University of Sheffield retains top spot in Russell Group in National Student Survey

The University of Sheffield is top of the Russell Group in the latest National Student Survey, published today (10 July 2024).

Students walking on the concourse outside of Sheffield Students' Union building
  • The University of Sheffield has been rated number one in the Russell Group in the National Student Survey (NSS) for the second year in a row
  • Sheffield’s Students’ Union has also been placed the best SU among UK universities
  • NSS results follow Sheffield being voted University of the Year by students in the WhatUni awards in April

The University of Sheffield is top of the Russell Group in the latest National Student Survey, published today (10 July 2024).

For the second year in a row, Sheffield has been placed number one based on aggregate responses in the annual survey, in which students give feedback on their university experience. 

Sheffield’s Students’ Union has been rated the best SU among UK universities, after being placed top in the Russell Group in last year’s NSS. 

Students in Sheffield Peace Gardens

Students gave Sheffield the highest score in the Russell Group for learning opportunities, assessment and feedback, and student voice, whilst the University has been ranked in the top four for teaching, academic support, organisation and management, and learning resources.  

Sheffield has been rated top in the Russell Group for teaching in the following subjects, spanning engineering, the arts and humanities and social sciences:

  • Computing
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering
  • Bioengineering
  • Medical and Biomedical Engineering
  • Civil Engineering
  • History 
  • Journalism
  • Landscape Design

The NSS results follow Sheffield being voted University of the Year by students, as well as Best Students’ Union and Best Student Life in this year’s Whatuni Student Choice Awards.  

Professor Mary Vincent, Vice-President for Education at the University of Sheffield, said: “We are so pleased that our students have rated their experience at Sheffield so highly again this year. The NSS is one of the many ways that we seek feedback from our students and listen to their views on their life at the University. Whilst we are delighted with these results, we are determined to provide the very best education and will keep working hard, together with our Students’ Union, to ensure studying at Sheffield remains a rewarding experience.”

Daisy Watson, President of Sheffield Students' Union, said: "It's brilliant that students have given such positive feedback for the University and our Students' Union in this year's NSS Survey. This recognition shows the dedication of staff at the University, and the contributions of students, including our academic representatives, which together create such an outstanding learning environment. It also recognises the fantastic work of the staff and students at the Students' Union that make it the amazing place it is. As a Students' Union we'll continue to ensure that the student voice shapes our organisation so that all of our students can have the best possible experience."


More information on the National Student Survey and view Sheffield’s results in full.


Four students laughing while sat at a bench, outside the Students' Union

International scholarships

We offer a generous package of financial support for international students, including undergraduate and postgraduate taught scholarships worth £10,000 towards the annual tuition fee.

Applications are open for existing offer holders for programmes starting in autumn 2025.