University of Reading Review: A Complete Guide
The University of Reading is a well-established UK university known for its strong teaching, research, and international outlook. The university attracts students from over 150 countries and offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Here, you will find a green campus environment with good transport links to London, making it a practical choice for many students.
University of Reading Summary
- City: Reading
-
Graduate Employment Rate：
92% within 15 months of graduation.
Table of Contents
Overview of the University of Reading
The University of Reading has built a strong academic reputation over the years. Established in 1892 and granted university status in 1926, it is one of the UK’s leading research-intensive institutions. The university is home to over 27,000 students, with a significant proportion coming from outside the UK.
Its main campus, Whiteknights, is set within 130 hectares of parkland and regularly ranks among the most beautiful in the UK. In addition to its main campus, the university also has a campus in central Reading and an international campus in Malaysia.
Reading offers a wide range of courses across disciplines such as business, agriculture, architecture, environmental science, law, and the humanities. The Henley Business School, in particular, enjoys a strong global reputation and triple accreditation.
Moreover, the university continues to invest in its facilities and research output. It works closely with industry and government to produce impactful research, especially in areas like climate science, food security, and health.
University of Reading Rankings 2026
QS World University Rankings 2026: Ranked 194th globally
Complete University Guide 2026 (UK): Ranked 36th in the UK
University of Reading Courses and Programmes
Henley Business School, part of the University of Reading, maintains its position as one of the top business schools in the UK and internationally. It holds the prestigious “triple crown” accreditation from AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS. This is a mark of global quality held by only a small number of business schools worldwide.
QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024
- Business & Management Studies: 134th globally, 21st in the UK
- Accounting & Finance: 101–150 globally, joint 17th in the UK
QS Business Masters Rankings 2025
- Masters in Finance: 85th globally (up 14 places)
- Masters in Management: now in the top 100 globally
Financial Times European Business Schools Ranking 2023
- Overall: 7th in the UK
- Masters in Finance: 6th in the UK, 33rd globally
- Masters in Management: 5th in the UK
Ranked 20th globally in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024, this school is a leader in agricultural sciences, offering programmes that address global food security and sustainable development.
This department was ranked 5th in the world for atmospheric science in the 2024 Global Ranking of Academic Subjects. The department is known for its cutting-edge research in climate science and weather prediction.
This school excels in areas like construction management and engineering. In the Complete University Guide 2025, it was ranked 3rd in the UK for Building, reflecting its strong industry connections and research output.
The university’s programme in this field was ranked 4th in the UK in the Complete University Guide 2025, highlighting its commitment to health sciences and professional training.
University of Reading Entry Deadline
| Date | What Happens |
| 13 May 2025 | Applications open. Students can start filling in their UCAS forms. |
| 2 Sep 2025 | Students can start submitting completed applications to UCAS. |
| 15 Oct 2025 (6pm) | Deadline for Oxford, Cambridge, and most medicine, dentistry, vet courses. |
| 14 Jan 2026 (6pm) | Main deadline for most undergraduate courses. |
| 26 Feb 2026 | UCAS Extra opens. Students with no offers can apply for more courses. |
| 30 Jun 2026 (6pm) | Last date to apply before Clearing. After this, applications go to Clearing. |
| 5 Jul 2026 | Clearing opens. Students can view and apply to available places. |
| 24 Sep 2026 | Final deadline to apply for 2026 entry. |
| 19 Oct 2026 | Last date to add a Clearing choice. |
University of Reading Entry Requirements
The University of Reading welcomes applicants with a variety of qualifications. Typical offers are expressed in terms of A-levels, BTECs, and the International Baccalaureate (IB).
A-levels: Most courses require three A-levels, excluding General Studies.
International Baccalaureate (IB): Applicants should present the full IB Diploma. Specific subject requirements may apply, with particular grades needed at Higher Level.
BTEC National Diplomas: Accepted for many courses. Subject-specific requirements may necessitate particular modules or an accompanying A-level.
GCSEs: A grade C/4 or above in English and Mathematics is typically required. Some programmes may have additional GCSE subject requirements.
International Qualifications: The university accepts a wide range of international qualifications, including the Malaysian STPM, Singapore A-levels, and the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education. Country-specific requirements can be found on the university’s international pages.
University of Reading Fees
| Course Mode | Home Fee | International Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation Year (Non-laboratory courses) | £5,760 | £25,250 |
| Foundation Year (Significant laboratory/workshop) | £9,535 | £29,950 |
| Undergraduate (Non-laboratory courses) | £9,535 | £25,250 |
| Undergraduate (Significant laboratory/workshop) | £9,535 | £29,950 |
| Postgraduate Taught (Non-laboratory courses) | £11,750 | £25,850 |
| Postgraduate Taught (Significant laboratory/workshop) | £12,800 | £30,950 |
| Postgraduate Research (Non-science subjects) | £5,006 | £21,250 |
| Postgraduate Research (Science subjects) | £5,006 | £23,900 |
University of Reading Scholarships
The University of Reading offers a range of scholarships and financial support schemes designed to help students from diverse backgrounds. Below are some of the notable scholarships available:
- Reading Bursary 2024
This bursary offers a cash award or tuition fee waiver to eligible students based on financial need. - Sporting Excellence Scholarship
Aimed at students who compete in sport at a national level or are on a national pathway. This scholarship helps support the academic and sporting development of talented athletes. - Commuter Travel Bursary
Financial support is provided to help students with commuting costs, easing the burden of travel for those who live off-campus. - Digital Support Fund
This fund assists students with the associated costs of online learning, providing financial aid to ensure access to necessary digital resources. - Care Experienced and Estrangement Bursary
For students who have spent time in the care system or have experienced estrangement from their family. It supports students under the age of 25 at the start of their course. - Julia Boorman Award
A financial bursary for students with a recognised disability who are studying Theatre, Arts, or History, helping to support their academic journey. - Ewan Page Prize Bursary
A scholarship aimed at high-achieving students who excel academically before entry. - Leverhulme Trade Charities Trust
Grants available for the child, spouse, widow, or widower of a commercial traveller, pharmacist, or grocer, supporting those in need. - Robert Pearce Bursary
Focused on supporting innovative ideas in sustainable development, this bursary recognises and rewards students’ research efforts. - Bulmershe Bursary
This bursary provides support for students studying Film, Theatre, and Television, helping them pursue their studies and careers in the creative industries.
University of Reading Facilities
The University of Reading offers a wide range of modern facilities to enhance the student experience. Here are some key facilities available on campus:
Sports Facilities
The university boasts excellent sports facilities, including an on-site sports park with outdoor pitches, a gym, fitness studios, and a swimming pool. There are also tennis courts, a running track, and opportunities for a wide range of sports activities.
Computer Labs and IT Services
Multiple computer labs are available across the campus, equipped with the latest software and technologies. Students also have access to free Wi-Fi and IT support services.
Health and Wellbeing Centre
The on-campus Health Centre provides medical services, including consultations with doctors, nurses, and mental health support. There are also counselling services for students in need of emotional and psychological support.
Art and Culture Facilities
The university has its own art gallery, performance spaces, and cultural venues. These are used for exhibitions, performances, and various creative events throughout the academic year.
Green Spaces and Outdoor Areas
The campus is surrounded by beautiful green spaces, including the Whiteknights Park, which provides a tranquil environment for relaxation, walking, or outdoor activities.
University of Reading Accommodation
| Residence | Distance from central Whiteknights campus (km) | Prices for 2025/26 (per week) |
|---|---|---|
| Stenton Hall | 0.3 | £241.50 |
| Childs Hall | 0.6 | £235.20–£241.50 |
| Stenton Townhouses | 0.6 | £199.01–£209.16 |
| Windsor Hall | 0.6 | £230.02–£245.00 |
| Greenow and McCombie | 0.7 | £219.03–£346.50 |
| Mackinder Hall | 0.7 | £241.50 |
| Wessex Hall | 0.7 | £175.00–£270.90 |
| Bridges Hall | 0.8 | £185.15–£241.50 |
| Dunsden Crescent | 0.8 | £294.98 |
| St Patrick’s Hall | 1 | £158.06–£346.50 |
| St George’s Hall | 1.1 | £175.00–£299.25 |
| Wantage Hall | 1.1 | £192.71–£299.25 |
| Benyon Hall | 1.2 | £206.29–£276.85 |
| Sherfield Hall | 1.3 | £185.15–£299.25 |
University of Reading Notable Alumni
The University of Reading has a strong alumni network, with many former students going on to achieve success in various fields. Here are some notable alumni:
- Kate Winslet
Academy Award-winning actress known for her roles in films like Titanic, The Reader, and Steve Jobs. Winslet studied English Literature at the university. - Sir John Madejski
Businessman and philanthropist, Sir John Madejski is best known as the owner of the Reading Football Club. He has been an influential figure in business and education and contributed to the development of the university. - Jeremy Paxman
British journalist and broadcaster, famous for hosting University Challenge and his career with the BBC. Paxman studied English at the University of Reading. - Simon Cowell
Television producer, music executive, and judge, Simon Cowell is known for his work on American Idol, The X Factor, and Britain’s Got Talent. He attended the University of Reading before his rise to fame in the entertainment industry. - Chris Tarrant
Television and radio presenter, best known for hosting the UK version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? Tarrant studied English and History at Reading. - Greg Dyke
Former Director-General of the BBC, Greg Dyke is a highly respected figure in British broadcasting. He studied History and Political Science at the University of Reading. - David Dimbleby
Veteran broadcaster, known for presenting Question Time and his long career with the BBC. He studied Politics at the university. - Liam Fox
Former Secretary of State for Defence in the UK, Liam Fox is a prominent British politician who graduated from the University of Reading with a degree in Medicine. - Sarah Brown
Founder of the White Ribbon Alliance and wife of former Prime Minister Gordon Brown, Sarah Brown is a leading figure in global health and humanitarian work.
Experience the City of Reading as a Student
Reading is a lively city with a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. It offers easy access to London while providing a more relaxed environment. The city has plenty of green spaces, shopping centres, and restaurants. You can explore attractions like Reading Abbey Ruins or enjoy outdoor activities in Forbury Gardens. With a wide range of local cafes, pubs, and shops, Reading has everything students need for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
How much does it cost to live in Reading as a Student
Living in Reading offers a balance between affordability and quality of life. Here’s a breakdown of typical student living expenses:
Accommodation
University-managed accommodation ranges from approximately £140 to £300 per week, depending on room type and facilities. Private student housing may cost between £475 and £565 per month for an en-suite room.
Food and Essentials
Groceries: Around £55 per week.
Mobile & Internet: About £9 per week.
Local Travel: Around £18 per week.
Books & Stationery: Roughly £14 per week.
Clothing & Personal Care: Around £19 per week.
Entertainment: Approximately £35 per week.
Total Estimated Monthly Budget:
Combining accommodation and living costs, students can expect to spend between £1,050 and £1,400 per month, depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices.
Opportunities in Reading as an International Student
Reading offers various opportunities for international students to enhance their academic and personal growth. The university’s strong global network provides students with access to international internships, study abroad programmes, and collaborative research projects.
Additionally, Reading’s location offers access to a diverse job market, with numerous multinational companies, particularly in sectors like finance, technology, and education, based in and around the city. The university’s career service also helps students with job placements, career advice, and networking events.
The city itself is home to a multicultural community, which means international students can find support from various cultural societies and student groups. These provide a chance to connect with peers from similar backgrounds and expand their professional and social networks.
Furthermore, Reading has various volunteering opportunities, enabling students to gain valuable work experience while giving back to the community. With its central location, students can easily travel to nearby cities like London, offering additional professional and cultural opportunities.
Reading’s international student support services also ensure students receive guidance on visa regulations, health care, and settling into life in the UK. These resources are designed to help students succeed academically and make the most of their time in the UK.
University of Reading Contact Information
- Official website: https://www.reading.ac.uk/
- Address: Whiteknights House, Reading RG6 6UR, United Kingdom
- General information for international students: +44 118 987 5123
