University of Essex
We Are Essex. Ranked 12th in the Guardian University Guide 2026.Choosing the University of Essex means joining a vibrant, inclusive, and forward-thinking community. Essex offers world-class teaching, a global outlook, and a strong commitment to social impact. With a diverse student body representing over 140 nationalities, state-of-the-art facilities, and award-winning support services, we'll empower you to achieve your ambitions both academically and personally.
Whether you’re ready to push boundaries, explore new perspectives, or prepare for a career that makes an impact, the University of Essex is where you can shape a university experience that’s truly your own.
Home or Away
As a student studying at our Colchester campus, you are guaranteed on-campus accommodation for the full duration of your studies. Plus, our accommodation includes your energy bills and internet access, as well as contents insurance, gym membership, 24/7 security, support from well-being teams and easy access to central campus and facilities.
If you choose to live at home and commute to our campuses , we have parking and commuter facilities available. There's also short-stay accommodation on offer, so you can choose to stay overnight on campus if attending an event or fitting in some late-night revision at the library.
Beyond university
At Essex, we put your future first. Many of our courses include employability modules every year, giving you the skills and experience to stand out in today's competitive job market.
Our Careers Service is your launchpad, helping you build a standout CV, explore career paths, and land your dream job. We give you the guidance, tools and confidence to take the next step and make your ambitions a reality.
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OUR CAMPUSES
Colchester is our largest campus, set in 200 acres of stunning parkland. It's a buzzing community where you can live, study and socialise all in one place, just a short bus ride from the city centre.
Loughton is home to East 15 Acting School, your launchpad to a global stage career at one of the UK's most prestigious and internationally renowned conservatoires.
Managing Finances
At Essex, we're committed to supporting you every step of the way. Our Essex Futures Bursary is a support package worth up to £3,000 for UK students with a household income of £35,000 or less, helping you focus on your studies with peace of mind. There's also a wide range of scholarships and bursaries designed to make your university journey more accessible and rewarding.
To help boost your budget further, we offer part-time student jobs on campus, all paying the Voluntary Living Wage. These roles provide not only extra income but also valuable experience and opportunities to connect with the Essex community.
At Essex, your wellbeing matters, and financial support is just one of the ways we want to make sure you feel cared for, included, and able to thrive at university.
OUR STUDENTS’ UNION
When you join Essex, you automatically become a member of one of the UK’s top Students’ Unions, run by students, for students.
Essex SU is all about making your university life unforgettable. Think epic events, buzzing sports clubs, over a hundred societies, legendary nights out, volunteering opportunities and support services - they've got you covered.
And the best bit? There's always something happening. From day one, you'll dive into a packed calendar of activities designed to help you settle in, make friends, and kickstart your Essex adventure in style.
