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Program Overview
Program Overview
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Popular Subject Areas
Business, Environmental Studies, Humanities & Science
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Location
Reading
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Host University
University of Reading
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Term
Spring 1 2024
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Program Dates
Jan 03, 2024 - Mar 31, 2024
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Program Length
Semester
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Application Deadline
Oct 10, 2023
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Forms and Payment Deadline
Oct 15, 2023
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Credit
25 ECTS Credits
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Eligibility
3.00 Minimum GPA*
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Cost
$19,750
- This session is closed and is no longer accepting applications.
Study Abroad Program Description
The Reading campus is situated on over 300 acres of beautiful and award-winning park land and is only a short distance to London. Additionally, the Reading Student Union provides a lot of opportunities for study abroad students to get involved. During this program, you can select from a vast number of courses in a variety of subjects, enabling you to choose what fits your individual academic needs.
All courses are taught by local university professors at the University of Reading. You will take classes alongside British and other international students on a traditional U.S.-style campus. The University of Reading is AACSB accredited for business courses, and other popular subjects include agriculture and environmental science, literature, humanities, sciences, and international relations.
Enjoy Flexibility with ISA Flex
We’ve partnered with Arizona State University (ASU) to help you overcome common study abroad challenges by adding an ASU Online course to your ISA program. With more than 2,100 courses to choose from, ISA Flex minimizes academic challenges, like major requirements and limited course options, so you can make the most of your experience abroad. Once you’ve applied, access the Flex form in your ISA Student Portal for more information on how to add this to your program and enroll in the course you need.
*Eligibility
MINIMUM GPA
Students must have a minimum grade point average of 3.00.
MINIMUM ADMISSIONS PREREQUISITES
There is no language prerequisite for this program.
- All applicants must have at least sophomore standing (second-year) at their home university at the time of participation.
- Students participating in the academic year program are required to obtain a British Tier 4 Visa.
What's Included
Comprehensive Advising and Support
Comprehensive Advising and Support
A team of helpful ISA staff members is here to support you through the entire study abroad process, from finding the perfect program through re-entry. The Program Advisors will help you choose your program based on your unique objectives. Once you’ve selected your program, you will work with your Program Manager on the application process as well as pre-departure forms and finances. Your Program Manager will also assist with academics, housing, visas, and city-living/cultural guidance.
In addition to individual advising, you will receive virtual resources to help prepare you for your time abroad. This includes the ISA Student Portal, which houses your program application, pre-departure forms/resources, and the online orientation. The online orientation is a pre-cursor to the on-site orientations and offers city-specific resources about living in your host city, communication, packing, diversity abroad, how to be academically successful, and more.
24-Hour Emergency
24-Hour Emergency
The ISA Health, Safety, and Security team facilitates an in-house on-call system with a U.S.-based employee and manager who are on-call and available in case of emergency 24-7. ISA regular office hours are Monday through Thursday, 7:00am - 7:00pm and Friday, 7:00am - 5:00pm Central Time.
If you are a parent or student needing assistance in an emergency situation outside of the regular office hours, please call the ISA office at 512-480-8522 to access the ISA emergency contact information for that particular week. Students who experience an emergency while abroad will also have access to on-site staff 24-hour emergency assistance.
Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Security Support
Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Security Support
Health, Safety, and Security (HSS) for ISA students is jointly managed by our resident staff and HSS team. This team works to monitor risk at program locations, respond to any crises that may arise, and develop policies to further ensure the health, safety, and security of students abroad with ISA.
Airport Reception
Airport Reception
Ground transportation is provided from the airport as long as you arrive during the ISA designated arrival date and time and at the appropriate airport. Upon acceptance into your program, you will receive the “How to Book Your Flight” form which outlines the specific details for airport reception.
Airport reception is not provided for most Intensive Month or J-Term programs.
Visa Support
Visa Support
Your ISA Program Manager will be available to help you with the visa process for your program country, if applicable. They will provide resources, guidance on necessary steps to obtain your visa, and deliver supporting visa application materials to you as needed.
Tuition at the Host University
Tuition at the Host University
Tuition and administrative fees at the host university are included in the program price. Classes are held at the host university and are taught by local and/or visiting faculty. Some classes will have additional fees that are not included in the program price.
Housing
Housing
Housing is guaranteed and included in the price of all ISA programs, with the exception of Pacific programs, in which housing is offered at an additional cost. Accommodation options will vary according to program site and session. For more details about ISA's housing options and applicable security deposits, please refer to the housing tab for your program of interest.
Bridging Cultures Orientation
Bridging Cultures Orientation
The Bridging Cultures Orientation will be delivered to you in the first few days of your time abroad. It is designed to prepare you for a successful, positive, and rewarding experience that will influence the rest of your life. This is accomplished through introducing you to your host city’s culture and infrastructure as well as through goal setting, intercultural awareness, diversity and professional development activities.
Full-Time Resident Staff
Full-Time Resident Staff
The full-time resident staff is available to assist you with all aspects of your experience abroad. The resident staff provides support during official course registration and arranges the Bridging Cultures Program orientation, excursions, weekly meetings, cultural activities, and much more. Staff members are trained to ensure the well-being of each program participant and are dedicated to facilitating a positive and meaningful study abroad experience.
On-Site ISA Offices
On-Site ISA Offices
Most program locations have an on-site ISA office within the program city. The on-site offices provide you with an additional comfortable space in the city and serve as a common meeting place and resource center.
Internet Access
Internet Access
As an ISA student, you will enjoy free internet access at ISA on-site offices, computer labs at the host university, and/or your ISA housing.
ISA Discovery Model
ISA Discovery Model
ISA programs facilitate learning and development through co-curricular activities. We rely on host universities to provide quality instruction in the classroom, but ISA is the main facilitator of learning outside of the classroom. Efforts to promote student learning are shaped by a teaching and learning framework we call the ISA Discovery Model.
According to this model, student learning and development is organized into five areas of discovery: 1. Intercultural, 2. Historical, 3. Sociopolitical, 4. Professional and 5. Environmental
Throughout the duration of your ISA program, we provide you with the opportunity to pursue these five areas of discovery through the Bridging Cultures Orientation, excursions, cultural activities, and references to non-ISA sponsored events and opportunities.
Excursions
Excursions
Organized excursions are included with each program to complement the academic component of your abroad experience. These complementary experiences are designed to engage student learning outside of the classroom in the five areas of the Discovery Model. Transportation and guided tours are included, as well as hotel accommodations and breakfast during multi-day excursions. Additional optional excursions may be offered during each program that are not included in the program cost.
Excursions are not included for Intensive Month, J-Term, and some summer sessions.
Cultural Activities
Cultural Activities
The ISA program staff develops unique cultural activities custom-designed to invite you to experience the local color of your host city, while learning about the history and culture of your new surroundings. Speaking the native language with locals, tasting the regional cuisine, and partaking in the native traditions are only a few of the ways these cultural activities lead to full appreciation of the program city.
Insurance
Insurance
A Blanket Accident and Sickness Policy is included in the program and covers you during the official on-site period of the program. This is not an optional benefit; every ISA participant will be covered by this policy. A full description of coverage can be found on the ISA website.
We recommend that you maintain comprehensive health insurance while abroad. This is particularly important if you have any pre-existing conditions but is also beneficial if you have an injury or illness while abroad and require further treatment upon your return home. Please be sure to consult with your current insurance provider to confirm coverage policies while traveling abroad.
Official Transcript from the Host University
Official Transcript from the Host University
Upon completion of the ISA program, your host university will issue an official transcript with all coursework taken abroad. ISA's Academic Records Department will process and forward the official transcript to the appropriate office at your home university, and a photocopy will be sent to your permanent home address for your records. ISA will provide a cover letter to accompany the transcript with important academic information, including the host university's grading system and recommended U.S. letter grade equivalencies, translated course titles, and credit conversion recommendations.
Professional Development Toolbox
Professional Development Toolbox
The Professional Development Toolbox, available in the online orientation section of the student portal, will help you identify the skills and key competencies you have developed through your personal, academic, and cultural experiences. This toolbox helps you to articulate the transferable skills developed through study abroad in a way that shows potential employers or post-graduate universities the benefits our you will provide them as a direct result of your experience abroad.
Scholarship Opportunities
Scholarship Opportunities
As an ISA participant, you will have the opportunity to apply for scholarships or grants that can be applied directly to assist with your study abroad program. ISA offers over $1,000,000 in scholarships and grants each year. To see what opportunities are available, please visit the Support & Funding page.
Academics
Support & Funding
ISA is here to support you when it comes to navigating identity questions related to traveling abroad, providing resources and information for your accessibility needs, and identifying funding for your program abroad.
SUPPORT TEAM
Our U.S. staff is available to support you though every stage of your study abroad journey. Please reach out with any questions about ISA programs or life on-site to your country-specific Program Manager.
Our on-site staff are there for you as soon as you arrive in country and will support you throughout your time abroad.
U.S. Team
Hannah Hamilton
Senior Program Manager, England & Scotland
Born in Corvallis, OR, family stories of adventures and travels were joyfully shared and impressed upon Hannah at a young age. As an undergraduate at the University of Texas here in Austin, she jumped at the opportunity to circumnavigate the world aboard a ship. The experience was life-changing and led her to pursue a Master’s Degree in International and Comparative Education from The George Washington University. Hannah started at ISA in 2006 and worked closely with our programs in Morocco and Europe. After six years with ISA Hannah made the decision to stay home to raise her two children. She served on their school PTA board for four years, further fueling her interests of advocacy and equity in education. Having recently returned to ISA in 2021, Hannah is thrilled to continue advising students as they pursue their own international education efforts.
READING TEAM
Marina Kozhuharova
Assistant Resident Director, England
Marina Kozhuharova
Assistant Resident Director
Marina joined ISA in 2010 after graduating from King's College London with a degree in International Commercial and Financial Law. Marina has traveled extensively throughout Europe and believes that study abroad is essential to personal growth and offers fantastic opportunities to discover the world at large. Among her favorite places in London are the River Thames Embankment, Tower Bridge and Greenwich Park. Marina is very excited to show the ISA students London's diverse cultural and historic heritage.
Antonio Santana
Resident Director
Born and raised in Malaga, Spain, Antonio attended the University of Malaga, where he obtained his degrees in Journalism and Audiovisual Communication. Passionate about cinema, photography and arts in general, he also taught himself graphic & web design. His curiosity and enthusiasm for other cultures led him to explore, and after living and working for a while in different places in Europe, he landed in Barcelona and immediately fell in love with the Catalan Capital and all it had to offer. In 2008 Antonio started to work with ISA, first in Barcelona for 8 years, then in Florence for a year and a half, and since 2017 he has been the Dublin Office's Resident Director. Antonio finds study abroad to be one of the best ways to “open minds” and is always happy to share tips about the places he has visited.
Eloise Casey
Student Services, England
Eloise Casey
Student Services
Eloise studied American History at the University of East Anglia which included a year abroad at George Mason University in Fairfax, VA. Ever since engaging in her own personal abroad adventures, Eloise has been passionate about getting others involved in pursuing their own study abroad opportunities. Eloise actively tries to visit as many European cities as possible and therefore is a great resource for students as she has lots of travel recommendations. She enjoys making and drinking coffee, as well as watching films and TV. Her favorite places within London are Shoreditch and the Wimbledon Tennis Club, and she has a great list for fun day trips outside the Capital as well.
Joseph Sullivan
Student Services, England
Joseph Sullivan
Student Services
Joseph studied Business Information Technology at Kingston University, including a study abroad year in Hong Kong, which is when he discovered his passion for study abroad. Upon graduating he began working for ISA’s London team. As a London native, Joseph enjoys sharing the city’s culture with students and helping them achieve their study abroad goals.
Joseph is a keen traveler and loves exploring different cultures. Some of his other interests include football, technology, and photography. His favorite places in London are Richmond park and the British Museum.
Identity Resources
Accessibility & Accommodations
With our wide portfolio of program types and locations, we’re confident there is a suitable, accessible program for each student.
Securing accommodations abroad can take time, so we ask that those with requests inform ISA early in the advising process. We recommend reaching out to your Program Manager or our Accessibility Team (accessibilityteam@studiesabroad.com) to discuss your accessibility needs or accommodations abroad.
Destination Information
Our diversity pages for each ISA destination include information on Indigenous communities, languages, race and ethnicity, religion, LGBTQIA+, and disability access. We hope it will help when reflecting upon and contextualizing intersectionality in your host community.
Identity Blog
ISA offers students the opportunity to blog about their experiences abroad from their own diverse perspectives. These posts can be found on the ISA Student Blog, and interested students should email diversity@studiesabroad.com for more information.
Funding
All students should have the opportunity to study abroad. To help make this a reality, ISA offers a variety of scholarships to help cover your study abroad costs. To learn more about our scholarship opportunities, check out our scholarships & grants page!
If you receive financial aid from your home university, you can likely use those funds for study abroad, as well. Speak with your home university’s financial aid office to learn about your options. Check out steps for using financial aid.
Questions about scholarships and funding? Email us at higheredfinaid@worldstrides.org
Housing
Living in host university residence halls will give you the opportunity to experience aspects of the British lifestyle that are inaccessible to the average tourist. Uncovering the uniqueness of your surroundings will help you to feel right at home. With an open and adaptable mind, the experience of living in another culture can be highly rewarding.
We strive to match your housing preferences with our available accommodations, however, housing preference requests cannot be guaranteed.
Dorm
The Reading residence halls are located on or adjacent to campus. ISA does not have control over which dorm you are assigned to by Reading. Each resident hall is a bit different, but all have shared kitchens on each floor, and laundry facilities are typically available for an additional cost. Meals are not included, however, if interested, meal plans are available for purchase.
You will pay a $300 refundable security deposit if living in this ISA housing option. ISA may retain some, or all, of this deposit in the event of damage to property, or if utility usage exceeds the allotted monthly amount.
Independent Housing
You may elect to secure housing independently. If you select this option, you will receive a discount equal to the housing portion of the program price.
You may elect to secure housing independently. If you select this option, you will receive a discount equal to the housing portion of the program price.
Excursions
THERE’S MORE TO DISCOVER WITH ISA
ISA excursions allow you to explore the timeless, quaint, and historical landscape of the United Kingdom (and potentially surrounding countries) that you may not have the chance to visit on your own. While abroad, you will have the chance to go on weekend trips, day trips, and optional trips. The locations below are a sample of included and optional excursions that have run in the past. Please know that these are subject to change.
Brighton & Seven Sisters
Breathtaking and endless sea views await at Seven Sisters, a panoramic series of white chalk cliffs prominently positioned along the English Channel. Spend the morning walking the lush green pastures atop the cliffs or head down to the rocky beaches below to explore the coastline and cliffs at sea level. Travel West along the sea to the popular coastal town of Brighton. Brighton is known for several things, including being one the cultural and LGBT capitals of England, inspiration for famous artists and musicians, and its architecture. Some UK polls place it as the happiest and 'coolest' (not a reference to temperature!) city in England, and its name is undoubtedly among the world's most recognizable beach towns.
Brighton & Seven Sisters
Breathtaking and endless sea views await at Seven Sisters, a panoramic series of white chalk cliffs prominently positioned along the English Channel. Spend the morning walking the lush green pastures atop the cliffs or head down to the rocky beaches below to explore the coastline and cliffs at sea level. Travel West along the sea to the popular coastal town of Brighton. Brighton is known for several things, including being one the cultural and LGBT capitals of England, inspiration for famous artists and musicians, and its architecture. Some UK polls place it as the happiest and 'coolest' (not a reference to temperature!) city in England, and its name is undoubtedly among the world's most recognizable beach towns.
Windsor Castle
The town of Windsor is an unparished area in the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead in Berkshire, England. It is widely known as the site of Windsor Castle, one of the official residences of the British Royal Family. Windsor Castle itself is the oldest continuously used royal residence in the world. While at Windsor Castle take witness to the Changing of the Guard ceremony, visit the burial sites of Charles I and Queen Elizabeth II, relive the pomp and circumstance of the royal weddings, or simply wander the historic grounds.
Windsor Castle
The town of Windsor is an unparished area in the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead in Berkshire, England. It is widely known as the site of Windsor Castle, one of the official residences of the British Royal Family. Windsor Castle itself is the oldest continuously used royal residence in the world. While at Windsor Castle take witness to the Changing of the Guard ceremony, visit the burial sites of Charles I and Queen Elizabeth II, relive the pomp and circumstance of the royal weddings, or simply wander the historic grounds.
Cultural Activities in England
The ISA on-site team encourages you to explore culture of England in and around your host city. The team facilitates this by offering a robust calendar of events that showcases what makes England special. These activities vary each term, and previous offerings have included visits to Camden Town, a show at The Globe Theatre, River Thames boat tour, stroll through Borough Market, and a tour of the Tower of London.
Cultural Activities in England
The ISA on-site team encourages you to explore culture of England in and around your host city. The team facilitates this by offering a robust calendar of events that showcases what makes England special. These activities vary each term, and previous offerings have included visits to Camden Town, a show at The Globe Theatre, River Thames boat tour, stroll through Borough Market, and a tour of the Tower of London.