What is a Students’ Union (SU)?

Every university will give you a very different experience from the next, but one thing's certain: there will be a Students' Union for you to access! The Students' Union is there to offer you support, advice and a hub for activities.

What is the Students' Union?

The Students' Union is an organisation run at every university to make sure the students' voices are heard on campus. It's a student-run group that dedicates time to improving the university for you.

Some things you can find the Students' Union to do is hold charity events on campus, help students find volunteering opportunities in the local area as well as host memorable events.

Does my university have a Students' Union?

Almost every single university in the UK has a Students' Union, even if you aren't at a campus university. They may be called something slightly different such as Students' Association or Students' Organisation. This will be something universities will have on their website or their university profile here at Uni Compare where we share a bit more about what their Students' Union does and where you can find it!

What does the Students' Union do?

They are in charge of anything social or organisational of the student body, that means students, and you! If you do have any issues or concerns or want to get involved, they are the place to go. They represent students' concerns, views and aspirations through campaigning, and organising activities.

The SU - Students' Union bar

Many universities will have bars or restaurants run by the Students' Union which you'll hear being referred to as the SU or SU bar. These are well known for cheap food and drinks and the source of many good nights, socialising, making friends and having a ton of fun.

The Students' Union ball

A feature at many universities is an end-of-year ball. The SU ball is one organised entirely by students so you can have your say on where it is and what it includes. SU balls previously have included fairgrounds, silent discos, live performances from well-known artists and so much more!

Can I get involved?

You sure can! Each year, the Students' Union posts positions available to join the committees they have set up. Some look after volunteering, charity events or ensuring career opportunities on campus.

There are also larger positions as Officers. At many universities, taking these Officer positions means taking a sabbatical from studying - a year off to focus on your position and make a change at the uni. This could be a year between studying or after you graduate.

On-campus societies are typically run through the Students' Union, so if you have an idea for a new society or want to learn more, the Students' Union is the place to go!

Which university has the best Students' Union?

Whoever you ask will likely say they have the best SU, so it's good to research yourself. The best Students' Unions will be the ones that have made a real difference for students at the university, have good opportunities for you and know how to put on a good night!

Our very own Student Life rankings will give you a taste of the best universities with many students mentioning their unis Students' Union in their reviews. Be sure to take a look!