The University of Sussex has been ranked the happiest university in the UK in the Unifresher Happiest Universities 2026 Guide.
The award recognises student satisfaction with their university, looking at what makes students feel happy, heard and at home. It brings together nationwide survey data, student feedback and factors such as workload balance, staff support, green spaces, culture and local life.
Sussex was rated highest in the UK for student satisfaction and support, with Unifresher highlighting the University’s welcoming campus community and the dedication of staff to student wellbeing.
Responding to the award, the University’s Director for Student Support & Wellbeing Craig Lowe said: "Studying here means immersing yourself in a vibrant, global community - with staff and students from over 170 countries. We’re nestled amidst the stunning South Downs National Park, and just a short hop into town sees you on Brighton beach, at the door of some of Britain’s top clubs. It’s a city that pulses with energy: England’s biggest arts festival; gigs every night; and some top-notch cuisine.
“Sussex is a leading, research-intensive university, and we apply that same vigour to the student experience – making it safe, making it welcoming - supporting our community - and preparing students for their next step. Chose Sussex and you choose to celebrate culture, creativity, and community in one of the most inspiring settings in the country."
The Unifresher Scoring System
Unifresher’s rankings prioritise affordability, community, social life, safety, student satisfaction and graduate outcomes.
Believing the best university experience blends academic strength with a vibrant student life, their rankings are built using a 100-point model - with 40% weight on academic performance and 60% on lifestyle and social factors.
Unifresher Panel member, Holly Poole, said: “Student happiness is about feeling supported, making friends, and having opportunities to get involved, not just good grades. The best unis are those where you can be yourself and actually look forward to going to campus.”
Read full coverage of the rankings on the Unifresher website.