University Of Oxford United Kingdom
About School

University of Oxford

The University of Oxford is one of the leading universities in the world, renowned globally for its high quality of teaching and academic excellence. It is also the oldest university in the English-speaking world, thus becoming a centre of education for over nine centuries. The University of Oxford has an ethnically diverse student population with about a third born overseas and 140 different nationalities represented on campus. The university works by means of a collegiate system and is composed of 39 different colleges that make up the university as a whole.

School's Main website | International student website

International Students’ Guide | International Students’ Guide (for Americans)

Academics

When applying to Oxford as a full time student, you will have to meet the minimum requirements of the individual courses. However, do keep in mind that meeting the minimum requirements does not mean a 100% guaranteed placement.

Language of Instruction:

The main teaching language used in Oxford University is the English language. If you are not a native English speaker, you may be asked to do a literacy test. Visit www.ox.ac.uk/enlang for more details.

Course registration process:

Registering for courses (Full-time)

  1. Find out if you meet Oxford University’s English Language proficiency here.
  2. Read up on Oxford University’s country-specific qualification system here.
  3. Find out if your course has specific requirements here. You may need to submit sample work or do some tests.
  4. Submit a UCAS application (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).  For an open application, choose campus code ‘9’ on your UCAS application. Apply one year before the academic year. The application form can be found at www.ucas.com.

You will be required to indicate your past academic results and predicted results for any exams you plan to take if applicable as well as a testimonial/ appraisal from a teacher or authority. Depending on the university, you may be required to take additional aptitude tests or send in work samples for the applying for.

  1. Candidates who make it into the list should prepare for the interview in December that very year. Interviews may be done through telephone or Skype (except Medicine) if you are not able to make it down to Oxford. Keep in mind that the interviews are to test for critical thinking and subjects written in your personal statement/ resume. This is also the chance to showcase your potential and experience Oxford’s style of learning.
  2. Application results will be released by mid-January. Your placing will be classified as being conditional if you have yet to complete school.

Flying Chalks’ tips:

  • You cannot apply to Oxford and Cambridge in the same year.
  • You can only apply for one course at a time
My Campus

Campus map:

www.ox.ac.uk/visitors/map?wssl=1

PDF version

Selected facilities:

Different facilities can be found in different colleges ranging from Gyms, Sutro Rooms (for drama and music ensembles) to Stadiums and other Common Rooms. Listed here are some of the major facilities shared amongst Oxford students:

Sports

  • Iffley Road: this sports complex is open to both students and members of the local community. It has a 25m swimming pool, gym, bouldering rock, athletic track, rowing tank, hockey pitch, squash, badminton and tennis courts and more.
  • Marston Road Sports Ground: a sports venue that prioritises women’s sports and regularly hosts cricket, rugby and football matches.
  • University Parks: main venue for Oxford University’s cricket that also hosts tennis, croquet, hockey Rugby League and Rugby Union matches.

For more information, visit: www.sport.ox.ac.uk or http://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/why-oxford/life-in-oxford/sport

Libraries

  • Every college has its own library that stocks core reading material and many are open 24/7. There are also faculty libraries and research libraries such as the Bodleian, which has a copy of every book ever published in Britain. For more information on the various libraries, click here. http://www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/subjects-and-libraries/libraries/college

IT

  • Most departments and colleges provide computer rooms and computer support as well as free training.

Disabilities

  • The university is well equipped to deal with any disabilities. For more information, contact the Disability Advisory Service on 01865 280459, or email disability@admin.ox.ac.uk.

Emotional support

  • Each college has a Welfare team made up of trained students who offer confidential support.
  • The Student Counselling Service offers professional support.

Careers service

  • Oxford University’s Careers Service offers individualised support to help students better decide the next step to take following their time at the university. There are also many weekly events that allow you to build CV skills and provide networking opportunities with alumni and other guests.

Food on campus:

Each college has its own unique food facilities but most have a café, bar, dining hall as well as basic self-catering facilities. You can find them on the university’s campus map!

Flying Chalks’ tip: Brasenose College has the reputation for the cheapest in-campus food.

On a bi-weekly or tri-weekly basis, many colleges hold formal dinners with three course meals and black tie is required.

Flying Chalks’ recommendation: Try to get yourself invited to different college ‘formal halls’ as it is a great way to see different colleges and meet people!

Campus transportation:

There is no university transportation as you can easily get from one building to another on foot. Bikes are a very popular choice for those who stay further away from campus.

Flying Chalks’ tips:

  • Should you intend to get yourself a bicycle, do invest in a good padlock as bike theft is the most prevalent crime across campus!
  • Download Oxford University’s mobile application to help you better navigate your way around the university area!  
Student Life

 

Orientation program:

Each college has its own orientation program, in addition to the university Orientation Programme that takes place in late September or early October. It provides practical information for your time in Oxford (such as opening a bank account) and also a chance to meet fellow international students from around the world. Erasmus students can attend these programmes too.

Visit this website www.ox.ac.uk/students/new/orientation?wssl=1 for more details. There, you can also find podcasts about international student life at the university as well as advice from UKCISA on culture shock and adjusting to life in the UK.

Buddy program:

Most colleges organize ‘parenting system’ where seniors doing the same course become the ‘parents’ of newly arrived students or ‘freshers.’ This may sound strange but it is simply a buddy programme to help students settle in, meet people and find help if you are struggling with your academic work. Arriving and already having a brother or sister as well as two parents is actually great fun and very reassuring!

Student clubs:

From rowing to politics, from wine and cheese clubs to Acapella singing, Oxford has societies for almost every possible interest! Here is a small selection:

  • The Oxford Union is a 200 year-old world famous debating society that hosts internationally renowned speakers and guests including the US President Richard Nixon, UK Prime Minister Winston Churchill, the Dalai Lama, Mother Teresa, Michael Jackson and Shakira. The Union encourage debates and open discussions by offering a platform to address issues.
  • Oxford University Malaysian and Singaporean Students’ Association (OUMSSA) promotes the culture of Singaporeans and Malaysians in Oxford, and serves as a source of support for Singaporeans who are studying at or applying to the University of Oxford. They organise a variety of events every school term, such as socials, talks and career networking events. Annual and lifetime membership cost 10 pounds and 25 pounds respectively.
  • OUSU (Oxford University Student Union) represents and supports Oxford students and provides advice, training and events.
  • Oxford University Sports has 85 University sports clubs as well as college teams and sports teams ‘just for fun’ for those of us who have no natural sporting skill. If you hear someone being referred to as “Blue” (an accolade originated from the 1829 first boat race), they are amongst the Oxford’s top athletes!
  • Oxford University Dramatic Society: Oxford is famous for drama. OUDS represents theatre life in Oxford with 30 productions every term and annual Shakespeare production tours produced entirely by students who perform at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Find out more about Oxford’s theatrical life here!
  • The Oxford Imps: if you enjoy improvised comedy or think you’re quite funny, the Oxford Imps might be for you. Performing every Monday and at the Edinburgh Fringe, they provide training and workshops and also audition for different roles in the team, from comedians to musicians and technicians.
  • Media and Communications: Oxide (24-hour student-run radio station), ISIS Magazine (Britain’s oldest student publication), Cherwell and Oxford Student newspapers are some of the opportunities for budding journalists and broadcasters.
  • Out of the Blue: an all-male a cappella group that collaborates with Oxford Brookes University to sing a mix of songs, new and old, performing around the world with much success.
  • The Oxford Guild of Assassins: do not panic, this is not actually a society for trained killers. It is in fact a club that runs two week-long ‘games’ where members attempt to ‘kill’ each other with a plastic weapon of their choice. If it sounds ridiculous, that is because it is, but it is also a lot of fun.
  • The Oxford Union is a 200 year-old world famous debating society that hosts internationally renowned speakers and guests including the US President Richard Nixon, UK Prime Minister Winston Churchill, the Dalai Lama, Mother Teresa, Michael Jackson and Shakira. The Union encourage debates and open discussions by offering a platform to address issues.

Find Oxford’s full list of clubs and societies here!

University events:

  • College balls: Every college will hold a ball, usually at the end of the academic year after exams have finished. Balls are known for being nights of excessive amounts of champagne, dancing and frivolity. Often with a theme, always black tie or white tie, there is a huge variety of entertainment, from music artists, big and small, to stand-up comedy, exciting food, fireworks and sometimes even dodgems.
  • May Morning is one of the most important days in the Oxford Calendar. May Eve, the evening before, is a night of partying and celebrating before watching Magdalen choir sing from the top of the college Tower at 6.00am to welcome the arrival of spring.
  • Freshers’ Fair, held on “Freshers’ week” (week zero, the week before term commencement) to welcome new students as well as introduce Oxford’s Club and Societies, tours and several social events.

Find out more about life in Oxford here or experience and keep informed about its ongoing events here!

Surrounding Environment

Oxford is one of the most picturesque and historic cities in Britain. Famous for its dreamy spires and ancient architecture, it feels both centuries old yet simultaneously very modern thanks to its huge student population. There are two universities located in the city: The University of Oxford and Oxford Brookes University.

Winding cobbled lanes, gorgeous green parks, clear flowing streams and rivers make it an idyllic place to live. In the city-centre, typical high-street chains and outlets are juxtaposed with historic libraries and towers. Travelling a little further north have Jericho, with its craft beer pubs and independent cinema, while in the east you have the ethnically rich Cowley, full of fantastic restaurants serving food from around the world.

Take a virtual tour around oxford here!

For food:

Never will there be enough time to visit all the restaurants and cafes Oxford has to offer. From chain eateries such as Zizzis and Starbucks, to the Covered Market with its abundance of independent coffee shops, you will definitely be spoilt for choice.

Flying Chalks’ recommendations:

  • Oli’s Thai: Despite being number 1 on Tripadvisor, this is a low-key and simple affair. The Thai restaurant has a small menu that changes daily and offers delicious food that is more than worth its low price. You will need to book in advance though as this gem is no longer a city secret!
  • Atomic Burger: in the style of an American diner, this burger joint is fun and quirky. The space is filled with references to 1980s popular culture and you can choose from countless different burger combinations as well as retro sweets and ice cream sundaes.
  • Quod: if your budget can stretch to it, Quod is an elegant and always bustling restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and drinks. Located on the high street, it is a top choice for parents visiting their children and there is always something delectable on the menu.

For nightlife and entertainment:

Clubs

  • Park End: it does not get larger and crazier than Park End. You may lose your friends within moments but you will definitely have fun.
  • Cellar: playing more alternative music from hip hop to funk, it is has a reputation for being ‘too cool for school’ but generally has a welcoming atmosphere.
  • The Bridge/Anuba: cheesy music with a large smoking area that is perfect for escaping the noise inside and meeting people.
  • Lola Lo’s: cheap and fun with bartenders wearing Hawaiian shirts and cocktails served in huge glasses.
  • Plush: Oxford’s LGBTQ club that is popular with everyone thanks to its cheap drinks on a Friday night and eclectic mix of music.

Pubs

  • Turf Tavern: hidden away down a narrow alleyway in the heart of the city, this is a popular pub for students and locals alike.
  • Eagle & Child: famous for being the favourite haunt of writers JRR Tolkein and CS Lewis.
  • Lamb & Flag: with its equally literary history, frequented by Graham Greene and Thomas Hardy, this is a popular choice for drinkers of all ages.
  • King’s Arms: this pub is always full of students, no matter which day of the week it is.
  • The Perch: if you fancy a walk across the beautiful Port Meadow, you could finish your stroll with a pint in the Perch, a charming pub accessed through a garden strewn with fairy-lights.

Bars

  • Freud Café: Located inside an old church, Freud is an atmospheric and characterful place to enjoy drinks and nibbles. It also hosts regular music artists. 
  • Big Society: this large establishment serves craft beers and a wide range of American-style food from fried chicken to mac ‘n’ cheese. It is quirky and also has a beer garden and ping pong table.
  • Café Tarifa: unique decoration and a fun ambience make this a delightful place to have a drink, whether it be a cocktail or Mahou beer.
  • Kasbar: this exotically decorated bar serves tapas and cocktails and sometimes has live music that adds to the atmosphere.
  • Raoul’s Bar: with 60s retro as the main theme, this funky bar has an intimate upstairs seating area while downstairs is a dance area. It has a mixed age clientele.

For daily necessities and groceries:
 

  • Supermarkets: most leading supermarket chains have a store in the city-centre, including Mark and Spencers, Sainsbury’s, Tesco and the Cooperative. Marks and Spencers is the slightly more expensive choice; the other three are almost equal in price.
     
  • Markets: if you prefer local and organic produce, there are 10 regular traditional Farmers Markets in the city including Gloucester Green Farmers’ Market, located between Beaumont Street, George Street and Walton Street, running from 9am – 4pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays and 10am to 5pm on Saturdays. There is also the Covered Market which sells fresh fruit and vegetables, meat and fish among other delicacies.
     
  • Ethnic food shops: Cowley has a wonderful range of grocery stores where you will be able to find ingredients for anything from Lebanese to Polish cooking.
     
  • For other non-food necessities, you can look in Boots, BHS, Debenhams as well as the long-running family-owned Boswells department store that seems to supply pretty much anything you could want.

For shopping:

Oxford has all of the main chain outlets and two shopping centres: the Clarendon Centre and the Westgate Centre. Located on Cornmarket and Queen Street are all the usual high-street fashion stores, while High Street offers the more upmarket boutiques. The few other stores to take note of are:
 

  • Blackwell’s: this academic book shop and speciality music and art/poster store stocks more than 200,000 titles and will bound to have what you need.
  • Ballroom Emporium and Reign: these two vintage and second-hand shops are found in Eastern Oxford. The former stocks everything from ball-gowns to cutlery while the second is the place to shop if you want to rock a hipster look, stocking plenty of plaid shirts and Levi cut-offs.
  • Truck Store: every town needs a reliably awesome music store and the Truck Store is just that. It has a huge range of vinyl and CDs of all music types as well as regular performances from local and visiting musicians.
  • Inky Fingers: this specialised comic shop stocks everything from the standard Marvel comics to self-published books. If you are a comic book fan or are simply curious, this is the place to visit.
  • The Albion Beatnik Bookshop: open until 11.00pm at least four nights a week, this is a bookshop with a difference. There is a café with coffee and cake and regular literary evenings that include poetry, music and debates. There is no wi-fi here, just one example of how alternative it is.
  • Scriptum: if you fancy writing with a quill or decide you need a large Roman bust, this is the shop for you. It is an emporium of hand-crafted luxury stationary and is worth a visit even if you do not buy anything.

For leisure:

Theatre:

  • The New Theatre: this is the main commercial theatre in Oxford and puts on a wide range of shows from musicals to stand-up comedy.
  • The Oxford Playhouse and the Burton Taylor Studio: hosting everything from contemporary dance to lectures and workshops, there is plenty of drama related activity to be found here.
  • The Old Fire station: with a theatre, studio space and a gallery, you can see everything from music to visual arts here.

Cinema:
There are two Odeon cinemas in the city that screen most of the current blockbusters.

  1. The Ultimate Picture Palace, Cowley: this historic cinema screens both the mainstream films but also has themed seasons and special events. You could not find a more atmospheric place to watch a movie.
  2. Phoenix Picturehouse: from cult-classics to art house projects with a focus on independent and foreign film as well as live theatre performances, this cinema is definitely worth a visit. 

Punting:
Your Oxford experience would not be complete without at least one try at punting. A punt is a flat-bottomed boat that is pushed along with a pole against the river-bed. Meandering down the Cherwell under bridges, through fields and woody groves, this quintessential Oxford pastime often involves a lot of Pimms as well.

You can either choose to hire a punt or hire a chauffeur! Other forms of rowing like the Pedaloes, Hen Parties are also available at the Magdalen Bridge Boathouse. Visit its website for more information!

Blenheim Palace:
This historic house and gardens was the birthplace of Prime Minister Winston Churchill and also makes for a lovely day excursion on sunny days. The town of Woodstock is also worth a visit. It is 20 minutes from Oxford and you can access it by bike or bus. 

Cambridge:
If you have the chance to visit Cambridge as part of a sports match or similar, you should definitely go. A smaller and quieter version of Oxford, it is worth seeing. But given the bitter rivalry between the two universities, don’t forget where your loyalties lie!

Bicester Village:
This designer clothing and accessories outlet is only a short train journey from Oxford and is a fun trip for anyone interested in fashion.

Accessibility

Getting to Oxford from any of the airports in London, consider the following options:

  1. Coaches
    • The London Heathrow and Gatwick Airport are linked to Oxford by The Airline coach service company, a 24/7 bus service running 7 days a week. The journey to Oxford from Heathrow Airport is approximately 1.5 hours and on average, buses depart in 20 minutes intervals. Tickets from Heathrow will cost you around £23.
    • Coaches from Gatwick to Oxford depart hourly and tickets cost around £27.
    • Other coach services such as X90 (Oxford to London), Park and Ride and Oxford Tube services are also available.
    • Find out where to get on & off in oxford depending on which college you are heading towards!
       
  2. National express buses: you can also consider taking the National Express bus from any London airport. The cost from Heathrow Airport (Terminal 4) to Oxford (high Stress) is approximately £26.50. See www.nationalexpress.com/home.aspx for more details.
     
  3. Trains:

Train services between Oxford and London Paddington run in approximate 30 minute intervals and costs approximately £30.00. More details on train timing and costs can be found on the National Rail website.

Flying Chalks’ tips:

  • Trainline is a good tool to use when searching for trains within UK.
  • If you are one to travel often, do check on your eligibility for a 16-25 Railcard to receive a 30% discount on train journeys. Group discounts are also available should you be travelling with one!
  • Book your tickets in advance as those bought on the day of departure will cost way more! Do note however, that advanced bookings will limit your travel dates.
     
  1. Taxi: this is the most expensive option and would cost around £65 from Heathrow and £100 from Gatwick, not including a tip. Note: Only get into a taxi if you are sure it is licensed! Find out what are the taxi companies available here!

More information on getting to Oxford University can be found here!

By Gary Tan
2016-12-13 16:44:49
The university is located in a small and quaint city, and people generally walk or cycle to get from place to place. The weather is fairly decent on most days, though watch out for the cold in the winter! While the workload may be heavy, it is always possible to make time to explore the city, travel across and outside the UK, as well as try out new sports and activities! The Singaporean community is fairly large, and it is highly likely that you will overhear a conversation in Singlish from time to time. Finally, it is definitely a good idea to do some research on the colleges when choosing one to apply to. Some things to consider include location (distance from city center, your department etc), food as well as accommodation sites. If you need any other forms of support or information, you can approach the Malaysian and Singaporean society here!