University Profile
Royal Holloway, University of London
Royal Holloway Founders Building
Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
About Royal Holloway, University of London
Royal Holloway, University of London, established in 1879 by Thomas Holloway, is renowned for the exceptional beauty of its campus and excellence in humanities, social sciences, and security studies. Located on a stunning 135-acre estate in Egham, Surrey, the iconic Victorian Gothic main building (the Founder's Building) is consistently ranked among the UK's most beautiful university campuses.
Royal Holloway's English department is among the UK's finest, with particular distinction for literary scholarship. The security studies programmes address contemporary challenges in cybersecurity, international security, and conflict resolution. The institution became co-educational in 1985 and has since expanded its research profile significantly while maintaining its distinctive collegiate character.
Key Highlights
- 1Campus consistently rated among the world's most beautiful university settings
- 2Gold-rated for teaching excellence (TEF 2023)
- 3Top 10 UK for English literature and modern languages research
- 4Growing strength in cybersecurity and international security studies
- 5Part of the University of London — degree carries UoL prestige
Campus & Student Life
Royal Holloway's 135-acre campus features the iconic Founder's Building (built 1886), beautiful landscaped grounds, and a mix of Victorian and modern facilities. Student accommodation is primarily on campus, creating a genuine residential community. Over 100 societies and the collegiate system provide rich social life. The campus includes the Picture Gallery, which houses a notable collection of Victorian art.
For North American Students
Min. GPA (indicative)
Not specified
SAT/ACT Accepted
Not typically required
Application Route
Via UCAS
English Requirement
Check university website
Royal Holloway attracts North American students for arts and humanities, security studies, and the quintessential English campus experience. The residential collegiate setting and beautiful grounds appeal to those seeking a traditional UK university feel. The University of London degree adds international recognition.
Research Strengths
Notable Alumni
George Eliot
One of the first students at Bedford College (merged with RHUL)
Emily Wilding Davison
Suffragette and women's rights activist
Gary Lineker
Football pundit and broadcaster (honorary degree)
Sophie Dahl
Model and author
Key Facts
- Founded
- 1849
- Total Students
- 11,000+
- International Students
- 28%
- Tuition (Int'l UG)
- £16,200 – £19,800/yr
- Campus Setting
- Campus
📍 About Egham
Egham, Surrey, is in the scenic Thames Valley near Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace. Central London is 40 minutes by train, making it easy to commute for internships and cultural activities. The surrounding area offers picturesque English countryside, villages, and access to the Cotswolds.
Ready to Apply?
UK undergraduate applications are made through UCAS. Postgraduate applications go direct to the university.
Visit University Website →Check UCAS Points →