Royal Holloway University of London
Egham, United Kingdom
- Cost of Living£ 21,072
- Tuition Fee From£ 18,200
- Country Rank#92
- Batch Strength10,177
- Global Diversity26.3%
- Gender Ratio44:56
Overview
About
Royal Holloway is one of London's top universities. The university was established in 1985 through the merger of two premier colleges, Bedford College and Royal Holloway College. The university campus, which spans 135 acres, is regarded as one of the most beautiful in the world. The university emphasizes a research-based learning programme. The faculty team consists of highly experienced academicians and experts from relevant fields. The university has a cutting-edge infrastructure to support advanced learning. The Royal Holloway University of London carries a significant legacy for future generations.
The Royal Holloway University of London, ranked in the top 25 UK universities, is a higher education pioneer, providing a world-class learning experience to students from 130 countries around the world. The university has 11,124 students, including 9223 undergraduate students and 1,690 graduate students. It has over 1,883 international students enrolled in its programmes. The university has 156 undergraduate programmes and 40 postgraduate programmes spread across its six academic schools: Business and Management, Engineering, Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Humanities, Law and Social Sciences, Life Sciences, and Performing Arts.
The Royal Holloway University of London is a research powerhouse. It has collaborated on integrated research programmes and technology transfer with government agencies, other universities, and institutes. In addition, the university has collaborated with businesses on commercialised research projects. Royal Holloway is a world-class university. Students from all over the world come here to pursue their dreams. With students, research scholars, professors, and staff of various nationalities and ethnicities, the university brings the entire world under one roof.
Over 172 years, the university has produced over 95,000 alumni who have excelled in their fields. A few notable alumni: George Eliot, Mark Strong, Emma Freud OBE, KT Tunstall, and Lenny Henry CBE. Apart from the mentioned alumni, the university has several other notable alumni, and the list is still growing. It has a longstanding reputation and a history of providing exceptional education to students from all over the world. Today, the institution's 95000 alumni attest to its significant contribution to the educational field.
Ranking
Royal Holloway University of London, a public institution established in 1985 in Egham, UK, has experienced fluctuating rankings in recent years. In 2025, it secured the 37th position in The Complete University Guide for UK universities, while simultaneously dropping to 477th in the global QS World University Rankings, down from 413th in 2024. The 2024 rankings presented a mixed picture: the university improved to 301st in the World University Rankings (up from 351st in 2023), but fell to 861st in the US News & World Report Global Universities ranking (a significant decrease from 593rd in 2023) and to 47th in The Guardian University Guide (down from 33rd in 2023). These varied results across different ranking systems highlight the challenges and complexities in maintaining consistent performance across multiple evaluation criteria, while also demonstrating Royal Holloway's ongoing efforts to enhance its academic standing both nationally and internationally.
Royal Holloway University of London - QS Ranking 2025
In 2025, Royal Holloway University of London will be ranked 477th globally according to the QS World University Rankings, indicating a decrease in its international standing compared to 2024, when it was ranked 413th. This shift highlights potential challenges or changes in global perceptions of the university's academic performance and research impact. In 2023, the university was positioned at 402nd globally, showing fluctuations in its global ranking over recent years amidst a competitive international landscape.
Ranked by |
2023 |
2024 |
2025 |
Europe |
- |
210 |
- |
World University |
402 |
413 |
477 |
Royal Holloway University of London - US News & World Report Ranking
In 2024, Royal Holloway University of London was ranked 861st globally according to the US News & World Report Global Universities ranking, marking a significant decrease compared to its position in 2023 when it was ranked 593rd. This decline suggests challenges or changes in factors influencing its global reputation and academic performance. In 2022, the university held the 499th position, indicating fluctuations in its global ranking over the past few years amidst competitive pressures in higher education worldwide.
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
Global Universities |
499 |
593 |
861 |
Royal Holloway University of London (Times Higher Education) Ranking 2024
In 2024, Royal Holloway University of London has improved its position in THE (Times Higher Education) World University Rankings, moving up to 301st place from 351st in both 2022 and 2023. This advancement reflects the university's efforts to strengthen its academic profile and research capabilities, signaling a positive trajectory in its global standing.
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
University |
351 |
351 |
301 |
Learn More About: Royal Holloway University of London’s Admission
Royal Holloway University of London - The Guardian Ranking 2024
In 2024, Royal Holloway University of London is ranked 47th according to The Guardian University Guide, marking a decline from its positions of 33rd in 2023 and 22nd in 2022. This change reflects fluctuations in its performance within the UK higher education sector.
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
University |
22 |
33 |
47 |
Royal Holloway University of London - The Complete University Guide Ranking 2025
Royal Holloway University of London maintains a strong position in UK university rankings, placing 37th in 2025 according to The Complete University Guide. While this represents a minor shift from previous years, it underscores the institution's enduring competitiveness in British higher education. The university continues to appeal to students through its varied academic programmes, supportive learning atmosphere, and commitment to influential research.
Ranked by |
2023 |
2024 |
2025 |
UK University |
33 |
37 |
37 |
Royal Holloway University of London - QS Ranking 2025
Ranked by |
2023 |
2024 |
2025 |
Communication and Media Studies |
201 |
- |
- |
Performing Arts |
20 |
14 |
- |
Physics and Astronomy |
551 |
551 |
- |
Politics |
151 |
151 |
- |
Royal Holloway University of London - THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking 2024
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
Arts and Humanities |
201 |
201 |
201 |
Law |
126 |
201 |
176 |
Life Sciences |
251 |
- |
- |
PG Business and Economics |
176 |
201 |
301 |
PG Computer Science |
301 |
251 |
301 |
Psychology |
201 |
126 |
151 |
Royal Holloway University of London - The Guardian Ranking 2024
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
Accounting and Finance |
67 |
34 |
45 |
Business and Management |
41 |
40 |
48 |
Economics |
42 |
32 |
38 |
Law |
60 |
78 |
87 |
Media and Film Studies |
9 |
18 |
22 |
Physics |
10 |
35 |
27 |
Politics |
18 |
33 |
37 |
Sociology and Social Policy |
55 |
41 |
61 |
Royal Holloway University of London - The Complete University Guide Ranking 2025
Ranked by |
2023 |
2024 |
2025 |
Accounting and Finance |
45 |
32 |
35 |
Biological Sciences |
31 |
29 |
33 |
Business and Management Studies UK |
39 |
39 |
38 |
Communication and Media Studies |
13 |
15 |
18 |
Computer Science |
26 |
25 |
25 |
Electrical and Electronic Engineering |
36 |
24 |
30 |
Law |
93 |
80 |
77 |
Physics and Astronomy |
28 |
24 |
25 |
Psychology |
19 |
29 |
26 |
Sociology |
28 |
36 |
34 |
Course Rankings
B.A.
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
The Guardian - Sociology and Social Policy |
55 |
41 |
61 |
The Guardian - Politics |
18 |
33 |
37 |
The Complete University Guide - Sociology |
47 |
28 |
36 |
B.E. / B.Tech
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
The Complete University Guide - Electrical and Electronic Engineering |
65 |
36 |
24 |
The Complete University Guide - Computer Science |
39 |
26 |
25 |
B.J.M.C.
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
The Guardian - Media and Film Studies |
9 |
18 |
22 |
The Complete University Guide - Communication and Media Studies |
20 |
13 |
15 |
Learn More About: Royal Holloway University of London’s Courses
B.Sc.
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
The Complete University Guide - Biological Sciences |
43 |
31 |
29 |
The Complete University Guide - Psychology |
17 |
19 |
29 |
The Complete University Guide - Physics and Astronomy |
12 |
28 |
24 |
The Guardian - Physics |
10 |
35 |
27 |
BBA
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
The Guardian - Business and Management |
41 |
40 |
48 |
The Guardian - Accounting and Finance |
67 |
34 |
45 |
The Complete University Guide - Accounting and Finance |
37 |
45 |
32 |
The Complete University Guide - Business and Management Studies UK |
42 |
39 |
39 |
The Guardian - Economics |
42 |
32 |
38 |
LL.B.
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
The Guardian - Law |
60 |
78 |
87 |
The Complete University Guide - Law |
35 |
93 |
80 |
LL.M.
Ranked by |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Law |
201 |
201 |
- |
THE (Times Higher Education) - Law |
- |
126 |
201 |
M.A.
Ranked by |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
QS - Politics |
- |
201 |
151 |
QS - Communication and Media Studies |
- |
151 |
201 |
ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Political Sciences |
201 |
151 |
101 |
ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Sociology |
101 |
101 |
101 |
THE (Times Higher Education) - Arts and Humanities |
- |
201 |
201 |
MFA
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
QS - Performing Arts |
16 |
20 |
14 |
MIM
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics |
176 |
201 |
301 |
MS
Ranked by |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
QS - Physics and Astronomy |
- |
451 |
551 |
ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Physics |
201 |
201 |
201 |
THE (Times Higher Education) - Life Sciences |
- |
251 |
- |
THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Computer Science |
- |
301 |
251 |
Others PG
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology |
201 |
126 |
151 |
Accounting & Commerce
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
The Guardian - Accounting and Finance |
67 |
34 |
45 |
The Complete University Guide - Accounting and Finance |
37 |
45 |
32 |
Arts ( Fine / Visual / Performing )
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
QS - Performing Arts |
16 |
20 |
14 |
THE (Times Higher Education) - Arts and Humanities |
201 |
201 |
201 |
Business & Management Studies
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
The Guardian - Business and Management |
41 |
40 |
48 |
The Complete University Guide - Business and Management Studies UK |
42 |
39 |
39 |
The Guardian - Economics |
42 |
32 |
38 |
THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics |
176 |
201 |
301 |
Engineering
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Computer Science |
301 |
251 |
301 |
The Complete University Guide - Electrical and Electronic Engineering |
65 |
36 |
24 |
Humanities & Social Sciences
Ranked by |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
QS - Politics |
- |
201 |
151 |
ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Political Sciences |
201 |
151 |
101 |
ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Sociology |
101 |
101 |
101 |
The Complete University Guide - Psychology |
- |
17 |
19 |
THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology |
- |
201 |
126 |
The Guardian - Sociology and Social Policy |
- |
55 |
41 |
The Guardian - Politics |
- |
18 |
33 |
The Complete University Guide - Sociology |
- |
47 |
28 |
Law
Ranked by |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Law |
201 |
201 |
- |
The Guardian - Law |
- |
60 |
78 |
THE (Times Higher Education) - Law |
- |
126 |
201 |
The Complete University Guide - Law |
- |
35 |
93 |
Mass Communication & Media
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
QS - Communication and Media Studies |
151 |
201 |
- |
The Guardian - Media and Film Studies |
9 |
18 |
22 |
The Complete University Guide - Communication and Media Studies |
20 |
13 |
15 |
Science
Ranked by |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
QS - Physics and Astronomy |
- |
451 |
551 |
ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Physics |
201 |
201 |
201 |
The Complete University Guide - Biological Sciences |
- |
43 |
31 |
The Complete University Guide - Physics and Astronomy |
- |
12 |
28 |
The Guardian - Physics |
- |
10 |
35 |
THE (Times Higher Education) - Life Sciences |
- |
251 |
- |
The Complete University Guide - Computer Science |
- |
39 |
26 |
Biology
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
The Complete University Guide - Biological Sciences |
43 |
31 |
29 |
THE (Times Higher Education) - Life Sciences |
251 |
- |
- |
Business Economics
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
The Guardian - Economics |
42 |
32 |
38 |
THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics |
176 |
201 |
301 |
Computer Science
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
The Complete University Guide - Computer Science |
39 |
26 |
25 |
Computer Science Engineering
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Computer Science |
301 |
251 |
301 |
Electrical Engineering
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
The Complete University Guide - Electrical and Electronic Engineering |
65 |
36 |
24 |
Physics
Ranked by |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
QS - Physics and Astronomy |
- |
451 |
551 |
ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Physics |
201 |
201 |
201 |
The Complete University Guide - Physics and Astronomy |
- |
12 |
28 |
The Guardian - Physics |
- |
10 |
35 |
Politics
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
QS - Politics |
201 |
151 |
151 |
The Guardian - Politics |
18 |
33 |
37 |
Accounting
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
The Guardian - Accounting and Finance |
67 |
34 |
45 |
The Complete University Guide - Accounting and Finance |
37 |
45 |
32 |
Political Science
Ranked by |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
QS - Politics |
- |
201 |
151 |
ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Political Sciences |
201 |
151 |
101 |
The Guardian - Politics |
- |
18 |
33 |
Psychology
Ranked by |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
The Complete University Guide - Psychology |
17 |
19 |
29 |
THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology |
201 |
126 |
151 |
Sociology
Ranked by |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Sociology |
101 |
101 |
101 |
The Guardian - Sociology and Social Policy |
- |
55 |
41 |
The Complete University Guide - Sociology |
- |
47 |
28 |
Year
QS Ranks
US News Ranks
2024
#477
-
2023
#402
#593
2022
#334
#593
2021
#334
#499
Facilities
Royal Holloway, University of London has one of the most beautiful campuses in the world, spanning 135 acres and dotted with lush greenery. The campus serves as a hub for teaching and learning spaces, bars, dining areas, lodging, and a sports complex. Except for Kingswood Hall, most of the teaching facilities are on campus. The campus sports complex includes two grass football pitches, a cricket pitch, a rugby pitch, eight tennis courts, and five netball courts. The campus is close to a theatre, the Warner Bros. Studio where Harry Potter was created, Watford, Thorpe Park, and other attractions. Listed below are a few Royal Holloway, the University of London facilities -
Housing Services: The university has three catered residential halls and five self-catering options for students. Accommodation halls are well-equipped with appealing amenities such as laundry, television, lounges, common areas, sports halls, study areas, and much more. Staying in halls will keep you connected to the larger university community while also allowing you to make friends with students at similar stages of study.
Library Services: In print and digital format, the university's extensive library contains over 450,000 books and 36,000 journals. In addition to the main collection, the university has a number of rare and valuable items, archival works, internal publications, and major databases. Students and faculty can use any device to access digital materials from anywhere.
ICT Services: CampusNet, the residential and campus-wide network at Royal Holloway, is available. CampusNet plug-in points can be found in residence halls as well as some PC labs and libraries.
Medical Services: If you are a national of a European Economic Area (EEA) country, you will be eligible for most treatment through the National Health Service (NHS).
Sports Facilities: The Sports Centre on the main campus is the centre of athletic activity. It includes a multi-purpose sports hall, a 46-station fitness suite, an aerobics area, and changing facilities. Personal training and fitness classes are available. The university recently unveiled world-class, floodlit outdoor pitches and courts with all-weather playing surfaces.
Student Clubs: The university Students' Union is well-known for being one of the best in the country. It hosts a dazzling array of entertainment, including top bands and comedy acts, cabaret, film nights, socials, and even a Christmas visit from real reindeer. The Students' Union also hosts a weekly market where you can buy artisan bread and other foods, as well as books, clothes, and plants. Don't miss the puppy therapy sessions if you like dogs!
Notable Alumni
Courses
Admission
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate of the Royal Holloway University stands at 57% indicating that the institution’s admissions process is stringent and competitive. The institution has a worldwide reputation for high-quality teaching and research. Compared to other universities in proximity to the Royal Holloway University, this university is highly competitive. The table below highlights the university of the other university’s acceptance rates near to Royal Holloway University:
Universities in Proximity To Royal Holloway |
Acceptance Rate |
The University of Portsmouth |
69% |
Birkbeck, University of London |
76% |
Lancaster University |
19% |
University of Exeter |
79% |
Entry Requirements
RHUL admission is merit-based, and students must apply online using the UCAS platform before the deadline. It is thus advisable to check the university's website for due dates and plan appropriately. Postgraduate applications are chosen on the basis of academic merit as well as "first come, first served." When applying through UCAS, students can select up to five courses. International students can also enrol in a variety of programmes during the summer intake. The Royal Holloway University of London entry requirements vary greatly depending on programme selection, degree level, place of origin, academic status, and other factors. Some of the most typical conditions for admission to the university are given below -
- Official academic transcripts and certificates
- A Statement of Purpose
- Letter (s) of RecommendationStudents are required to pass 3 subjects with an A Grade in the General Certificate of Education
- An Updated Resume/CV
- Work Experience if required
- A Valid Passport Copy
- Country-specific Requirements
- Any other course-specific requirements that may be applicable
English Language Requirements
All instruction at Royal Holloway (with the exception of certain language courses) is conducted in English. Therefore, it is imperative to possess a proficient level of English to effectively navigate your academic studies from the outset. To demonstrate your English language proficiency, you must attain the requisite scores in one of the following standardised tests:
Test |
Minimum Score Required |
IELTS |
6.5 |
PTE |
61 |
TOEFL iBT |
88 |
Fees
There are a number of factors that will decide whether the applicant will be required to pay 'home' fees. International students will be paying comparatively higher fees than domestic students. Full-time students hailing from Non-EU countries will be paying annual fees of approximately £12.97K to £21.45K for undergraduate degrees, integrated masters and equivalent. However, for courses like MBBS or an executive MBA degree, the fees could extend based on your course intricacies. Additionally, there are pre-sessional English language fees that students will be informed about prior to enrolling on the courses. Some of the top courses at the university and their average annual Royal Holloway University of London fees are as follows -
- MS Artificial Intelligence - £23,092
- MS Project Management - £23,092
- MS Human Resource Management - £23,092
- MS Data Science & Analytics - £36,756
- MS International Management - £31,099
Placement
The Royal Holloway University of London placements are available in a micro scheme plan that is offered to interested students pursuing Mathematics. The scheme is available for a limited period so it is recommended that students check with the university’s career centre prior to applying for the same. Furthermore, 92% of graduates get employed in highly reputed firms of the world including Google, Xerox, Capita, Siemens, etc. Some of the high-paying jobs for graduates and alumni alike at the university include -
- Executive Management & Change - £94,899
- Financial Services - £70,269
- IT Software & Development - £67,371
- Consulting, Accounting, & Professional Services - £47,812
- Finance Control & Strategy - £43,465
- Sales & Business Development - £42,016
Scholarship
Given below are some of the notable scholarships at RHUL:
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Benefits |
Bedford Society Scholarships |
Three scholarships are open to both full and part-time students, regardless of their fee status (home or international). |
£8,100.00 |
Royal Holloway Principal's Masters Scholarship |
International and home students studying masters. |
£4,000.00 |
Computer Science Scholarships |
Eligible students enrolled in one of the Masters courses within the Department of Computer Science will automatically receive the scholarship. |
Tuition fee reduction of up to £4,000 |
Finances
Most international students are obligated to show proof of sufficient funds to obtain a visa. While some students may have the opportunity to make use of scholarships, not all students cut the eligibility to get a scholarship or a grant. Moreover, not all scholarships cover 100% of your study abroad expenses. At such times, most students resort to acquiring education loans to avoid the financial hassles associated with studying at the ONCAMPUS Royal Holloway. For Indian students, UniCreds is the ideal abroad education loan marketplace if you’re looking for low-interest rates and free consultation services!
Accommodation
There are several student housing options in Egham available for students planning to attend the Royal Holloway. You may select from a wide choice of affordable yet elegant student flats, halls of residence, studios, en-suites, and more! You have the option of staying on campus in the university halls of residence or a private residence. Because of their proximity to the university, on-campus housing options may be ideal; nevertheless, they tend to fill up fast and are more expensive.
UniAcco simplifies the process of finding student housing and offers a variety of options. As a result, students can select from a wide range of available student accommodations near the university, such as luxury studios, en-suites, and shared apartments that are more inexpensive and student-friendly.
Cost of Living
Egham is a quaint, traditional town just outside of London's city centre and there's a lot more to it. It's a fantastic area, particularly for university students, as it's rich in culture and history, and the city has exciting things to do! If cooking isn't your cup of tea, you have a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and takeaways to choose from in Egham. The Royal Holloway Student Union is undoubtedly one of the best places for a night out in Egham for students!
Throughout the year, this popular venue hosts weekly club nights as well as a plethora of amazing society performances. Here are some suggestions to help you settle in the city and enjoy whether you are moving there for work or leisure. Listed below is the breakdown of living expenses that will help you relocate to Egham and enjoy your stay during your university time -
Item |
Cost (Per Month) |
Off-Campus Accommodation |
£992 |
On-Campus Accommodation |
£644 |
Transportation |
£100 |
Food |
£390 |
Entertainment |
£54 |
Groceries |
£120 |
Clothes |
£100 |
Total Cost of Living with Off-Campus Accommodation (Per Month) |
£1,756 |
Total Cost of Living with On-Campus Accommodation (Per Month) |
£1,408 |
Annual Cost of Living |
£21,072 |
The above data is fetched from Cost of Living in Egham on UniAcco