Oxford University Admission: Requirements, Deadlines, FAQs

Imagine getting the chance to study at the university that inspired Hogwarts! That would truly be a magical experience. Aside from being the filming location for one of the most successful film franchises in the world, Oxford University is also one of the best universities in the world. The first step to applying is understating the Oxford University admissions process so you know exactly what you need to get started. In this article, we will also look at the Oxford admissions requirements and Oxford application deadline as well. 

About Oxford University

Oxford University is the oldest institution in the English-speaking world and has constantly ranked among the best universities worldwide. Oxford University was established in Oxford, a town in the United Kingdom's central south, England. The town has over 170,000 people and is 82 kilometres from London. Oxford University now consists of 39 colleges, including St Annes, Somerville, and Lady Margaret Hall, that were initially established as women-only colleges but have since become co-ed. The university is termed a City University with no main campus; instead, colleges, departments, and other facilities are provided throughout the city centre.

Undergraduate admission process

The university has around 25,000 undergraduate students enrolled each year, pursuing one of its 48 different undergraduate degree programs. It is important to have an idea about the Oxford University admission process that local and international students enrolling for undergraduate programmes. Here’s an idea about the Oxford admissions requirements and more information.

1. Register for tests: The Oxford application deadline to register for tests is the end of September.

2. UCAS application: The Oxford University admission process starts earlier than most with the final deadline for application being in October

3. Written work submission: If any additional written work is required, it must be submitted by the second week of November

Top Undergraduate courses

The university has a range of undergraduate courses that you can apply for if you choose to study there. Remember, the Oxford University admissions criteria for each of these courses will differ slightly so make sure to visit Oxford’s course list page to see specific admission requirements. Most of their courses are top-notch, so believe us when we say we had a hard time narrowing down this list. 

1. Philosophy: Besides its degree programmes, Oxford University also provides various short-term philosophy courses online. Most of their 10-week-long short-term online courses are conducted in an entirely virtual setting.

2. Geography: Oxford University’s degree programme in geography focuses primarily on the interactions between societies and natural and built environments. 

3. English Language & Literature: When you think Oxford University, you likely think English, so it's no surprise that Oxford is arguably the only institution in the world to provide an extremely extensive English language and literature curriculum.

4. Mathematics: The mathematical institute at Oxford University offers various undergraduate and graduate programmes, including research degrees in fields like algebra, geometry, topology, logic, and more.

5. Linguistics: Oxford University has one of the world's top linguistics courses. The investigation of the structure and character of human language is introduced to students in the early stages. 

6. History: The history course at Oxford combines in-depth studies of vast geographic areas over extended periods with more focused work on smaller social groups, shorter periods, and particular themes.

7. Medicine: The pre-clinical course at Oxford University allows you to learn about the science underlying clinical practice while engaging with the fundamental scientific inquiry that drives medical advancement.

Postgraduate admission process

The Oxford University admissions process for postgraduate and master's degrees isn’t as streamlined as their undergraduate applications. The Oxford deadline is different for each plan of study, with many courses even having rolling admissions. Each course on Oxford’s masters’ course list page will have the status of admissions. The different stages of the Oxford University admissions process for postgraduate students are:

1. Open to applications: The admission process is accepting all applicants

2. Closing to applications: The deadline is approaching soon 

3. Closed to applications: No longer accepting any additional applications

4. Admission via a separate process: This specific course requires a different set of steps to apply.

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Top Masters courses

The university is a very popular destination for both domestic and international student to pursue their postgraduate degrees. The Oxford University requirements for each master's course will differ, so make sure to check each course to learn more about what they offer and what they require from students. 

1. MA in Education

An MA in Education will help you advance your profession. In this course, you will learn advanced practitioner skills that you can use in various educational contexts. Additionally, you'll be free to investigate your passions and transform them into a professional speciality.

2. MSc in Banking, Finance, and FinTech

Who doesn’t love money? The Master of Science in Banking, Finance, and FinTech programme not only equips students with a strong foundation in banking and finance but also fosters the development of practical FinTech (financial technology) skills.

3. Master in Engineering Science

 Oxford University bases its undergraduate degree on a single Engineering Science course that unifies the study of the subject across the conventional boundaries of engineering disciplines. This is because Oxford University believes that future engineering innovation will benefit from broad foundations and specialised knowledge.

4. Master of Science in Organizational Leadership

Oxford and Northwood University jointly offer the Master of Science in Organizational Leadership (MSOL) degree program. The MSOL is intended for executives focusing on strategy, leadership and change, and globalization, as well as for young, dynamic, high-caliber professionals. It is made to assist you in maximizing human potential inside your company and setting yourself up for career success.

5. MSC in Biochemistry

Simply defined, biochemistry mixes biology and chemistry, but today the field is exceptionally vast and includes different sectors like pathology, pharmacology, physiology, genetics, zoology, botany, surgery, and even anatomy. The Oxford University course primarily focuses on the molecular elements of biological processes in the kingdoms of plants, animals, and microorganisms.

6. MA in Public History

The perfect course for history lovers; public history includes museums, documentaries, monuments, lectures, guided tours, and community events. It also looks at the connection between politics and history as well as the significant impact of history on modern society. 

7. Master in Law

The Oxford University Law Degree offers a strong foundation for those who wish to pursue further legal education. It also engages students in challenging moral, philosophical, political, and social issues that help them become independent thinkers. You can strengthen your logical analysis and independent thought skills as a student through brief, discussion-based lessons that support your independent research and essay writing. 

Don't know what to pick? Check out our blog on the Best Majors for your Future.

Extracurricular Activities at Oxford

Oxford has so much to offer to its students. Not everything at Oxford focuses on academics, but extracurricular activities are also given equal importance. Students will get the chance to explore their interests and channel their inner sport. This will not only help them in their career but will prove to be of great importance in enhancing their overall personality as well. Let’s take a look at some of the activities that are performed at the university. 

1. Sports Club - Oxford University offers students the chance to explore their interests in the sports area. Students can join sports clubs to participate in various sports such as football, rugby, cricket, rowing, tennis, etc.
2. Music and Performing Arts - Choirs, Orchestras, and Drama are some of the regularly performed arts at Oxford University. These groups are made keeping in mind the creativity of students and giving them the opportunity to explore more.
3. Debating Societies - Another co-curricular activity that has been running for quite some time in the university is the debating society, where students work on their communication and debating skills. 

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How to Apply to Oxford University?

Once you’ve decided to bite the bullet and decided to apply to one of the hardest universities in the UK, you’ll find the Oxford University admissions process is actually pretty straightforward. Here are the different steps to apply to Oxford University:

• Select the course you are interested in
• Complete your application form
• Pay the application fee of £75
• Register & appear for any required admission tests 
• Submit your application before the Oxford deadline passes by
• Appear for a round of interviews (if any)
• Await the results of your application

Documents required to apply to the University of Oxford

Before you begin your application, it's a good practice to keep photocopies and soft copies of all your important documents handy, so you know exactly where you can find them. Scrambling to find important documents at the last second is a great way to miss your application deadline. Some of the major documents you will be required to submit during your Oxford University admissions process are:

• ID proof, like a valid passport or driver's license 
• Statement of Purpose for your desired course 
• Official academic transcripts 
• English language proficiency (for international students)

Still finding it difficult to get into Oxford?? Check out our blog on guide to getting into the University of Oxford.

Tips for Writing an essay for the Oxford University Admission

Do you know, apart from your scores, what will make you stand out from other applicants for Oxford University Admission? That perfect essay will reveal a lot more about you than other things hence it is important to ensure that you write an excellent essay. But for doing so, you might need the SOP (Statement of purpose) to understand how this goes. Here are a few pointers to help you write an ideal essay.

1. Start by giving a brief introduction about your academic and professional background. You can also include a bit about your vision of your future career goals.
2. In the next section, you can include your professional experience in detail. 
3. Next paragraph, you can start by talking about your academic qualifications in detail, where you can highlight your academic achievements, awards, and recognition that you have received in the entire course period. This is the perfect opportunity to showcase what you have done throughout your academic career. 
4. Next comes the important part, the intent of applying for the specific course at Oxford University. This strengthens your application for the Oxford University admission process. 
5. This is not it, next you share the details of your short-term and long-term career goals. You can make it as personal as you want. 
6. Here comes the reason for joining Oxford University; remember, this can enhance your application for the Oxford University admissions process, so make sure to keep it apt and up to the mark.
7. Lastly, close your essay for the Oxford University admissions process by showing your gratitude towards the university and thanking the selecting committee. 

Oxford University's notable alumni

Oxford University has a plethora of well-known alumni. Among Oxford's most renowned scientific alumni were 28 British prime ministers and numerous other foremost worldwide leaders. Some of Oxford University’s most notable alumni are:

• Lewis Carroll, the author of Alice in Wonderland
• Rowan Atkinson, more popularly known by his character Mr Bean
• Hugh Grant, a very popular British actor known for his roles in films like Notting Hill, Love Actually
• Kate Beckinsale, a famous actress known for her roles in films like Van Helsing and Pearl Harbor

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That was everything you needed to know about the Oxford University admissions process. Oxford is an extremely prestigious university and getting the chance to study here would be a dream come true for many. Once you’re accepted, you need a place to stay. So plan for success and start your search for student accommodation in Oxford sooner rather than later.