Key Summary
FAQs
What should I know before applying to Oxford University?
Oxford is a highly selective collegiate university with demanding courses, subject-specific entry requirements and an earlier UCAS deadline than most UK universities. For 2027 entry, applications close at 6pm UK time on 15 October 2026. Depending on your course, you may also need an admissions test, written work and an online interview.
What is Oxford University's acceptance rate?
Oxford's official 2025 data records 23,329 undergraduate applications, 3,891 offers and 3,302 students admitted. That means the overall offer rate was about 16.7%, although course-level chances vary dramatically. Offer rate and final admission rate are not identical, so older claims that Oxford simply has one universal 17.5% acceptance rate are misleading.
When is the Oxford application deadline for 2027 entry?
The final UCAS deadline for Oxford undergraduate applications for 2027 entry is 6pm UK time on 15 October 2026. Oxford's official admissions timeline recommends starting much earlier because applicants must choose a course, arrange a reference and check test or written-work requirements.
Do all Oxford applicants have to take an admissions test?
No. Admissions tests are required for some Oxford courses but not all, and the test arrangements can change between admissions cycles. Check the current requirements for your exact course rather than relying on an older general guide. Where a test is required, registration and preparation deadlines can be separate from the UCAS application itself.
How does the Oxford college system work?
Undergraduates belong to a college as well as the wider University of Oxford. Colleges provide community, accommodation and much of students' pastoral environment, while faculties and departments organise the broader academic course. You can name a college or make an open application. College choice does not create a separate degree or change the university awarding it.
What are tutorials at Oxford like?
Tutorials are small-group teaching sessions that form a distinctive part of many Oxford courses. Students typically prepare substantial work in advance and discuss it closely with a tutor, alongside lectures, classes, laboratories or other teaching depending on the subject. The system can provide intense academic feedback but also creates a demanding independent workload.
When do Oxford applicants find out if they got in?
For 2027 entry, shortlisted applicants will receive the outcome of their application on 12 January 2027 through UCAS, with colleges following up directly. Oxford publishes the current decision date officially. Most successful school-leaver applicants then need to meet the conditions of their offer.
Is Oxford University well ranked?
Yes. Oxford ranks second in the Complete University Guide 2027 and has an exceptional international academic reputation. Its subject performance is also strong across many disciplines. Rankings should still not replace course fit because Oxford's teaching style, workload, assessment and collegiate structure are distinctive and may not suit every high-achieving applicant.
Is Oxford University only for private school students?
No. Oxford admits students from state and independent schools and publishes detailed admissions statistics covering background and disadvantage. In 2025, 79% of admitted undergraduates were from the UK, and the university reports widening-access measures within its intake. Applicants should use the published selection criteria and contextual information rather than assuming school type alone determines admission.
Who should apply to Oxford University?
Oxford can suit students with strong academic preparation who genuinely enjoy intensive subject study, independent work and close discussion of ideas. Apply because the course and teaching style appeal to you, not simply because of prestige. Check the exact entry requirements, selection criteria, admissions test and workload before deciding whether Oxford is the right environment.
You’ve most likely heard of Oxford University, given it’s one of the most famous universities in the world. But how much do you actually know about it? Its prestigious status makes it fiercely competitive, so brushing up on your knowledge of key facts is a good way to plan ahead. If you’re thinking about going to Oxford University, or are simply curious, keep reading to find out more. From how old Oxford University is, to its ranking, acceptance rate and more, find out everything there is to know in our handy guide.
Where is Oxford University?
Located in Oxford, England, the University of Oxford is located across different sites as it’s not a campus university. The official location for Oxford University is Oxford OX1 2JD, however, if you’re looking for a certain department or building, you might need to consult a map.
The main grounds are a very short walk from the iconic Radcliffe Camera, which is part of the University’s collection of buildings. It’s a former Physics Library and showcases neoclassical architecture, so you’ll know you’re in the right spot once you find this!
When was Oxford University founded?
As one of the oldest universities in the world, many people wonder how old Oxford University actually is! The University of Oxford was founded in 1096, according to the first evidence of teaching available. It was founded by William of Durham and John Balliol (the latter has a college named after him – Balliol College).
Going off the 1096 date, Oxford University is the oldest university in the UK and other parts of the world (the US and Australia). It’s also the second-oldest existing university in the world when looking at universities in continuous operation, where Oxford University has remained open since the early 11th century. The oldest is the University of Bologna in Italy, where teaching is thought to have begun 8 years prior to Oxford.
How many students are at Oxford University?
Recent statistics from the University of Oxford show there are over 25,000 students. This includes a fairly equal mix of undergraduate and postgraduate students. International students also account for just under half of the student population at Oxford University, at 45%.
What is Oxford University’s acceptance rate?
The University of Oxford is arguably one of the most sought-after, given its ranking and infamous record. In 2021, there were over 24,000 undergraduate applications and 40,000 postgraduate, so its courses are in high demand. The recent acceptance rate at Oxford University is 17.5%. For comparison, Cambridge University’s acceptance rate is 21% and Harvard University’s is just 5%!
According to AdmissionReport, the offer rate at the University of Oxford over the last 15 years for undergraduates is 15%, which is 1 in 7. For postgraduates, this is slightly higher at 30%, which is 3 in 10. Figures also show that since 2007, the number of applications at both levels has risen significantly. Statistically, this means the acceptance rate will fall.
What is Oxford University’s ranking?
According to the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, Oxford University came in the top spot every year between 2017-2022. It’s also sitting at the top for 2023 too… pretty impressive!
So if you do get into Oxford, you know you’re going to a great university!
What are Oxford University’s fees?
For the year 2023, the fee for home students studying undergraduate degrees at Oxford University is £9,250. Oversees students’ fees are much higher at £28,950 to £44,240 per year. Postgraduate fees are generally based on the individual course you choose to go for.
Oxford University has a range of scholarships available too. You can find out more about scholarships on our Student Finance page.
How many Oxford Colleges are there?
Oxford colleges are small, autonomous, academic communities, each with its own students, staff and facilities. These are the places where you would have tutorials, however, classes and lectures would be run by the main uni. There are also usually dining halls, libraries and other common rooms.
In total, the University of Oxford has 44 colleges, which are made up of 39 colleges and 5 permanent private halls (PPHs) founded by Christian denominations. Some of the most well-known colleges include Balliol, Merton, Exeter and Oriel which are also some of the oldest.
Which is better: Oxford or Cambridge?
Obviously, this question comes down to individual opinion. There are a lot of factors that make a university great that go beyond traditional rankings. They are generally equal when it comes to their standards and prestige. One key difference is that Cambridge has more specialised singular degrees, whereas Oxford tends to have broader overarching degrees. Other than that, it’s about finding the right course and location for you, as both universities have a solid reputation.