Royal Holloway, University of London

Today's Royal Holloway is formed from two colleges, founded by two social pioneers, Elizabeth Jesser Reid and Thomas Holloway. They were among the first places in Britain where women could access higher education. Bedford College, in London, opened its doors in 1849, and Royal Holloway College's stunning Founder's Building was unveiled by Queen Victoria in 1886, it?s still the focal point of the campus. In 1900, the colleges became part of the University of London and in 1985 they merged to form what is now known as Royal Holloway.

The university offers a wide array of undergraduate, graduate and research degrees to students in numerous fields of study. All undergraduate programs now have the opportunity to take a Placement Year, which will add even more value to student studies. The university is acknowledged worldwide for pioneering work across all sectors of the arts, humanities and sciences. It continues to invest in first-class academic staff and facilities, with innovative partnerships in Higher Education, Government and industry in the UK and abroad. The research-led nature of postgraduate courses offers exciting intellectual challenges for students to pursue.

Royal Holloway position as one of the UK?s leading research intensive institutions is confirmed by the results of the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF), 2014. Its scoring system measures research quality in four categories, with the top score of 4 indicating quality that is world-leading and of the highest standards in terms of originality, significance and rigour.

The university campus is one of the most beautiful in the world with numerous teaching and study spaces, bars and caf?s, high-quality accommodation, and sports facilities. All this is set in 135 acres of stunning parkland. Most teaching and social activity takes place on campus and this is where most undergraduates live in their first year, with the exception of Kingswood Hall (just a mile away). It?s a friendly place, with a strong sense of community as new students soon become familiar faces. The campus is just 40 minutes by train from London and seven miles from Heathrow, with many attractions, sporting and entertainment venues within easy reach.