Royal Agricultural University

The Royal Agricultural University (RAU) is committed to providing a supportive, inclusive, and student-focused environment where every learner can thrive academically, professionally, and personally. Through a wide range of student services, the university ensures that students receive the guidance, resources, and practical support needed to make the most of their university experience.

At the centre of student support is the Student Hub, located in the Emrys Jones Building on the Cirencester campus. Easily accessible to all students, the Hub serves as a central point for advice, guidance, and wellbeing services. The university offers dedicated support for students with disabilities, learning differences, and health conditions, including dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADHD, autism spectrum conditions, sensory impairments, mobility difficulties, anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and other mental health challenges.

Every student is assigned an Academic Support Tutor (AST) who provides personalised academic and pastoral guidance throughout their studies. Regular one-to-one meetings allow students to discuss academic progress, seek advice, and address any concerns. The AST framework also helps students develop essential academic skills, including essay writing, referencing, revision techniques, presentation skills, note-taking, and effective time management.

RAU’s digital learning platform, Gateway, provides convenient access to module materials, learning resources, academic support content, library services, e-journals, and online catalogues. Students can access these resources both on campus and remotely from anywhere in the world using their university login credentials.

International students benefit from additional support designed to ease the transition to life in the United Kingdom. Orientation programmes help students adapt to university study, while guidance is available for practical matters such as accommodation, visa requirements, bank account setup, council tax, and other everyday essentials. The International Society further enhances student life by organising social activities and cultural celebrations that help students build friendships and feel part of the university community.

Career development is another major strength of the university. RAU’s dedicated Enterprise and Employability Team supports students from application through to three years after graduation. Services include one-to-one careers guidance, CV reviews, interview preparation, LinkedIn profile development, job search support, and access to graduate vacancies, placements, and part-time employment opportunities through the university’s job portal.

Strong industry connections provide students with valuable networking opportunities through guest lectures, employer presentations, career fairs, and placement experiences ranging from 70 hours to a full year. In addition, students benefit from the support of a global alumni network of more than 14,000 graduates. Combined with comprehensive library resources, professional career services, and personalised academic support, RAU delivers a well-rounded student experience focused on success, wellbeing, and long-term career achievement.

The Royal Agricultural University (RAU) has established itself as one of the United Kingdom’s leading specialist institutions, earning recognition for academic quality, graduate outcomes, research excellence, student satisfaction, and its contribution to sustainable development. As the oldest agricultural college in the English-speaking world, RAU continues to strengthen its reputation through strong rankings and industry-focused education.

One of the university’s most notable recent achievements came in the Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2025, where RAU was ranked 2nd in the UK in the Small or Specialist University category. The institution also secured 2nd place in the South West England Small or Specialist category, reflecting outstanding student satisfaction and a high-quality learning experience. The university has consistently performed well in these awards, ranking among the top ten specialist institutions in previous years and earning recognition for student support initiatives.

RAU also demonstrates strong subject-specific performance. In the Complete University Guide 2025, the university was ranked among the Top 10 universities in the UK for Land and Property Management, highlighting its excellence in one of its flagship academic disciplines. Furthermore, the Complete University Guide 2026 ranked RAU 1st in the UK for Graduate Prospects – On Track, demonstrating the university’s success in preparing students for professional careers.

Graduate success remains one of RAU’s strongest indicators of quality. According to Graduate Outcomes Survey results collected 15 months after graduation, 88% of graduates were in employment and/or further study, while 75% of postgraduate graduates secured highly skilled employment. Additionally, 85% of postgraduates were in highly skilled employment and/or further study, reflecting the university’s strong employability focus and industry relevance.

The university’s commitment to sustainability and global impact has also received international recognition. In the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, RAU was placed among the Top 200 universities globally for Zero Hunger (SDG 2) and within the Top 300 for Life on Land (SDG 15). In the 2025 THE Impact Rankings, the university was positioned within the 1001–1500 global band, demonstrating its ongoing contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Research excellence is another significant strength. More than half of RAU’s research was assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent in the Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021), with 52% receiving these prestigious classifications. The Complete University Guide 2026 further ranked the university 50th in the UK for research intensity, while RAU is recognised as England’s leading specialist university for research.

Additional recognition includes a Silver rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023, 8th in the UK for Student Experience in the Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024, 109th in the Complete University Guide 2027, 124th in the UK according to EduRank 2026, 130th in The Times and The Sunday Times 2026, and 140th in the UK in Webometrics rankings. These achievements collectively demonstrate RAU’s strong reputation as a specialist institution delivering academic excellence, impactful research, and outstanding career outcomes.

Student life at the Royal Agricultural University (RAU) offers far more than academic study. As a thriving centre of excellence, the university provides a welcoming and close-knit community where students can build lifelong friendships, develop valuable skills, and create unforgettable experiences. Located in the heart of the beautiful Cotswolds, RAU combines outstanding educational opportunities with an engaging social environment, making it an ideal destination for students seeking a balanced university experience.

The Students’ Union (RAUSU) plays a central role in campus life, helping students make the most of their time at the university. From sports clubs and societies to social events, volunteering opportunities, and charity fundraising activities, RAUSU creates numerous ways for students to get involved. All clubs and societies are student-led, allowing members to develop leadership skills, pursue personal interests, and meet like-minded individuals. Students can even create new societies with support from the Students’ Union, ensuring a vibrant and inclusive community that reflects student interests.

A key social hub on campus is The Tithe, the university’s dedicated student bar. Designed as a welcoming and safe space, it provides students with opportunities to relax, socialise, and enjoy a variety of events throughout the academic year. Popular activities include Students’ Union themed nights, weekly Sports Nights, campus discos, and live music events, helping to create a lively and enjoyable campus atmosphere.

Sport is a major part of student life at RAU. Whether students are aiming to compete at a high level or simply stay active, the university offers an inclusive sporting environment supported by excellent facilities. Students have access to a fully equipped gym featuring cardio, resistance, and strength-training equipment, as well as professional-standard rugby, football, and lacrosse pitches. Additional facilities include netball courts, on-campus padel courts, and partnerships with equestrian centres that provide riding opportunities and participation in BUCS equestrian competitions. Popular student societies include the Agricultural Society, Equestrian Society, and Rural Business Society, alongside various team sports.

Beyond campus, students benefit from the unique location of Cirencester, often referred to as the “Capital of the Cotswolds.” Just a short walk from the university, the town offers museums, art galleries, cafés, boutiques, markets, restaurants, pubs, and a vibrant nightlife scene. Students can enjoy dedicated club nights, social venues, and a variety of cultural experiences throughout the year. The surrounding countryside provides countless outdoor recreation opportunities. Students can relax in Cirencester Park, swim at the historic open-air Lido, or explore the nearby Cotswold Water Park, which offers activities such as kayaking, sailing, rowing, wakeboarding, and windsurfing across more than 150 lakes. Popular local events include Badminton Horse Trials, Cheltenham Festival, race days, and rugby matches.

RAU’s excellent location also provides easy access to major cities, with Bath, Bristol, Oxford, and Cheltenham all within an hour of campus, while direct trains connect students to London in approximately 80 minutes. Combining a supportive community, active social scene, outstanding sports facilities, and an exceptional location, the Royal Agricultural University delivers a rewarding and memorable student experience.

The Royal Agricultural University (RAU) offers a welcoming and supportive residential experience designed to help students feel at home from the moment they arrive. Whether students choose to live on the picturesque campus surrounded by the rolling hills of the Cotswolds or prefer accommodation in the heart of Cirencester, RAU provides a comfortable living environment that complements academic success and student wellbeing.

With a student population of around 1,100, the university offers a close-knit community atmosphere where students can easily build friendships, access support, and become actively involved in campus life. First-year students are guaranteed accommodation in the university’s halls of residence, subject to application requirements, providing peace of mind during the transition to university life. As accommodation is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, students are encouraged to apply early.



RAU provides a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and lifestyles. All university residences are located within walking distance of academic facilities, ensuring convenient access to lectures, study spaces, social venues, and campus services. Accommodation is fully furnished and includes Wi-Fi access, creating a comfortable and connected living environment. Bledisloe Court offers 59 standard single bedrooms across six houses situated on three levels. Some rooms enjoy attractive views across surrounding farmland towards the village of Coates, providing students with a peaceful countryside setting.

Coad Court is centrally located on campus and consists of 11 houses. The residence features large, bright bedrooms with stunning countryside views, including 44 en-suite rooms and nine standard single rooms. Its central location makes it a popular choice among students seeking easy access to campus facilities.

For postgraduate students, George Wing provides dedicated accommodation within the university’s historic Main Building. Primarily designed for international postgraduate students, it is also available to UK postgraduate students, subject to availability.

Vic Hughes Hall offers two accommodation options on the edge of campus. Vic Hughes Hall 1 is a self-catered residence with 26 en-suite bedrooms, while Vic Hughes Hall 2 provides half-board accommodation with 26 en-suite rooms, combining comfort with additional dining convenience.

West Lodge features 58 en-suite single bedrooms divided across two self-catered halls, offering modern accommodation in an on-campus location. Woodlands Lodge 1, 2, and 3 provide spacious half-board accommodation with seven large en-suite rooms. Students who prefer living off campus can receive support from the university’s Accommodation Office in finding suitable private rental housing in Cirencester and surrounding areas. With a variety of accommodation choices, modern facilities, and a strong sense of community, RAU ensures students enjoy a safe, comfortable, and enriching living experience throughout their studies.