The importance of the National Student Survey and supporting diverse student backgrounds

The National Student Survey (NSS) plays a crucial role in higher education in the UK by gathering feedback from final‑year undergraduates on their academic experience. It covers teaching quality, assessment and feedback, learning resources, academic support, organisation and management, student voice, mental wellbeing, and freedom of expression. 

Published in early July, the 2025 NSS saw over 357,000 responses - a record 71.5 per cent of eligible students - indicating its robust reach and value.  

By shining a light on areas such as teaching and student voice, the NSS enables universities to pinpoint strengths and address weaknesses. From a broader perspective, it also supports public accountability, guides prospective students in their choices, and shapes institutional policy. 

Importantly, it highlights how students from under-represented backgrounds from within higher education - such as disabled students or those from lower socioeconomic groups - may experience university differently, revealing gaps where additional support is needed.  

For example, in 2025, the NSS found that although disabled students were less positive across all themes, the largest disparity was in organisation and management - 72.7 per cent positivity versus 79.9 per cent for non-disabled peers. This calls for targeted efforts to enhance communication, support structures, and inclusivity so every student can thrive. 

There were many positive examples of results from Purpose Coalition partners.  

Liverpool Hope University led the North West in eight NSS categories, up from six in 2024. Impressively, it ranked in the national top five across five themes: 3rd for learning opportunities and assessment and feedback, 2nd for academic support and freedom of expression, and 5th for student voice. The overall response rate was 83 per cent.  

Bath Spa University’s 2025 NSS data shows improvements across all survey areas. It now outperforms the sector in assessment & feedback and academic support. Degree-level programmes in subjects like Music Technology, Architecture, and Environmental Science achieved 90 per cent or higher positivity across most questions.  

The NSS remains a dynamic instrument for elevating student experience. Its rich data, especially concerning diverse student groups, drives institutional change and promotes equity. To sustain these gains, universities must continue to respond to all student voices, reinforcing inclusive support, transparent management, and accessible teaching. As the 2025 results show, concerted action informed by student feedback benefits all.