University Guide
University of Sussex
Founded in 1961, the University of Sussex is based in Falmer, on the edge of Brighton. Its campus brings together teaching buildings, accommodation and student facilities, surrounded by the South Downs National Park. Sussex offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses across a wide range of subjects, with a strong research focus. Beyond campus, Brighton’s cafés, music venues and seafront give students plenty to explore.

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The overview
The main things you need to know about studying at the University of Sussex.
Rankings
Sussex ranks 36th in the UK in the Complete University Guide 2027 and joint 273rd worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2027. It also holds an overall Silver rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework 2023. See the university’s rankings page for the different assessments and subject results.
Employability
Sussex’s Careers and Entrepreneurship team supports students with career planning, CVs, interviews and finding work experience. CareerHub provides vacancies, events and appointments, while placements and internships offer opportunities to build practical skills. Graduates can continue accessing careers advice and job-search support for up to three years after finishing their studies.
Fees
Home undergraduate tuition fees are £9,790 a year for 2026/27. Sussex currently lists £10,050 as the expected annual fee for 2027/28, in line with government fee limits. International and postgraduate fees vary by course and entry year, so check your programme page for the exact amount. Your assessed fee status determines whether you pay the home or international rate.
Bursaries
For 2026/27, the Sussex Bursary provides eligible full-time home undergraduates with £1,000 in their first year and £500 in subsequent eligible years. Applicants need an assessed household income below £35,000 and must meet the remaining conditions. Awards are assessed automatically through Student Finance. Sussex also offers undergraduate scholarships for UK and international students, with separate eligibility criteria and deadlines.
Accommodation
Sussex offers campus accommodation with shared-bathroom and en-suite options, including its new West Slope residences. University accommodation fees include utilities, insurance and broadband. For 2026/27 and 2027/28, eligible new undergraduates are guaranteed university-managed accommodation in their first year, subject to accepting their offer and meeting the application requirements. Guarantees also cover eligible new Masters and PhD students, with course exceptions. Check the conditions and deadlines for your intake, then compare room types and contract lengths. For a home in the city, explore Brighton student accommodation through AFS.
Need a place to stay in Brighton?
We have lots of available student accommodation in Brighton.
Students' Union
The University of Sussex Students’ Union represents students and supports over 180 societies and more than 40 sports clubs. Its societies, sports and student media offer plenty of ways to meet people and get involved. The union also provides free, confidential advice on academic, housing and personal issues, alongside events, volunteering and student campaigns.


Famous for
Sussex’s notable alumni include novelist Ian McEwan and former South African president Thabo Mbeki. The university is also recognised for Development Studies, ranking first worldwide alongside the Institute of Development Studies in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, for the tenth consecutive year.
News
In September 2026, Sussex opened the first phase of its West Slope student accommodation. The development adds 376 en-suite bedrooms across three buildings, arranged in flats with shared kitchens and living spaces. Further phases are planned for 2027 and 2028, adding more accommodation options on campus.
Accommodation for Students says
"Boasting a tremendous foodie community, Brighton has something to offer everyone. Discovering the best places is an enjoyable quest – and will keep you occupied well into your final year at university".
Still looking for accommodation?
We have lots of great student properties available near the University of Sussex.
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