SUBU named fourth best Students’ Union in the UK
The Students’ Union at Bournemouth University (SUBU) has been named the fourth best Students’ Union in the UK at the 2026 WhatUni Student Choice Awards.
The awards are the UK’s largest annual university awards voted for exclusively by students. They aim to celebrate the dedication and hard work of higher education providers in creating an exceptional experience for university students.
SUBU has climbed 19 places in the national rankings, rising from 23rd to 4th place, while also retaining its title as the highest-ranked Students’ Union in the South West for the third year running.
Andy Squire, CEO at the Students’ Union and SUBU President, Esther Isaiah, are delighted to see this recognition.
They said: “To be named fourth best Students’ Union in the UK, and remain the top-ranked Students’ Union in the South West for the third year in a row, is an incredible achievement for everyone involved.
“We’re especially proud because these awards are based entirely on student feedback. Every response shared by our students has helped shape this recognition, and we’re so grateful to everyone who took the time to tell us about their experience with SUBU.
“This recognition reflects the dedication of our staff, officers, student leaders and volunteers, who work every day to make student life better at Bournemouth University. Climbing 19 places nationally is something everyone involved should feel incredibly proud of.”
Professor Alison Honour, Vice-Chancellor and CEO of Bournemouth University, said: "A huge congratulations to our colleagues at SUBU, who have not only retained their position as the best students' union in the South West, but are now also ranked the 4th best SU nationally. At the same time, we are incredibly proud that BU has been ranked as the best university in the South West, and as a top-20 university nationally, in the WhatUni Student Choice Awards.
"For any student considering studying in the region, these awards demonstrate that they can be confident of receiving a high-quality and well-rounded student experience."
To find out more, and a full list of winners, visit the WhatUni website: www.whatuni.com/student-award-winners.