Uni of Leeds or Uni of Manchester

My course is Mechanical Engineering MEng. Currently grades are from Dec are ABB if thats relevant.

I can't pick between Leeds or Manchester. I've visited Leeds and I like it, and I currently live in Manchester (like it too) but I'm more inclined to move elsewhere. My offer for Manchester is AAA, whilst Leeds is AAB which I think is more achievable.

I'm thinking Manchester is much more prestigious globally, and I don't want to give an opportunity up. But Leeds is a chance for independence and to meet more people.

If I go Leeds, I would be getting a £2000~ bursary, and in Manchester £3,000~ (£1,300 from MAP + £2,000 for low income) which will really help with food and accommodation. But I'm applying for maximum maintenance and tuition loan so I'm not sure if I should even worry about costs for food and accommodation since there's a fat chance I'll get it? Should the bursary affect my decision?

What would you guys pick based on the course, experience, social time, etc.? I know the night life is similar, and even if I didn't like the night life in Leeds it's not the end of the world.

Reply 1

University of Bath

Official Rep

Original post

by opiug

My course is Mechanical Engineering MEng. Currently grades are from Dec are ABB if thats relevant.
I can't pick between Leeds or Manchester. I've visited Leeds and I like it, and I currently live in Manchester (like it too) but I'm more inclined to move elsewhere. My offer for Manchester is AAA, whilst Leeds is AAB which I think is more achievable.
I'm thinking Manchester is much more prestigious globally, and I don't want to give an opportunity up. But Leeds is a chance for independence and to meet more people.
If I go Leeds, I would be getting a £2000~ bursary, and in Manchester £3,000~ (£1,300 from MAP + £2,000 for low income) which will really help with food and accommodation. But I'm applying for maximum maintenance and tuition loan so I'm not sure if I should even worry about costs for food and accommodation since there's a fat chance I'll get it? Should the bursary affect my decision?
What would you guys pick based on the course, experience, social time, etc.? I know the night life is similar, and even if I didn't like the night life in Leeds it's not the end of the world.

Hi there,

Its tough deciding where to go with s many factors, isn't it? Like you, I was in a dilemma about choosing Bath VS another uni so I'll see if I can help by sharing what helped me:

Which course you do you feel suits you better? Which would you find interesting? This is super-important, more so than rankings, as this is what you'll be doing full-time for the next 3-5 years. Are there any opportunities to go on placement at either of your choices?

Also, what is the campus vibe like at each? Where do you think you'd be more at home and feel happiest?

I would say that the bursary you'd receive is something to consider, especially if cost is something important to you, and an extra £1,000 pa will do a lot to help your budget. However be aware that there are other ways you can top up your budget at uni such as working as a student ambassador. These contracts are usually flexible zero-hours contracts where you can sign up to work around your timetable. The work is fun, varied and a good chance to meet people as well as getting paid.

Its all about evaluating which uni will give you the student experience you want. If you're keen to spread your wings and explore somewhere new, then perhaps Leeds is a good option (you will still get a good bursary). What do your loved ones/family/friends think? Perhaps chatting to them about some of the pros and cons of each choice might open up some more insights?

I hope some of this helps, best of luck!

Holly
University of Bath

Reply 2

University of Bath

Official Rep

By the way - you can also use the unis' 'chat to our students' function online to instant-message some student ambassadors from those unis to ask them about their experiences there - Manchester here, and Leeds here!

Reply 3

Jopat013

I was debating those two unis aswell but for civil engineering. I ultimately put Manchester as my firm and Leeds as an insurance. I heard the nightlife is better in Mcr and you meet a lot more people from different backgrounds. I’m pretty sure it’s also better for employability but don’t quote me on that. The campus at Leeds was great but I just felt like Manchester had more going on.