The University of Essex has been hailed for its strong international student cohort after being ranked 15th globally in a latest survey.
The Times Higher Education 2017 international student table, which compiles the list of the world’s top 200 universities with the biggest percentage of international students, was published yesterday.
The University of Essex was featured joint 15th alongside Middlesex University, with 44.3% of students coming from outside the UK.
The top 14 featured seven institutions from the UK, with the table topped by the American University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates, which had 83.7% of students coming internationally.
The University of East Anglia in Norwich was ranked 94th with 28.1% of students from abroad.
Bosses at the University of Essex said the rankings were a validation of its support for students from across the world, and described the Colchester-based establishment as having a “global community”.
“This latest ranking once again highlights the amazing global community of staff and students we have at the University of Essex which makes studying here such a unique experience,” said Professor Jules Pretty, deputy vice-chancellor.
“We have close to 140 countries represented in our student community and we attract leading academics from around the world.
“We’ve been a genuinely international university throughout our history so internationalism is central to who we are and what we do.
“At Essex, our students discover the world in one place; they develop a cultural sensitivity along with a genuine world view that prepares them for life as global citizens.”
The university was buoyed by the latest tables after concerns nationally that the result of the UK’s EU referendum last year could impact on application numbers for students outside of the UK.
Languages student Paulina Lewandowska from Poland, said: “Essex is a truly international university and as an international student I have really benefitted from all the opportunities on offer.
“Studying here has done wonders for my English, but I have also been able to give something back by volunteering in local schools, helping pupils with their languages.”
Saffy Allayna, vice president international for the university’s student’s union, said the International Students Association set up five years ago helped with cultural celebrations such as Diwali, Lunar New Year and One World Week.
She added: “We work very hard at the Students’ Union to create a real sense of community, and to help students feel at home here at Essex, building foundations and creating a sense of belonging.
“We are very proud that Essex has been recognised at the 15th most International University in the world, and will continue to enjoy and celebrate the wonderful cultural diversity we have on campus.”
See the full table online here.
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