It was established on September 9, 1966, via Royal Charter, but its roots can be traced back to the late 19th century, when it was concerned with providing access to good higher education for the poorest residents of London. Battersea Polytechnic Institute was founded in 1891 and began to focus on science and technology around 1920, teaching postgraduate students from the University of London. The university's academic reputation grew agrew,n 1956 it was one of the first institutions to be designated a "technologically advanced university". The school was renamed Battersea College of Technology in 1957. By the early1960s,s it had outgrown the main building on Battersea Park Road, and in 1962, it was decided to move the campus to Guildford. Soon after, in 1963, the Robbins Report suggested that Battersea College develop into its own degree-granting university.

It is one of the best public universities located in Guildford, Surrey. The university prides itself on being one of the most culturally diverse universities in the UK, with students from over 140 different countries. One of the notable reasons to study at the University of Surrey is the exceptional quality of teaching by award-winning academics. In addition, the University of Surrey also received the prestigious Gold Award in the Teaching Excellence Framework. College is the perfect opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and find a new hobby or pursue an existing passion with like-minded people. With over 170 student clubs and associations, the Student Union has something for everyone. You can even create your own. Unforgettable events are organised to ensure you have an incredible experience, from varsity to a variety of proms and gala dinners. The Student Union also organises unforgettable events and volunteer opportunities to ensure you have the best college experience possible. There are more than 6,000 classrooms on campus, at least half of which have private bathrooms and toilets as well as free, unlimited high-speed Internet access. There are options to suit every budget and requirement, and you're guaranteed a place at the university for your first year as long as your application arrives on time. All dorms for students are independent, have communal kitchens, and are guarded around-the-clock.

Since the founding of the University in the 1960s and before that at Battersea College, our community has thrived on close links and partnerships with the outside world. We have established close partnerships with other organisations and companies, transcending geographical boundaries and using these relationships to bring potential to life.