University Profile
University of Sussex
University of Sussex, Falmer
Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
About University of Sussex
The University of Sussex is a research-intensive university on the outskirts of Brighton, one of the UK's most vibrant and progressive coastal cities. Founded in 1961 as one of the first 'plate glass' universities, Sussex was designed from the outset to be interdisciplinary and internationally focused.
Sussex is known for development studies (consistently ranked #1 in the UK and among the top in the world), international relations, psychology and media studies. The university's campus is set within the South Downs National Park, combining natural beauty with proximity to Brighton's cultural scene.
For North American students, Sussex offers a liberal, politically engaged academic culture that will feel familiar to those from institutions like Berkeley or NYU. Brighton itself is often described as 'London-on-sea' — culturally rich, diverse and progressive, but smaller and more affordable.
Key Highlights
- 1Development studies ranked #1 in the UK and among the top globally
- 2Campus set within the South Downs National Park
- 3Brighton: one of the UK's most vibrant, progressive and culturally rich cities
- 45 Nobel Prize winners among alumni and staff
- 5Strong interdisciplinary tradition — designed to break down subject boundaries
- 6Institute of Development Studies (IDS) on campus: world-leading policy research
Campus & Student Life
Sussex's campus is on a hillside in Falmer, surrounded by the rolling chalk downlands of the South Downs National Park. The architecture is distinctive — Brutalist buildings by Sir Basil Spence set against green countryside. Brighton is a 10-minute train ride away, and its cultural scene is the real draw — independent shops, LGBTQ+ community, street food, live music, the beach and the Brighton Festival (the UK's largest mixed arts festival). Sussex students tend to be politically engaged, creative and internationally minded.
For North American Students
Min. GPA (indicative)
Not specified
SAT/ACT Accepted
Not typically required
Application Route
Via UCAS
English Requirement
Check university website
Sussex accepts AP scores (typically 4-5), IB diploma (32-35 points) and Canadian qualifications. The university's interdisciplinary and international focus resonates with North American students who value flexibility and global perspectives. Brighton's progressive culture and proximity to London (50 minutes by train) make it an attractive alternative to London-based universities.
Research Strengths
Notable Alumni
Thom Yorke
Lead singer of Radiohead (briefly attended)
Ian McEwan
Novelist (Atonement, On Chesil Beach)
Hilary Mantel
Booker Prize-winning novelist
Amira Willighagen
Got talent winner and soprano singer
Key Facts
- Founded
- 1961
- Total Students
- 19,000+
- International Students
- 35%
- Tuition (Int'l UG)
- £19,500 – £25,500/yr
- Campus Setting
- Campus
📍 About Brighton
Brighton is a coastal city of 275,000 people, about 50 minutes from London by train. It's known for its progressive culture, LGBTQ+ community, independent food scene, arts festivals and beach life. Living costs are moderate — lower than London but higher than many other UK university cities. The South Downs National Park surrounds the campus, and the English Channel coast is beautiful.
Ready to Apply?
UK undergraduate applications are made through UCAS. Postgraduate applications go direct to the university.
Visit University Website →Check UCAS Points →