The University of Essex is a publicly funded research university situated in Essex, England. Founded in 1965 through a royal charter, it is recognized as one of the ‘plate glass universities,’ a term used for institutions that gained university status during the 1960s. The University of Essex has its main campus in Colchester, along with additional campuses in Southend and Loughton, both featuring their own theatres. Near the Colchester Campus is Wivenhoe Park, a scenic area known for its diverse plant life and wildlife. It has a diverse student community of over 19,000 from 140 countries, supported by a team of more than 2,644 staff members across academic, research, and administrative roles. Additionally, more than 90 sixth forms and colleges provide a wide range of qualifications and courses.
Special about the University of Essex is its strong research reputation, with subjects like sociology, economics, econometrics, politics, international studies, and modern languages and linguistics being highly regarded in the UK. It secures over $43 million in research funding through grants, contracts, and fees.
University of Essex has a worldwide alumni network of over 95,000 individuals pursuing careers across various fields. Its graduates include Nobel Prize winners, influential political figures, and distinguished professionals.
University of Essex ranking is well recognized across major global metrics, including the Guardian University Guide, Complete University Guide, Times Higher Education, and QS World University Rankings. It has also received the Most Innovative Teacher Award from Times Higher Education.
Beyond academics, the university earned the Outstanding Collaboration Award for the national NVSA Student’s Union Refugee Training Program. Additionally, Wivenhoe Park, surrounding the Colchester Campus, won the prestigious Green Flag Award and is ranked among the best in the People’s Choice Awards.
University of Essex intakes take place twice a year, with application deadlines set one week before the start date. Applicants are encouraged to complete and submit their applications well in advance of their preferred intake.
As the primary intake, this term includes a full range of Masters and Bachelors Courses across various disciplines.
University of Essex January intake is a smaller intake, offering a limited selection of Masters Programs, mainly in Law, Hospitality, and Computer Science.
University of Essex courses include over 300 options at the Master’s Level and more than 500 at the Bachelor’s Level. For English proficiency, a variety of Pre-Sessional English Language (PSE) courses are available. These are taught by experienced instructors at the University of Essex International College (UEIC), or through Essex Pathways' affiliated institutions in China.
Additionally, short courses and summer schools focus on developing key academic abilities.
University of Essex Cost depends on the chosen program and level of study. Fee status is determined during the application process and reflected in the offer letter upon acceptance.
University of Essex fees are required to be paid before receiving the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) required for a Student Visa. Payments can be made through Flywire or Convera, which support various card options, bank transfers, and e-wallets.
| Types of Expenses | Annual Expenses in INR |
|---|---|
| Annual PG Tuition fee | 26-30 Lakhs |
| Annual UG Tuition fee | 23-27 Lakhs |
| Annual Accommodation & food expenses | 12-15 Lakhs |
University of Essex entry requirements accommodate a variety of qualifications for students from different countries. The criteria include English language proficiency, with accepted tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, and Pearson, along with a few others.
As part of the University of Essex application process, international students who do not meet the requirements can take preparation courses. These include pre-master programs for Master’s Degrees and Pre-Sessional English pathway courses for Bachelor’s Degrees. For Indian students, the eligibility criteria are provided here.
✅ Academic Requirements: A minimum of 50–55%, depending on the University and academic background.
✅ IELTS: Overall score of 6.0, with no band less than 5.5
✅ PTE: Overall score of 60, with a minimum of 59 in each section
✅ TOEFL: Overall score of 76 with individual section scores of 17 in Listening, 18 in Reading, 20 in Speaking and 17 in Writing
*CBSE/CISCE English Score: Minimum 70% in English may be considered instead of a language test score
Waiver Policy: May vary for students from other boards and is subject to university discretion
✅ Academic Requirements: 55–70%, depending on the academic board and program
✅ IELTS: Overall 6.0, with no section below 5.5
✅ PTE: Overall 60, with at least 59 in each component
✅ TOEFL: Overall score of 76 with individual section scores of 17 in Listening, 18 in Reading, 20 in Speaking and 17 in Writing
*CBSE/CISCE English Score: Students with 70% or above in English may be eligible for a language test waiver
Waiver Policy: May vary for students from other boards and is subject to university discretion
The University of Essex offers dedicated career advisors who support students with career events, guidance, CV building, interview preparation, and industry networking. Additionally, the Career Mentoring Program helps students explore different career paths.
Graduates receive comprehensive support through graduate schemes, job opportunities, and internships, helping them transition into the workforce. They can explore job postings on CareerHub+ to find suitable roles. University of Essex Placements Salary varies based on industry and job role.
The Student Wellbeing and Inclusivity Service (SWIS) and the Student Services Hub oversee student support, providing resources across multiple areas.
The Student’s Union, run by students, oversees clubs, societies, and events on campus. Activities include club nights, board games, gardening, disc golf, and debating. Students can also join the V-Team, which organizes volunteer opportunities such as working at an animal sanctuary, growing vegetables, participating in clothing exchanges, and raising funds for local charities through sustainable fashion.
The facilities encompass 40 sports clubs, including archery, volleyball, and gym facilities. There are also offerings like climbing wall, indoor and outdoor courses, and a 40-acre campus dedicated to green exercise.
Module tutors support students through discussion boards, live Q&A sessions, and coursework feedback. Those completing final projects are assigned a supervisor for guidance and academic assistance.
A variety of housing options are available within walking distance of facilities across University of Essex campuses. Amenities include Wi-Fi, heating, hot water, contents insurance, electricity, and regular cleaning of shared spaces. Single rooms feature self-catering facilities with fully equipped shared kitchens. Adapted rooms and shared accommodation options are also available.
The Student Services Hub delivers practical guidance, confidential support, and general information. Health services include mental health support, diabetes care, medical assistance, and accessibility services.
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