Quick Summary
Since 1892, University of Reading has been one of United Kingdom's prominent public research universitys, based in Reading. Ranked #172 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 23000 students including 30% from outside United Kingdom. Known for strengths in Agriculture & Forestry (27th globally), Archaeology, Environmental Sciences, it maintains an acceptance rate of 75%.
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Institutional Profile
Who they are
Highly ranked for research impact, world-leader in climate science and agriculture, and a beautiful parkland campus close to London.
Subject Strengths
Agriculture & Forestry (27th globally)ArchaeologyEnvironmental SciencesDevelopment StudiesTypography & Graphic Communication
Founded1892
TypePublic Research University
Total Students23000
Intl Students30%
Faculty Ratio15.2
CampusParkland Campus
Campus Size395 acres
Affiliated HospitalsRoyal Berkshire Hospital
AccreditationAACSB, AMBA, EQUIS (Triple Crown for Henley Business School)
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Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#172
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#201-250
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
#301-400
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Foundation, Undergraduate, Postgraduate Taught, Postgraduate Research
Programs
Available
PhD Programs
Available
Online Programs
Walker Institute for Climate System Research, ICMA Centre, Centre for Food Security
Research Centers
Very High
Research Output
AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS (Triple Crown for Henley Business School)
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate75%
IELTS6.5
TOEFL88
Min GPA3.0/4.0 or UK 2:1 equivalent
GRENot Available
GMATOptional for Henley Business School (550+ recommended)
SATNot Available
ACTNot Available
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · January 31 (UCAS Main), June 30 (Late UCAS)
SPRINGApplication Deadline · Varies by course
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Focus on a strong personal statement demonstrating interest in the subject; for Henley Business School, emphasize leadership potential and work experience.
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Cost Ledger
Amounts in British Pound
UG Tuition
£20,000/yr
per year · GBP
Living Cost
£12,200/yr
per year · GBP
PG Tuition
£21,100/yr
per year · GBP
Application Fee
$36
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
£32,650/yr
tuition + living + essentials · GBP
Scholarships AvailableFelix Scholarships, Global Graduate Scholarships, IFP Scholarships, Henley Dean's Scholarships
Avg Scholarship$5,000
Financial AidFederal Loans (US students), UK Student Finance
Work-StudyYes, available through 'Campus Jobs' portal
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Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Foundation, Undergraduate, Postgraduate Taught, Postgraduate Research programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Business (Henley Business School) | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Meteorology | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Food Science | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Real Estate | MBA | 12-24 MO |
| International Development | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
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Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$35,000
Average Salary After Graduation
93%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementStrong connections via Henley Business School and Career Centre
Industry Connections
PwCDeloitteEuropean Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF)Environment Agency
Notable Alumni
Michael Bond (Author of Paddington Bear), Julian Hill (Inventor of Nylon), Wilfred Owen, Princess Catherine (Attended local primary while living in area, though not the Uni)
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Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
SportsPark Reading, synthetic turf pitches, rowing club, fitness studio
Student Clubs
Over 150 student-led societies and sports clubs
Library Resources
Reading University Library, Museum of English Rural Life (MERL), Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology
Exchange Programs
Erasmus+ (formerly), Study Abroad with partners in USA, Australia, and Asia
Summer Programs
Reading International Summer School