Is It a University or an University?

It’s a university. The initial letter of the word “university” makes a consonant sound (a “you” sound); consequently, it takes the indefinite article “a”.

It’s a university. The rule for choosing between a and an is based on pronunciation, not spelling. The initial letter of the word “university” makes a consonant sound (a “you” sound); consequently, it takes the indefinite article “a”.

Enrolling in a university can be a big step in life.

Enrolling in an university can be a big step in life.

More examples:

A university is an institution that provides higher education.

A university should provide relevant knowledge to help students find a job after graduation.

I need to find a university that leads the way in innovative research and new technologies.

Other words that begin with the vowel “u” in the spelling but a consonant in the pronunciation, and therefore take the article “a”, include:

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