University of Essex
Ranked #12 UK

University of Essex

Colchester
Founded 1964

About University of Essex

The University of Essex is a public research university in Essex, England. Established by royal charter in 1965, it is one of the original plate glass universities. The university comprises three campuses in the county, in Southend-on-Sea and Loughton with its primary campus in Wivenhoe Park, Colchester.

Essex has a largely diverse student community and holds partnerships with more than 100 global higher education institutions.[6] It was named University of the Year at the Times Higher Education Awards in 2018. Essex's Department of Government received Regius Professorship conferred by Queen Elizabeth II in 2013[7] and the university was awarded the Queen's Anniversary Prize on two occasions for advancing human rights in 2009 and social and economic research in 2017.[8][9]

In the 2025 rankings of British universities, Essex is ranked 30th in the Complete University Guide, 23rd in The Guardian University Guide and 46th by The Sunday Times. It has produced alumni in several fields across the world; these include Nobel Prize laureates, a head of state, and senior governors and politicians.

Why Study at University of Essex?

The University of Essex is known for academic excellence and world-leading research, offering students a chance to study under top experts and engage in innovative learning across a wide range of subjects.
Essex offers a diverse and inclusive environment, welcoming students from over 140 countries, creating a global community that promotes cultural exchange, friendship, and an international learning experience.
The university places strong focus on employability, with career support, internships, and industry partnerships that help students gain skills and experience needed to succeed in the competitive job market.
Located in a beautiful, safe campus near London, the University of Essex provides excellent facilities, green spaces, and a lively student community, making it a perfect place for both study and personal growth.
Essex is a top choice for student satisfaction, offering high-quality teaching, flexible courses, supportive staff, and plenty of opportunities for students to get involved in clubs, societies, and campus life.
University of Essex

Quick Information

World Ranking: #12
Founded: 1964
Location: Colchester, UK

Scholarships

Available Scholarships: 30

The University of Essex offers various scholarships, including the Vice-Chancellor's Global Talent Scholarship, a competitive award that gives a 50% tuition fee discount for the first year to international undergraduate or master's students based on academic and extracurricular achievement. Other scholarships include the Essex Global Partner Scholarship for students on specific link agreements, and specific opportunities like the GREAT Scholarships or those through partners like the Open Society Foundations for certain programs. Eligibility varies, but most require meeting offer conditions, being an overseas fee payer, and sometimes specific academic or extra-curricular criteria. Types of scholarships Vice-Chancellor's Global Talent Scholarship: A competitive scholarship for international undergraduate and master's students that offers a 50% discount on the first year's tuition. Eligibility is based on academic merit and extra-curricular engagement. Essex Global Partner Scholarship: An automatic award for undergraduate students who are studying on a progression link agreement with a partner institution. GREAT Scholarships: Scholarships for international students, often focusing on students from specific countries, and may require a proven interest in the subject area and a willingness to be an ambassador for UK higher education. Partner Scholarships: The university may have other scholarship opportunities through partnerships, such as those offered with the Open Society Foundations for specific programs like the Centre for Human Rights.

Ready to Apply to University of Essex?

Get expert guidance for your application process.