Most stressful universities in the UK
- Nottingham
- Oxford
- Liverpool
- Leeds
- Leicester
- Cardiff
- Newcastle
- Southampton
- Coventry
- Glasgow
10. Nottingham
9 – Oxford
8. Liverpool
7. Leeds
6 – Leicester
5 – Cardiff
Over in Wales, students in Cardiff are not doing too great! 40% of the students in the city reported high levels of stress. Again, maybe it’s the partying, where Cardiff made it in the top 10 unis that like to have a good time! Or maybe that’s the stress relief?4. Newcastle
In between Cardiff and Southampton is Newcastle, the third most stressful uni on our list. The research found that 41% of students were stressed out by their degree, which is a huge amount. Outside of the student population, Tyne and Wear was also ranked 4th most stressful in a study by Forbes Advisor. It makes a change from surveys that usually prove how friendly and fond of Greggs Newcastle is!3. Southampton
Just shy of the (joint) top spot of the most stressful universities is Southhampton, stressing out 42% of its students. Down south, the cost of living can be pretty steep, so it’s no wonder studying there is stressful for students. Southampton can also be a busy and crowded city, especially during peak tourist seasons. This can make it difficult to find space and can be overwhelming for some people. Especially when you’re deep into dissertation mode!Joint top most stressful universities in the UK – Coventry and Glasgow
The last most stressful university was Plymouth, who have clearly put in all the stops to change this. They’re now nowhere to be found even in the top 20 most stressful universities. But sadly for Glasgow and Coventry students, the same isn’t true. Let’s face it Coventry students, it must be tough going to a university with the wrong name…
FAQs on the Most Stressful Universities in the UK
Coventry and Glasgow are currently ranked as the most stressful universities in the UK, with 43% of students at each rating their stress levels 8 or above out of 10. Other high-stress universities include Southampton, Newcastle, Cardiff, Leicester, Leeds, Liverpool, Oxford, and Nottingham.
High stress levels are linked to intense academic demands, high living costs, competitive course structures, long commutes, and balancing part-time work. City-based campuses may add extra pressure due to busy surroundings and safety worries.
Some Russell Group universities, such as Oxford and Nottingham, appear in high-stress rankings due to demanding academics and competition. However, stress levels vary widely and depend on location, support services, and course structure, not just group membership.
Stress levels have shifted in recent years. For example, Oxford’s rate dropped from 51% to 34% as new wellbeing measures were introduced. While some universities have made progress, others continue to report high levels of pressure among students.
Many universities have increased mental health and wellbeing support with free counselling, 24/7 helplines, peer mentoring, wellbeing events, and flexible study options. They also encourage physical activity and time management workshops to reduce pressure.
Medicine, law, architecture, and engineering often rank as the most stressful subjects due to heavy workloads, long hours, and competitive career paths. Students on these courses often report higher pressure than those in humanities or social sciences.
Smaller universities can feel less overwhelming due to tight-knit communities and easier access to staff. However, stress levels still depend on course intensity, support services, and living costs rather than size alone.
Students can manage stress by using university wellbeing services, joining social groups, exercising, setting realistic study plans, and seeking help early when work or life feels overwhelming. Connecting with peers often makes a big difference too.
Most UK league tables focus on academic reputation, graduate outcomes, and student satisfaction but do not directly measure stress. Some independent surveys now look at student wellbeing to highlight mental health challenges across universities.
Yes. Many universities have expanded their mental health teams, launched 24/7 helplines, and created safe spaces on campus. While progress varies, most UK institutions now offer better access to counselling and wellbeing programmes than a few years ago.