Royal Holloway, University of London

Royal Holloway, University of London, provides a comprehensive and student-focused range of services designed to support academic success, personal wellbeing, and career development. As a friendly and caring community, the university is committed to ensuring that every student has access to the guidance and resources needed to thrive throughout their journey.

A key strength of the university lies in its inclusive support systems. The Disability and Neurodiversity team offers tailored assistance for students living with disabilities or medical conditions. Services include exam access arrangements, reasonable adjustments, diagnostic assessments, and guidance on Disabled Students’ Allowance. This support is also extended to all Postgraduate Research students, ensuring equitable access to education at every level.

Financial support is another essential service area. Royal Holloway provides access to Financial Wellbeing advisors who help students manage their finances effectively. In addition, students can benefit from a wide range of scholarships and part-time work opportunities both on campus and in the local area, helping to reduce financial pressure and enhance employability.

The university places strong emphasis on mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Students have access to an NHS-run on-campus health centre, professional counsellors offering workshops and one-to-one sessions, wellbeing advisers, and a multi-faith chaplaincy. This holistic approach ensures that students are supported in every aspect of their health and personal development.

International students receive dedicated support through the International Advice team, which assists with visa and immigration matters, integration into UK student life, and financial processes such as US Federal Loans. As the first point of contact for many international students from over 130 countries, the team plays a vital role in ensuring a smooth transition and ongoing support.

Academic success is further supported through Academic Skills services, offering workshops, drop-in sessions, and one-to-one guidance to strengthen study techniques. Personal Tutors and Peer Guides provide additional academic and social support, helping students adapt to university life and access relevant services when needed.

The Students’ Union enhances the student experience by representing student voices and offering over 100 clubs and societies. It also provides leadership and engagement opportunities, including academic representation and student-led initiatives. The Advice Centre, located within the Union, delivers free and independent guidance on academic, housing, and personal matters.

Career development is a priority at Royal Holloway, with tailored support available from day one and up to two years after graduation. The Careers Service offers expert guidance on applications, interviews, placements, and networking opportunities, ensuring graduates leave with the skills and confidence to succeed in a competitive global job market.

Royal Holloway, University of London, demonstrates strong and consistent performance across global and national rankings, reflecting its academic excellence, research strength, and student satisfaction. These rankings provide prospective students with clear evidence of the university’s prestige and global standing.

In the QS World University Rankings 2026, Royal Holloway is placed at 461 globally, highlighting its competitive position among leading international institutions. Similarly, in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026, the university is ranked within the 401–500 band worldwide, further reinforcing its global academic credibility. In addition, the Academic Ranking of World Universities (Shanghai Ranking) 2026 positions the university within the 801–900 range globally, while it is also ranked #913 in Best Global Universities.

At the national level, Royal Holloway continues to perform strongly in UK league tables. It is ranked 32nd in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026 and 35th overall in the Complete University Guide 2026. Notably, the university is also ranked 4th in the South East region, demonstrating its regional prominence. Several subject areas have achieved top 10 rankings in the Complete University Guide 2026, including Accounting & Finance, Biological Sciences, Business & Management Studies, Classics, and Communication & Media Studies, reflecting academic excellence across diverse disciplines.

Research performance is a key strength of the university. In the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021, Royal Holloway remains within the top 25% of all UK institutions for research quality. Furthermore, Times Higher Education’s analysis of REF 2021 results ranks the university 15th in the UK for the overall quality of its research outputs, providing strong evidence of impactful and high-quality research.

The university also excels in international engagement, ranked 41st in the UK for “International Outlook” in THE World University Rankings 2026. Student satisfaction is equally impressive, with a National Student Survey (NSS) positivity score of 82.9% in 2025, rising from 80.8% in 2024.

Overall, these rankings confirm Royal Holloway’s position as a globally recognised institution with strong academic performance, research excellence, and a positive student experience.

Student life at Royal Holloway, University of London, offers a dynamic and enriching experience, combining a vibrant campus environment with access to some of the UK’s most exciting cultural and leisure destinations. Located in Surrey, just outside the M25, the university is set in the picturesque surroundings of Egham, only a ten-minute walk from the town centre and within easy reach of Central London via fast rail connections.

The university’s campus is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful in the world, offering high-quality accommodation, modern study spaces, cafés, bars, and extensive sports facilities. At its heart is the iconic Founder’s Building, home to the renowned Picture Gallery, chapel, dining hall, and accommodation for 500 students. Most teaching and social activities take place on campus, creating a close-knit and welcoming community where students quickly feel at home.

Beyond campus, students benefit from a wide range of leisure and lifestyle opportunities. The surrounding area offers natural spaces ideal for relaxation, including Windsor Great Park, Virginia Water Lake, and scenic walks along the River Thames. Popular activities include picnics, boating, and exploring nearby attractions such as Hampton Court and Kew Gardens. For those seeking adventure, Thorpe Park is just 4.5 miles away, while Go Ape in Slough provides outdoor challenges.

Local towns such as Windsor, Staines, Richmond, Kingston, and Reading offer extensive shopping, dining, theatre, and cinema options. Students can enjoy independent restaurants in Egham and Englefield Green, as well as popular chains in nearby retail centres. Central London, only 40 minutes away, further expands access to world-class entertainment, including the West End, Oxford Street, and major venues.

Sport and fitness are integral to student life. The university provides on-campus facilities including a gym, pitches, courts, and clubs for both recreational and competitive sport. Additional options nearby include swimming at Egham Orbit Leisure Centre, rowing and sailing on the Thames, and golf courses in the area. Students can also attend major sporting events such as rugby at Twickenham, tennis at Wimbledon, and football matches in London.

Music and entertainment thrive both on and off campus. The annual Summer Ball is a highlight, featuring well-known performers, while regular themed nights and live events are organised by the Students’ Union. Students also have access to concerts and festivals, including Reading Festival and performances at major London venues.

S With over 100 clubs and societies, Royal Holloway ensures that every student can pursue their interests, build friendships, and enjoy a well-rounded university experience.

Accommodation at Royal Holloway, University of London, is designed to provide a comfortable, convenient, and supportive living environment that enhances the overall student experience. With nearly 3,000 rooms available on campus, the university offers a wide range of options to suit different preferences, budgets, and stages of study. Priority is given to first-year and international students, ensuring a smooth transition into university life.

New undergraduate students who select Royal Holloway as their firm choice and apply by the accommodation deadline are guaranteed a place in halls. This commitment provides reassurance and allows students to focus on settling into their academic and social environment from the outset.

Students can choose between catered and self-catered accommodation. Catered halls provide freshly prepared meals in dining halls, alongside access to kitchen essentials such as a fridge and microwave. The iconic Founder's Building offers a unique living experience within a historic Victorian setting, featuring single and shared rooms with communal facilities. Reid Hall provides a more modern catered option with en-suite rooms, located close to key campus facilities.

Self-catered accommodation offers greater independence and flexibility. Options include George Eliot, a contemporary townhouse-style residence, and Gowar and Wedderburn Halls, which combine modern en-suite living with vibrant student surroundings. Williamson, Tuke and Butler Halls provide modern en-suite rooms on the southern side of campus, while Runnymede 1 and Runnymede 2 are conveniently located near the Sports Centre and social spaces.

Additional options such as Penrose Court and Highfield Court offer a balance of value, comfort, and community, with shared or en-suite facilities and easy access to campus. Many residences feature shared kitchen and dining areas, encouraging social interaction and a strong sense of community among students.

All on-campus accommodation is within close proximity to academic buildings, ensuring students remain at the heart of university life. Beyond campus, Royal Holloway also supports students seeking private housing through Roome, its official housing and housemate-matching app. This platform helps students explore off-campus options, connect with potential housemates, and secure suitable accommodation with confidence.

Overall, Royal Holloway provides high-quality, well-located accommodation that supports both academic success and a positive student lifestyle.