Frequently asked questions

Thinking about applying to Oxford? We’ve answered some of the questions we hear most often.

Applying to Oxford

Do you need all 8s and 9s at GCSE to get into Oxford?

No. While many Oxford students have achieved strong GCSE results, you don’t need a perfect set of grades to apply.

Oxford considers your academic achievements in context, including the school you attended, and GCSE results are just one part of your application.

Are some Oxford colleges better for certain subjects?

All Oxford colleges offer a high standard of teaching, and much of your teaching, including lectures and practical classes, is organised by University departments. Colleges also provide small-group teaching through Oxford’s tutorial system.

Not every college offers every course, however, so it’s important to check that your chosen college offers the subject you want to study. For a full list of available courses, please see the University’s undergraduate admissions pages.

Is it easier to get into Oxford for some subjects than others?

Some courses receive more applications per place than others, so competition does vary between subjects.

However, we always recommend applying for the subject you’re most interested in, rather than choosing a course because you think it might be easier to get into.

You’ll spend at least three years studying your subject in depth, so it’s important to choose something you genuinely enjoy and feel motivated to explore.

Do most Oxford students come from private schools?

No. Oxford welcomes students from a wide range of schools and backgrounds.

More than three-fifths of UK students admitted to Oxford come from state schools, and at Hertford, more than three-quarters of our UK students are state educated. We’re committed to widening access to Oxford and encouraging talented students to apply, whatever their background or school, and currently have the second highest number of students from disadvantaged areas across the Oxford colleges.

Is it worth applying to Oxford when it’s so competitive?

Absolutely. Oxford is competitive, but that shouldn’t put you off applying if you’re excited about your subject and think you’d enjoy studying here.

And if your application isn’t successful, there are plenty of other excellent universities to consider. The important thing is to explore your options and give yourself the opportunity – if you don’t apply, you’ll never know!

Choosing a college

How do I choose which Oxford college to apply to?

Start by checking which colleges offer your course. You might then want to think about location, accommodation, facilities, size and general feel.

Visiting colleges at an open day, exploring their websites and hearing from current students can help you get a feel for where you’d be happiest. Different colleges will be right for different students.

You can also make an open application if you don’t have a particular college preference.

Costs and financial support

Is Oxford more expensive than other universities?

Tuition fees for UK students at Oxford are the same as at other English universities, and there is financial support available to help with living costs.

Oxford’s eight-week undergraduate terms are shorter than at other universities, which means college accommodation costs will be for fewer weeks too.

At Hertford, students also benefit from subsidised college facilities and dining, as well as the opportunity to access financial support from both the College and the wider University. Find out more on our financial information page.

Student life and wellbeing

Do Oxford students spend all their time studying?

Studying at Oxford can be demanding, but there’s plenty of time to enjoy life outside your degree.

With hundreds of clubs and societies across the University, there’s something for everyone. Our students also organise a wide range of extra-curricular activities within college. Whether you’re interested in sport, music, drama, volunteering or something completely different, you’ll have lots of opportunities to get involved.

Will I fit in at Oxford if I don’t know anyone?

Oxford brings together students from a wide range of different backgrounds, and most people arrive without knowing many, or any, other students.

At Hertford, our first-year students live all together in college accommodation on main site, which makes it easier to get to know one another and build friendships.

You’ll also have opportunities to meet people through your course, college activities, sports teams and societies, including cultural and faith-based groups.

What support is available if I’m struggling?

There’s plenty of support available, both at Hertford and across the wider University.

At Hertford, students can access support from our welfare team, college nurses and counsellor, as well as student-led welfare activities organised by the Junior Common Room (JCR).

Whether you’re finding academic work challenging, feeling homesick or dealing with personal difficulties, there are people you can turn to for advice and support.