University of Sheffield students rank second in weed consumption among Russell Group universities

Northern unis dominate the top 10

8 hours ago

University of Sheffield students smoke the second-highest amount of weed in a ranking of Russell Group universities, a survey by The Tab has revealed.

The investigation, which questioned almost 7,000 students across the UK, found that 43 per cent of university students regularly use weed, making it the most popular recreational drug among students.

The survey assigned a “weed score” to each Russell Group university, factoring in the number of students who smoke weed, how often they do so, and the total student population.

Constance Vielma, who analysed the data, highlighted that while elite universities like Cambridge have lower consumption rates, cities like Manchester and Sheffield showed higher levels of weed usage.

The University of Manchester topped the ranking, with 90 per cent of students reportedly using recreational drugs and earning the highest weed score of 3.43. The University of Sheffield followed closely behind with a score of 3.09.

A separate survey by The Tab earlier this year had found 77 per cent of Sheffield students admitted to having used drugs.

Other high-ranking universities include Newcastle University (2.99) and the University of Liverpool (2.80). Students at the University of Cambridge were the least likely to partake, with a weed score of just 1.31.

The survey revealed significant regional differences in drug consumption, as Northern universities dominate the rankings – reflecting the party-heavy reputation of these cities.

Full ranking of Russell Group universities by weed score:

1. Manchester – 3.43

2. Sheffield – 3.09

3. Newcastle – 2.99

4. Liverpool – 2.80

5. Leeds – 2.77

6. Nottingham – 2.72

7. Bristol – 2.60

8. Birmingham – 2.54

9. Cardiff – 2.47

10. Southampton – 2.45

11. York – 2.43