22 February 2022
The University of Reading has seen a 4% rise in applications from students wishing to study at Reading this year, compared to an overall national decline of 1%.
The University had over 20,000 applications for full-time undergraduate courses at the UCAS ‘on time’ deadline of 26th January this year - an increase of nearly 1,000 on last year and growth of 3,700 applications on 2019/20 entry. For 2022 entry, this represents around 4.5 applications per place across the 250 available courses.
Applications from UK and international (non-EU) domiciled applicants combined were up 4% on last year for both groups, demonstrating Reading’s strong reputation at home and abroad.
In line with the national 19% decrease in applications from EU students, Reading has seen a 10% decrease in EU applications. The drop in applications is largely due to Brexit and changes to EU student support arrangements.
Growth in arts and humanities
Applications for arts and humanities subjects have seen a sharp rise, once again bucking the national trend. Subjects that have seen a notable rise in applications include:
James Ackroyd, Director of Global Recruitment and Admissions at the University of Reading, said: “It is very encouraging to see another rise in applications for students wishing to study at the University of Reading. The growth in applications since 2019 demonstrates that Reading is a popular choice for students both in the UK and internationally, as well demonstrating the hard work of a number of colleagues around the University in achieving this position.
“It is also fantastic to see a growing demand for arts and humanities subjects, all areas in which Reading has a long-standing reputation for excellence.”
We are in the process of finalising our postgraduate taught courses for 2026/27 entry. In the meantime, you can view our 2025/26 courses.
