Thinking of studying in the UK and looking for universities with good rankings, relatively cheaper living expenses than those in London, and employment opportunities? University of Surrey may just be the one you should consider.
The University of Surrey is known to be a career-focused university with quality research publications and high levels of student satisfaction. This has attracted many foreign students each year, particularly Indians looking for good quality education at affordable rates in the UK near London.
Quick Facts About the University of Surrey
- Established in 1966
- Home to 16,000+ students
- Students from 140+ countries
- Ranked among the top UK universities globally
- Around 35 minutes from London by train
- Strong placement opportunities through professional training programs
University of Surrey Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
| University Type | Public Research University |
| Location | Guildford, England |
| Popular Courses | MBA, Engineering, Computer Science, Psychology |
| Acceptance Rate | Around 65% |
| Average Tuition Fees | £17,000–£30,000/year |
| Accommodation Cost | £5,500–£9,500/year |
| Global Ranking | Top 300 globally |
| IELTS Requirement | Usually 6.0–6.5 |
Why Study at University of Surrey?
The university remains popular among international students because of its good employment rates and the advantages of its location.
- Rated amongst the best universities for employable graduates
- Professional Training Year placements are offered by the university
- Located near London, but it is more affordable
- Excellent research profile in areas such as AI, business, hospitality, and health sciences
The campus experience at University of Surrey has also been ranked very highly for safety and student services.
University of Surrey Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate of the University of Surrey is estimated to be around 65%. This is the perfect indicator of how good your university is.
- Higher competition for MBA and engineering courses
- Strong academic scores improve admission chances
- English language proficiency is mandatory
- SOPs and references matter for postgraduate applications
Its campus environment is equally praised for its safety and student support systems.
University of Surrey Rankings 2026
Rankings serve as a guide for assessing academic prestige before application. QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education frequently rank Surrey among respected UK universities.
- QS World University Rankings: Top 300 globally
- Times Higher Education Rankings: Strong UK position
- Highly ranked for hospitality and tourism programs
- Strong reputation in engineering and healthcare research
Popular Courses at University of Surrey
The institution provides undergraduate, graduate, and research programs. The University of Surrey is renowned for offering career-oriented courses. This university offers a wide range of in-demand programs for students, which help them to grow in their chosen field.
Top Undergraduate Courses
- Computer Science
- Business Management
- Mechanical Engineering
- Psychology
- Economics
- Media Studies
Top Postgraduate Courses
- MBA
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Science
- Public Health
- International Business Management
- Civil Engineering
Its hospitality programs are also globally recognised.
University of Surrey Fees for International Students
Tuition fees are often the biggest concern for students. Because it is always a major concern for any international student, but this university offers quality education at a budget. Tuition fees depend on course type and level.
| Course | Annual Tuition Fees |
| Undergraduate Courses | £17,000–£23,000 |
| Postgraduate Courses | £18,000–£28,000 |
| MBA | £30,000+ |
| Engineering Programs | £22,000+ |
Additional expenses include visa fees, health insurance, and travel costs.
Cost of Living & Accommodation
Living in Guildford is cheaper than living in London. Annual accommodation costs can range from £5,500 to £9,500 approximately.
Average Monthly Expenses
- Accommodation: £500–£900
- Food: £150–£300
- Transport: £50–£100
- Personal expenses: £100–£250
Accommodation Options
- On-campus halls
- Shared apartments
- Studio rooms
- Private rentals
University of Surrey Scholarships
International students can reduce tuition costs through scholarships.
International Excellence Awards
Given to high-performing international students based on academic merit.
Faculty Scholarships
Specific departments offer tuition discounts for selected courses.
GREAT Scholarships
Funded in partnership with the UK government for eligible international students.
Chevening Scholarships
Fully funded scholarships for future global leaders.
Commonwealth Scholarship Commission
Available for eligible students from Commonwealth nations.
Always check annual scholarship deadlines because they may change.
University of Surrey Admission Requirements
Admission criteria vary by course. Application procedures are easy and friendly towards students. Good academic records and proper documents get you into one of our universities in no time.
Undergraduate Requirements
- Academic transcripts
- English language scores (IELTS/PTE)
- Passport
- Personal statement
Postgraduate Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree
- SOP
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume/CV
- Work experience (for MBA programs)
University of Surrey Application Deadlines 2026
Deadlines are crucial for international students planning visas.
Undergraduate Applications
Applications are typically submitted through UCAS.
- Main deadline: January 2026
- Late applications: June 2026 (course dependent)
Postgraduate Applications
Many postgraduate programs accept applications on a rolling basis, but students should apply before:
- March–May 2026 for September intake
- October–November 2026 for January intake (selected courses)
International students should apply early to avoid visa delays.
Conclusion
The University of Surrey stands out among other universities in terms of its suitability for studying in the UK without bearing the extra cost of living associated with cities such as London. It boasts reasonable admission rates, world-class rankings, professionally oriented programs, scholarships, and placements.
The fact that the institution is situated in Guildford means that students can enjoy the tranquillity offered by the serene campus atmosphere while still being close to the main job markets in the UK. In addition, it is affordable in terms of accommodation costs, flexible in terms of deadlines, and offers several benefits to Indian students.
For those preparing to enrol at the institution in 2026, be sure to identify your chosen course and review any deadlines for scholarships before preparing the relevant application documents.
FAQS
1. What is the University of Surrey acceptance rate?
It is estimated to be around 65%.
2. What are the University of Surrey fees for Indian students?
Fees typically range between £17,000 and £30,000 annually.
3. Does the University of Surrey offer scholarships?
Yes, including merit scholarships, faculty scholarships, and government-funded options.
4. Is Guildford expensive for students?
It is moderately expensive but cheaper than London.
5. What is the application deadline for the University of Surrey?
UG deadlines usually follow UCAS timelines, while PG deadlines vary by course.
6. Is the University of Surrey good for placements?
Yes, it is well-known for strong employability support.