How to Get Into Oxford University
Discover step-by-step guidance on how to successfully apply to Oxford University, including tips on qualifications, deadlines, personal statements, interviews, and more.
2. Understand and Meet Deadlines
3. Admissions Tests and Written Work
4. Crafting Your Personal Statement
5. The Importance of Interviews
6. Offers and Examination Results
8. Get Help from Oxford International
Oxford University is one of the world’s most prestigious institutions, known for its rigorous academic standards and rich history. Admission is extremely competitive, drawing applications from the brightest and most talented students globally. If you're aiming to study at Oxford, you must not only have an outstanding academic record but also demonstrate your ability to thrive in a demanding environment.
However, the process doesn't have to be daunting. By staying organized and following these steps, you can increase your chances of securing a spot at this renowned university.
1. Check Your Qualifications
Before applying, ensure your qualifications meet the entrance requirements for your chosen course. Oxford accepts a wide range of international qualifications, such as Advanced Placement (USA), Abitur (Germany), and WVO (Netherlands). The specific grades required vary by course, so it's essential to check the details on the Oxford University website.
For Swedish students, you will need a Gymnasieexamen / Högskoleförberedande examen (Higher Education Preparatory Diploma), with the following grades:
For courses requiring A*A*A at A-Level:
- Gymnasiegemensamma ämnen: Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry
- Programgemensamma ämnen: Mathematics 4, plus at least two of the following:
- Chemistry 2 (compulsory if applying for Chemistry)
- Physics 2 (compulsory if applying for Engineering),
- Biology 2
Additional points awarded to students taking Mathematics and/or Modern Languages will not count towards meeting your offer.
For full information on international qualifications follow this link.
If your first language isn't English, you must demonstrate proficiency, typically requiring a minimum of 7.0 on the IELTS or an equivalent TOEFL score of 100.
2. Understand and Meet Deadlines
Oxford's application deadlines are strict, so it's crucial to be aware of all relevant dates. Your UCAS application must be submitted by October 15th, earlier than most other universities. Additionally, many subjects require you to register for an admissions test.
Here are some key registration periods:
- UCAT (for Medicine): Register between June 18 and September 19
- LNAT (for Law): Register between August 1 and September 15
- All other tests: Register between August 15 and October 4
Meeting these deadlines is non-negotiable, so plan accordingly.
3. Admissions Tests and Written Work
Oxford often needs additional criteria by which they can select the best students. This is why there are admissions tests in many subjects .
The Oxford admissions tests include UCAT(Medicine), MLAT (Modern Languages), LNAT (Law), MAT(Maths) , PAT(Physics) and TSA (Thinking Skills Assessment, leading to various degrees). At Cambridge the tests include UCAT and LNAT, ESAT (for Engineering and Sciences) and TMUA (for ComputerScience and Economics) .
These tests are not intended to assess subject knowledge, but your aptitude for studying a certain subject. For example the MLAT sometimes asks candidates to work out the meaning of phrases in an invented language and the TSA often asks candidates to logically interpret data from a written article. All the tests are looking for the ability to reason critically and to express yourself clearly. Sample papers do help, since you are then used to the format of the examination, and they are available online. The tests are normally taken in September and October and full information is found at: https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/applying-to-oxford/guide/admissions-tests
In some subjects you also need to submit samples of written work and full information can be found at: https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/applying-to-oxford/guide/admissions-tests
4. Crafting Your Personal Statement
One of the most crucial parts of your application is the personal statement. This is your opportunity to demonstrate your passion for your chosen subject and convince the admissions tutors that you deserve a place at Oxford.
Your personal statement should include three key elements:
- Why You Want to Study the Subject: Admissions tutors want to see a genuine interest in your chosen field. Avoid generic statements and focus on specific experiences or reading that have deepened your interest in the subject. For example, attending lectures at a local university or engaging in independent research can set you apart.
- Your Extracurricular Interests: As a future member of the academic community, it’s important to show that you have a well-rounded personality. Whether it's sports, arts, or debate, highlight activities where you have been actively involved, not just as a participant but as someone who contributes to the community.
- Maturity and Responsibility: Oxford is looking for students who can contribute positively to university life. Demonstrating maturity through leadership roles, voluntary work, or significant life experiences will strengthen your statement. It’s essential to show that you’re ready for the challenges of university life, both academically and socially.
Ensure that your personal statement is well-structured, concise, and free of errors. It should reflect your personality and passion for the subject while adhering to the guidelines provided by UCAS.
5. The Importance of Interviews
After reviewing your application, exam results, and any required tests or written work, Oxford will shortlist candidates for interviews, typically held in December. The interview process at Oxford is unique and intense, designed to assess your potential as a student in your chosen subject.
Candidates are generally interviewed two or three times, and overseas applicants are often interviewed in their home countries. The interviews are a critical part of the selection process and allow tutors to gain a complete picture of your academic interests and abilities.
Your personal statement will also be discussed, so ensure it reflects your genuine passion for the subject and your readiness for rigorous academic challenges.
6. Offers and Examination Results
Offers of admission are usually made in January and are often conditional upon the results of your final school examinations. To secure your place at Oxford, you must achieve excellent results in these exams. Unfortunately, many students fail to meet their offers, making it crucial to remain focused on your studies even after receiving a conditional offer.
Admissions rates vary from subject to subject. For example admissions in Classics last year were 32% of applicants, and in Economics and Management 5%.
7. Finance and Funding
Studying at Oxford can be expensive, especially for international students, with tuition fees ranging from £33,000 to £48,000 per year, depending on the course. While financial aid from your home country may be available, there are also scholarship opportunities you can explore.
For information on scholarships, visit: The Scholarship Hub and in DreamStudies’ Scholarship Guide.
8. Get Help from Oxford International
Our partner, Oxford International Study Centre (OISC), has extensive experience in supporting students through the Oxford admissions process. They offer tailored services to help you succeed:
- Personal Statement Guidance: Your personal statement is crucial, and OISC ensures it is polished and compelling, with oversight from a Senior Tutor and final checks by the Principal.
- Admission Test Preparation: OISC tutors, many of whom are affiliated with the university, provide expert tuition using a wealth of sample and past exam papers, helping you prepare thoroughly for the tests.
- Interview Practice: To excel in the interview, OISC offers mock sessions with feedback from experienced tutors, giving you the confidence and skills to perform at your best.
A testimonial from Michael, an Oxford English Literature student, highlights the effectiveness of OISC's support:
All in all, truly outstanding, both for summer courses and university application help. The wealth of information provided was crucial in mastering the British application format. In short, I was extremely satisfied with the services provided by OISC.
If you're seeking expert guidance in your application to Oxford, fill out an info request to connect with specialists who can assist you in achieving your academic goals.
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