🌍 University of Surrey International Student Guide Admissions, Life & Support (2025)
Discover the 2025 International Student Guide for Surrey. Learn about admissions, student life, visas, accommodation, and support services.
📌 Introduction
The University of Surrey in Guildford is home to over 16,000 students from 140+ countries. For international students in 2025, Surrey offers excellent academic programs, strong visa support, and a vibrant campus life.
Located just 30 minutes from London by train, Surrey combines the benefits of a campus university with easy access to the capital. The university is known for its strong industry connections, professional training placements, and supportive international community.
This guide explores everything you need to know—from admissions and scholarships to accommodation, student societies, and daily life at Surrey.
📝 Admissions Process
University of Surrey welcomes international students from around the world. Here's what you need to know about the application process:
Undergraduate: Apply via UCAS with A-levels, IB, or equivalent qualifications. Minimum IELTS 6.5 required.
Postgraduate: Apply through the online Surrey portal. A 2:1 degree is typically required. IELTS 6.5–7.0 depending on course.
Deadlines: January 31, 2025 (UG UCAS deadline); rolling admissions for postgraduate programs.
Visa: CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies) issued after deposit payment.
💡 Application Tip: Apply early for postgraduate programs to secure your place and allow time for visa processing. Surrey's International Student Support team can guide you through the entire process.
🏠 Accommodation
Surrey offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences:
Accommodation Type
Weekly Cost
Details
On-campus halls (Hazel Farm)
£110/week
Standard rooms, shared facilities
On-campus halls (Battersea Court)
£160/week
En-suite rooms, modern facilities
Private halls
£180–£250/week
Premium facilities, city center locations
Shared housing
£120–£170/week
Private rentals, shared with other students
💡 Accommodation Tip: First-year international students are guaranteed on-campus accommodation if they apply by the deadline. This is the easiest way to settle in and meet other students.
🎓 Student Life
Surrey offers a vibrant and inclusive student experience with plenty of opportunities to get involved:
Clubs & Societies
Over 180+ student-run clubs and societies covering cultural groups, academic interests, sports, and hobbies. International students can join country-specific societies or explore new interests.
Events & Activities
Regular events including Guildford Cathedral festivals, Surrey Sports Park activities, cultural celebrations, and social gatherings organized by the Students' Union.
Food & Dining
International food outlets on campus and in Guildford town center. Halal and Kosher options are available. The campus has multiple cafes, restaurants, and a supermarket.
🤝 Support Services
Surrey provides comprehensive support services specifically designed for international students:
International Student Support Team: Dedicated advisors help with visas, banking, part-time jobs, and settling into UK life.
English Language Support Programme (ELSP): Free academic English support to help you succeed in your studies.
Health Services: On-campus GP surgery and wellbeing center providing medical care and mental health support.
Career Services: Guidance on UK job market, CV writing, interview preparation, and placement opportunities.
Airport Pickup: Free Heathrow airport transfers during welcome week for new international students.
💷 Scholarships
Surrey offers several scholarship opportunities for international students to help with tuition costs:
Scholarship
Amount
Eligibility
Surrey International Excellence Award
£5,000 reduction
High-achieving international students (UG & PG)
Subject-specific PG scholarships
£3,000–£5,000
Varies by department and academic merit
💡 Scholarship Tip: Check the Surrey website for the latest scholarship opportunities and application deadlines. Some scholarships are automatically considered when you apply, while others require a separate application.
💼 Part-Time Work & Employability
International students at Surrey have excellent opportunities for work experience and career development:
Work up to 20 hours per week during term time on a Student visa
Full-time work allowed during university holidays
Professional Training placements available in many degree programs
Strong industry connections with major employers in London and the South East
On-campus job opportunities in cafes, libraries, and student services
🙋 FAQs
Q1. Can I work part-time at University of Surrey?
Yes, international students on a Student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays.
Q2. Does Surrey offer airport pickup?
Yes, University of Surrey offers free Heathrow airport transfers during welcome week for new international students.
Q3. Is accommodation guaranteed for international students?
Yes, first-year international students are guaranteed on-campus accommodation if they apply by the deadline.
Q4. What English language requirements do I need?
Most programs require IELTS 6.5 overall (with no component below 6.0). Some postgraduate programs may require IELTS 7.0. Check your specific course requirements.
Q5. How far is Surrey from London?
Guildford is approximately 30 minutes from London Waterloo by train, making it easy to access the capital for work, internships, and leisure.
🎓 Conclusion
The University of Surrey in 2025 offers a smooth transition for international students, with top-tier support, diverse societies, and strong employability pathways.
With over 140 nationalities represented on campus, excellent academic programs, guaranteed accommodation for first years, and comprehensive support services, Surrey provides an ideal environment for international students to thrive academically and personally.
👉 Surrey combines academic excellence with outstanding international student support, making it one of the best choices for students from around the world in 2025.