Loughborough University has been crowned University of the Year at the 2015 Whatuni Student Choice Awards.

The awards, which are voted for exclusively by more than 20,000 UK students, celebrate universities’ excellence, with Loughborough also being voted the winner of the best students’ union and accommodation categories.

The awards ceremony was held last night (23 April) at The Brewery in London and was hosted by The Rt Hon Baroness Morris of Yardley.

The Whatuni Student Rankings are based on averages taken from thousands of reviews submitted by students and published on the site. The new rankings offer prospective students an unbiased, student-led alternative to traditional university ranking systems.

Of the 20,000 reviews counted this year, 111 universities met the minimum threshold to be considered for a Student Choice Award, and 39 universities received a nomination. Loughborough was nominated in eight of the ten categories, more than any other university.

Professor Robert Allison, Vice Chancellor of Loughborough University, said: “To hear that Loughborough has been crowned University of the Year is a proud moment. This is a fantastic achievement and reflects the commitment and hard work of staff and students.

“We are delighted that our students took time to vote and to know that they rate the Loughborough student experience so highly. The award is an opportunity for all members of the University community to celebrate and for me to thank everyone for their contribution to our success.” 

Rob Whittaker, President of the Loughborough Students’ Union, said: “It’s fantastic that we have been announced the winner not only of the top award of University of the Year, but also in the student union category. This highlights just how much Loughborough Students’ Union means to the students.

“A big thank you to all of our students who took the time to vote and I’d also like to congratulate the students and staff who make our Students’ Union so amazing.”

Simon Emmett, Managing Director of Whatuni.com, added: “Looking at how strongly Loughborough University performed across all eight categories they were shortlisted for, it was no surprise when students named them University of the Year. These rankings are not only a great way for future students to see how universities are performing – they’re also a platform for current students to provide invaluable feedback to their university. They are a fundamental part of what we do.”