University of Oxford
United Kingdom
University of Oxford
Oxford, United Kingdom
Founded
c. 1096
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
26,000+
International Students
47%
Discover the University of Oxford: History and Heritage
Discover the University of Oxford: History and Heritage
The University of Oxford is the oldest university in the English-speaking world, with evidence of teaching dating back to 1096. It grew rapidly from 1167 when English scholars returned from the University of Paris, and has since become one of the most prestigious academic institutions on the planet.
Oxford operates as a collegiate university comprising 39 self-governing colleges and six permanent private halls, spread across the medieval city centre rather than a single campus. Its academic work is organised into four divisions: Humanities; Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences; Medical Sciences; and Social Sciences.
With more than 26,000 students from over 160 countries and territories, Oxford fosters a truly global academic community. The university's tutorial system, which pairs students with expert academics for intensive one-on-one or small-group teaching sessions, remains one of its most distinctive and celebrated features.
Key Milestones
- 1096: Earliest evidence of teaching at Oxford, making it the oldest university in the English-speaking world.
- 1249: University College founded by William of Durham, becoming the earliest college at Oxford.
- 1878: Lady Margaret Hall founded as the first women's college at Oxford, with women admitted to full membership in 1920.
- 2021: Oxford partnered with AstraZeneca to develop a COVID-19 vaccine supplied to over 180 countries worldwide.
Academic Structure and Divisions
Academic Structure and Divisions
The University of Oxford organises its academic work into four broad divisions, each encompassing multiple departments and faculties. Students benefit from Oxford's distinctive tutorial system alongside lectures, seminars, and laboratory work, creating an unparalleled learning experience.
Humanities Division
One of the largest humanities faculties in the world, covering literature, languages, history, philosophy, theology, music, and fine art with exceptional research output.
- English Language and Literature
- History
- Philosophy and Modern Languages
Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences Division
Encompasses the natural and mathematical sciences, from pure mathematics and theoretical physics to earth sciences and engineering, with cutting-edge research facilities.
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Physics
Medical Sciences Division
Ranked first in the world for medicine by THE for 14 consecutive years, this division leads groundbreaking research in clinical medicine, biomedical sciences, and public health.
- Medicine (BM BCh)
- Biomedical Sciences
- Experimental Psychology
Social Sciences Division
The largest social sciences division in the UK, housing departments spanning economics, politics, law, education, sociology, and international development.
- Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE)
- Law (Jurisprudence)
- Economics and Management
Said Business School
Oxford's business school offers world-renowned MBA, EMBA, and executive education programmes, blending academic rigour with practical leadership development.
- MBA
- MSc Financial Economics
- Executive MBA
Department for Continuing Education
One of the largest providers of continuing education in the UK, enrolling over 15,000 students annually in part-time, online, and short courses across a wide range of subjects.
- Undergraduate Certificate in History
- MSc in Evidence-Based Health Care
- Diploma in Creative Writing
Admission Requirements for Oxford
Admission Requirements for Oxford
Undergraduate Admissions
- Application SystemUCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service)
- Typical A-Level OfferA*A*A to AAA depending on course
- English ProficiencyIELTS 7.0 overall (min 7.0 per component) or IELTS 7.5 (min 7.0) for some courses
- Admissions TestsCourse-specific tests required (e.g. MAT, LNAT, TSA, PAT)
- InterviewMost shortlisted candidates are interviewed in December
Graduate Admissions
- Minimum DegreeFirst-class or strong upper second-class honours degree (or international equivalent)
- English ProficiencyIELTS 7.0 or 7.5 overall depending on programme
- ReferencesTypically three academic references required
- Application PortalOxford Graduate Admissions online portal
- Supporting MaterialsResearch proposal, writing samples, or CV depending on programme
All undergraduate applications must be submitted via UCAS by 6pm BST. This is earlier than most other UK universities.
Deadline for any written work or essays required as part of the undergraduate admissions process.
Shortlisted undergraduate candidates are interviewed online or in person during December.
Most graduate programmes have a December or January deadline. Applying by the earliest deadline maximises scholarship eligibility.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at Oxford
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at Oxford
Tuition fees at Oxford vary based on your fee status (Home or Overseas) and your chosen programme. Course fees cover tuition, supervision, and access to university and college academic services and facilities, but do not include accommodation or living costs.
| Fee Category | Home (UK) Students | Overseas Students |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition (per year) | GBP 9,535 | GBP 35,260 - 59,260 |
| Graduate Taught (per year) | GBP 8,000 - 14,000 | GBP 29,350 - 59,360 |
| Graduate Research (per year) | GBP 4,712 - 6,000 | GBP 25,000 - 35,000 |
| Estimated Living Costs (per month) | GBP 1,425 - 2,035 | GBP 1,425 - 2,035 |
| Total | Varies by programme | Varies by programme |
Clarendon Fund Scholarships
Oxford's flagship scholarship fund for graduate students, covering full tuition fees and providing a generous living stipend. All graduate applicants are automatically considered.
- Coverage: Full tuition fees plus living stipend
- Eligibility: All graduate applicants (automatic consideration)
- Level: Graduate (Masters and DPhil)
Rhodes Scholarship
One of the most prestigious international scholarships in the world, the Rhodes Scholarship provides full financial support for outstanding students to pursue postgraduate study at Oxford.
- Coverage: Full tuition, living allowance, and travel costs
- Eligibility: International students (country-specific selection)
- Application: Separate application by region/country
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
Unlike most universities, Oxford does not have a single main campus. Its 39 colleges, libraries, museums, and academic buildings are woven throughout the historic city centre, creating a unique environment where centuries-old architecture meets modern research facilities.
One of Oxford's most iconic landmarks, this 18th-century rotunda serves as a reading room for the Bodleian Library.
The UK's second-largest library system with over 12 million items, serving scholars for more than four centuries since 1602.
One of Oxford's largest and most famous colleges, known for its grand dining hall and Tom Tower.
Housing and Dining
Accommodation
Most students live in their college or college-owned accommodation, especially in their first year. Each college provides rooms built around historic quadrangles with access to gardens and communal spaces.
- College-owned rooms for undergraduates and graduates
- Options range from historic en-suite rooms to modern annexes
- Private rental housing also available in the city
Dining
Each college has its own dining hall offering regular meals, including the tradition of formal hall dinners. Many colleges provide catered and self-catered options to suit different preferences.
- Formal hall dinners in historic college dining rooms
- Catered and self-catered accommodation options
- Cafes and kitchens available across colleges
Student Life at Oxford
Student Life at Oxford
Student life at Oxford revolves around the college system, which provides a close-knit community for social activities, dining, and academic support. Beyond the colleges, the university offers hundreds of clubs, societies, and cultural events that make for a vibrant and diverse student experience.
Oxford: The City of Dreaming Spires
Oxford: The City of Dreaming Spires
Living in Oxford
Known as the City of Dreaming Spires, Oxford is a vibrant, historic city located 60 miles northwest of London in the county of Oxfordshire. With a quarter of its residents being students, Oxford has the youngest population of any city in the UK, creating a dynamic and cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Rich Cultural Heritage
Home to the Ashmolean Museum (the world's first university museum, founded in 1683), the Bodleian Libraries, the Sheldonian Theatre, and dozens of stunning college buildings spanning centuries of architecture.
Excellent Transport Links
Oxford is well connected to London by frequent direct trains taking around one hour, with easy access to Heathrow and other major airports.
Thriving Innovation Ecosystem
The Oxford area is a major hub for science, technology, and biotech industries, with numerous spin-out companies and research parks driving innovation and employment.
Green Spaces and Countryside
The city offers beautiful green spaces including the University Parks, Christ Church Meadow, and the nearby Cotswold Hills, perfect for walking, cycling, and rowing on the rivers.
Career Outcomes and Distinguished Alumni
Career Outcomes and Distinguished Alumni
Where Oxford Graduates Work
Practical Information for Students
Practical Information for Students
For International Students
Oxford's International Student Advisory Service helps with Student visa applications, immigration compliance, and related matters. Budget approximately GBP 348 for the visa fee and GBP 624 per year for the Immigration Health Surcharge.
The university's Language Centre offers free in-sessional English language courses to help international students develop their academic writing, speaking, and presentation skills.
Each college provides dedicated welfare support including peer mentoring, college advisors, and a comprehensive orientation programme at the start of Michaelmas Term to help new students settle in.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Oxford World Rankings
University of Oxford World Rankings
The University of Oxford consistently ranks among the top universities in the world across all major ranking systems. It has held the number one position in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings for a record-breaking streak and performs exceptionally well in subject-specific rankings across the sciences, humanities, and social sciences.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine | Times Higher Education | #1 (14th consecutive year) |
| Computer Science | Times Higher Education | #1 (7th consecutive year) |
| English Language and Literature | QS World Rankings | #1 (9th consecutive year) |
| Geography | QS World Rankings | #1 (15th consecutive year) |
Features
University of Oxford is one of the world’s most prestigious and historic universities, renowned for its outstanding academic community and global impact. The university hosts a large and diverse student population, attracting talented students from across the United Kingdom and from many countries around the world. With a strong international presence, Oxford provides a truly global learning environment where students benefit from cultural diversity and collaborative research.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
October - June
2 week
Location
Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JD, United Kingdom
Map not found.
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