Royal Holloway, University of London

Overview

Royal Holloway, University of London, is known for its commitment to research and education, Royal Holloway fosters a community that supports academic, social, and personal development. The University is a constituent college of the University of London, with a history that traces back to 1886, founded by two social reformers dedicated to promoting educational excellence and inclusivity.

The University offers a distinctive educational experience on a picturesque campus, often cited as one of the most beautiful in the world. Located in Egham, Surrey, just outside London, Royal Holloway provides a serene and supportive learning environment with the advantage of easy access to the vibrant cultural and professional opportunities of the capital. The University's academic structure encompasses three faculties: Arts and Social Sciences, Management, Economics and Law, and Science. It is renowned for its research contributions, particularly in areas such as the sciences, humanities, business, and law.

Royal Holloway prides itself on being a global institution, welcoming students and academics from over 130 countries. The University’s emphasis on international collaboration and diverse perspectives enriches the academic and cultural life on campus, contributing to a broad and inclusive learning experience.

Services for International Students

Royal Holloway provides comprehensive support for international students through its International Student Support team, which offers assistance from the moment students arrive in the UK. Services include a free airport collection at the start of the academic year and ongoing support with visa and immigration matters, academic skills, and personal wellbeing.

The University also offers in-sessional English language courses to help international students enhance their academic English proficiency. These courses are designed to support students in developing the language skills necessary for their studies, ensuring a smooth transition to the academic demands of university life in the UK.

Ranking

Royal Holloway, University of London ranks 38th in the Complete University Guide 2025, from over 130 universities in the UK. Royal Holloway’s QS World Rankings By Subject places the university 14th, with 12 subjects ranking among the top 20 universities with creative writing and music ranking in the top 10.

• 34th in the Times University Guide 2025
• 52nd in the Guardian University Guide 2025
• 477th in the QS World University Rankings 2025

Following the REF 2021, Royal Holloway is in the top 25% of UK universities for research. 88% of its research is judged to be within the top two categories of 4* and 3*, defining it as either world-leading or internationally excellent respectively.

Accommodation

Royal Holloway offers a variety of accommodation options, with almost 3,000 rooms available across its campus. These are prioritised for first-year and international students who apply by the designated deadline. Accommodation ranges from the historic Founder’s Building, with its distinctive Victorian architecture, to modern facilities such as the Williamson, Tuke & Butler halls. Students can choose from en-suite, catered, and self-catering options, as well as shared rooms.

Location

Royal Holloway's campus is situated in Egham, Surrey, on 135 acres of landscaped woodland, providing a tranquil setting conducive to study and reflection. The campus is conveniently located close to the town centre of Egham, which offers a range of shops, restaurants, and services. Central London is accessible by train in just 35 minutes, allowing students to enjoy the cultural and professional opportunities of the city.

The campus's proximity to Windsor and Heathrow Airport further enhances its connectivity, making it an ideal location for international students. Despite its close links to London, the campus retains a peaceful and collegiate atmosphere.

Alumni

• George Eliot (Novelist)
• David Bellamy OBE (Botanist and broadcaster)
• Richmal Crompton (Novelist)
• Francis Wheen (Journalist and broadcaster)

FAQs

When can I apply for the Royal Holloway London admissions?

You can apply for the fall intake in early September when UCAS applications open and for the spring intake, you can apply in January or February. The deadline for applications may change every year, so it’s best to check your UCAS deadlines as you start your application process. 

Which programmes is the Royal Holloway University of London known for?

Royal Holloway is known for its humanities, performing arts, and STEM subject streams and the most sought-after programmes are in music, creative writing, economics and business, physics, psychology, and geosciences. 

Royal Holloway is also known for its research excellence and offers master’s programmes with research in many fields like law, geosciences, life sciences, and performing arts.  

What are the career opportunities for the Royal Holloway University of London graduates?

Royal Holloway graduates have the opportunity to work in fields like business, research and academics, social services, communication and media, and IT. 

The university supports you with career guidance during your studies and two years after you graduate, so you can get mentorship and access job opportunities through industry connections.

Does Royal Holloway University of London offer scholarships?

Yes. The International Fee Award (Undergraduate) deducts £1,300 from your tuition fee and it’s applied automatically to all international undergraduates who are eligible. 

Royal Holloway also awards the Royal Holloway India Postgraduate Scholarship of £6,000 for Indian postgraduate students following a taught master’s programme at the university. 

Does the Royal Holloway University of London require IELTS?

Yes, international students have to meet the language requirements set by the university. Royal Holloway accepts IELTS Academic (6.5), PTE Academic (61), TOEFL iBT (88), and a few more English language proficiency tests that meet the university requirements.