Reading scholars
Applications for the 2025 Reading Scholars Scheme have now closed.
The Reading Scholars programme aims to give Year 12 students a real taste of life as a university undergraduate, and provides practical support as participants begin their higher education application process. Featuring input from leading academics and current undergraduate mentors, the programme will challenge participants academically and enhance current studies.
Programme details
The programme is run by the University of Reading. The 2024 programme is planned to consist of three on-campus events (two one day events in February and March, and a residential in July) as well as a series of online-drop in events during May. Though all events are planned to be on-campus, if required virtual events may replace in-person events and dates may be subject to change due to matters beyond our control such as strikes. Whether virtual or on-campus, activities include support from student ambassadors, university-style subject-specific and study skills sessions, and working towards an academic project as well as information, advice, and guidance sessions.
Read our full programme brochure to find out more about the scheme and the subjects available, before you apply.
Costs
All costs related to participation in the programme, including transport, lunch, refreshments and accommodation for on-campus events, are covered in advance for participating students, who will also get to take part in a range of fun team-building and social events.
Entry requirements
Students participating in the programme will have achieved at least five GCSE’s at grade 4 and above including Maths, English and Science, and be on course to achieve good grades at A Level or equivalent. Some subject strands require that you be studying specific A-Levels (see the brochure for details) The programme is targeted at students who fall into our priority groups (for example, living in low progression postcode area, Looked After/Care Experienced) Read the full selection criteria for the programme (PDF, 137KB).Programme outcomes
Students who successfully take part in the Reading Scholars programme, and go on to apply for an undergraduate course at the University of Reading, are guaranteed to receive either an invitation to interview or a conditional offer, and a two grade drop on their offer for most courses. These students can apply for a £1,000 Reading Scholars bursary in their first year if they put Reading as their first choice.
Subject areas
This year, the programme is offered in the following subject areas:
- Archaeology and Classics
- Architecture
- Art & Design
- Biology
- Business
- Chemistry, Food Science and Pharmacy
- Education
- English Literature
- Film
- History
- Law
- Mathematics
- Modern Languages (French, German and Spanish)
- Philosophy, Politics, and Economics
- Psychology
- Physical Geography and Environmental Science.