Looking to study in the UK, minus the chaos of London but without compromising quality education or buzzing city life? Say hi to Reading, the UK’s hidden gem blending rich history, excellent universities, green spaces, and modern living.
This study guide in Reading walks you through everything: where to study, live, eat, and just… be. Located in Berkshire, just 25 minutes by train from central London, Reading gives students the best of both worlds: easy city access with small-town calm. It’s a place where a medieval abbey shares its skyline with glassy tech headquarters, and where late-night noodles meet early-morning research labs.
Reading isn’t just a dot on the map. It’s a thriving student destination with over 20,000 students from around the UK and beyond. Whether you’re chasing a degree in business, environmental sciences, tech, or the arts, Reading ticks the right boxes. Affordable, friendly, academically strong, and full of life between lectures.
Let’s break it all down, student-style.
Why Reading is a Rising Star for International Students
So, what makes Reading stand out among the UK’s university cities?
Start with location. Reading’s just half an hour from London but way more relaxed and affordable. You can enjoy top-notch education, regular trains to the capital, and enough green space to breathe easily between exams.
Add to that one of the UK’s most research-driven universities (hello, University of Reading) and partnerships with big players like Microsoft, Oracle, and BBC.
Reading is also home to global industries, tech parks, and media hubs, giving students solid internship and work-placement options.
Then there’s diversity. It’s one of the UK’s most multicultural towns, full of cultural fests, international supermarkets, and a community that’s genuinely welcoming.
Try mix of strong academics, chilled environment, and professional opportunity? That’s Reading.
Top 10 Universities and Colleges in Reading
1. University of Reading
The main star here. Ranked among the world’s top 250. Known for Business, Meteorology, Agriculture, Art, and Law. Gorgeous campus. Active international community.
2. Henley Business School
Part of the University of Reading. Consistently ranked in the top 50 business schools globally. Elite MBAs, finance, and executive courses. Heavy focus on employability.
3. Reading College
Offers vocational degrees, diplomas, access courses, and apprenticeships. Ideal for skill-building or alternate study routes.
4. Activate Learning – Reading Campus
Innovative FE college with STEM, Digital Tech, and Art pathways. Practical and career-focused.
5. UCEM (University College of Estate Management)
Specialist distance learning college based in Reading. Offers fully online diplomas and degrees in real estate, property development, and construction.
6. The Rising Sun Arts Centre (Community Education)
Not a formal university, but valuable for international students studying art, performance, and creative media. Great workshops and local engagement.
7. Berkshire College of Agriculture (nearby, in Maidenhead)
Close enough to count. Known for animal care, veterinary nursing, horticulture, and sustainable land management.
8. Royal Berkshire Hospital (Clinical Placements)
Tied to several medical universities. Certain allied health, medicine, and nursing students do rotations here.
9. University of Law (Reading Centre, now largely online)
Previously offered law degrees and pre-qualifying legal education. Now more London-based but active for legal internships in the area.
10. Navitas – University of Reading International Study Centre
Offers foundation and pathway programs for international students. Helps bridge into undergrad and postgrad degrees.
Top 10 Student Accommodation Properties in Reading
- Stenton Hall
- Bridges Hall
- Queen’s Court
- Unite Students Reading
- Zebra House
- 78 King’s Road
- Student Castle Reading
- Reading Student Village (Cluttons)
- Kendrick Hall
- New Century Place Residence
Top 10 Student Areas in Reading
1. Whiteknights
Home to the University of Reading’s main campus. Spacious halls like Stenton Hall and Bridges Hall are located here. Close to campus, calm, and lined with trees. Ideal for undergrads and researchers.
2. Earley
Just southeast of campus. Suburb-style living with a mix of student flats and family homes. Peaceful, affordable, and great for postgrad students or those who like a little solitude.
3. Shinfield Road
Right on the doorstep of the university. Lined with student housing, local takeaways, Tesco Express, and direct bus connections.
4. East Reading / London Road
Buzzing and popular with returning students. Close to Queen’s Court, and 78 King’s Road. Walking distance to the heart of Reading and great evening life.
5. Reading Town Centre
Central, connected, and way more fun than you’d think. Top accommodations like Student Castle Reading and New Century Place are here. Close to bars, bus station, and the Oracle Mall.
6. Kendrick Road
Charming, well-located student spot. Feels safe, is walkable, and is home to Kendrick Hall. Good for students who want in-town living but near lectures.
7. Cemetery Junction
Budget-friendly area closer to East Reading. Mostly private student homes and share houses. Lots of Indian restaurants, Polish shops, and bus stops.
8. Redlands
Located west of the main campus. Residential, leafy, perfect for international postgrads who crave quiet evenings.
9. Whitley
Slightly further south. Great if you have a car or plan to intern near Thames Valley Park or Royal Berkshire Hospital. More residential than studenty, but offers good value.
10. Tilehurst
If budget is priority, consider this. Further from campus (requires a bus or cycle ride), but cheaper rent and local shops.
Cost of Living in Reading for Students
Compared to London, Reading is much more affordable, but still not as cheap as smaller UK towns. Planning ahead is key.
Here’s a rough monthly budget for students:
- Rent (shared/private hall or flat): £500–£900
- Food & groceries: £150–£200
- Transport: £40–£80 (if off-campus or using bus pass)
- Mobile + internet: £30–£50
- Social & leisure: £100–£150
📌 Estimated total per month: £850–£1,350
Pro tip: Many student halls include utility bills and Wi-Fi, so confirm in advance to avoid hidden costs.
Getting Around: How Students Travel in Reading
Reading is perfectly sized, not too big but still packed with transport options. Most student hotspots are walkable or a short ride away.
- Walking: If you live on or near campus (Whiteknights, East Reading), you probably won’t need much transport. Many students walk.
- Buses (Reading Buses): Efficient and student-friendly. Unlimited passes (around £40/month) connect all major areas, including the university and town centre.
- Cycling: The university and council both support cycling. You’ll find bike stands and rentals throughout campus. Best for Redlands and Earley residents.
- Trains: Reading Station connects to London in 23 mins, Oxford in 25, Bristol in 65. Weekend getaways? Easy.
- Taxis & Uber: Available, though a bit pricey. Use for late nights or airport runs.
- Airport Transfers: Heathrow is about 45 minutes by RailAir coach or direct train + taxi. Gatwick and Luton are 60–90 minutes away.
Reading’s compact design means less time commuting and more time enjoying campus life.
Recap: Why You’ll Love Studying in Reading
Let’s wrap it up. 📚✅
This study guide in Reading shows off a city that’s quietly becoming one of the UK’s top student hotspots. The charm? It’s not too loud, not too tiny, just balanced enough for focused study and a good time.
You’ll find modern campuses, career-ready education, international-friendly services, and speedy access to London, without paying London prices. Plus, every bit of the city is tailored to its students: from late-night eats to career fairs, green parks to global festivals.
So whether you’re looking for your first university degree or a specialised postgrad program, Reading is ready to deliver, and warmly welcome you in.
Top 10 FAQs About Studying in Reading, UK
1. Is Reading a safe place for international students?
Yes, Reading is considered one of the safer university towns in the UK. The town and campus areas are well-monitored and secure.
2. What types of courses are popular at University of Reading?
Business, Law, Environmental Sciences, Agriculture, Meteorology, and Art & Design are top picks.
3. How do I get from Reading to London?
A fast train from Reading Station to London Paddington takes around 25 minutes.
4. Is accommodation expensive in Reading?
It’s moderate, cheaper than London. Expect around £600–£900/month, depending on shared or private.
5. Can international students work part-time in Reading?
Yes. Most student visas allow up to 20 hours/week during term and full-time during holidays.
6. What’s the best student area in Reading?
Whiteknights and East Reading are popular for being right next to campus and full of energy.
7. Does Reading have international societies?
Absolutely. The University of Reading has dozens of cultural and international student groups for networking and support.
8. Is the city easy to walk around?
Yes. Reading is compact with a well-organised city centre, perfect for walking or cycling.
9. Are scholarships available for international students?
Yes. University of Reading and its International Study Centre offer scholarships based on merit and nationality.
10. What’s student life like in Reading?
Lively but not wild. Think local pubs, student cafés, music nights, farmers markets, and cultural festivals, just the right balance.
