Before you begin your application, check the entrance requirements for your chosen course. Conditional offers for students studying A Levels will range between A*A*A and AAA depending on the subject, and more information can be found on specific course pages. A full list of courses offered by the University and their typical A Level (or international equivalent) requirements can be found on the University of Oxford website. You will also find further information in our undergraduate course pages.
For students who are not taking A Levels, we accept a range of international qualifications including the International Baccalaureate. Complete information on international qualifications accepted by the University can be found on the University of Oxford website.
Application Process and Deadlines
All applications are made online through UCAS, and the deadline for students to submit their completed form is 6pm (UK time) on 15th October the year before you wish to start your course. The University has a step-by-step guide to the application process and we recommend that you read the information there thoroughly. Undergraduate applicants may specify Oriel College (or another college) as their college of choice on their application, but it is not compulsory to choose a college when you apply.
Writing your Personal Statement
Our tutors are not looking for ‘perfect’ candidates, or those who check certain boxes – they are looking at each candidate as an individual. What they really want to know is whether you are passionate about your subject, and whether you have the potential to thrive here. In your personal statement, speak honestly about why you want to study your chosen subject and what areas of it you are particularly interested in. Rather than talking generally, you could give specific examples of things you have done or books you have read that have solidified your passion for your subject.
Your personal statement will be used as the basis for some interview questions, but we are not looking for a particular type of person, and extra-curricular activities unrelated to your studies are not important to us.