Royal Holloway University of London

Royal Holloway, University of London is a public research university and a member institution of the University of London. It was formed in 1985 through the merger of Bedford College, founded in London in 1849 as the first higher education college for women in the UK, and Royal Holloway College, established by Thomas and Jane Holloway and opened by Queen Victoria in 1886. The main campus occupies around 135 acres of parkland and woodland in Egham, Surrey, about 40 minutes by train from central London, and is centred on the historic Founder's Building.

The university has around 13,000 students and teaches across six schools, supported by a Doctoral School for research students. Well-known strengths include information security, where the Information Security Group introduced the first master's degree in the field in 1992, as well as drama and theatre, music and the biological sciences. Royal Holloway describes itself as a university of social purpose, holds a Silver rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework 2023 and is placed in the top quarter of UK universities for research rated world-leading or internationally excellent.

Information for International Students

Almost a third of Royal Holloway students come from outside the UK, representing around 130 countries. An International Advice Team supports students with immigration matters throughout their time in the UK, and guidance is available on CAS numbers and Student visa applications. A dedicated International Student Recruitment team and a network of country representatives help applicants, and pre-departure webinars prepare new students for arrival.

Most undergraduate programmes typically require IELTS 6.5 overall, with 6.0 in writing and at least 5.5 in each other component; taught postgraduate programmes typically ask for 6.5 overall with no component below 6.0. Students who do not yet meet the requirement can prepare through pre-sessional English language programmes, and the Centre for the Development of Academic Skills offers continuing language support.

The Royal Holloway International Study Centre, run by Study Group on the Egham campus, offers an International Foundation Year, International Year One and Pre-Masters programmes in business, computing, engineering, sciences, humanities and law, along with English language preparation. Accommodation is guaranteed to new undergraduates, and to overseas postgraduate taught students, who make Royal Holloway their firm choice and apply by the deadline. Eligible graduates may apply for the Graduate Route.