Record number of students put Reading first

The University of Reading says it's maintaining a high number of undergraduate applications and a record number of postgrads. The University has seen applications rise by 8% since the introduction of £9,000 tuition fees.

The University had 20,185 applications for full-time undergraduate courses for entry in 2017, representing five applications per place across the 250 available courses. Since 2014, applications have risen by 9%, compared to a decrease of 3% nationally.

Sir David Bell, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Reading said: "There is no denying it is a tough market for all UK universities at the moment. Universities are expanding so competition is fierce. Students have more choice than ever before and they are shopping around for the best deal. It is encouraging to see that a rising proportion of high quality students applying to Reading are putting us as their firm first choice. Reading is no longer seen as the insurance option. Students want great teaching, world-class research, an award-winning campus and a high employability record - all things they can find here. This doesn't mean we can rest on our laurels though. We must continue to be innovative in our efforts to attract the brightest and best students."