Institutes / Universities
University of Leicester
Ranking
28Established in
1921Famous For
History, Astronomy, Physics
Fees
£14,740 - £18,855
- Overview
- Services
- Rankings
- Accommodation
- Courses
- Scholarships
Overview
The University of Leicester is located in the heart of the UK, in the city of Leicester, East Midlands. Established in 1921, the University has a proud tradition of academic excellence and innovation. Currently, it has a diverse student population of approximately 20,000, representing over 144 different countries. It is renowned for its welcoming and inclusive environment, offering a supportive community for international and domestic students alike.
The University of Leicester continues to build on its reputation for high-quality teaching and research and has invested over £500 million in campus development in recent years, enhancing facilities across all disciplines, including a state-of-the-art library, advanced laboratories, and a modern Student Village. This significant investment reflects Leicester’s commitment to providing an outstanding student experience.
Leicester is recognised globally for its research excellence, particularly in areas such as Archaeology, Physics, and Space Science. The University played a pivotal role in the discovery of the remains of King Richard III in 2012, an achievement that garnered worldwide attention. Its Department of Physics and Astronomy hosts Europe’s largest university-based space research facility, and Leicester's researchers have been involved in major international space missions, including the Mars Rover and James Webb Space Telescope projects.
The University of Leicester offers a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across its three colleges: the College of Life Sciences, the College of Science and Engineering, and the College of Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities. It is particularly strong in subjects such as Biological Sciences, Law, Medicine, and History.
Leicester’s central location makes it a convenient base for students exploring the UK. The city is just over an hour away from London by train and is well-connected to other major cities, such as Birmingham and Manchester. As one of the most culturally diverse cities in the UK, Leicester offers a rich cultural experience, vibrant nightlife, and a cost of living lower than many other UK cities, making it an attractive destination for students.
Services
The International Office at Leicester can provide support on issues such as visas, employment, finance and cultural adjustment. In-sessional and pre-sessional English classes are available for all international students who want or need to improve their English level before or during their degree. There are also a variety of student-led groups and activities for a range of nationalities as well as opportunities to make new friends through common interests.
Rankings
- 28th in the Times University Guide 2026
- 40th in the Guardian University Guide 2026
Other University of Leicester highlights include:
- Gold Award in the 2023 Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF)
- 25th in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026
- Top 15 in the UK for satisfaction in the 2025 National Student Survey
- Top 30 in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF)
Accommodation
The University of Leicester guarantees university accommodation for students who firmly accept an offer and apply by the September deadline. All of the rooms are self-catered, and there is a wide range to choose from, including studio flats and shared flats, studio apartments, and shared rooms are available. Many second and third-year students also choose to live in halls, but most live in and around the city. The accommodation office can assist students who wish to live outside halls in private rented accommodation.
Location
A City at the Heart of England
Leicester is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city with over 300,000 residents, surrounded by beautiful countryside and perfectly placed for exploring Stratford-upon-Avon, Oxford, and Cambridge.
The University of Leicester’s compact campus puts everything within easy reach, including teaching buildings, shops, bars, restaurants, and even a cinema. Leicester train station is just a short walk away, with direct trains to London St Pancras in just over an hour, and easy connections to Paris or Brussels via Eurostar. East Midlands Airport, serving 28 countries, is also nearby.
Our campus blends history and innovation: the Fielding Johnson Building, dating from 1837, stands alongside award-winning modern architecture, reflecting over a century of growth and excellence.
Leicester offers the perfect mix of culture, connectivity, and community, an ideal place to live and learn.
Courses offered at University of Leicester
Loading courses...