Undergraduate Admissions (UCAS deadline): October 15, 2025 by 6 pm (UK time). This is earlier than the deadlines of most other UK universities.
Graduate Admissions: Most courses have deadlines in December or January, which are also the latest dates to be considered for the majority of Oxford scholarships.
Additionally, some courses may close to new applications before the published deadlines if all places are filled. Therefore, it's advisable to apply as early as possible.
Oxford University, founded in the 12th century, has long been a leader in global higher education. Ranked #1 in the 2025 Times Higher Education World University Rankings, Oxford boasts a rich academic history and an unmatched tradition of success.
With 38 autonomous colleges, it hosts over 24,000 students from more than 160 countries. Oxford is renowned for its rigorous programs, receiving over 20 Nobel Prizes in the sciences, and leading global research output.
It has produced numerous world leaders, including 28 British prime ministers and more than 73 Nobel laureates, cementing its standing as a hub of intellectual and cultural excellence.
Below is a snapshot of key details to help you know more about Oxford:
Parameter
Details
Undergraduate Tuition Fee 2025 (Annually)
Home students: £9,535 (INR 10.5L)
Overseas: £35,260 to £59,260 (INR 39.05L to 65.6L)
Intakes
Oxford University typically has one intake per academic year, starting in October. The application deadline for undergraduate courses is usually in October of the preceding year.
Top Programs
Medicine
Law
Engineering Science
Computer Science
Business Administration (MBA)
Duration of Courses
UG courses typically last 3 years, with some programs extending to four years, especially those with a year abroad or a year in industry.
Postgraduate courses vary in duration, generally ranging from 1 to 3 years.
Acceptance Rate
16%
Ranking 2025
#1 by THE World University Rankings
#3 by QS World University Rankings
#4 by U.S. News National University Rankings
Type of University
Public Research University
Demography
Students come to Oxford from more than 160 countries and territories. Among those:
International: 46% (more than 12,000 students)
Total Students
26,000
UG: 12,470
PG: 13,920
Student-Faculty Ratio
11:1
Placement Rate
Highest Salary (Business Head): INR 19 Cr
Median salary for UG: INR 35.4L
Median Salary for PG: INR 38.7L
Top Employers
McKinsey & Company
Goldman Sachs
Deloitte
Popular Scholarships
Oxford Bursaries
Reach Oxford Scholarship
Clarendon Fund
Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships and Leadership Programme
Now that you have an overview of the university, let’s take a closer look at its ranking and where it stands globally!
Scholarship
Oxford provides one of many comprehensive financial support packages for UK students, offering more than £10 million in economic aid to undergraduates from lower-income backgrounds.
Approximately 1 in 4 UK students at Oxford currently benefits from an annual, non-repayable bursary. These scholarships are designed to ensure that talented students, regardless of their financial background, have the opportunity to succeed.
Financial assistance at Oxford can cover everything from tuition fees to living expenses, enabling students to focus on their studies without the worry of financial constraints.
Below is a detailed overview of both internal and external scholarships available for Oxford students in 2025:
Internal Scholarships
Internal scholarships such as the Reach Oxford Scholarship are vital for students, especially first-year and transfer students. These scholarships are automatically considered upon admission, with no separate application usually required.
They are awarded based on academic merit, leadership, and student achievements.
Scholarship Name
Type
Benefits
Eligibility
Oxford Bursaries
Need-based
Non-repayable financial support
Home (UK) undergraduate students with household incomes below INR 30L
Reach Oxford Scholarship
Merit-based
Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs
Undergraduate students from low-income countries unable to study in their home countries due to political, financial, or educational constraints
Clarendon Fund
Merit-based
Covers tuition fees and provides a generous living stipend
Graduate applicants with outstanding academic records
Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships and Leadership Programme
Merit-based
Covers tuition fees and provides a living stipend; includes leadership development activities
Graduates and early-career professionals from developing and emerging economies
In addition to internal scholarships, students can also explore external funding opportunities from various organizations and foundations worldwide.
External Scholarships
Oxford offers numerous internal scholarships, but external scholarships can be crucial, particularly for international students or those who do not meet the eligibility criteria for internal awards.
Organizations, foundations, and government bodies often provide external scholarships and can cover various aspects such as tuition, living expenses, and research funding. These scholarships are typically awarded based on specific criteria, such as the student's field of study, extracurricular involvement, or community service.
Here are some of the external scholarships to be considered:
Next, let’s explore the placement aspects of the university offering to its students.
University of Oxford's Admission
With only around a 16% acceptance rate, understanding the application process and meeting key deadlines is essential for securing a place at one of the world’s most prestigious academic institutions.
Here’s everything you need to know about the admission requirements and deadlines for 2025.
Admission Requirements
Meeting Oxford's admission requirements is crucial for gaining entry to one of the world's most prestigious academic institutions.
Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, with an average A-level score of AAA for the most competitive courses. For international students, meeting language proficiency requirements, such as an IELTS score of 7.5 or higher, is essential.
Furthermore, international students must meet stringent visa requirements, including providing sufficient financial resources and academic qualifications.
Academic Qualifications
Applicants should possess qualifications equivalent to the UK's A-levels. For instance, an International Baccalaureate (IB) score of 38-40 points, including specific subject requirements, is typically expected.
Course Type
Qualification Requirements
Undergraduate (UG)
Completion of secondary education with a strong academic record (e.g., IB score of 38-40).
Postgraduate (PG)
A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field from an accredited institution.
Language Proficiency
Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency through standardized tests such as IELTS or TOEFL.
Depending on the chosen course, applicants may need to take specific admissions tests, such as the Mathematics Admissions Test (MAT) or the Thinking Skills Assessment (TSA). It's essential to register for these tests by the end of September.
Test
Minimum Score
Competitive Score
MAT (Mathematics Admissions Test)
No minimum score specified
40+ (out of 100)
TSA (Thinking Skills Assessment)
60+
PAT (Physics Admissions Test)
55+
MLAT (Modern Languages Admissions Test)
80+
UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test)
2600+
BMSAT (Biomedical Sciences Admissions Test)
50+
PhilAT (Philosophy Test)
60+
AHCAAT (Ancient History and Classical Archaeology Admissions Test)
70+
CAT (Classics Admissions Test)
75+
The scores listed for each test serve as general guidelines, and specific score expectations may vary by year and program. Since entry requirements can differ across courses, applicants must consult the official admissions page for the most up-to-date and program-specific details.
Visa Requirements
International students must obtain a student visa (formerly Tier 4) to study in the UK. This process includes proof of acceptance, financial means, and English language proficiency. Students must also show proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses.
Document
Details
Student Visa
Required for most international students. Must apply before traveling.
Required for F-1 visa applicants. Issued by Oxford for visa processing.
Proof of Funds
Evidence of financial resources to cover tuition and living expenses.
ATAS Certificate
Required for certain science, engineering, and medical courses at the graduate level. (for non-exempt countries)
Family Visa
Family members can only join students on DPhil or Masters by Research courses.
Application Dates and Deadlines
Adhering to application deadlines is crucial, as late submissions may not be considered. Oxford's application timeline is structured to facilitate a thorough evaluation process.
Below are the key intakes and deadlines for undergraduate and graduate admissions for the 2025 academic year.
Undergraduate Admissions (Latest Entry):
Category
Details
Application Deadline
6:00 PM UK time on Wednesday, 15 October 2025
Admissions Tests
21-27 October 2025 (registration details to be provided)
Written Work Submission
10 November 2025
Interviews
Online interviews in December 2025 for shortlisted candidates
Decisions
Released via UCAS on 13 January 2026
Graduate Admissions:
Category
Details
Application Deadlines
Varies by course (December 2024 to January 2025 deadlines)
Application Status
Applications for the 2025-26 academic year are open as of March 2025
Application Portal Opened
11 September 2024
By understanding and fulfilling these admission requirements and deadlines, prospective students can enhance their chances of joining Oxford's vibrant academic community.
To ensure you meet the admission requirements and improve your chances of acceptance, visit Oxford's Admissions Page for detailed guidance on eligibility, application steps, and deadlines!
Next, let’s get into its programs and courses offered!
University of Oxford's Acceptance Rate
As one of the world’s best educational institutions, almost every student aspires to study at Oxford.
The University of Oxford is very selective, with an average acceptance rate of 13–17.5%, as was anticipated due to its outstanding academic performance. According to estimates, just 9% of overseas applicants are accepted. Furthermore, while the admission rate at Oxford is 13.5% on average, it is much lower for the most competitive programs, which receive a higher volume of applications.
The university is home to more than 25,000 students, including 12,510 undergraduates and 13,044 postgraduates. However, entry to the courses is competitive, and there are only 3,300 places. In 2021, more than 24,000 people applied. In 2020-21, 6,697 applicants were accepted out of 30,096 individuals in graduate programs.
University of Oxford's Ranking
Known for its rigorous academic programs, groundbreaking research, and influential alumni, Oxford University continues to secure top spots in various global rankings.
The university maintains its position as the #1 university in the world in THE 2025 rankings while also consistently ranking high in QS (#3) and U.S. News rankings (#4), further cementing its reputation for excellence across various disciplines.
Here’s a look at Oxford University’s rankings over the last five years:
Ranking Body
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
QS World University Rankings
5
2
4
3
3
Times Higher Education World University Rankings
1
1
1
1
1
U.S. News Best Global Universities Rankings
4
4
4
4
4
Oxford University consistently ranks among the top universities globally because it focuses on world-leading research. Its distinguished faculty and numerous Nobel laureates contribute to its academic rigor.
Top Course-wise Rankings 2024/25
The university’s departments are consistently ranked among the best in the world, with law (#1) and medicine (#2) ranking among the top programs by QS rankings.
Here’s how Oxford University’s subjects perform across the prominent ranking bodies: QS, U.S. News, and THE rankings:
Subject
Rank 2025
Ranking Body
Law
1
QS Ranking
Medicine
2
QS Ranking
Arts & Humanities
1
U.S. News Ranking
Social Sciences
2
U.S. News Ranking
Computer Science
1
THE Ranking
Business & Economics
2
THE Ranking
Curious about how this University's rankings reflect its academic excellence? Visit the Ranking Page of Oxford University to explore detailed subject rankings. Learn about methodology breakdown and past trends, highlighting how its programs stand out and what sets it apart!
Along with the rankings, it is essential to understand the requirements and deadlines for admission into the university. Let's proceed ahead!
What factors should I consider when deciding if Oxford University is the right fit for me?
Consider Oxford's rigorous academic environment, which demands intellectual curiosity and a high level of commitment. The unique college system offers a personalized experience but can be intense. Evaluate the program's faculty expertise, research opportunities, and career outcomes alongside your ability to thrive in a competitive, globally recognized institution.
How does the application process differ for undergraduate and graduate students at Oxford?
Undergraduate applications are submitted through UCAS by October 15, requiring academic qualifications, personal statements, and interviews, along with relevant standardized tests such as the TSA, BMAT, or LNAT, depending on the program. Graduate applications are submitted directly to Oxford and typically include research proposals.
What makes Oxford University's admissions process so competitive?
Oxford’s acceptance rate is around 16%, with applicants needing exceptional academic credentials and performance in admissions tests and interviews. The selection process emphasizes intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and the ability to thrive in a challenging educational environment.
Is it possible to get into Oxford with an unconventional academic background or qualifications?
Yes, Oxford values diverse backgrounds but expects applicants to meet academic demands. Non-traditional students may need to complete a foundation year, such as Oxford’s Foundation Year for underrepresented students, to meet entry requirements.
What are the biggest mistakes applicants make when applying to Oxford, and how can I avoid them?
Common mistakes include failing to prepare adequately for admissions tests or submitting vague personal statements. Be specific about your academic achievements, have an interest in your subject, and ensure you understand Oxford's unique entry requirements for your program.
Does Oxford University offer guided campus tours or virtual experiences for prospective students?
Yes, Oxford offers both in-person and virtual campus tours. Prospective students can explore the colleges, facilities, and student life through guided tours, virtual open days, and student ambassador programs, which provide insights from current students. These options are especially helpful for international students who cannot visit the campus in person.
What financial aid, scholarships, and grants are available for international students at Oxford?
Oxford offers scholarships like the Clarendon Fund, covering tuition, living expenses, and country-specific grants. International students can also apply for need-based bursaries and the Oxford-Weidenfeld and Hoffmann Scholarships, which support students from developing and emerging economies with leadership potential.
What are the best ways for students to get involved in clubs, societies, and extracurricular activities at Oxford?
Oxford offers over 400 clubs and societies. Attend the Freshers' Fairs to explore clubs and participate in activities aligned with your interests. Joining college-specific clubs and societies, like sports and debating, helps build community and leadership skills.
What kinds of academic and personal support does Oxford University provide for students with disabilities or special needs?
Oxford offers tailored support through its Disability Advisory Service, providing accommodations, assistive technology, and mental health resources. The university ensures equal access to academic opportunities, ensuring that all students, regardless of disability, receive the necessary support.
How does Oxford’s unique college system function, and how should I choose the right college?
Oxford’s colleges offer a personalized community where students live, study, and receive one-on-one tutoring. College choice also impacts accommodation and dining, as each college has its own facilities. Consider academic offerings, location, size, and extracurricular opportunities when choosing a college, though placement may depend on availability.
Which academic programs at Oxford are considered the most prestigious or highly ranked?
Oxford’s most prestigious programs include Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE), Law, Medicine, and Engineering Science. These programs consistently rank among the top globally, with a strong emphasis on research and producing influential leaders.
What career support services does Oxford offer, and what are the job prospects for its graduates?
Oxford’s Careers Service provides personalized counseling, internships, career fairs, and employer networking. Oxford graduates enjoy high employability, with 80% in paid employment within 15 months, especially in finance, consulting, law, and technology sectors.
University of Oxford: Rankings, Fees, Courses & Admissions
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