Royal Holloway and Bedford New College

Royal Holloway, University of London, officially known as Royal Holloway and Bedford New College, is a prestigious public research university located in Egham, Surrey, United Kingdom. It is a member institution of the University of London and is renowned for its strong academic programs, historic campus, and vibrant student community.

The university traces its origins to two pioneering colleges: Bedford College, founded in 1849 as the first higher education institution for women in the United Kingdom, and Royal Holloway College, established in 1886 by the Victorian philanthropist Thomas Holloway. These two institutions merged in 1985 to form Royal Holloway and Bedford New College, which continues to uphold a strong tradition of academic excellence and inclusivity.

Royal Holloway is known for its stunning Founder's Building, a grand Victorian structure inspired by the Château de Chambord in France. The building houses a chapel, a picture gallery, and student accommodation, making it one of the most iconic university buildings in the UK. The campus is set in 135 acres of parkland, providing a picturesque and inspiring environment for students and staff.

The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, humanities, social sciences, sciences, and business. It is particularly well-regarded for its research in areas such as psychology, music, media arts, and cybersecurity. Royal Holloway is also home to several research centers and institutes that contribute to cutting-edge developments in their respective fields.

With a diverse student body representing over 100 nationalities, Royal Holloway fosters an inclusive and global learning environment. The university places a strong emphasis on student experience, offering numerous extracurricular activities, societies, and support services to enhance personal and professional development.

Royal Holloway maintains strong links with industry and has a dedicated careers service to help students transition into the workforce. Its graduates are highly sought after by employers, and the university has a strong reputation for producing well-rounded and skilled professionals.

As a member of the University of London, Royal Holloway benefits from access to a vast network of academic resources and collaborations. It continues to uphold its mission of delivering world-class education and research while maintaining its commitment to diversity, innovation, and excellence.

Royal Holloway and Bedford New College, commonly known as Royal Holloway, University of London, has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. The institution was formed in 1985 through the merger of two pioneering colleges: Royal Holloway College and Bedford College, both of which were among the first higher education institutions in the United Kingdom to provide education for women.

Royal Holloway College was founded by the Victorian entrepreneur and philanthropist Thomas Holloway in 1879. Inspired by the need to improve women's education, Holloway invested in the construction of an impressive college building in Egham, Surrey. The iconic Founder's Building, designed in the French Renaissance style, was officially opened by Queen Victoria in 1886. The college initially admitted only female students and became one of the leading institutions for women's higher education in the UK.

Bedford College, on the other hand, was established in 1849 by Elizabeth Jesser Reid, a social reformer dedicated to advancing women's education. Located in London, Bedford College was the first higher education institution in the UK to offer degree-level education to women. Over the years, it gained a strong reputation for academic excellence and expanded its curriculum to include a wide range of disciplines.

In 1900, both Royal Holloway College and Bedford College became part of the University of London, allowing their students to receive degrees from the prestigious institution. By the mid-20th century, both colleges had begun admitting male students, reflecting broader societal changes in higher education.

The merger of Royal Holloway College and Bedford College in 1985 created Royal Holloway and Bedford New College, which retained the historic campus in Egham while incorporating the academic strengths of both institutions. Today, the university is known simply as Royal Holloway, University of London, and continues to uphold its legacy of academic excellence, inclusivity, and innovation.

With a diverse student body, world-class research, and a commitment to providing high-quality education, Royal Holloway remains one of the leading universities in the UK. Its historic Founder's Building, extensive library resources, and vibrant campus life contribute to its reputation as a distinguished institution within the University of London system.

Admission Requirements and Application Process at Royal Holloway, University of London

Royal Holloway, University of London, offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs for international and domestic students. The admission requirements vary depending on the level of study, the applicant’s country of origin, and the specific course chosen.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

For undergraduate programs, applicants must meet academic qualifications equivalent to UK A-levels. International students may need to provide results from qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or national high school diplomas. Specific grade requirements depend on the chosen course.

English language proficiency is essential for non-native speakers. The university accepts qualifications such as:

• IELTS: Typically, a minimum score of 6.5 overall, with no sub-score below 5.5.
• TOEFL iBT: A minimum score of 88, with specific requirements for each section.
• Other recognized English language tests may also be accepted.

Applicants must submit a personal statement outlining their academic interests, career goals, and reasons for choosing Royal Holloway. Some courses, particularly in the arts and humanities, may require a portfolio or an audition.

Postgraduate Admission Requirements

For postgraduate taught programs, applicants must hold a UK bachelor’s degree with at least a second-class honors classification or an equivalent qualification from an international institution. Some programs may require a higher classification or relevant work experience.

For research degrees (MPhil/PhD), applicants must demonstrate strong academic performance in a relevant field and submit a research proposal outlining their intended study.

English language requirements for postgraduate students are similar to those for undergraduate applicants, with some programs requiring higher scores.

Application Process

Undergraduate applications are submitted through the UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) system. Applicants must provide academic transcripts, a personal statement, and a reference letter. The UCAS deadline for most courses is in January, though some programs may have later deadlines.

Postgraduate applications are submitted directly through the Royal Holloway online application portal. Required documents typically include:

• Academic transcripts and degree certificates
• A personal statement
• Two academic or professional references
• A CV (for some programs)

International students may also need to provide proof of financial support for visa purposes.

Additional Considerations

Some programs may require interviews, particularly for competitive courses. Scholarships and financial aid options are available for eligible students, and applicants are encouraged to check the university’s website for details.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, prospective students should visit the official Royal Holloway website or contact the admissions office directly.

Royal Holloway, University of London, officially known as Royal Holloway and Bedford New College, is a constituent college of the University of London. It is accredited by the Privy Council of the United Kingdom, which grants it the authority to award degrees. As a member institution of the University of London, Royal Holloway follows the academic standards set by the university and is subject to its quality assurance processes.

The university is also recognized by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA), which ensures that academic standards and the quality of higher education in the UK are maintained. The QAA conducts regular reviews and assessments to confirm that Royal Holloway meets the required standards for teaching, learning, and student experience.

In addition to national accreditation, Royal Holloway's individual programs may be accredited by professional bodies relevant to their fields. For example, the School of Business and Management offers programs accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a globally recognized accreditation for business education. Similarly, the Department of Psychology has accreditation from the British Psychological Society (BPS), which ensures that its programs meet the standards required for professional practice in psychology.

Royal Holloway is also a member of Universities UK, an organization that represents higher education institutions in the UK and advocates for their interests at a national and international level. This membership further reinforces the university’s commitment to maintaining high academic standards and contributing to the global higher education community.

As part of the University of London, Royal Holloway degrees are widely recognized and respected both in the UK and internationally. The university's accreditation ensures that students receive a high-quality education that meets rigorous academic and professional standards, preparing them for successful careers in their chosen fields.

Royal Holloway, University of London, offers a vibrant student life with a strong sense of community. The university provides a wide range of extracurricular activities, including over 100 student societies and sports clubs, catering to various interests such as music, drama, debate, and cultural groups. The Students' Union plays a key role in organizing events, from social gatherings to career development workshops.

The campus, located in Egham, Surrey, is known for its picturesque setting and historic Founder's Building. Students have access to modern facilities, including a well-equipped library, study spaces, and sports facilities. The on-campus accommodation provides a comfortable living environment, with options ranging from traditional halls to modern apartments.

Royal Holloway also offers numerous support services, including academic assistance, mental health support, and career guidance. The university's proximity to London allows students to explore the capital’s cultural and professional opportunities while enjoying the quieter surroundings of Egham.

With a diverse student body, Royal Holloway fosters an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere. International students are well-supported through dedicated services, and various cultural events help them integrate into university life. The university’s commitment to student well-being and personal development ensures a fulfilling and enriching experience for all.

Royal Holloway, University of London, offers a wide range of services and facilities to support students in their academic and personal lives. The university provides extensive library services, including the Emily Wilding Davison Building, which houses a large collection of books, digital resources, study spaces, and computer facilities. Students also have access to IT support, printing services, and free Wi-Fi across the campus.

For student well-being, the university offers health and counseling services, including mental health support, disability services, and a medical center. The Student Wellbeing team provides advice on personal and academic issues, ensuring that students receive the necessary support throughout their studies.

Accommodation services are available for students living on campus, with a variety of housing options, including catered and self-catered halls. Residential support teams help students settle into university life and provide assistance when needed.

The university also has a Careers and Employability Service, which offers career advice, CV workshops, interview preparation, and job placement opportunities. Students can access internships, part-time jobs, and graduate employment support to enhance their career prospects.

For extracurricular activities, Royal Holloway provides a wide range of sports and fitness facilities, including a gym, sports hall, and outdoor playing fields. There are numerous student societies and clubs covering interests such as music, drama, debate, and cultural activities. The Students’ Union organizes events, social activities, and campaigns to enhance student life.

Catering services on campus include cafes, restaurants, and dining halls offering a variety of food options. There are also shops and banking facilities available for students' convenience.

Additionally, the university provides academic support services, including study skills workshops, personal tutors, and language support for international students. The Disability and Dyslexia Services ensure that students with additional needs receive appropriate accommodations.

Overall, Royal Holloway offers a comprehensive range of services and facilities to support students in all aspects of university life, ensuring a well-rounded and fulfilling experience.

Royal Holloway, University of London, is one of the UK’s leading research-intensive universities, known for its strong academic reputation, beautiful campus, and diverse student community. Here are a few reasons why students should choose this university:

1. Academic Excellence – Royal Holloway is part of the University of London and is consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including humanities, sciences, business, and social sciences.

2. World-Class Research – The university is known for its high-quality research output, with many departments ranked highly in national and international research assessments. Students benefit from being taught by leading academics who are experts in their fields.

3. Beautiful Campus – The university is located in Egham, Surrey, just 40 minutes from central London. The campus is famous for its stunning Founder's Building, which is one of the most beautiful university buildings in the world. The green and spacious campus provides a peaceful and inspiring environment for study.

4. Strong Industry Links – Royal Holloway has strong connections with industries and employers, offering students excellent career opportunities. Many courses include work placements, internships, and networking events to help students gain practical experience and enhance their employability.

5. Diverse and Inclusive Community – The university has a vibrant and diverse student body, with students from over 100 countries. It promotes an inclusive and supportive environment, ensuring that all students feel welcome and valued.

6. Excellent Student Support – Royal Holloway provides a range of support services, including academic support, career guidance, mental health services, and financial assistance. The university is committed to helping students succeed both academically and personally.

7. Active Student Life – The Students’ Union offers a wide range of clubs, societies, and events, ensuring that students have plenty of opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities, make friends, and develop new skills.

8. Proximity to London – Being close to London allows students to access the cultural, professional, and social opportunities of one of the world’s most dynamic cities while enjoying the benefits of a quieter, campus-based university experience.

With its combination of academic excellence, strong research, beautiful campus, and supportive community, Royal Holloway offers a unique and enriching university experience for students from around the world.