Introduction to Reading
Reading is a quaint little town in Berkshire, South East England. This compact city offers the perfect blend of academic excellence and quality of life. It is an emerging education hub for international students as it is home to prestigious universities and thriving tech industries. The location of Reading places just a short train ride away from London. It has excellent transport links and connects to London with fast trains taking approximately 25 minutes.
Why International Students Choose Reading
Reading is home to an inclusive and welcoming community for international students. It also has a lower cost of living as compared to other cities in the UK like London. The town boasts excellent transport infrastructure, modern facilities, and prestigious universities. Reading homes communities of various cultures and thus features various restaurants and festivals from different parts of the world. Universities and communities offer dedicated support networks for international students to ensure they fit in and feel right at home in this town. Its' proximity to London, also provides students with a ton of career and networking opportunities that not many other cities in the UK offer. The combination of affordable living, academic excellence and a close proximity to London makes Reading a highly preferred choice for international students.
Universities in Reading for International Students
University of Reading
The University of Reading is a globally recognized university. It ranks among the UK's top 30 institutions, and is known for its programs in Business, Agriculture, Environmental Sciences, Psychology, and Law. The university features modern campuses that are equipped with all modern amenities and facilities for students. Its Henley Business School is one of the most popular schools int he world for its MBA program. And the modern Whiteknights campus features extensive facilities including dedicated international student support services and active student unions.
Reading College
The Reading College provides vocational pathways through foundation courses, diplomas and apprenticeship programs. It serves as an excellent option for students seeking practical training or alternative routes into higher education, with strong industry connections in technical fields.
University of West London (Reading Campus)
This University of West London campus specializes in career-focused programs including Nursing, Business and Healthcare. Its smaller campus environment offers personalized attention for students. This makes it ideal for students who prefer more intimate learning settings while still accessing university resources.
Student Accommodation in Reading
You'll find various types of Reading accommodation- from ensuites, studios and shared rooms. Accommodation in Reading is also quite affordable as compared to that in London. Here's a breakdown:
Types of Student Accommodation in Reading
- University Halls: These are Reading accommodation types managed by universities. They offer different types of room- all are fully furnished. They're usually located either on campus or just a few minutes from the campus. Rent is all-inclusive which means all bills are included in the rent. University halls enable students to socialize more than any other accommodation type and enable students to make the most of university amenities.
- Private Student Housing: These are private student accommodations managed by private accommodation providers. They can be located just minutes away from university campus or a little far away. They offer various kinds of rooms like:
- Ensuite: These include a private bedroom, bathroom and a shared living area and kitchen.
- Studio: These offer a private space including a bedroom, bathroom, living space and a kitchen
- Shared room: These include a shared bedroom, bathroom, living space and kitchen.
Private student accommodation in Reading, UK are fully furnished and offer all modern amenities to students like high-speed Wi-Fi, gym, study rooms, laundry rooms, cinema rooms, and much more. Rent is all inclusive and accommodations are fully equipped with the best safety features. - Shared Flats: These are Reading accommodation types managed by individual homeowners. They can be 1-, 2- or 3-bedroom apartments that can be shared with your friends. If you're looking for cheap accommodations in Reading, these are a great option for you. They may or may not be fully furnished and offer more privacy and independence than other student accommodation types.
- Homestays: Homestays are a great Reading accommodation option for international students who want to experience living like a local. Homestays also provide for a supportive environment for students who like living in a family setting.
Affordable Areas for Student Living in Reading
- Whitley: Known for budget-friendly housing, Whitley offers good bus connections to the university and local amenities. Popular with students seeking value without compromising convenience.
- Earley: This quiet residential area adjacent to Whiteknights campus provides a peaceful study environment with easy university access, ideal for focused students.
- Central Reading/Town Centre: The bustling heart of Reading offers premium convenience with proximity to transport, shopping and nightlife, though at slightly higher rental costs.
- East Reading: Well-connected to both university campuses, this area provides a balance of affordability and accessibility with numerous shared housing options.
- Caversham: This riverside suburb offers a more relaxed pace while maintaining good transport links, popular with students wanting suburban comforts.
- Lower Earley: The most affordable option for those willing to commute, featuring quiet neighbourhoods and family-friendly amenities.
Cost of Living in Reading for Students
Accommodation Cost
- University Halls: £500--£800/month
- Private PBSA: £600--£900/month
- Shared Houses: £400--£650/month (areas like Whitley, East Reading)
- Homestays: £500--£700/month (meals sometimes included)
Note: Prices drop further in suburbs like Lower Earley (£350--£500/month for shared housing).
Groceries & Essentials Cost
- Monthly food shop: £150--£200 (budget supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl)
- Toiletries/cleaning supplies: £30--£50
- Course materials/books: £20--£50 (use library or second-hand options)
Transport Cost
- Bus Pass: £50/month (student discount via Reading Buses)
- Train to London: £25--£40 return (with 16--25 Railcard)
- Cycling: Free (bike lanes across town; second-hand bikes from £100)
Eating Out & Entertainment
- Takeaway meal: £8--£12
- Pub dinner: £12--£20
- Cinema ticket: £7 (student discount)
- Club entry: £5--£10 (student nights)
Other Costs
- Mobile SIM: £10/month (e.g., Giffgaff, Voxi)
- Laundry: £5--£10/week (in halls/accommodation)
- Gym membership: £20--£30/month (uni gyms cheaper)
Getting Around Reading
Reading offers an efficient and student-friendly transport network, making it easy to navigate the town and explore nearby cities.
Public Transport (Buses & Trains)
- Reading Buses: Frequent services connect key areas like the University of Reading and Reading College.
- Student Discounts: Save 30% on fares with a student bus pass (£50--£60/month for unlimited travel).
- Reading Station: One of the UK's best-connected hubs, with:
- London Paddington: 25-minute direct trains (off-peak return ~£25 with Railcard).
- Oxford: 30-minute direct trains (ideal for day trips).
- Bristol: 1-hour direct trains.
- Heathrow Airport: 40-minute RailAir coach (£25 return).
Cycling
- Bike-Friendly: Dedicated lanes across town, including routes along the Thames Path and to Whiteknights Campus.
- Affordable Options: Second-hand bikes from £100 (check Gumtree or Reading Bike Kitchen).
- Bike Storage: Secure racks at universities and most accommodations.
Walking
- Compact Town Centre: Most student areas (Earley, East Reading) are 10--20 mins' walk to campus.
- Riverside Paths: Scenic walks along the Kennet & Avon Canal.
Student Life & Things to Do in Reading
Reading offers a vibrant mix of cultural, social, and recreational activities, making it an exciting place for students to live and study.
Outdoor & Entertainment Highlights
- Riverside Walks: Stroll along the Thames Path or Kennet & Avon Canal, perfect for relaxing study breaks or weekend picnics.
- Reading Festival: One of the UK's biggest music festivals (August), featuring major artists---students often volunteer for free entry.
- Student Pubs & Nightlife: Popular spots include:
- The Purple Turtle (live music & student nights)
- Oakford Social Club (indie vibe)
- Lola Lo (club with themed nights)
Shopping & Leisure
- The Oracle Shopping Centre: Major retail hub with high-street brands, a cinema, and riverside dining.
- Broad Street Mall: Budget-friendly shopping and food court.
Food & Culture
- Global Cuisine: From Thai (Bolan Thai) to Lebanese (Bakery House) and student-friendly cafes (Workhouse Coffee).
- Cultural Events: Reading International Festival (arts & performances) and Diwali celebrations at the Town Hall.
University Social Scene
- 200+ Societies: Join Harry Potter Soc, Debating Union, or International Students' Network.
- Career & Networking Events: Regular employer fairs and alumni meetups at Henley Business School.
Support Services for International Students
University of Reading's International Office
The International Student Advisory Team provides:
- Visa & Immigration Support: Guidance on Tier 4 applications, work permissions, and visa extensions.
- Academic Advising: Help with course selection, exam preparation, and study skills workshops.
- Welcome Week Programs: Orientation sessions, campus tours, and social events to help you settle in.
Health & Wellbeing Support
- Mental Health Services: Free counselling (6+ sessions), 24/7 crisis support, and stress management workshops.
- Career Guidance: CV checks, mock interviews, and internship placements via the Careers Centre.
- Peer Mentoring: Pairing with senior students for academic and social support.
Community & Cultural Integration
- Global Café: Weekly meetups for international students to share experiences.
- Reading International Community Centre: Hosts cultural festivals (e.g., Chinese New Year, Diwali).
- Language Exchange Programs: Improve English while teaching your native language to locals.
Reading offers international students the perfect balance of quality education, affordable living, and vibrant student life. With top-ranked universities, lower costs than London, and excellent transport links, it's an ideal choice for those seeking academic excellence and a rich UK experience. Welcoming, well-connected, and full of opportunities, Reading delivers outstanding value for students worldwide.
