Resource · Checklist

University website UX audit checklist

A quick, practical checklist for assessing whether a university (or any institutional) website is actually working for the people using it — not just whether it looks current.

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Navigation & findability

  • Can a first-time visitor find application deadlines in under 3 clicks?
  • Does on-site search return current pages first, not outdated duplicates?
  • Is the navigation structured around user tasks, not internal department names?

Content clarity

  • Is critical information (dates, fees, requirements) in on-page text, not locked inside a PDF?
  • Is terminology consistent across departments for the same process?
  • Are outdated pages retired or clearly marked, rather than left live indefinitely?

Accessibility

  • Does every image have meaningful alt text?
  • Is the site fully usable by keyboard alone?
  • Do text and background colours meet contrast requirements?

Mobile & performance

  • Can a student complete a real task (e.g. checking a deadline) comfortably on a phone?
  • Do pages load quickly on an average mobile connection?

Trust & credibility

  • Is it clear who to contact for each type of enquiry?
  • Are dates on key pages (e.g. "last updated") visible, so visitors know the content is current?