University of Oxford

The oldest university in the English-speaking world, renowned for its unique collegiate system and personalized tutorial teaching.

Oxford, United Kingdom World Rank: #4 (QS) Founded: 1096

26,000+

Students

72

Nobel Laureates

39

Colleges

£1.7B+

Endowment

Why Study at Oxford?

The Tutorial System

Oxford's unique teaching method involves weekly one-on-one or small group sessions with world-leading experts in your field.

Collegiate System

Every student belongs to a college—a multidisciplinary community that provides accommodation, meals, libraries, and social support.

Bodleian Libraries

Access to the UK's second-largest library system, holding over 13 million printed items and historic manuscripts.

Global Leadership

Oxford has educated 30 British Prime Ministers, 55 Nobel Prize winners, and 120 Olympic medalists.

Research Impact

Ranked #1 globally for research quality. From the COVID-19 vaccine to climate solutions, Oxford research changes the world.

Historic Setting

Live and study in the "City of Dreaming Spires," surrounded by centuries of architectural beauty and academic history.

Popular Programs

PPE

Philosophy, Politics and Economics

Medicine

Pre-clinical and Clinical (BM BCh)

Law (Jurisprudence)

BA in Jurisprudence

Engineering Science

4-year MEng program

History

Ancient and Modern History

English Language

English Language and Literature

Mathematics

MMath (4 years) or BA (3 years)

Computer Science

Top-ranked CS program in Europe

Economics & Management

Highly competitive joint school

Chemistry

MChem (4-year course)

MBA

Saïd Business School

MSc Computer Science

Advanced practical & theoretical CS

BCL (Law)

World's most prestigious taught law master's

MPP (Public Policy)

Blavatnik School of Government

MPhil Int. Relations

Department of Politics and IR

MSc Financial Economics

Top-tier finance program

MSc AI & Machine Learning

Cutting-edge AI research

MSc Global Health

Tropical Medicine & Global Health

MSt English

Various periods of literature

DPhil (PhD)

Research degrees across all subjects

Scholarships & Funding

Rhodes Scholarship

The oldest and most prestigious international scholarship program, offering full funding for postgraduate study at Oxford.

Clarendon Fund

Oxford's major graduate scholarship scheme, awarding over 150 fully-funded scholarships annually based on academic merit.

Reach Oxford

Undergraduate scholarships for students from low-income countries who cannot study for a degree in their own country.

College Scholarships

Many individual colleges (e.g., St John's, Christ Church) offer their own specific bursaries and travel grants.

Commonwealth Schols

Extensive funding opportunities available specifically for students from Commonwealth countries.

Living Costs Support

Various bursaries are available to assist with the cost of living in Oxford, depending on household income.

Historic Landmarks

Radcliffe Camera

The iconic circular library and reading room, perhaps the most photographed building in Oxford.

Christ Church

One of the largest colleges, featuring the famous dining hall that inspired the Harry Potter films.

Ashmolean Museum

The world's first university museum, housing incredible collections of art and archaeology.

Bodleian Library

One of the oldest libraries in Europe. Every student swears an oath not to damage the books upon entry.

Botanic Garden

Britain's oldest botanic garden, providing a peaceful riverside sanctuary in the heart of the city.

Sheldonian Theatre

The ceremonial hall designed by Christopher Wren, used for matriculation and graduation ceremonies.

Research & Innovation

Medical Sciences

Home to the Oxford Vaccine Group. Consistently ranked #1 globally for clinical, pre-clinical, and health research.

AI & Robotics

The Oxford Robotics Institute is a global leader in mobile autonomy, developing self-driving cars and mars rovers.

Humanities

The largest concentration of humanities research in the world, preserving culture while interpreting modern challenges.

Quantum Computing

Leading the UK's quantum computing hub, creating the next generation of supercomputers.

Oxford Science Park

A hub for science and technology companies, fostering strong links between academic research and commercial application.

Climate Research

Oxford Net Zero is an interdisciplinary initiative providing solutions to the global climate crisis.

Entry Requirements

Undergraduate Requirements

  • UCAS Application: Must apply by October 15th (Early Deadline)
  • Academic Grades: A-Levels (A*A*A - AAA) or IB (38-40 points with 666-776 HL)
  • Admissions Tests: Subject-specific tests required (LNAT, MAT, TSA, PAT)
  • English Proficiency: IELTS (7.5 overall, min 7.0 per component)
  • Written Work: Some courses require submitting marked school essays
  • Interview: Academic interviews are a critical part of the selection process
  • Personal Statement: Focus on academic passion and super-curricular reading

Graduate Requirements

  • Degree: First-class or strong Upper Second-class undergraduate degree
  • References: 3 academic references required (Professional accepted for MBA)
  • GRE/GMAT: Required for MBA and some Economics/Finance programs
  • Statement of Purpose: Detailed proposal of research or academic interests
  • Written Work: Two essays typically required for Humanities/Social Sciences
  • CV/Resume: Comprehensive academic and professional history
  • College Preference: You may state a preference or make an open application

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the collegiate system work?
Oxford is made up of over 30 colleges. Your college is your home where you live, eat, and socialize. It also organizes your tutorials. The University (Departments) organizes lectures, exams, and awards degrees. You are a member of both your college and the University.
Can I apply to both Oxford and Cambridge?
Generally, no. For undergraduate admissions, you cannot apply to both Oxford and Cambridge in the same UCAS cycle. You must choose one. This restriction does not apply to postgraduate applications.
What are Oxford interviews like?
Oxford interviews are academic conversations, similar to a tutorial. Tutors want to see how you think, how you tackle new problems, and if you are teachable. They are less about what you already know and more about your intellectual potential.
Is it harder to get into a specific college?
Not necessarily. Oxford has a "pooling" system. If you are a strong candidate but your chosen college is full, you may be interviewed by or offered a place at a different college. Your chance of getting into the University remains the same regardless of college choice.

Ready for the City of Dreaming Spires?

The Oxford application process is unique and rigorous. Let our experts guide you through UCAS, entrance tests, and interview prep.