University of Leicester
University of Leicester
The University of Leicester is ranked 26th in the UK in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024.
Located in the heart of the UK, the University of Leicester is renowned for its global excellence, pioneering research, and innovative teaching. Recognised as the Daily Mail University of the Year 2025 and shortlisted for Times Higher Education (THE) University of the Year 2024, it offers globally recognised degrees with a strong academic reputation.
Founded in 1921, Leicester has been at the forefront of groundbreaking discoveries, including the invention of genetic fingerprinting and the discovery of King Richard III. The university has also led space research for over 60 years, developing more than 90 instruments for space missions, with equipment currently active on six missions—more than any other UK university.
Leicester is a vibrant, multicultural city, and the university reflects this diversity, welcoming 20,000 students from over 150 countries. It offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research opportunities across 30 disciplines, with many courses featuring work placements and study abroad options. Additionally, flexible online learning programmes make high-quality education accessible to students worldwide.
By completing the NCUK International Foundation Year (IFY) or International Year One (IYOne) at UFC, students can progress seamlessly to the University of Leicester and gain access to world-class education and career opportunities.
Life at the University of Leicester
Studying at the University of Leicester offers a well-rounded university experience, blending academic excellence with a vibrant campus life. The student-led Students’ Union fosters an environment of empowerment, inclusivity, and innovation, organising a variety of events, clubs, and societies, including groups designed specifically for international students. You’ll also have access to state-of-the-art sports facilities, dedicated student support services, and personalised career guidance to help you make the most of your time at university.
To help international students settle in, the International Student Experience team hosts Welcome events, providing opportunities to connect, explore, and adjust to life in Leicester. The team offers practical guidance on essentials such as registering with a doctor, opening a bank account, and adapting to UK life. Throughout the year, students can enjoy free social activities, including games afternoons, cultural crafts, quiz nights, and special celebrations, creating a warm and engaging student community.
Leicester is a diverse and multicultural city, and the university’s close-knit campus is just minutes from the city centre. Whether you’re interested in shopping, dining, or cultural experiences, Leicester has something for everyone, making it an exciting and welcoming place to study and live.
The University of Leicester is committed to preparing students for career success through its comprehensive Careers and Employability Service. This dedicated service provides expert guidance, resources, and events to help students thrive in the global job market.
Students have access to tailored career support, including CV-building workshops, mock interviews, and one-on-one consultations designed to boost confidence and enhance employability. The university’s friendly careers team also assists with finding part-time work, securing industry placements, and exploring international job opportunities.
Through the MyCareers Portal, students can plan their career paths, browse job listings, and access training courses and workshops. This valuable resource remains available even after graduation, ensuring Leicester alumni continue to benefit from job opportunities and career support throughout their professional journeys.
Leicester is a vibrant and diverse city, offering an exciting mix of activities, dining options, and cultural experiences. Recognised as the best place to live and work in the East Midlands (Demos-PwC Good Growth Index 2023), it provides a welcoming environment for students from around the world.
Whether you’re looking for a fun day out, Leicester has plenty to offer, from escape rooms, bowling alleys, and mini-golf courses to multiple cinemas showing the latest films. The city’s famous Golden Mile is a must-visit, renowned for its authentic Indian cuisine and home to the largest Diwali celebrations outside of India. Leicester’s rich cultural scene also includes the Caribbean Carnival, England’s largest comedy festival, and an array of museums and galleries to explore.
For sports enthusiasts, Leicester is home to Leicester City Football Club, Leicester Tigers rugby team, and Leicester Riders basketball team, offering thrilling live matches. Nature lovers will also find plenty of green spaces to relax and unwind. The University’s Botanic Gardens, Bradgate Park, Aylestone Meadows, New Walk, and Abbey Park provide peaceful escapes from city life.
With so much to see and do, Leicester truly has something for everyone, making it an exciting and welcoming place to study and live.
Student wellbeing is a top priority at the University of Leicester. From the moment you arrive until graduation—and even beyond—the university is dedicated to providing comprehensive support at every stage of your journey. The Student Support Services team is always available as the first point of contact for questions, information, and advice, including a dedicated International Student Experience team to help you settle into your new environment.
The Student Wellbeing team offers a range of free support services to prioritise your mental and emotional health, including personalised mental health support, wellbeing check-ins, and exam assistance.
For students with specific needs, the AccessAbility Centre provides tailored support for those with learning difficulties, sensory disabilities, mobility challenges, mental health conditions, long-term health issues, or autism. The team assists with study skills, alternative exam arrangements, and provides quiet spaces for study and relaxation to ensure every student can thrive.
Safety is also a key focus at Leicester, with 24/7 security and the SafeZone app, allowing students to quickly alert security for urgent first aid or safety assistance whenever needed. At Leicester, you can feel confident, supported, and secure throughout your university experience.
The University of Leicester offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets across its two main sites: The Village and The City. The university guarantees accommodation for all first-year students who apply by 1 September of their entry year.
Nestled in beautiful green spaces, The Village combines stunning Edwardian houses with modern, purpose-built residences, creating a charming and welcoming student environment. Residents can enjoy a range of amenities, including a gym, allotments, and The Village Hub, which features a cinema room, music rooms, and study spaces. A free university shuttle bus provides convenient transport to and from campus.
Located close to the central campus and city centre, The City accommodation offers a variety of housing options, including townhouse-style flats, micro-flats, standard and premium ensuites, as well as studio and one-bedroom apartments. Students can also unwind at Freemen’s Kitchen and Bar, which features a cinema room and music spaces, making it the perfect place to socialise and relax with friends.
To enhance the student living experience, the Residential Life team ensures a safe, supportive environment and organises a diverse range of events throughout the year, helping students feel at home from day one.
Students at the University of Leicester have access to a wide range of state-of-the-art facilities, supported by a recent £500 million investment in campus development. At the heart of the university is the four-storey Sir Bob Burgess Building, featuring two large lecture theatres, flexible teaching spaces, and modern areas for staff to work, meet, and relax. For study spaces, the David Wilson Library, Percy Gee Building (Students’ Union), and Brookfield provide ideal environments for focused learning and collaboration. Equipped with cutting-edge teaching and research facilities, the university ensures students gain practical experience and industry-ready knowledge.
The campus offers plenty of social spaces, including Centenary Square, the O2 Academy, and Victoria Park, perfect for unwinding and connecting with friends. Dining options are equally diverse, with Campus Kitchen, located in the Students’ Union, providing a variety of meals to suit different tastes.
Sports and fitness are a key part of student life at Leicester, promoting well-being, teamwork, and an active lifestyle. The university boasts two modern sports centres, featuring swimming pools, extensive gym facilities, and a variety of fitness classes. Additionally, sports pitches near The Village accommodation cater to students of all skill levels, ensuring everyone can take part, whether competitively or recreationally.
The University of Leicester recognises the transformative power of sport, whether for fitness, relaxation, or competition. With two state-of-the-art sports centres, students of all abilities can enjoy well-equipped gyms, swimming pools, yoga sessions, regular fitness classes, and all-weather pitches. Whether you’re continuing a passion or trying something new, Leicester offers a welcoming and supportive sports community where everyone can get involved.
Beyond sports, the university boasts over 200 student societies, supported by the award-winning Students’ Union, providing endless opportunities to connect, explore new interests, and make lifelong friends. Societies cover a wide range of interests, from arts, faith, and national cultures to politics, hobbies, and more. Many sports groups compete at national and international levels, giving students the chance to excel in their chosen fields. If a society doesn’t yet exist, students are encouraged to create their own, with full support and funding from the Students’ Union to bring their ideas to life.
The University of Leicester is deeply committed to environmental sustainability, actively working to minimise its impact on the planet for future generations. Through cutting-edge research and education, the university drives global change while ensuring its operations remain environmentally responsible. Leicester has set an ambitious goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040, a decade ahead of the UK government’s target.
Sustainability is a core guiding principle at Leicester, influencing decision-making at every level. The university takes a holistic approach, not only reducing its own environmental footprint but also engaging with local, national, and international policymakers to amplify positive change.
Leicester encourages staff, students, and visitors to make sustainable choices in their daily lives. To support this, the university provides resources and initiatives, including its Sustainable Development Goals strategy, carbon literacy training, low-carbon workplaces, and greener labs. Staff are also supported in integrating Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) into their teaching, with access to workshops, one-on-one guidance, and a dedicated ESD Community of Practice through the University Education Academy.
RANKING
University of the Year 2025 (Daily Mail University Guide 2025)
Ranked 26th in the UK (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024)
Search Programmes at the University of Leicester
Discover a wide range of undergraduate degrees at the University of Leicester, an NCUK partner university. Use the NCUK University Course Finder to explore programmes by subject area and find the perfect course for your academic and career goals.
How to Apply
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We will provide you with personal counselling and support as you make the transition from high school to University Foundation College and then to your university degree programme.