Leave a gift in your will

By choosing to remember Surrey in your will, you can change lives long into the future. 

Need more information?

A gift in your will – large or small – can help a student stay at Surrey when money is tight, open doors to career success, or power the research that tackles the world’s toughest challenges. 

It is a way to make sure Surrey remains a place where people can learn, belong and discover new possibilities for generations to come. 

Above all, it is a chance to reflect what matters most to you – and to leave a lasting mark on this University that has been part of your story. 

“Leaving a legacy is my way to say ‘thank you’ for my education. I encourage all successful Surrey alumni to consider thanking the University by supporting with a legacy.” Bill Borland (Metallurgy, Class of 1972)
A photograph of Bill Borland and his wife Julie
“People might think that a legacy has to involve a phenomenal amount of money, but if a number of people leave a little, then it soon becomes a lot. Surrey has helped us have a very good life and, if we can give that back, we will rest very easily.” Janet Preston (Physics, Class of 1978)
A photograph of Janet Preston

Why leave a gift in your will to Surrey? 

Surrey is a community that supports its people to grow, feel part of something bigger, and push forward groundbreaking new ideas. 

Leaving a gift in your will is a way to say that these things matter to you, and to weave your values into Surrey’s story for the long term. 

Every legacy plays a part in Surrey’s story. 

And because a gift to Surrey is a charitable donation, it can also bring Inheritance Tax benefits. 

Making your will

Once you’ve provided for those closest to you, you may decide to remember Surrey with a gift in your will. It is a way of turning what Surrey has meant to you – as a place to study, work, collaborate or connect – into opportunities and discoveries for future generations. 

You do not need to have everything worked out to start a conversation with us about including a gift to Surrey. 

Ready to take the next step? Below is a round-up of practical guidance to help you understand the process, and to share with your solicitor when you’re ready. If you have any questions, just get in touch with us.

Stories and News

Behind every legacy is a story – and a life changed for the better. 

In our legacy stories and news, you’ll meet some of the people who’ve chosen to remember Surrey, and the students and researchers whose lives and work have been changed by their support. 

Recognition and thanks 

Let us know about your intentions 

We are deeply grateful to everyone who chooses to remember Surrey in their will. 

If you have already included Surrey in your will – or are thinking about it – we would love to hear from you. 

Sharing your plans with us is not about making any binding decisions; it is simply a way for us to understand how you would like your gift to be used, and a chance to make sure your wishes are realistic and can be honoured in the future. 

It also means we can thank you in a way that feels right for you. 

For a friendly, confidential conversation about your intentions, or to talk your ideas through, please do get in touch. 

Talk to our Gifts in Wills team

“I would like some of my legacy to help other students trying to extend their education who may have difficulty funding themselves. Education is such a vital start in life, an asset. It is an important way of ensuring future generations apply intelligence to the personal and societal challenges they will undoubtedly face.” Yvana Reeves (Change Agent Skills, Class of 2005)
Yvana at our Scholars Lunch alongside Scholarship students and other Alumni
“It’s exciting to know that your contribution is helping people. Targeted giving lets you see where your gift can make a difference, and Surrey does a very good job of finding something that is of interest to each donor, developing it and making it feel special.” Ernest Littauer (Metallurgy, Class of 1958)
A photograph of Ernest Littauer receiving his honorary degree

We're here to help

Photograph of Hannah Whitaker

“I hope you’ve found the information we’ve shared here helpful. I know that thinking about your will can take time – if you’d like to explore whether a gift to Surrey might be part of that, I’m here to help. 

Please do get in touch with me for a confidential, friendly chat about your ideas for your legacy. I love hearing from our alumni and friends about their memories of Surrey and the difference it’s made to your life. I look forward to hearing from you soon!” 

Hannah Whitaker, Senior Advancement Manager 
Email: h.whitaker@surrey.ac.uk 
Phone: 07704 847143