Warwick Named University of the Year at Student Social Mobility Awards 2025

Warwick receives national recognition for trailblazing work to open doors and change lives through education.

The University of Warwick has been named University of the Year at the Student Social Mobility Awards 2025, a prestigious national honour that recognises its impactful work to break down barriers and widen access to higher education.

Organised by social mobility charity upReach, the annual awards celebrate institutions and individuals who are driving progress for students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds - helping them not only access university, but thrive and succeed beyond it.

The university was singled out for embedding opportunity into every step of the student journey, from outreach and engagement to higher education courses, graduation and beyond.

Professor Stuart Croft, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Warwick, said: "This award is a testament to the longterm, strategic commitment we have made to making Warwick a place of opportunity for everyone - regardless of background. We believe that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not and our role is to bridge that gap.

“Our University was founded on the principles of widening access to higher education. In our 60th anniversary year we are reaffirming our purpose of making a better world together and this award reflects our unwavering commitment to inclusivity, excellence, and community impact”.

The university was praised for its dedication to advancing social mobility for under-served and disadvantaged communities in the Midlands and beyond. It has strengthened the Experience Warwick Partnership which works hand-in-hand with local schools to inform students about higher education opportunities and ThinkHigher to offer mentoring, advice, and attainment support.

Through national initiatives like Realising Opportunities and Warwick’s own flagship

Warwick Scholars Programme, the University currently supports more than 650 students from Year 12 right through to graduation. Over 2,500 students benefit annually from financial bursaries — including enhanced support for asylum seekers, care leavers, estranged students, and postgraduate medical students.

Paul Blagburn, Warwick’s Head of Widening Participation and Social Mobility, added: “We are incredibly proud to be recognised for our work in championing social mobility. This award reflects the commitment of colleagues across Warwick who work every day to ensure that all students - whatever their background - have the support, opportunities and inspiration they need to succeed.

“We remain deeply committed to this mission and will continue working in partnership with our students, communities, charities and national organisations to build a more inclusive and equitable future.”

As part of its continued mission, Warwick is investing in deeper, more diverse partnerships across the region - contributing time, knowledge and resources to help local communities build capacity, develop leadership, and unlock the power of inclusive economic growth.