History
The University of Surrey was established on 9 September 1966 with the grant of its Royal Charter, but its roots go back to a late 19th-century concern to provide greater access to further and higher education for the poorer inhabitants of London Battersea Polytechnic Institute was founded in 1891 and began concentrating on science and technology around 1920, teaching students for degrees from the University of London.
By the beginning of the 1960s, the College had outgrown its main building in Battersea Park Road and in 1962 it was decided to move the institution to Guildford, becoming the University of Surrey four years later.
Education
The University of Surrey stands out for its commitment to exceptional teaching and practice-based learning. We have a huge range of professional-standard facilities, such as labs, workshops and studios, where you can develop your skills and learn by doing.
You’ll learn from academics who are experts in their field and continuously contributing to modern day research. You’ll be learning about current topics which will prepare you for your future career.
Our goal is to provide a challenging and rewarding university experience that creates incredible memories and helps you achieve your ambitions, while building friendships and connections that will last a lifetime.
Research
- Our research seeks to answer global challenges, drive innovation and deliver real-world impact. We have more than 1,300 postgraduate researchers across 100+ different research centres and groups.
- Surrey is home, among other facilities, to the world’s leading innovation centre for 5G/6G research, an internationally renowned clinical trials unit, and the STAR LAB for space robotics. We also have two pan-University institutes, taking multidisciplinary approaches to major societal issues: the Institute for People-Centred AI and the Institute for Sustainability.
- In the most recent Research Excellence Framework 2021, 41 per cent of our submitted research was rated as world leading.
Career
- You can expect to thrive in a dynamic academic community which The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023 recognised in their shortlisted for University of the Year. 95% of our postgraduates are in work or further study fifteen months after graduating (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2023). We’re the winner of 2022 awards for the Best University Careers/Employability Service (National Employability Awards 2022)..
Student services
The university has a dedicated team available to help international students, from the moment they decide to apply until graduation and beyond, offering services such as airport pickups, orientation events, language support, student communities and accommodation support.
Surrey provides a wide range of student support services throughout the academic year, such as the Online student portal (MySurrey) which allows students to access support and advice at any hour of the day. Students can also speak with advisor and councillors in-person via the MySurrey Hive.
International students have access to support from the University of Surrey from the moment they decide to apply all the way until after they graduate.
Housing services
With so much happening on campus, it’s easy to see why so many students want to live here. There are more than 6,000 study-bedrooms on campus, at least half of which have an en-suite shower and toilet. There are choices to suit all budgets and requirements and you’re guaranteed university accommodation in your first year as long as your application arrives on time.
Library services
The Library is the home of Library and Learning Services, bringing together the spaces, expertise, and materials that support the University community in their learning, teaching and research journeys.
We provide our students with plenty of support during their studies, including online searching for library resources, services for study and development support.
ICT services
- As a student at Surrey, you will find that IT will play a big part in your time at the University. Whether you are using one of the 900+ PCs in the Open Access PC rooms, connecting to the wireless network or working from home using off-campus secure web access, IT Services will always provide you with efficient and innovative IT solutions.
Medical services
- The Centre for Wellbeing provides support when personal issues are impacting on your ability to study and cope at University.
- The university offers advice as well as therapeutic and practical support to help you cope and manage your studies. There is an NHS Medical Practice on-site and the Royal Surrey County Hospital is located very close to the university.
Campus life
- Set in the bustling town of Guildford in the heart of the southeast of England, the campus is just a 10-minute stroll from Guildford town centre. There is a frequent bus service between campus and the main railway station, running into the early hours of the morning.
- Most University buildings are on the Stag Hill site, with accommodation, Surrey Sports Park, the School of Veterinary Sciences and the School of Health Sciences at the Manor Park site nearby. Everything you need is on campus: coffee shops, a food market, a convenience store, a bank, a launderette, a post office, a bookshop, and a health centre.
Sports facilities
- Surrey Sports Park is one of Europe’s leading sports venues and the home of Team Surrey. Owned by the University of Surrey, it provides world-class sports facilities, activities and events to University students, staff, elite teams, athletes and the local community.
- Whether you’re a complete beginner or an established player, you’ll be welcomed into their friendly sporting community.
- University of Surrey students benefit from discounted membership of Surrey Sports Park, giving access to a huge range of facilities, classes, and activities; as well the opportunity to join sports clubs and represent Team Surrey.
Student clubs
- The University of Surrey Students’ Union voices student opinion, provides support and advice, and offers volunteering and training opportunities. The Students’ Union also hosts over 180 exciting clubs and societies, and organises unforgettable events and entertainment.
- University of the Year for Graduate Employment - The Times and Sunday Times Complete University Guide 2022
- 4th place in the UK for overall student satisfaction in 2023 (National Student Survey 2023)
- ‘Top 5 for Student Experience’ The Times and Sunday Times Complete University Guide 2022
- 12th in the UK in Complete University Guide League Table for 2025 (Complete University Guide 2025)
- 46th in the world for sustainability Times Higher Education (THE) University Impact Rankings
- 285th in the world in QS World University Rankings 2025