Why study in Reading?
Reading is a dynamic, modern town with an excellent university, one of the UK's best shopping centres (the Oracle), a vibrant centre with a city feel, plenty of cultural attractions and many bars and places to eat. It is the UK home to several multinational companies such as Microsoft and Oracle.
Reading is on the main Great Western railway line to London Paddington, with journey times to both London and Oxford less than 30 minutes. It is also close to Heathrow Airport and major motorways.
It's a historic town that has evolved across the centuries, with the remains of the 12th century Abbey still at its heart, the river Thames and the countryside just minutes away, and plenty of conservation areas, wildlife and nature reserves, and heritage sites.
There's a dynamic nightlife with many bars and clubs as well as theatres and a concert hall. The famous Reading Festival takes place every year in late August and there's a Real Ale and Jazz Festival in July.
Working in Reading
You will find a variety of work available in Reading town centre.
Full-time students on adult student visas can work for 10 hours per week during term time.
No work permit is required for full-time students. You will need to arrange an insurance number.
In the Oracle shopping centre there are many shops, bars and restaurants who often need staff.
The Job Centre and employment agencies will offer help.
Websites about Reading (open in a new window)
Tour UK - Reading
Living in Reading
Daily Telegraph
Local government website
Reading University
Reading Buses