OVERVIEW

Royal Holloway, University of London, is ranked in the top 200 universities in the world. Through world-class research that expands minds and changes lives, the dedication of our teachers and the feel of the Royal Holloway experience, ours is a community that inspires individuals to succeed academically, socially and personally.

The university was founded by two social reformers who pioneered the ideal of education and knowledge for all who could benefit. Their vision lives on today.

As one of the UK’s leading research-intensive universities we are home to some of the world’s foremost authorities in the sciences, arts, business, economics and law. We are strengthened by diversity, and welcome students and academics who travel from all over the world to study and work here, ensuring an international and multi-cultural perspective within a close knit and historic campus.

ACCOMMODATION

University has a unique best-of-both-worlds location; a safe, leafy campus in Egham, Surrey – less than 40 minutes by train from central London and just seven miles from Heathrow airport, creating the environment where a close-knit community thrives.

The campus is one of the most beautiful in the world with numerous teaching and study spaces, bars and cafés, 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, with the exception of Kingswood Hall (just a mile away), this is where most undergraduates live in their first year. It’s a friendly place, with a strong sense of community as new students soon become familiar faces. 

Founder’s Building is one of the world’s most spectacular university buildings, and home to University’s famous Picture Gallery containing Thomas Holloway’s fine collection of Victorian paintings, and our beautiful chapel. It also houses a dining hall and library and provides a home for 500 students.

Situated just 40 minutes by train from London and seven miles from Heathrow, with a number of attractions, sporting and entertainment venues within easy reach, you’ll love this brilliant location.

You have plenty of choice when it comes to choosing a place to live, whether you’re looking for catered, where you’ll eat your meals in one of our dining halls, or self-catered, which contain kitchens where you’ll prepare your own meals. 

International Foundation Year

What is the International Foundation Year?

A three-term programme which will provide you with the academic and English language skills required to succeed at undergraduate level. It is the ideal pathway to integrating with direct-entry students when you progress to your degree.

Pathways

You can choose one of our subject pathways, designed especially for your progression degree:

After completing the International Foundation Year and successfully meeting the progression grades for your chosen degree course, you will have the opportunity to progress to undergraduate study at the University.

You can choose from many options, including single honours, joint honours and major/minor combination degrees.

Who can study the International Foundation Year?

This programme is for students from around the world, excluding countries in the EU. Students who have completed high school education but require further preparation before entry to undergraduate study are welcome.

What will you learn?

Once you have completed the International Foundation Year you will be able to:

  • Communicate in academic English to a level that enables you to effectively participate in an undergraduate degree
  • Demonstrate knowledge, understanding and intellectual skills in your academic subject, at a level equivalent to AS/A level standard (RQF Level 3)
  • Research, analyse and critically evaluate academic sources, both paper-based and electronic
  • Construct evidence-based arguments and present these in a coherent and cohesive manner in writing with due acknowledgement of sources
  • Organise your studies efficiently
  • Make effective use of relevant IT skills
  • Learn to work independently, as well as in groups.