History
Founded in 1921, the University of Leicester is celebrated for ground-breaking discoveries like genetic fingerprinting and the discovery of King Richard III. It has led space research for over 60 years, developing more than 90 instruments for space missions including equipment on six active missions; more than any other UK university.
Education
A degree from the University of Leicester is a highly respected qualification which is recognised internationally.
Leicester is a proud multicultural city, and the university is a diverse, global hub of learning, home to 20,000 students from over 150 countries. Undergraduate, postgraduate, and research opportunities are available across 30 disciplines, with many courses featuring work placements and study abroad options. Flexible online learning programmes also make advanced education accessible worldwide.
Research
The University of Leicester is ranked top 30 in the UK for research in the Research Excellence Framework (REF2021), and several subjects are ranked in the top 5* nationally (*according to analysis by Times Higher Education); Medicine (2nd), History (2nd), Sport Science (2nd) and Archaeology (5th).
(3*). The majority of the university’s real-world impacts were judged to be (4*) world leading, and 89% of overall research was assessed as being world-leading (4*) or internationally excellent. This demonstrates the wide-ranging impact of the University of Leicester’s research on society, health, policy, culture and the environment.
Career
The University of Leicester’s Careers and Employability Service offers a range of resources, events, and expert guidance to help students thrive in the global job market.
Students can access tailored support, including CV-building workshops, mock interviews, and one-on-one consultations to boost their confidence and enhance their employability. The careers team also assists students in finding part-time work, securing industry placements, and exploring international job prospects.
Through the University's MyCareers Portal, students can plan their career paths, browse job listings, and access workshops and training courses. This portal remains available after graduation, ensuring that alumni continue to benefit.
Top reasons to study here
- The Daily Mail University of the Year 2025. Shortlisted for the University of the Year by Times Higher Education (THE) 2024 and The Times and Sunday Times Go.
- Leicester is ranked within the top 30 most affordable UK student towns or city, according to the Natwest Student Living Index 2024.
- Top 30 in the UK for research in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF), and top 30 in the UK for overall positivity in the 2024 National Student Survey.
University of Leicester Key Statistics & Highlights
- #192 Ranking
- 32 PhDs
- 43 Scholarships
- 1,066 Academic Staff
- Public Institution Type
University of Leicester Overview
University of Leicester Scholarships
University of Leicester Scholarships
Below you will find scholarships related to University of Leicester. Distinction can be made between scholarships provided by the University and those provided by independent providers.
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University of Leicester Rankings
Study Portals Meta Ranking
Studyportals ranking look at the scores of the most used ranking systems and present you with one number of how well this University performs.
World University Rankings
By Times Higher Education
Dropped 1 places compared to 2025
World University Rankings is a vital resource that provides the definitive list of the world's best universities. They look at how often they're producing new ideas, what their reputation is around the world, and how much they're contributing to science and academic fields. After calculating and comparing these criteria, THE ranks the universities accordingly.
3 year trend World University Rankings
| 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| 201 | 191 | 192 |
We don’t have enough recent ranking data to show a 3-year trend for this university.
Academic Ranking of World Universities
By Shanghai Jiao Tong University
The university hasn’t moved up or down in the rankings over the past year.
ARWU World University rankings is the first world university ranking. It ranks the world's top 1000 colleges and universities based on objective indicator. They look at the number of award-winning (Fields Medals and Nobel Prize) scientists who are located there, how much of their research is cited and referenced around the world, and how much they've contributed to different academic fields. After calculating and comparing these criteria, ARWU ranks the universities accordingly.
3 year trend Academic Ranking of World Universities
| 2023 | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| 301 | 301 | 301 |
We don’t have enough recent ranking data to show a 3-year trend for this university.
QS World University Rankings
By TopUniversities
Dropped 41 places compared to 2025
QS World University Rankings is one of the top international rankings measuring the popularity and performance of universities all over the world. They measure university reputation based on the impressions of higher education experts, companies who hire graduates, and teaching quality. QS also considers the ratio of international teachers and students present at universities, as well as the times research papers were mentioned by researchers. After calculating and comparing these criteria, QS ranks the universities accordingly.
3 year trend QS World University Rankings
| 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| 272 | 285 | 326 |
We don’t have enough recent ranking data to show a 3-year trend for this university.
Best Global Universities Rankings
By U.S. News & World Report
This university doesn’t have a ranking for 2026 yet. Rankings are updated yearly, so check back later for the latest info.
Best Global Universities Rankings by U.S. News & World Report presents all the top universities from the U.S. and 60 other countries around the world. They measure the rate of students going to their second year of studies, as well as the rate of students who graduate. It also asks university representatives on the performance of universities, and evaluates university resources, teacher salaries, graduation rates, student academic achievements and satisfaction. After calculating and comparing these criteria, U.S. News ranks the top international universities accordingly.
3 year trend Best Global Universities Rankings
| 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| 194 | - | - |
We don’t have enough recent ranking data to show a 3-year trend for this university.
Student services
Studying at Leicester can be very fulfilling and a passport to a successful life and career. We are recognised across the world for the quality of our teaching and student experience. We have a wide range of support available and our International Office is on hand to offer help and guidance.
Housing services
Ranked top 5 in the UK for accommodation (Uni Compare Best Universities for Accommodation 2025), choose between The City; including the brand-new Freemens Common accommodation just a short walk to campus and the city centre; or The Village; surrounded by green spaces and a free university shuttle bus pass for ease of travel to and from the University. Both offer self-catered options, and all first-year students are guaranteed university-managed accommodation if they apply by 1 September.
To enhance the student experience, the Residential Life team ensures a safe environment and organises a wide range of events throughout the year.
Library services
The David Wilson Library is a 24/7 learning hub during term time, offering over one million printed volumes, a vast digital library, study rooms, and an eSports lab. With state-of-the-art facilities, it supports all study preferences, whether in quiet spaces, group work, or online. The on-site café also provides a perfect place to relax and recharge.
ICT services
The university campus offers 24/7 photocopying, scanning, and printing services, with free Wi-Fi available throughout. IT courses run throughout the year to help students enhance their digital skills. For technical support, the Library Help Zone is always available to assist in person, by phone, or via email, ensuring all your queries are quickly addressed.
Medical services
From the moment you arrive at Leicester, the university’s support teams are here to help you navigate every aspect of university life. Whether you need a mentor, mental health support, or just a place to unwind like the gym or a club, the university has you covered. Referrals to the NHS and other services are facilitated, and 24/7 wellbeing resources are also available.
Campus life
The university campus strikes the perfect balance between convenience and community. It’s close to the city centre for easy access yet offers a peaceful retreat with its own distinct atmosphere.
Leicester is known for its diversity and vibrant cultural scene, having hosted major events like the UK's largest Diwali celebrations and the colourful Caribbean Carnival. Shoppers can enjoy everything from big brands to quirky boutiques, with plenty of nearby restaurants, cafés and bars to relax in.
Sports facilities
The University of Leicester believes in 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 a range of facilities, well-equipped and spacious gyms, swimming pools, yoga sessions, regular fitness classes, and all-weather pitches. Whether you’re continuing a passion or trying something new, you’ll find a welcoming and supportive sports community.
Student clubs
With over 200 student societies supported by the award-winning Students’ Union, there are countless ways to get involved, make friends, and pursue your interests.
Societies cover everything from arts, faith, and national cultures to politics, hobbies, and more. Many sports groups compete at national and international levels, offering students opportunities to excel. If a particular society doesn’t exist yet, students are encouraged to create their own, with the Students’ Union offering full support and funding.
Accreditation
Accreditation:
- Athena SWAN Award
- Stonewall Diversity Champion
- Coeliac UK
University of Leicester Campus Locations
University of Leicester Student Reviews & Awards
Based on 93 reviews
- 5 Star 40 Reviews
- 4 Star 41 Reviews
- 3 Star 9 Reviews
- 2 Star 2 Reviews
- 1 Star 1 Review
How Students Rated This University
- Overall Satisfaction 4.2
- Student Diversity 4.5
- Admission Process 4.2
- Quality of Student Life 4.3
- Career Development 4.0
Easy Admission and Clear information
I found the University of Leicester on Studyportals and applied for their programme. The admission process was very easy and straightforward -the requirements were clearly explained and I could upload my documents without any confusion. My study will commence on September 2026 to October 2027. Everything about the programme, tuition fees, and deadlines was clearly listed, which made choosing Leicester much easier. Studyportals helped me compare options and guided me through the steps confidently. I highly recommend Studyportals for anyone looking for clear information and simple admission guidance.
I'm very satisfied & will to learn about business
Going to study & adding to my knowledge important
No title
I have not started yet, I have not been admission letter yet
Global Student Satisfaction Awards 2025
The Global Student Satisfaction Awards empower students across the globe to determine the best universities of 2025. Universities with a score above 4.0 (out of 5) in any of the 7 award categories, receive Badges of Excellence. Congratulations!
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Overall SatisfactionHow would you rate your overall study experience?
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Student DiversityHow diverse was the atmosphere at your university?
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Admission ProcessHow simple was it to apply to your programme?
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Quality of Student LifeHow was your everyday life?
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Career DevelopmentDid the university provide support for your career development?