Students under 18

If you are under 18, being at university can be daunting and overwhelming. It can also be a great opportunity to become independent and have new and amazing experiences. 

The University treats all its students, regardless of age, as independent, mature individuals. Students and their parents/guardians should understand and acknowledge that as the majority of students studying at the University are over 18, it is an adult learning environment. However, the University acknowledges that anyone under the age of 18 is legally a child in the UK and therefore recognises the importance of stipulating policy, procedures and provisions. 

For more information on being under 18 at the University of Reading, read the University policy for 'Students under the Age of 18 Years on Entry to the University of Reading'.

 

Academic Support

Individual academic support is provided through an Academic Tutor that every student is allocated at the beginning of their studies. Students are encouraged to keep in touch with their Academic Tutors, liaising as needed but with a more formal check in once a term. We also have a Study Advice Team who can support you a variety of academic queries and skills.

 

Accommodation

In University halls, under 18-year-old students have the same contracts as those who are in over 18. Visit our page on University accommodation for more information.  
The University has a wealth of wellbeing support, including both pre-emptive and reactive support. At the start of the Academic year, the Student Welfare Team will identify all under 18 students and make direct contact with them outlining all the support available across the University.

If you are looking into private accommodation outside of the University campus, you will need a guardian to support you through this process. Contact our Housing Team in the Reading Students Union for information and advice. 

The University will contact any students under the age of 18 not due to be living in University halls of residence to ensure they have arranged appropriate accommodation and to provide a point of contact if they have any concerns.

Reading Students' Union Advice Service is happy to offer support in your housing journey. To get advice for student accommodation, you can visit the Advice and Support Students' Union webpages.

The Accommodation Office is happy help with any University accommodation queries. Call them Monday-Friday, 08:30-17:00 on 0118 200 5011 or drop them an email on accommodationonline@reading.ac.uk.

 

Social

At Reading, we offer a wide range of events which suit a variety of needs and interest including various non-alcoholic events. You can find many of these on Me@Reading student. You can also follow the UoR Student Instagram to keep on top of what activities are happening on and around campus.

Do be aware that some events and activities on campus are age-restricted, and students will need to prove that they are 18 or older to attend. This particularly relates to club nights and events such as 18+ films.

Reading Students' Union also has lots of opportunities throughout the year, take a look at the societies and opportunities on offer.

 

Wellbeing

The University has a wealth of wellbeing support, including both pre-emptive and reactive support. At the start of the Academic year, the Student Welfare Team will identify all under 18 students and make direct contact with them outlining all the support available across the University. The Student Welfare Team offer daily drop ins. 

The Life Tools programme is a series of free talks designed by experts to help you transition into university life and enhance your student experience. The programme allows you to be proactive and take control of your learning, personal and professional development. 

Star Mentors are current students who help new students with their start at university. A bit like a buddy service, your mentor is there to answer any questions you may have and to provide you with an insight into what university is all about.

 

Working

Students under the age of 18 are paid same amount as over 18s by Campus Jobs for all roles on campus.

There may be some roles such as bar work which may be affected by your age, but you can always check this with the Campus Jobs Team.

Students who are under 18 years are encouraged to join Reading Students’ Union clubs and societies but are not able to hold office until after they turn 18 e.g., being an officer, secretary or treasurer.

 

Banking

Different banks will have different accounts on offer for under 18's, it is best to research to find the best one for your circumstances. Banks may require a parent or guardian to open the account for you.

• NatWest offer accounts for under 18's and accept online applications. However, you can visit an in-person branch and if you bring a device (mobile phone/tablet/laptop) with you, someone will assist you through the application process. 
• TSB also offer account for under 18's. To open these, you will need to book an in-person appointment.
• Your parents/guardian can open a Revolut for you if you are under 18.  You can find more information here on the terms and conditions.

If you're an International Student, opening a new bank account in the UK for the first time, check out our opening a new bank account webpage for some helpful advice. 

If you would like further money advice from the University, you can contact the Student Financial support Team who are available to provide advice and support on money related matters. You can also get advice from Reading Students' Union Advice Service.