Benefits of studying in Sheffield
With 27,000 students from over 150 countries, Sheffield is home to an incredibly diverse and welcoming community. It’s a fantastic base for UK and European travel and is one of the safest major cities in the UK (UK Peace Index).
Whether you’re joining us for a semester or one year, you will be taught and supervised by academics who are experts in their field. Ranked in 82nd place globally, and 14th in the UK, in the QS World University Rankings 2027, the University is a member of the prestigious Russell Group: one of the 24 leading UK universities for research and teaching. We'll encourage you to develop your research, analytical and leadership skills, and grow your confidence and adaptability to new situations. If English isn't your first language, studying in the UK will help you boost your language skills, too.
The best student experience
Receiving a world-class education is just part of studying at Sheffield. You can also count on a highly-rated student experience — we are rated University of the Year for Student Experience (The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026) — and you will have an amazing time outside the classroom, thanks to our award-winning Students' Union, voted number one in the Russell Group (National Student Survey 2026). There are over 400 student societies and sports clubs available, so whether you want to play football or Dungeons & Dragons, practise your knitting or photography skills, or are interested in anything from anime to Taylor Swift – you can be sure there will be a society for you. And, if you can't find one you like, you can set up your own!
Our Students' Union also offers loads of events, activities and volunteering opportunities, so you’ll find endless ways to get involved.
Give it a Go
Give it a Go is an events programme full of one-off activities for you to try during your time in Sheffield, giving you the chance to try something new and make friends. All activities are suitable for beginners and many of them are run by clubs and societies, so it gives you the opportunity to try something new before deciding to join them.
Global Opportunities events
The Global Opportunities team regularly hosts drop-in sessions, as well as social and information events for study abroad and exchange students, which is a great chance to connect with fellow students and get the support you need.
Take every opportunity you can, enjoy every moment and just do it! Make a list of everything you want to do and see because time really does fly.
Student ambassador tip
Guaranteed accommodation
If you choose to study with us for a full academic year, you are guaranteed accommodation provided certain conditions are met. We have a number of different accommodation options and single rooms available. Staying in accommodation is a great way to make new friends and share your university experience with others.
Accommodation at the University of Sheffield
Student support
We provide a secure, friendly and academically stimulating environment for our students. Whether you're with us for a semester or a year, your contribution to campus life is valued, and your welfare is important to us. From English language support to advice and help on your academic studies and money management. We have an extensive network of welfare and advice services to help you adjust to life here and give practical help when you need it.
Student health, wellbeing and support
Our Student Health, Wellbeing and Support Services are there to help you with your emotional wellbeing by providing practical advice, interventions and self-help techniques, and a confidential space to explore and understand difficulties you may be facing.
All of our students also have free access to Togetherall, providing immediate access to 24/7 online peer and professional support with trained medical health professionals.
Want to connect with like-minded students? Umii is a free app that connects you to other University of Sheffield students based on your interests, course type, and societies.
Disability and Dyslexia Support Service (DDSS)
It’s important that you tell the University if you have a disability, for example a physical disability or mental health concern such as depression, or a learning difference such as dyslexia. This information will only be used to by the Disability and Dyslexia Support Service (DDSS) offer you relevant support to help you manage your disability alongside your studies.
University Health Service
The University Health Service is available to all Sheffield students. If you have a physical or mental health concern you can make an appointment to see a medical professional.
Belief, No Belief and Religious Life Centre
The Chaplains and Religious Advisers at the University’s Belief, No Belief and Religious Life Centre offer care and support to students of all faiths and none. They are available in person, online, and via phone or video calls.
The Outdoor City
Sheffield is a vibrant, diverse and green city with real character that's home to all the best adventures. With over 250 parks and woodlands and 4.5 million trees, Sheffield is the UK's fourth largest city. It's known as the 'Outdoor City', with one third of Sheffield based within the Peak District National Park, where you can enjoy historic manor houses, stunning landscapes, and trails for hiking, cycling and climbing.
Experience the music, the comedy and the theatres. Explore vibrant suburbs scattered across the city's hillsides and wander along fascinating riverside trails.
