Best Universities for Societies & Clubs
Where passions thrive beyond the lecture hall, with standout societies, inclusive communities and epic socials.
unifreshers best for societies
From fencing to feminism, anime to entrepreneurship, student life happens in societies. In 2025, having a strong extracurricular scene means more than fun. It’s about friendships, confidence and community.
The Societies & Clubs Award is based on breadth, funding, inclusivity, and real student involvement. We looked at SU activity, society diversity, and how easy it is for new students to get involved. Student reviews played a huge role and after all, they know if the vibes are good.
If you want a campus where you can meet your people and try something new, start here.
Best uk universities for societies
These universities are leading the way in student life, with active societies, exciting clubs and plenty of ways to meet like-minded people.
University of Nottingham
#1 for society choice, funding, and vibrant student groups.
University of Exeter
Huge range of clubs and events, great for making friends.
University of Bristol
Known for lively societies and a real sense of campus community.
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University of Leeds
One of the UK’s largest student society networks and club nights.
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University of Glasgow
Fantastic for arts, sports and inclusion-focused societies.
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University of Edinburgh
Great funding, diverse events, and strong student engagement.
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University of Sussex
Standout creative societies and relaxed, friendly events.
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University of Lancaster
Lots of inclusive clubs and supportive student communities.
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University of Southampton
Active on sports, music, and international student groups.
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University of Keele
Known for niche societies and welcoming campus culture.
- 11. University of Bath
- 12. University of York
- 13. University of Durham
- 14. University of Birmingham
- 15. University of Cardiff
- 16. University of Sheffield
- 17. University of Manchester
- 18. University of Liverpool
- 19. University of Reading
- 20. University of Kent
- 21. University of Surrey
- 22. University of Newcastle
- 23. University of Leicester
- 24. University of Warwick
- 25. University of Essex
- 26. University of East Anglia
- 27. University of Portsmouth
- 28. University of Swansea
- 29. University of Loughborough
- 30. University of St Andrews
- 31. University of Lincoln
- 32. University of Plymouth
- 33. University of Aberystwyth
- 34. University of Huddersfield
- 35. University of Oxford
- 36. University of Cambridge
- 37. University of Dundee
- 38. University of Roehampton
- 39. University of Stirling
- 40. University of Brighton
- 41. University of Greenwich
- 42. University of Chester
- 43. University of Coventry
- 44. University of Worcester
- 45. University of Sunderland
- 46. University of Salford
- 47. University of Bournemouth
- 48. University of Northumbria
- 49. University of Central Lancashire
- 50. University of Westminster
meet the judging panel
Our methodology is reviewed and approved by a student-focused editorial panel with real insight into student life. For this category, we collaborated with a student actively involved in societies, our editor, and a special guest judge experienced in student engagement. This blend of lived experience and expert insight ensures our Societies and Clubs ranking is well-rounded and genuinely meaningful.
Chris Moss
Co-Founder, Unifresher
Aminah Barnes
Editor, Unifresher
Amelia Hines
Student Panelist
how we scored it
For our societies and clubs ranking, we focused on what makes student life unforgettable. From variety and funding to inclusion and impact, we scored unis on how well they support student-led communities.
- Range of Societies – number and type of active student groups
- Funding & Facilities – support for student-led events
- Inclusivity – space for underrepresented voices
- Engagement – student feedback on social scene and events
- Community Vibe – how welcoming and lively campus feels
- Student Satisfaction – NSS scores related to extracurriculars
- Accessibility – ease of access to events and resources
Student Insight: Benefits of joining a student society
“Being part of a society is where university life really comes together, you make friends, try new things, and find a community that feels like home. Societies help you settle in, find your people, and actually enjoy everything uni has to offer outside lectures. I wanted our rankings to celebrate those campuses that go above and beyond for student life.”
how to use these rankings
Societies make university life more than just lectures. This ranking shows where you'll find community, creativity and the chance to try something completely new.
1. Think about your tribe
Looking for sports, activism, cultural societies or just good vibes? Decide what you want out of your uni experience beyond the classroom.
2. Browse the top unis
We scored each university on society choice, student engagement, inclusivity and support for new groups to thrive.
3. Look beyond the list
Read student quotes and links to societies where possible — our data’s built on what real students say about belonging and community.
4. Start shortlisting
Use this guide with our other rankings — from nightlife to mental health — to find your uni match inside and out.
Beyond the Books: Student Life in Motion
From pole fitness to philosophy, these student groups are more than just hobbies — they build friendships, identities and careers. Here's a peek at what’s waiting beyond lectures.
Oxford Universities Quadball Club
The UK’s first quadball (formerly Quidditch) club, competing nationally and welcoming students from Oxford and Brookes.
Leeds Feminist Book Club
A University of Leeds SU society focused on feminist issues, by students, for students—covering community, culture, and critical reading.
Nottingham Esports & Gaming Society
One of the UK’s largest uni gaming societies—hosting LANs, varsity competitions and mental health-focused gaming events.
