University of Sussex
University of Sussex
The University of Sussex is ranked 1st in the world for Development Studies in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024.
The University of Sussex is a leading research-intensive university, dedicated to teaching excellence, student experience, and employability. Students benefit from high-quality teaching and groundbreaking research, fostering new discoveries while equipping them with the skills to succeed in their future careers.
Since its founding, Sussex has maintained a global outlook, creating a diverse and inclusive community with students from over 150 nationalities.
Ranked 248th in the world overall and 1st globally for Development Studies (QS World University Rankings), Sussex is at the forefront of research tackling pressing global challenges, from climate change and digital transformation to Artificial Intelligence. Academics bring their expertise into the classroom, ensuring students thrive in their studies and beyond.
Set at the foot of the South Downs, the Sussex campus offers modern accommodation, cutting-edge study facilities, and vibrant social spaces. With Brighton just a ten-minute train ride away and London only an hour away, students enjoy the best of both coastal and city life.
By completing the NCUK International Foundation Year (IFY) or International Year One (IYOne) at UFC, students can progress seamlessly to the University of Sussex and gain access to world-class education and career opportunities.
Life at the University of Sussex
The Sussex community is a vibrant, multicultural environment, bringing together students and staff from over 150 countries. This diversity creates plenty of opportunities to connect with people from around the world and experience a truly global university atmosphere.
To help students settle in, the Students’ Union runs the Buddy Scheme, a great way to make new friends and build connections. The Residential Life team and Student Connectors also organise social gatherings and events to help students feel at home.
Sussex hosts a variety of international events throughout the year, from One World Sussex week to Super Bowl screenings at campus bars. Students can enjoy global cuisine from on-campus cafés, shops, and food stalls, including a weekly street food market during term time.
With opportunities such as the Language Café and cultural societies, Sussex provides a welcoming space for students to explore new cultures, celebrate diversity, and meet others who share similar interests.
Employability is at the core of a Sussex education, with the university ranked 16th in the UK for Employment Outcomes in the QS World University Rankings 2025. Whether students are pursuing a traditional career path or exploring emerging industries, Sussex provides the support, connections, and opportunities needed to thrive both during and after university.
The Careers and Entrepreneurship Team helps students maximise their career potential, offering guidance on building confidence, securing placements, refining CVs, and networking with industry professionals. Whether you’re looking to develop skills that make you a valuable asset to employers or even start your own business, Sussex provides the tools to help you succeed.
The award-winning Sussex Career Lab (AGCAS Supporting Student/Graduate Employability Award 2024) offers a variety of work experience opportunities, including internships, industry insight visits, and employer connections to help students gain real-world experience.
After graduation, Sussex continues to support its alumni with one-to-one careers coaching, employer events, and exclusive job listings. Graduates also gain access to Sussex Connect, a global digital networking platform that helps them stay connected with fellow alumni and expand their professional network.
Experience Brighton, the iconic seaside city just a ten-minute train ride from campus! Known for its vibrant, cosmopolitan atmosphere, Brighton is a place where you can express yourself and embrace new experiences. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on the beach in summer or enjoying brisk seaside walks in winter, the lively seafront offers something for everyone. Along the promenade, you’ll find cafés, bars, nightclubs, and a variety of beach and water sports.
Explore The Lanes, a charming maze of quirky boutiques, vintage stores, and cosy cafés, or visit North Laine, home to one of the largest collections of independent shops on England’s South Coast—perfect for grabbing a coffee and people-watching.
Brighton’s diverse international community makes it a food lover’s paradise. Enjoy Mexican street food, Pan-Asian fine dining, or shop for ingredients at Afro-Caribbean and Asian supermarkets. With a rich cultural scene, Brighton ensures students are never far from home comforts or exciting new experiences.
The Student Centre is the go-to hub for all student support services at Sussex. Designed as a modern, flexible space, it’s not only a great place to study or socialise but also a central point for comprehensive student support, from practical life skills training to visa advice.
A team of friendly and experienced Student Advisors is always available to help students access specialist services both on and off campus. This includes disability support, mental wellbeing services, counselling, and Chaplaincy. The centre also hosts weekly drop-in sessions, allowing students to speak directly with an advisor, as well as events and activities throughout the year to foster a supportive and inclusive student experience.
In recent years, Sussex has invested in modern campus residences, offering a wide range of on-campus accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences.
All on-campus accommodation is self-catered, with most residences featuring communal kitchens. Around 70% of rooms are en-suite, while the remaining options have shared bathrooms. The university also provides accommodation that meets access and disability requirements, along with a small number of self-contained flats and single-person units for those seeking more independence.
Sussex guarantees university-managed accommodation for international students in their first year of study, including full-time international master’s students. For those looking to rent privately, the dedicated Housing Services Team offers expert advice, guidance, and assistance in finding student houses and rooms, ensuring a smooth transition into university life.
The University of Sussex offers a wide range of on-campus facilities, ensuring students have everything they need in one place. The campus features a pharmacy, medical centre, international food store, and a supermarket with a post office. At the heart of student life is the Student Centre, a welcoming space to meet friends, study, and access essential services. Whether you need help with a quick query or specialist support, the centre provides comprehensive advice and guidance.
Sussex also offers a variety of dining options, including coffee shops and Eat Central, the university’s vibrant food court serving an exciting international menu. The library is open 24/7 during term time, providing both individual and group study spaces to suit different learning styles.
For arts and culture, Sussex is home to the Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts, which hosts a diverse programme of events featuring international artists and performers.
The university is continuously investing in enhancing the student experience, with plans for new student accommodation and a state-of-the-art Health and Wellbeing Centre, set to open in 2026.
Sussexsport is the University of Sussex’s dedicated sports service, offering students access to two on-campus gyms, group fitness classes, sports halls, tennis courts, and pitches. With a range of affordable membership options, students can enjoy top-quality facilities while staying active and healthy.
For those new to sport or looking to try something different, the social sport programme provides a fun and inclusive way to get involved. For students interested in competitive sports, the university runs a comprehensive club sports programme in partnership with the Students’ Union.
Beyond sports, the Students’ Union supports over 180 student-led societies and 40 sports clubs, covering a wide range of interests, hobbies, and cultural communities. International societies help students from around the world connect, share traditions, and foster a strong sense of belonging at Sussex.
The University of Sussex is proud to be recognised as one of the world’s most sustainable universities, ranked joint 63rd globally in the QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2025. Sussex leads the way in sustainability research, with experts in corporate social responsibility, global supply chains, climate and society, and biodiversity and conservation driving impactful projects through the Sussex Sustainability Research Programme.
Sustainability initiatives at Sussex extend across teaching, research, and campus life. Students can engage in practical modules such as creating a forest food garden, while academic programmes integrate critical discussions on job and food security. The university is also committed to ensuring that all research practices are ethical and sustainable.
As a member of the International Universities Climate Alliance, Sussex collaborates with universities worldwide to share knowledge on climate research, influencing government policies and industry practices to drive meaningful environmental change.
RANKING
Ranked 1st in the world for Development Studies (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024)
Ranked 16th in the UK for Employment Outcomes (out of 90 Higher Education institutions) in the QS World University Rankings 2025
Search Programmes at the University of Sussex
Discover a wide range of undergraduate degrees at the University of Sussex, 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
We have an experienced team of admissions staff waiting to talk you through your options at University Foundation College and beyond, helping you to make decisions today which will positively influence your education and career.
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.