05 April 2017

Leeds scores well in international student survey

Leeds has achieved some of its highest ever scores in the latest International Student Barometer survey.

The survey, carried out by an independent organisation, I-graduate, runs every two years at Leeds.  It enables us to compare the experience of our international students with the higher education sector here and overseas and with other Russell Group universities.

In the latest survey results Leeds was ranked as follows amongst the 10 Russell Group universities taking part:

  • first for counselling and disability support
  • top three for the student union and accommodation office, with really positive comments from our students in these areas
  • top five, and better than Russell Group average, for our sport, social and library facilities
  • top five for learning, living and overall satisfaction: these were our highest ever scores in these areas

We scored below the Russell Group average for social integration of our international students, our registration processes, and safety (although it was not clear whether the question of safety related to thoughts about campus, accommodation or the city).

The survey was conducted at the end of 2016 and received responses from 159,959 students from 196 countries in 17 countries.  In the UK, 42 institutions, including 10 Russell Group universities, took part.  At Leeds, 3,091 students at undergraduate and postgraduate level responded: 37% of our international students.

As well as reflecting the views of our current students, the survey also provides valuable information about how prospective international students choose a place to study.  Their top priorities are:

  • the course itself
  • institutional reputation
  • research income of the institution
  • personal safety

They are most likely to be influenced in making their choice by:

  • agents in their home country
  • institutions' websites
  • friends
  • league tables
  • family
In response to new questions this year 56% of EU students and 19% of other international students said that they would be less likely to choose to study in the UK after the Brexit vote, although both EU and other international students already here reported being made to feel very welcome in the UK.

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