University of Essex

Global community

At Essex you will discover the world in one place. We are one of the most diverse academic communities in the UK, with students representing 140 nationalities and a wide range of faiths, beliefs, and backgrounds. 

Living and learning

Choose from a wide range of courses and enjoy the broad experience we offer. Our staff provide one-to-one guidance, and our courses equip you with the skills demanded by today's employers in a highly competitive world, ensuring that your employability is always a top priority for us.

You’ll be part of our 16,000-strong community as a member of our award-winning Students' Union. They are one of the most active in the country, and with regular events, a wide range of clubs and societies to join, and opportunities for volunteering and paid work, you’ll never run out of things to do.

Funding your studies

We understand that financing your studies is important, which is why we offer a wide range of funding opportunities designed to support international students, including scholarships, bursaries, and research council funding. Additionally, we provide access to awards supported by charities and other external organisations, ensuring that financial barriers don’t stand in your way.

Our campuses

We’re split over three separate campuses – Colchester, Southend and Loughton – with each offering a unique and exciting student experience. All of our campuses are located close to London.

Our Colchester Campus has a 24-7 security team located in the centre of campus. They provide students, staff, and visitors with both over-the-phone and face-to-face support, including security, first aid, lost property, and communication with emergency services. Our Southend and Loughton campuses also have security teams operating and providing similar services to students, staff, and visitors. 

Our accommodation

At our Colchester and Southend Campus, we’ll guarantee accommodation for all years of study if you’re an international student. We have rooms to suit every budget and personality.

The majority of our accommodation are single-study bedrooms, grouped in self-contained flats with communal kitchen-dining facilities. No matter where you live on campus, you’ll have access to free Wi-Fi.

Employability

Our Careers Services will help you identify and improve your talents and strengths. From career-dedicated modules in our degree courses, to providing mentoring workshops, we have a variety of ways for you to bolster your CV, knowledge and experience, including learning new skills or working part-time around your studies.

Many of our courses have study abroad options, where you can complete an additional year, or term, of your course at a partner university. With over 150 partner institutions around the world you'll be spoilt for choice deciding where to go. 

A work placement allows you to learn more about a particular sector, company or job role. In most degree subjects we offer the opportunity to include a work placement for a year, term, vacation, or for a specific project. 

Did you know that the Graduate Route allows you to apply for permission to stay in the UK for two years after you graduate to work or seek work? Alternatively, you may apply under the Skilled Worker Route.