University of Reading
Reading, United Kingdom
University of Reading
Reading, United Kingdom
Founded
1892
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
21,000+
QS World Ranking
#194 (2026)
Discover the University of Reading: A Historic Red Brick Institution
Discover the University of Reading: A Historic Red Brick Institution
The University of Reading is a public research university located in Reading, Berkshire, England. Originally founded in 1892 as the University Extension College, an extension of Christ Church, Oxford, it received its Royal Charter in 1926 from King George V, making it the only university to receive such a charter between the two world wars.
Today, the university is home to around 23,000 students from more than 160 countries, studying across four campuses including the main 130-hectare Whiteknights campus, the London Road campus, Greenlands on the River Thames, and an international campus in Malaysia. The university is arranged into 16 academic schools and is renowned for its research contributions, with 98% of its research rated as internationally recognised.
Reading is particularly celebrated for its strengths in climate science, agriculture and food, business, and meteorology. The university's Professor Ed Hawkins MBE created the world-famous Climate Stripes, and Reading scientists have contributed to the Nobel Peace Prize-winning Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Henley Business School, formed through a 2008 merger with Henley Management College, holds prestigious triple accreditation from AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS.
Key Milestones
- 1892: Founded as the University Extension College, Reading, an extension of Christ Church, Oxford
- 1926: Received Royal Charter from King George V, becoming a fully independent university
- 2008: Merged with Henley Management College to create the triple-accredited Henley Business School
- 2016: Opened the University of Reading Malaysia campus in Iskandar Puteri
Academic Structure and Schools
Academic Structure and Schools
The University of Reading organises its academic activities through a decentralised structure of schools, grouped under three main faculties: the Faculty of Science, the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Henley Business School. With 16 academic schools offering programmes from pure and applied sciences to languages, humanities, social sciences, business, and the arts, the university provides a comprehensive academic experience.
Henley Business School
One of the largest full-service business schools in Europe, Henley holds triple accreditation from AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS. It offers programmes in accounting, finance, management, marketing, and real estate across the Whiteknights and Greenlands campuses.
- MBA and Executive MBA
- BSc/MSc Finance and Investment Banking (ICMA Centre)
- MSc Real Estate and Planning
School of Agriculture, Policy and Development
Internationally recognised for research in agri-food systems, rural economics, and international development. The school's Agriculture and Forestry programmes are ranked in the top 50 globally by QS.
- BSc Agriculture
- MSc Food Science and Technology
- MSc International Development and Agriculture
School of Mathematical, Physical and Computational Sciences
This school encompasses the departments of Mathematics and Statistics, Computer Science, and Meteorology. The Department of Meteorology is one of the UK's leading centres for weather and climate research.
- BSc/MMet Meteorology
- BSc Computer Science
- BSc Mathematics and Statistics
School of Biological Sciences
Covering ecology, evolution, microbiology, and biomedical sciences, this school is home to the Cole Museum of Zoology and contributes to research in biodiversity, disease, and environmental science.
- BSc Biological Sciences
- BSc Biomedical Sciences
- MSc Species Conservation
School of Literature and Languages
Offering programmes in English literature, modern languages, and applied linguistics, this school is known for its strong tradition in the humanities. It houses the Department of English Literature and the Department of Languages and Cultures.
- BA English Literature
- BA Modern Languages
- MA Applied Linguistics
School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences
A leading centre for psychology research and clinical training, this school offers accredited programmes in psychology and speech and language therapy, with strong links to NHS clinical practice.
- BSc Psychology
- MSc Clinical Language Sciences
- DClinPsy Clinical Psychology
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Application PlatformUCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service)
- Typical A-Level OfferBBC to ABB depending on programme
- IB Diploma28-34 points depending on programme
- English Language (IELTS)Overall 6.5 with no less than 5.5 in each component (varies by programme)
- Personal StatementRequired via UCAS application
Postgraduate Admission
- Undergraduate DegreeUK 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent
- English Language (IELTS)Overall 6.5-7.0 depending on programme
- ReferencesTwo academic or professional references typically required
- Personal StatementStatement of purpose outlining research interests and career goals
- Additional RequirementsSome programmes require portfolios, work experience, or interviews (e.g. MBA, Architecture)
Equal consideration deadline for most undergraduate programmes through UCAS
Applications accepted on a rolling basis; early application recommended for popular programmes
Final UCAS deadline; applications may still be considered if places are available
Research programme deadlines vary by school and funding availability; check with the relevant department
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at the University of Reading
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at the University of Reading
Tuition fees at the University of Reading vary by programme and student status. International students should budget carefully, as fees differ between classroom-based and laboratory-based programmes. The university offers a range of scholarships to support international students.
| Fee Category | UK Students (Annual) | International Students (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (Classroom-based) | GBP 9,535 | GBP 19,500 - GBP 25,250 |
| Undergraduate (Lab-based) | GBP 9,535 | GBP 25,250 - GBP 29,950 |
| Postgraduate Taught | GBP 10,000 - GBP 16,475 | GBP 19,500 - GBP 30,650 |
| MBA (Henley Business School) | Contact university | GBP 39,500 |
| Total | Varies by programme | GBP 19,500 - GBP 39,500 |
Global Sustainability Leaders Scholarship
A merit-based scholarship scheme launched in 2025 for international undergraduate students, focused on creating a community of global sustainability leaders of the future.
- Value: GBP 3,000 - GBP 10,000 per year
- Eligibility: International undergraduate applicants with strong academic records
- Application: Many are automatically considered upon application to the university
Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
Fully funded scholarships for postgraduate students from eligible Commonwealth countries, covering tuition fees, living allowance, and travel costs.
- Value: Full tuition fees plus living allowance
- Eligibility: Postgraduate students from eligible developing Commonwealth countries
- Application: Separate application required; check deadlines on the university website
Campus and Facilities at the University of Reading
Campus and Facilities at the University of Reading
The University of Reading operates across four campuses, with the main Whiteknights campus spanning 130 hectares of beautiful parkland featuring conservation meadows, a lake, and a collection of rare trees. The campus has received 14 consecutive Green Flag awards, recognising it as one of Britain's top green spaces.
The main 130-hectare campus set in award-winning parkland with lakes, meadows, and listed buildings including Foxhill House designed by Alfred Waterhouse
Home to Henley Business School's MBA and executive programmes, this beautiful Thameside campus was formerly the residence of W.H. Smith
The refurbished library, reopened in 2019 after a GBP 40 million renovation, offers 24-hour access during the week with expanded study spaces and modern facilities
Housing and Dining
Student Accommodation
The university has seven halls of residence on the Whiteknights campus, all within a 15-minute walk of the campus centre. New undergraduates and postgraduates are guaranteed accommodation if they accept their offer within the deadline.
- Catered and self-catered options available
- Contracts for 40 or 51 weeks by arrangement
- En-suite and shared bathroom options
Dining and Campus Life
The campus features a variety of places to eat, shop, and socialise. Students enjoy regular international street food markets, farmers' markets, and multiple cafes and restaurants across campus.
- Multiple cafes, restaurants, and bars on campus
- Regular international street food and farmers' markets
- Students' Union venue 3sixty for nightlife and events
Student Life at the University of Reading
Student Life at the University of Reading
The University of Reading offers a vibrant and inclusive student experience, with a diverse international community from more than 160 countries. Reading Students' Union is at the heart of campus life, providing a wide range of student-led events, support services, and social activities.
Reading: A Thriving City in the Heart of the Thames Valley
Reading: A Thriving City in the Heart of the Thames Valley
Life in Reading
Reading is a dynamic city located in the heart of the Thames Valley, one of the UK's most important economic regions. With London Paddington just 25 minutes away by train and Heathrow Airport under an hour away, Reading offers excellent connectivity. The city combines a bustling urban centre with affordable living costs compared to London, making it an attractive destination for students.
Thames Valley Tech Hub
Reading sits at the centre of the UK's Silicon Valley equivalent, with major employers including Microsoft, Oracle, Procter and Gamble, and PwC based in the area
Excellent Transport Links
Under 30 minutes to London Paddington by train, with easy access to Heathrow and Gatwick airports for international travel
Affordable Living
Living costs in Reading are significantly lower than London, with estimated monthly expenses of around GBP 1,000-1,200 for students excluding tuition
Cultural and Leisure Scene
A vibrant waterfront area with cinemas, restaurants, and clubs, plus proximity to historic sites like Windsor Castle and the Chiltern Hills
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Top Employers in the Region
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The university's Immigration Advice Team provides guidance on student visa applications, the immigration health surcharge, and maintaining your visa status throughout your studies.
New international students are guaranteed university accommodation provided they accept their offer and apply for housing within the specified deadline. Both catered and self-catered options are available.
Pre-sessional English programmes and in-sessional academic support are available to help international students meet language requirements and succeed in their studies.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Reading: Worldwide Rankings
University of Reading: Worldwide Rankings
The University of Reading consistently ranks among the top universities in the UK and globally. It is particularly strong in subject areas such as Agriculture and Forestry, Earth and Marine Sciences, Environmental Sciences, and Business, with Henley Business School ranked among the top business schools in the world.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture and Forestry | QS World Rankings by Subject | Top 50 |
| Earth and Marine Sciences | QS World Rankings by Subject | Top 50 |
| Environmental Sciences | QS World Rankings by Subject | Top 100 |
| Archaeology | QS World Rankings by Subject | Top 100 |
Features
Sustainability is ingrained in its identity—Reading was #1 in the UK for eco‑friendly attitude, notably reducing campus emissions by nearly 60% since 2008, and has received 14 consecutive Green Flag Awards.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
January - June
Location
Whiteknights House, Reading RG6 6UR, United Kingdom
Map not found.
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
