice on how to choose a university society.
Postgraduate
The University of Chester came to the fore once more with postgraduate students. With more than 4,000 currently enrolled at the institution, it takes this level of study very seriously. Whether you come for a master's or a PhD, you will leave with a great education.
"I honestly can’t recommend studying at this institution enough. All of the staff are super friendly, knowledgeable and great tutors. After three years here, I knew it was the place for me for a master's and I’m loving it. [...] I’ve never had a query that I didn’t feel was answered or attempted to until I felt satisfied. Could not fault the university."
Postgraduate students were also very happy at overall winners University of Suffolk, and Queen's University Belfast. These institutions placed second and third respectively.
Consider our top reasons to study a master's in the UK.
Still want to know more? Take a look at all the award winners and the full rankings in each category. You can also take another approach to finding your dream study abroad destination with our guide to the best student cities in the UK.
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