The Whatuni Student Choice Awards are the largest annual awards in the UK where the outcome is decided exclusively by students.
Queen’s has claimed four wins at the awards, including being named UK University of the Year, while Queen’s Students’ Union was ranked number one in the UK for the second consecutive year.
According to students, Queen’s is the University of the Year, has the best Students' Union, and comes out on top for student support and student life, making it a hugely successful awards night for the University.
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At the awards ceremony in London, Queen’s was recognised for its outstanding resources, range of student support services, and thriving student life.
Verified student reviewers highlighted the University’s “sense of community and support”, the “quality of teaching and research”, and the “real buzz around campus.”
Students also praised the Students’ Union’s welcoming atmosphere, helpful staff, range of facilities and vibrant nightlife, with one reviewer describing it as “the heart and soul of my university experience”.
The Students’ Union’s success marks a second consecutive year at number one, after also being named the UK’s best Student’s Union in 2025.
Alongside the two top awards, Queen’s also placed in the top three UK universities for Career Prospects, and ranked second in the Postgraduate, Facilities and International categories.
Welcoming the award wins, President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir Ian Greer, said:
“Being recognised across such a broad range of categories, and named University of the Year and best Students’ Union, is a tremendous achievement for Queen's and reflects the outstanding experience we strive to provide at every stage of university life.
“These nominations are particularly meaningful because they are based on direct student feedback and recognise the collective efforts of our entire university community. They reflect the shared commitment of our staff, students and Students’ Union to creating a welcoming, supportive and ambitious environment where students can thrive academically and personally.
“We are proud that our students continue to place Queen’s among the very best in the UK, and we remain committed to continually enhancing their experience.”
Professor Judy Williams, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Education and Students) said:
“What is particularly powerful about student feedback is that it reminds us that education is about far more than achievement in the classroom alone. It is about belonging, confidence, opportunity and personal growth, and about helping students discover their potential and their place in the world.
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“I would like to thank our staff, students and Students’ Union for the care, commitment and energy they bring to creating an environment where students feel supported, challenged and inspired to thrive. That shared sense of community is one of Queen’s greatest strengths.”
Queen’s Students’ Union President, Amy Smith added:
“It’s incredibly special to see Queen’s University and Students’ Union recognised in this way, particularly because these awards are based on the experiences and feedback of our students. These nominations reflect the strong sense of community we’ve built together and the ongoing work across the University and Students’ Union to ensure students feel supported, represented and able to make the most of their time at Queen’s. We’re very proud to be part of a university community that puts students at the heart of everything it does.”
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