Ellucian and KPMG UK Form Alliance to Support University Modernisation

Ellucian has announced a strategic alliance with KPMG UK, bringing together higher education technology expertise and advisory capability to help universities modernise operations and enhance the student experience.

As institutions face mounting financial pressures, regulatory complexity, and rising expectations from students, partnerships that combine technology and strategic consultancy are becoming increasingly important.

What the Alliance Aims to Deliver

The collaboration brings together Ellucian’s higher education software solutions with KPMG UK’s transformation, risk, and advisory expertise. Together, they aim to support universities with:

• Operational modernisation – Streamlining finance, HR, and student systems

• Digital transformation programmes – Aligning technology investments with institutional strategy

• Improved data and reporting – Enabling more informed, data-driven decisions

• Enhanced student experience – Leveraging technology to simplify and personalise services

For professional services teams, this kind of integrated support can help reduce system fragmentation, improve governance, and accelerate change initiatives.

Why This Matters for UK Higher Education

Universities are under increasing pressure to do more with less. From funding constraints to regulatory scrutiny, institutions must balance efficiency with delivering high-quality student services.

By combining sector-specific technology with large-scale transformation expertise, the Ellucian–KPMG UK alliance signals a move towards more holistic institutional change, rather than isolated system upgrades.

The Bigger Picture

Digital transformation in higher education is no longer optional. Institutions that successfully align systems, strategy, and service delivery will be better positioned to respond to financial pressures, shifting student expectations, and long-term sector reform.

This alliance reflects a growing trend: technology providers and consultancy firms working together to support universities through complex change.