University of Surrey Wins University of the Year Title

The University of Surrey has been recognised as University of the Year by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide, most recently picking up the title for Graduate Employment in 2022 after earlier winning the overall award in 2016. This guide explains why Surrey was honoured, what sets its student experience apart, and how prospective students can make the most of its opportunities.

Why Surrey won the award

• Outstanding employability: Surrey’s Professional Training placements involve more than 2,300 partner organisations, helping students build a year of paid experience and stand out in Graduate Outcomes surveys.
• Teaching quality: The university holds a TEF Gold rating, reflecting strong student satisfaction and teaching standards across its faculties.
• Research with impact: Notable strengths include health and medical sciences, artificial intelligence, hospitality and tourism, and space technology—areas that influence course content and industry links.
• Student experience in Guildford: A single-site campus with green space, the Surrey Sports Park, and quick rail connections to London makes it attractive for both social life and commuting.

Quick facts about the University of the Year recognition

• Awarding body: The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide.
• Latest accolade: University of the Year for Graduate Employment 2022.
• Previous overall win: University of the Year 2016.
• Key metrics cited: Graduate employability, student satisfaction, teaching quality, and industry partnerships.

What this means for applicants

• Placement edge: Many degrees include a Professional Training Year. Students should budget for an extra year of study but expect stronger CVs and employer contacts.
• Career support: The Employability and Careers team runs mock interviews, CV clinics, and employer fairs aligned with placement partners.
• Scholarships: Check subject-specific awards, Surrey International Master’s Scholarships, and hardship funds if you have strong grades or financial need.
• Location benefits: Guildford’s lower living costs compared to central London help offset tuition, while a 35–40 minute train ride keeps internship options in the capital open.

Academic highlights

• Engineering and physical sciences: Known for satellite engineering and 5G/6G communications research through the Surrey Space Centre and Institute for Communication Systems.
• Health and medical sciences: Nursing, psychology, and nutrition courses integrate clinical placements with local NHS trusts.
• Hospitality and tourism: Consistently top-ranked in UK subject tables, benefitting from industry partnerships and on-campus training facilities.
• Creative arts: Guildford School of Acting (GSA) offers conservatoire-style training with strong alumni networks in theatre and screen.

Admissions snapshot

• Entry requirements: Typical A-level offers range from A*AA–BBB depending on the course; many international pathways accept IB 30–35 points or recognised foundation programmes.
• English language: IELTS 6.0–7.0 is common, with course-specific requirements; pre-sessional English is available for students who narrowly miss the score.
• Application tips: Apply early for placement-heavy courses, prepare evidence of work experience for hospitality and health programmes, and use the personal statement to highlight motivation for the Professional Training Year.

International student support

• Visa guidance: Dedicated advisers help with CAS issuance, visa compliance, and part-time work rules.
• Arrival and integration: Airport pick-up services, welcome week activities, and peer mentoring schemes pair new students with current volunteers.
• Everyday wellbeing: On-campus medical centre, faith facilities, and the Centre for Wellbeing provide counselling and mental health support.

Living and learning in Guildford

• Accommodation: En-suite and budget self-catered options are available on campus; private rentals in Guildford and Woking are popular for second-year students.
• Transport: Buses link the campus to town and rail stations; Railcards and student bus passes reduce travel costs for commuting or London internships.
• Community: Over 180 student societies include cultural groups, esports, and performance clubs at GSA, offering quick ways to make friends.

How to make the most of a Surrey offer

1. Secure placements early: Attend employer events in first year to line up Professional Training Year options.
2. Balance academics and work: Use SurreyLearn planners and the Library and Learning Support services to manage coursework during interviews and placement prep.
3. Leverage alumni: Connect with graduates through LinkedIn and university-run networking sessions—especially in engineering, hospitality, and creative arts.
4. Plan finances: Combine scholarships with part-time roles at Surrey Sports Park or the students’ union to cover living costs without overextending your workload.

Bottom line

Surrey’s University of the Year recognition highlights a blend of employability, strong teaching, and a supportive campus environment. If you want a degree with built-in work experience, London access, and a friendly community, it’s a compelling option worth shortlisting.