Aston University has scored highly in the 2023 National Student Survey (NSS) for Student Voice, being placed 11th overall among institutions that appeared in the 2023 Guardian league table, and 2nd in the West Midlands for how well its students think it engages with and responds to their views. The University also scored 3rd in the West Midlands for academic support.

The survey – one of the largest of its kind in the world, with over 339,000 responses across the UK this year – asks final year students in the UK questions about a range of factors related to their academic experience, including the teaching on their course, assessment and feedback and how well courses are organised.

In total, Aston University has performed materially above the sector benchmark for four of the seven NSS categories: Student Voice, Organisation and Management, Academic Support and Teaching on my Course and above the benchmark for the remaining three categories: Assessment and Feedback, Learning Opportunities and Learning Resources.

According to the analysis of sector performance undertaken by Times Higher Education (THE), Aston University has achieved an overall positivity rate of 80.6%. Adopting the THE methodology, the University would be ranked 30 places higher for NSS than in 2022.

Atul Rana – president of Aston Students’ Union, said:

“We are extremely proud of the survey results which showcase our commitment to our key principle as students’ union of representing student voice.”

“This year we have seen significant positive changes both internally and externally that is why I am confident to say that we will continue our commitment and aim for much higher benchmarks moving forward.”

“Birmingham is emerging to be the city of opportunities and we want to play our role as keeping student interest at the heart of everything we do, working closely with the university we will make sure to provide students the best platform to fulfil their aspirations.”

Professor Aleks Subic, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Aston University, said:

“I am very proud that our students’ experience has improved significantly compared to last year, placing us above sector average and with the best in Birmingham. This is a result of our continuous improvement strategy, and the dedication and commitment of all our staff.

“This exceptional result would not have been possible without our close collaboration with the Aston Students Union in addressing student needs in a timely manner, including providing special support measures to alleviate the impact of rising cost of living.

“These insights from students will help to inform our work to ensure all our students continue to receive the highest quality education experience at Aston.”

Max Mcloughlin, chief executive of Aston Students’ Union, said:

“Student voice and representation lie at the core of the Students’ Union.

“Programmes like Student Representation and Student Voice Advocates schemes help us create a platform for collective input and improve the students’ academic journey.

“Moreover, the efficacy of our Student Advice Centre, the impact of our wellbeing campaigns, and the vibrant tapestry of clubs and societies collectively enrich the student experience.

“As this accomplishment propels us forward, the Students’ Union is committed to not only maintaining, but elevating these scores further. The future holds even greater promise for a dynamic partnership between the University and the Students’ Union, working together to enhance student engagement and success.”