The University of Surrey is a public research university in Guildford, England. The university received its royal charter in 1966, along with a number of other institutions following recommendations in the Robbins Report. The institution was previously known as Battersea College of Technology and was located in Battersea Park, London. Its roots however, go back to Battersea Polytechnic Institute, founded in 1891 to provide further and higher education in London, including its poorer inhabitants. The universitys research output and global partnerships have led to it being regarded as one of the UKs leading research universities. The University of Surrey is ideal for international students looking for a university steeped in inspiring educational history. With roots going back to the late 19th century, today it is home to more than 16,000 students, with 36 per cent of the population coming from overseas.