How to get admission in Oxford | All you need to know

How to get admission in Oxford | An overview!

Oxford University has a long and rich history that, combined with its innovative approach to education, makes this institution among the most reputed globally. The ‘Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022’ has ranked the University of Oxford as the best institution in the world for the sixth year in a row! Learning how to get admission in Oxford University can help you align your efforts toward accomplishing this goal. Here is everything you need to know about getting admission to Oxford University!

 

Is it difficult to get into Oxford University? 

The University of Oxford is one of the highest-ranking institutions in the world, offering a wide range of lucrative courses to choose from. Each of these courses has a significant industrial value and is well-known globally.

It is, therefore, expected that the University of Oxford is a highly selective institution with an astonishing average acceptance rate of 17.5%. The acceptance rate for international students is even lower, estimated at 9%. More than a fifth of the candidates applying to Oxford University annually face rejection. 

Statistics also reveal that 45% of all Oxford University attendees are students from over 160 different countries! Consequently, the admission process is extremely competitive and requires thorough preparation and planning. 

Grade requirement for Oxford University

If you are an international student wondering how to get admission in Oxford University, it is imperative to understand the minimum grade requirements. 

Oxford University accepts a wide range of international and UK-equivalent qualifications. 

International Baccalaureate

If you are seeking admission with an IB course qualification, you need to score a total of 38, 39, or 40 points taken at the Higher level of education. This should include a combination of 6s and 7s. 

European Baccalaureate

Admission to Oxford University with a European Baccalaureate course will require you to score an average of 85% or above in subjects specified at the A-level (or equivalent). Your scores should strictly be between an 8 and 9. 

Foundation year courses 

It accepts foundation year course scores only in certain circumstances. The strong competition that is a part of the Oxford University admission process necessitates ‌you take different ‌qualifications to create a strong application. 

If you are applying with foundation-level course qualifications, you need to make sure that the course covers the same content required at A-levels. If it does not, you will have to take an alternative course. 

When gathering information on how to get admission in Oxford University, you should also check the specific subject requirements needed for different courses. All of this information will be listed in detail on the university’s official website. 

Eligibility criteria to get into Oxford

If you have decided to apply to Oxford University, make sure you tick off the eligibility criteria. While the requirements may differ for different courses, make sure you meet these common points-

• You should have a basic 10+2 qualification from a recognized institution. 
• A valid English proficiency test score (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
• LORs and SOPs
• SAT/ACT score, if applying for bachelor’s
• GRE/GMAT scores for applying to master’s degree.

What are the admission tests I should take for admission to Oxford University? 

Researching how to get admission in Oxford University will direct you to an essential part of the admission process – the admissions tests. 

Oxford offers several courses that require candidates to take an admissions test. The scores obtained on these tests are used to determine applicants who are the best fit for the institution. 

If you want to make your application competitive, you must register and take the admissions tests that are needed for your course. Once registration is complete, consider creating a workable study schedule to ensure you are thoroughly prepared for the test. 

The Cambridge Assessment Admissions Testing (CAAT) authorities conduct Oxford University admissions tests. The university’s official website lists all the details on how to complete the process.

Some of the admissions tests issued for courses offered by Oxford University include- 

• National Admissions Test for Law (LNAT) 
• History Aptitude Test (HAT) 
• English Literature Admissions Test (ELAT) 
• Classics Admissions Test (CAT) 
• Mathematics Admissions Test (MAT) 
• Modern Languages Admissions Test (MLAT) 
• Philosophy Test (for admission only to philosophy and theology courses) 

What classes should I take in high school to apply to Oxford University? 

The classes you take in high school can contribute significantly to your Oxford University application. Each course has a specific set of requirements that is listed on the website. 

Here are some popular courses and the associated subjects you should aim to complete in high school-

Course	Subjects in High School
Biology	Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology
Archaeology and Anthropology	A combination of arts and science subjects.
Classics	Latin and/or Greek (Level 1)

Key takeaways 

• Oxford University is regarded as one of the most prestigious universities globally. 
• The qualifications offered by this institution are recognized all over the globe for the skills and talent they represent. 
• Learning more about how to get admission in Oxford University can help you prepare for the rigorous selection process. 
• Since Oxford University is considered highly selective, the right information and foresight can give you a competitive advantage. 

Did you enjoy this blog? If yes, please share your thoughts in the comments below. Click here to reach out to us for more information on how to get admission in Oxford University. We would be happy to assist you with your queries! 

Liked this blog? Read next: Top 10 oldest universities in the world

FAQs 

Q1. How many graduate courses does Oxford University offer? 

Answer- Oxford University offers 350+ graduate courses across 70+ departments. 

Q2. Who is a ‘mature applicant’? 

Answer – A ‘mature applicant’ is a candidate 21 years of age or older. Some elements of the application process to Oxford University can vary for mature applicants. 

Q3. Will completing my UCAS application register me for the admissions test? 

Answer- No, the UCAS application is independent of the application for the admissions test. You need to follow all instructions carefully to complete the registration process.

Q4. Is it hard to get into Oxford?

Answer- Oxford is a highly selective institution with an acceptance rate of 9% for international students. 

Q5. What GPA do you need to get in Oxford?

Answer- The class of 2022 has an average undergraduate GPA of 3.77. So, a range around this would increase of chances of admission to Oxford. 

Q6. Which course is best at Oxford University?

Answer- Some of the best courses to study in Oxford include-

• Medicine
• Philosophy 
• Biomedical Sciences
• History
• Linguistics
• Mathematics
• English Language and Literature, etc.