After another incredible year of UK university sport, it’s time to celebrate the best-performing universities of the 2023/24 BUCS season!
Each year, over 140 universities across the United Kingdom compete against each other for BUCS glory.
From long-established sporting giants to emerging contenders, institutions of all sizes and backgrounds showcase their athletic talent and dedication to sporting excellence. The BUCS points system rewards excellence and consistency of performance for university achievement across 52 different sports.
Throughout the season, teams and individuals battle it out in leagues and knockout tournaments rewarded with BUCS points, aiming to accumulate the highest totals and secure coveted positions in the end of year rankings.
As another year of UK university sport comes to an end, we take a look at the top ten BUCS performing universities from the 2023/24 season.
What are BUCS Points?
Individuals and teams that compete in BUCS competitions throughout the season can earn points for their University. Points are awarded for performances in leagues, cups, and tournaments.
These points feed into an overall table, creating a national sport ranking for higher education institutions in the UK.
What are BUCS Points?
Individuals and teams that compete in BUCS competitions throughout the season can earn points for their University. Points are awarded for performances in leagues, cups, and tournaments.
These points feed into an overall table, creating a national sport ranking for higher education institutions in the UK.
Top Ten Universities of 2023/24 Ranked by BUCS Points
From September’s Surfing Championships on the stunning shores of Newquay to July’s Cricket Championships at the prestigious Lord’s Cricket Ground, the 2023-24 BUCS season has provided thrilling moments and unforgettable performances throughout the year.
Here are this year’s top ten BUCS performing universities.
| Rank | Institution | Points |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Loughborough University | 9492 |
| 2 | University of Nottingham | 8227 |
| 3 | Durham University | 5825 |
| 4 | University of Exeter | 4979 |
| 5 | University of Edinburgh | 4821.33 |
| 6 | University of Birmingham | 4010 |
| 7 | Nottingham Trent University | 3657 |
| 8 | Newcastle University | 3643 |
| 9 | University of Bath | 3636.7 |
| 10 | University of Bristol | 2920 |
Loughborough University Claim 43rd Successive BUCS Overall Title
With another record-breaking total of 9,492 points, Loughborough University once again topped the BUCS points leaderboard, earning the title of BUCS Overall Champions for the 43rd consecutive year.
The reigning champions improved on last year’s total by almost 200 points, once again claiming the most points in a variety of sports including Athletics, Basketball, Football, Rugby Union, and Swimming during the 2023/24 season.
Although the top 10 institutions remained unchanged from last season, the intense competition and closely contested totals in this year’s BUCS standings highlight the crucial value of every point earned throughout the season.
Runners-up Nottingham (pictured) improved on last year’s total by over 300 points, with notable victories in Tennis and Hockey, while Durham completed the podium with an impressive total of 5,825 points.
For the second consecutive year, the University of Exeter finished in fourth place, with the University of Edinburgh and the University of Birmingham securing fifth and sixth positions, respectively.
Nottingham Trent’s exceptional season, marked by 18 league victories, 6 cup wins, 13 promotions, and 17 gold medals across various sports, helped them rise from last year’s 8th place to secure the 7th spot this year.
However, the most impressive climb in this year’s top ten came from Newcastle University (pictured), who surged from 10th to 8th place thanks to standout performances from their Rugby Union, Basketball, and Fencing teams.
Despite dropping down the leaderboard this year, the University of Bath and the University of Bristol maintain their places in the top 10 of BUCS ranked institutions.
With the gap between 6th and 8th separated by just 20 points, it’s clear that every match, every event, and every point is crucial in the race to be among the nation’s top sporting universities.
As the bar continues to rise, the dedication and hard work of student-athletes in the UK highlight the ever-growing intensity of BUCS competition.
Watch official highlights from the 2023/24 BUCS season
Want to play your sport at the highest level alongside your studies?
Whilst the table above represents the best overall sporting institutions in the UK, there are over 100 universities that have their own strengths and excel in specific sports.
This is where we can help! Our wide network of partner universities ensures that we can cater to various skill levels and provide opportunities for students to thrive and grow in their chosen sport.
If you are looking to play football, badminton, cricket, table tennis, or any of the 52 available BUCS sports whilst studying at a UK university, we have the resources, network, and know-how to match you with the right institution for your athletic and educational aspirations.
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