Oxford University is one of the most prestigious universities in the world, attracting thousands of applicants from all over the globe every year. With a long history dating back to the 12th century, the university has a reputation for academic excellence and rigorous admission standards. As such, it’s no surprise that many students are curious about Oxford University acceptance rate.
According to the latest data, Oxford University has an undergraduate acceptance rate of around 17.5%. Only one in seven undergraduate applicants received an offer in the most recent academic year. The acceptance rate for postgraduate taught courses is slightly higher, at around 30%, while the acceptance rate for postgraduate research courses is about 20%. However, it’s important to note that acceptance rates can vary widely depending on the specific program and department and the applicant’s qualifications and background.
What is Oxford University?
Oxford University is a world-renowned institution of higher learning in Oxford, England. Established in the late 12th century, it is the oldest university in the English-speaking world and the second-oldest university in continuous operation globally.
The university comprises 44 constituent colleges and five permanent private halls, all autonomous in governance and finances. Oxford University has a rich history of academic excellence, with numerous Nobel laureates, prime ministers, and other notable figures among its alumni.
Oxford University offers undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including the arts, sciences, social sciences, and humanities. The university is committed to research, with numerous research centers and institutes dedicated to advancing knowledge in various fields.
Admission to Oxford University is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of around 17.5%. However, the university is committed to recruiting the best candidates from all backgrounds and identities. It offers a range of scholarships and financial aid packages to help students finance their education.
Oxford University is a prestigious institution with a long history of academic excellence and a commitment to advancing knowledge and research in various fields.
What is the Acceptance Rate at Oxford University?
If you are considering applying to Oxford University, you may wonder about the acceptance rate. Oxford is a highly selective institution, and the acceptance rate varies depending on several factors, including the course and college you are applying to. This section will overview the Oxford University acceptance rate and break it down by college and course.
Overall Acceptance Rate
According to the University of Oxford’s official website, there are about 3,300 undergraduate and 5,500 vacancies each academic year, with approximately a 13.5% acceptance rate as of the 2021 academic year. This means that only 1 in 10 undergraduate applicants received an offer. The acceptance rate for graduate applicants was slightly higher, with around 15.8% of postgraduate taught applicants receiving an offer in the 2019/20 academic year.
| Level of Study | Number of Applicants | Number of Places |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | 24,000 | 3,300 |
| Graduate | 40,000 | 5,500 |
It is important to note that these acceptance rates are approximate and can vary depending on several factors, including the course and college you are applying to, your academic background, and your statement.
Acceptance Rate by College
The acceptance rate at Oxford University can vary significantly depending on the college you are applying to. Some colleges are more competitive than others, and some courses may be more popular, affecting the acceptance rate.
For example, in the 2021/22 academic year, the acceptance rate for undergraduate applicants at St. Hilda’s College was approximately 13%, while the acceptance rate at St. John’s College was around 9%. However, the acceptance rate at some more competitive colleges, such as Christ Church and Magdalen, can be as low as 7%.
Acceptance Rate by Course
The Oxford University acceptance rate can also vary depending on the course you are applying to. Some courses are more competitive than others, and some require higher grades or specific qualifications.
For example, in the 2021/22 academic year, the acceptance rate for undergraduate applicants to the English course was approximately 11%, while the acceptance rate for the Engineering Science course was approximately 15%. The acceptance rate for some more competitive courses, such as Medicine and Law, can be as low as 10%.
It is important to note that these acceptance rates are approximate and can vary depending on several factors, including the number of applicants and the qualifications and experience of the applicants.
The acceptance rate at Oxford University can vary depending on several factors, including the college and course you are applying to. While the overall acceptance rate for undergraduate applicants is approximately 15%, it is important to research the acceptance rate for your specific course and college to understand better your chances of being accepted.
Factors that Affect Oxford University Acceptance Rate
When applying to Oxford University, several factors can affect your acceptance rate. In this section, we will discuss the three main factors that can impact your chances of being admitted to Oxford: academic requirements, non-academic requirements, and competition.
Academic Requirements
Academic requirements are the most important factor determining your acceptance rate at Oxford University. You must have excellent academic achievements and meet the minimum requirements for your chosen course. The university typically requires high A-level grades or equivalent qualifications for undergraduate courses. You must have a bachelor’s degree with a high GPA or equivalent for graduate courses.
Non-Academic Requirements
Apart from academic requirements, Oxford University considers non-academic requirements when assessing your application. These include your statement, references, and extracurricular activities. A well-written personal statement demonstrating your passion for the subject and suitability for the course can increase your chances of acceptance. Strong references from academic or professional referees can also help your application stand out.
Competition
Competition is another factor that affects your acceptance rate at Oxford University. The university receives thousands of applications yearly, but only a few places are available. The competition for places is intense, and the acceptance rate is relatively low. The acceptance rate varies depending on the course and the college you apply to. Some courses and colleges are more competitive than others.
In conclusion, academic requirements, non-academic requirements, and competition are the main factors that affect your acceptance rate at Oxford University. To increase your chances of acceptance, you must meet the academic needs, submit a strong personal statement, provide excellent references, and demonstrate your suitability for the course.
2020/ 2021 Graduate admissions statistics
| Graduate Degree Type | Number of Applications | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Research | 10,890 | 31.6% |
| Taught | 23,619 | 68.4% |
| Domicile | Number of Applications | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| UK | 9,943 | 28.8% |
| EU | 3,718 | 10.8% |
| Non-EU | 20,848 | 60.4% |
| Total | 24,566 | 71.2% |
| Total Number of Applicants | 30,096 |
|---|
| Total Number of Acceptances | 6,697 |
|---|
| Gender | Number of Acceptances | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Male | 3,374 | 50.4% |
| Female | 3,323 | 49.6% |
Tips for Improving Your Chances of Acceptance to Oxford University
If you are considering applying to Oxford University, you are likely aware of the competitiveness of the admissions process. However, with the proper preparation and strategy, you can improve your chances of acceptance. Here are some tips to help you along the way.
Academic Preparation
To be accepted into Oxford University, you must demonstrate academic excellence. This means achieving high grades in your coursework, particularly in the subjects relevant to your chosen program of study. You should also consider taking additional courses or pursuing independent research in your field of interest to show your passion and dedication.
Here are a few academic preparation tips to keep in mind:
- Take challenging courses: Oxford University values students who have taken rigorous courses, so challenge yourself academically.
- Focus on relevant subjects: Make sure to focus on the subjects relevant to your chosen program of study.
- Pursue independent research: Conduct independent research in your field of interest to demonstrate your passion and dedication.
Non-Academic Preparation
While academic excellence is important, it is not the only factor Oxford University considers when evaluating applicants. Non-academic factors such as extracurricular activities, work experience, and community involvement can also affect the admissions decision.
Here are a few non-academic preparation tips to keep in mind:
- Pursue extracurricular activities: Participate in activities demonstrating your leadership skills, creativity, and teamwork abilities.
- Gain work experience: Consider gaining work experience in your field of interest to demonstrate your practical skills and knowledge.
- Get involved in your community: Volunteer or participate in community service to demonstrate your commitment to making a positive impact.
Application Strategy
Once you have prepared academically and non-academically, developing a strong application strategy is important. This includes carefully crafting your statement, obtaining strong letters of recommendation, and preparing for any interviews or admissions tests.
Here are a few application strategy tips to keep in mind:
- Craft a solid personal statement: Your statement should demonstrate your passion for your chosen field of study and readiness for academic rigor.
- Obtain strong letters of recommendation: Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your academic and personal strengths.
- Prepare for interviews and admissions tests: Practice for any interviews or admissions tests to ensure you present yourself in the best possible light.
Following these tips can improve your chances of acceptance to Oxford University. Remember to stay focused, work hard, and present yourself in the best possible light throughout the admissions process.
Final Thoughts on Oxford University Acceptance Rate
In conclusion, the University of Oxford is a highly selective institution with an acceptance rate of approximately 17%. However, the acceptance rate for international students applying to the school is lower, around 9% only.
The regional distribution of admissions to Oxford reflects population size, achievement in school, and application numbers. London and the South East comprised 47.2% of UK applications between 2018 and 2020 and 48.3% of students admitted. The rest of the UK made up 52.8% of applications and 51.7% of students admitted.
It is important to note that the acceptance rate varies depending on the program and field of study. For instance, the post-graduate admissions rate is 26%, which maximizes the chances for graduate students.
Gaining admission to the University of Oxford is highly competitive but not impossible. Prospective students should focus on building a strong academic record, demonstrating their passion for their chosen field, and highlighting their extracurricular activities.
It is also important to remember that the University of Oxford is not the only prestigious institution. Many other excellent universities worldwide offer exceptional education and opportunities for growth and development. Ultimately, the key is to find the right fit for your interests, goals, and aspirations.