Reading scholars
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 2022 programme is planned to consist of four on-campus events (three one day events in January, February and March, and a residential in July). This is dependent on national guidance at the time and so is subject to change - should we not be able to run on-campus events, we will run virtual alternatives. Whether virtual or on-campus, activities include support from your student mentor, university-style subject-specific and study skills sessions, and working towards an academic project. Please see our programme brochure.
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, and be on course to achieve good grades at A Level or equivalent. The programme is targeted at students who fall into our priority groups (for example, young carers or family income of less than £25,000). 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)
- Psychology
- Physical Geography and Environmental Science.
We also have a presentation available for use in school assemblies and briefings. Download the presentation.