University of Reading

Overview

Want to study in UK at a university with a high academic and research-based innovation and good employment prospects?

University of Reading is a dynamic research-driven institution located just 25 minutes from London, making it an ideal destination for international students seeking world-class education and global career exposure.

The University of Reading is a top public research institution in Reading, Berkshire, England. Founded in 1892 and given a Royal Charter in 1926, the university is internationally known for its research excellence and strong industry connections.

Students at the University of Reading benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and close access to London’s professional and financial hub. The university hosts more than 5,000 international students from over 160 countries, creating a diverse and multicultural academic environment.

Students studying at the University of Reading benefit from:

A 130-hectare award-winning Whiteknights campus.
Modern laboratories and research facilities.
Strong graduate employability outcomes.
Close proximity to London’s financial and technology hubs.

Providing UG and postgraduate programs at University of Reading, the university is particularly well known for programs in Business (Henley Business School), Agriculture, Meteorology, Environmental Sciences, Finance, and Law.

Highlights

Acceptance Rate: 86%

Total International Students: 5,000+ (from 160+ countries)

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1

Placement Percentage: 94%

University of Reading Rankings

In terms of University of Reading ranking, the University ranks well in the UK and global ranking. Major national league tables typically rank it among the top 40 universities in the UK.

Reading has a good reputation on subjects, so it is a competitive institution to any international student comparing alternatives to Masters in UK or Bachelors.

Here are the updated University of Reading rankings across various agencies:

Ranking Agency	Rank
U.S. News & World Report	385 in Best Global Universities 149 in Best Global Universities in Europe 32 in Best Global Universities in United Kingdom
QS World University	=194 in Top Global Universities
Times Higher Education (THE) World University	201 – 250 in World University Ranking 87 for Business & Economics 101 – 125 for Education Studies

University of Reading Intakes

When exploring universities to study in UK, understanding intake cycles is essential for planning your academic journey.

Most University of Reading application deadlines fall between January and June for September entry, depending on whether you’re applying for undergraduate (via UCAS) or postgraduate courses directly.

If you’re wondering how to apply to University of Reading, undergraduate applicants apply through UCAS, while postgraduate applicants submit applications directly through the university’s online portal.

Fall Intake: The Fall intake aka September is the largest and most popular entry point. Nearly all undergraduate programs at University of Reading and most postgraduate courses are available during this intake, making it ideal for students seeking maximum program options.
Spring Intake: The January intake is smaller compared to September but provides flexibility for students who miss the main cycle or need extra preparation time. Selected postgraduate programs, particularly in business, management, and certain social sciences, are available during this intake.

University of Reading Courses

If you’re exploring courses to study in UK, the University of Reading offers a wide academic portfolio designed to meet global industry standards and research innovation.

International students planning to study Bachelors in UK or pursue postgraduate specialization will find a diverse range of academic disciplines across business, sciences, arts, and social sciences.

The popular programs at University of Reading include Business and Management (Henley Business School), Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Meteorology, Law, Psychology, and Finance.

Some of the top courses at University of Reading are as follows:

Program	Duration	Total Tuition Fees
MSc Accounting, Financial Management and Digital Business	1 Year	£28,150
MSc Finance	1 Year	£29,150
MSc Applied Meteorology and Climate with Management	1 Year	£31,650
MSc Cognitive Neuroscience	1 Year	£31,650
MSc Environmental Management	1 Year (2 Years Part-time)	£31,650
MSc Agriculture and Development	1 Year (2 Years Part-time)	£26,450
MA Fine Art	1 Year (2 Years Part-time)	£26,450
LLM International Law	1 Year (2 Years Part-time)	£26,450

Cost of Studying at University of Reading

When calculating the cost of studying at University of Reading, students should also consider living expenses in the UK.

The cost of education in UK depends on tuition and lifestyle. The cost of living in Reading is lower than in central London, but a little bit higher than in smaller UK towns.

The tuition fees at University of Reading are different based on the level and discipline of study with international rates being high due to the high academic status and research standards of the university.

Here is an overview of the estimated expenses for international students at the University of Reading:

Expense Type	Estimated Cost
UG Tuition Fees	£20,000 – £27,000/year
PG Tuition Fees	£22,000 – £30,000/year
Accommodation	£6,500 – £9,000/year
Food	£180 – £250/month
Travel	£70 – £120/month
General Expenses	£120 – £200/month

University of Reading Scholarships

The University of Reading scholarships portfolio includes merit-based and need-based awards designed to support international students.

Students seeking a scholarship to study in UK can apply for these awards during the admission process. The university also provides limited financial aid University of Reading options and country-specific funding opportunities.

Many awards are competitive and based on academic performance, forming part of University of Reading merit-based scholarships.

Some of the top University of Reading scholarships for international students are as follows:

Scholarship	Value	Details
University of Reading Excellence Scholarship	£2,000 to £7,000	Awarded to international students pursuing degree at university
Commonwealth Scholarship	Fully funded	For students from eligible Commonwealth countries
Chevening Scholarships	Fully funded	UK government-funded PG scholarships

University of Reading Admission

Understanding the admission requirements for University of Reading is essential for international applicants.

Meeting the eligibility to study at University of Reading also includes submitting academic transcripts, SOP, references, and passport documentation.

English tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent meet the English proficiency for University of Reading criteria.

The admission requirements for the University of Reading are as follows:

Masters

Admission Requirements:

To get admission into a Master’s program, students must have a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50% or equivalent to a UK 2:2 Bachelor’s degree.

English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:

TOEFL iBT – 100
IELTS – 6.5
PTE – 76
Cambridge C1/C2 – 185
Duolingo – 125

Additional Requirements:

You are also required to submit academic transcripts, statement of purpose, references, CV, and English language proficiency scores.

Bachelors

Admission Requirements:

For admission to Bachelor’s program, students are required to have a high school diploma with a minimum of 70% or equivalent.

English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:

TOEFL iBT – 100
IELTS – 6.5
PTE – 76
Cambridge C1/C2 – 185
Duolingo – 125

Additional Requirements:

You also need to provide academic transcripts, personal statement, references, CV, and English language proficiency scores.

Accommodation at University of Reading

Locating a new home is a significant aspect in your study experience, and University of Reading halls are meant to offer secure, cozy, and socially minded living to foreign students.

On-Campus: Provides a variety of halls of residence mostly based on the Whiteknights Campus. There are also popular halls which are Stenton Hall, Wantage Hall, Childs Hall, Mackinder Hall, and Windsor Hall with catered and self catered options.
Off-Campus: Students who want greater autonomy will tend to rent privately in Reading town centre or other student-popular locations like Earley and Shinfield. The university assists with off-campus housing via its Reading StudentPad site, which includes verified off-campus housing.

University of Reading Placements

The University of Reading placement rate is strong, especially in business, finance, agriculture, and data-related fields. Graduates are employed by companies such as PwC, Deloitte, Microsoft, HSBC, and government agencies.

The university offers extensive career support at University of Reading, including CV workshops, interview training, internship support, and networking events.

Its global alumni network at University of Reading spans over 150 countries, offering valuable connections for students planning long-term careers in the UK or abroad.

Some of the top recruiters at University of Reading are as follows:

PwC
Deloitte
Microsoft
HSBC
KPMG
EY (Ernst & Young)
Barclays
IBM
Unilever
NHS (National Health Service)
Vodafone
Oracle
Grant Thornton

Student Essential Services

The vibrant student life at University of Reading includes over 150 student societies, sports clubs, cultural groups, and volunteering opportunities. The campus atmosphere is safe, green, and inclusive for international students.

The university provides comprehensive international student support at University of Reading, including UK student visa guidance, academic mentoring, and language support services.

International Student Advisory Team (ISAT): Specialist advice on the immigration of people into the UK, visa extensions, employment laws and regulations, and adherence to the UKVI regulations. They also do pre-arrival webinars as well as orientation of international students.
Student Services Centre (Carrington Building): The Student Services Centre, which is found in the middle of the Whiteknights Campus, provides assistance in enrolment, official documents, council tax exemption letters, and general administrative inquiries. It acts as a one-stop help desk for students.
Academic Liaison Librarians & Study Advice Team: The University Library on Whiteknights Campus has subject-related academic librarians and study advisers who guide and assist students in writing essays, referencing, research, and dissertation writing.
Reading Students’ Union (RSU): The Students Union serves more than 150 clubs and societies including cultural societies and international societies. Independent academic representation and free student advice are also provisioned by RSU.
Counselling & Wellbeing Service: The university provides confidential counselling, mental health support, workshops on stress management, and wellbeing drop-in sessions. Students can access professional therapists and online wellbeing resources.

Location of University of Reading

Get Expert Admission Guidance

Helping students worldwide choose top universities and secure their dream admits.

I'm interested in*

Admission Consultation

Education Loan Options

Full Name*

Phone Number*

Email*

Planning to study in *

Which degree do you want to pursue? *

What is preferred intake? *

Cosigner options

Which University do you want to attend?* If not listed, select "Not Listed." If undecided, choose "Still Deciding."

By continuing, you agree to Nomad Credit's Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Reading a safe city for international students at University of Reading?

Yes, Reading is considered one of the safer student cities in England. The Whiteknights Campus has 24/7 security patrols, CCTV monitoring, and a campus security hotline. The town itself is well-lit, student-friendly, and has a strong community presence due to the large student population.

Is University of Reading good for international students?

Yes, the University of Reading is a popular choice for international students due to its strong academic reputation, diverse student community from over 160 countries, and excellent career support services.

What is the weather like in Reading throughout the year?

The climate is mild in the winter (2-8°C) and the summer is moderate (18-25°C). The rain is dispersed all year round, hence the students are advised to carry waterproofed clothing and layered outfits.

How expensive is public transport around University of Reading?

Reading has an effective bus system that links the campus to the town centre and the train station. Students can purchase discounted bus passes for regular travel.

Why study at University of Reading?

The University of Reading UK is known for its strong academic reputation, research-led teaching, and high graduate employability. It is also home to the globally recognized Henley Business School and offers a diverse international student community with excellent academic support.

What is Welcome Week like at University of Reading?

The University of Reading Welcome Week has a well-designed and interactive structure. It also involves departmental induction programs, tours of the campus, library orientation, information technology orientation, and Students Union fairs. Visa briefing and cultural transition workshops conducted by International Student Advisory Team are also attended by international students.

Are there entrepreneurship opportunities at University of Reading?

Yes, the university promotes student startups by providing such measures as the Entrepreneurship Society and business mentoring programs. Henley Business School has also acquired innovation modules and startup competitions to upcoming entrepreneurs.

What is the campus atmosphere like at University of Reading?

The Whiteknights Campus offers a balanced atmosphere, both academic in the week and social activities in clubs, sports and Students Union activities. It has a serene parkland environment that provides a picturesque study environment.

What is the acceptance rate of University of Reading?

The University of Reading acceptance rate is estimated to be around 80%-86%, making it a moderately selective university in the UK. Although the university has good academic standards, it also receives applications from many qualified international students each year. Admission decisions are primarily based on academic performance, English language proficiency, and program-specific requirements.

Talk to Our Expert Counsellor Today!

Unlock the best opportunities for higher education abroad. Our experts will help you choose the right university, program, & country to match your career goals!