Q&A for How to Get Into Oxford University

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  • Question
    How can I start preparing myself for Oxford if I am not a teen yet?
    Community Answer
    Begin developing your skills and deciding what interests you and what degree you would like. Focus on getting good grades that will look good to Oxford, learn as much as you can. You may also want to begin thinking about the application process if you want to be extra prepared, if this is the case seek help from a student councilor or some sort of career path advisor.
  • Question
    Could I get into Oxford if I have 85% marks, and multiple achievements and extracurricular activities (e.g. awards, internships, publications)?
    Community Answer
    Your achievements can certainly increase your chances of getting in, but only Oxford itself can give you a direct answer.
  • Question
    Which documents do I need to enter Oxford University?
    Community Answer
    You may take any qualification from any country, as long as you meet the general entrance requirements.
  • Question
    What are the exams that I need to take to get admitted to Oxford?
    Community Answer
    It very much depends on your course. If you are interested in law, you'll take the LNAT. If your degree would be in Art, you would have to submit a portfolio. Also, if English is not your native language, then it's often necessary to take the TOEFL or an equivalent exam.
  • Question
    I am a student from Bangladesh. How do I get into Oxford University?
    Community Answer
    Keep getting good grades and start doing university entrance tests such as the infamous SAT. Also, remember to do 'projects' on the subject you want to study. For example, you could create mini computer systems with stock circuitry such as the Raspberry Pi if you're interested in tech. The more interest you demonstrate in your subject, the higher the chance the university is going accept you.
  • Question
    Can I gain admission to Oxford after passing my 12th standard?
    Community Answer
    Generally that is only possible if you can attend the foundation year, and since Oxford doesn't offer foundation, I believe it wouldn't be possible unless you can complete your three A level subjects with grades that are on entry requirements. If you can do that, then it would be a possibility.
  • Question
    What are all the exams I will need to pass in order to join Oxford University?
    Community Answer
    In the U.K. you need to pass the A Levels. Look at the course you want to do on the UCAS website and it'll tell you equivalent grades for other awards. Some courses require additional tests.
  • Question
    How can I send my application to the university?
    Community Answer
    Usually if you are applying your application online on the university's website you should find a tab that explains how to apply and send the application.
  • Question
    Do I need to apply to Oxford right after finishing A levels?
    Community Answer
    If you feel like you need to, you can have a gap year; however, if you get an interview you may have to be prepared to answer why you chose to have the year off.
  • Question
    Why do we need to get into a college rather than Oxford University directly?
    Community Answer
    Oxford is a huge university, and in order to accommodate everyone comfortably and without a hassle, there are about 30 colleges. The university will handle the main classes, but the colleges will handle the tutorials, which is mostly like one-on-one studies. They will also take over accommodation, meals, etc., as it's more feasible. You don't need to select a college, as there are open applications, but by selecting a college, you can choose where you'd like to live, eat, and spend all of your time when you're not studying.
  • Question
    As an international student, what test do I need to take to apply to Oxford University?
    Community Answer
    ACT or SAT is normally what they'll accept. If you have those, you should be good. If you live somewhere without those, find the equivalent. Basically, you need to do exceptionally well against the entire cohort of applicants from your country for Oxford to be convinced you're the type of student they want.
  • Question
    My GCSE results are not great, do I have any chance in getting into Oxford/Cambridge?
    GB742
    Top Answerer
    Both Oxford and Cambridge place a high value of GCSE results. However, if there were extenuating circumstances that caused you to get low GCSE grades or your GCSE school was particularly poorly performing, both universities will likely place more emphasis on your predicted grades/admissions test scores/submitted work/performance at interview.
  • Question
    Will my JEE rank boost my Oxford application?
    GB742
    Top Answerer
    The Oxford university website does not list the JEE as a recognised qualification. However, it may be useful to include this in your application as a way of demonstrating your continued academic interest and development.
  • Question
    Can I get into Oxford without doing a hobby like playing the piano?
    GB742
    Top Answerer
    Yes, you can. Oxford's application process is highly focussed on your academic capabilities and suitability for the Oxford teaching system. Admissions tutors are far more interested in your 'supercurricular' activities which demonstrate your academic interest and development (e.g. extra reading, research projects, attending lectures, essay competitions) than 'extracurricular' activities (e.g. sports, clubs, musical ability).
  • Question
    As an international student, is it necessary to attend the interview?
    GB742
    Top Answerer
    All applicants to Oxford who are shortlisted must attend interviews - international applicants have the choice of travelling to Oxford for their interview or conducting their interviews online via a videoconferencing system.
  • Question
    How do I get into Oxford University on a full scholarship?
    GB742
    Top Answerer
    Oxford offers a variety of scholarships, many of which are limited to certain courses, colleges, and nationalities. The Oxford undergraduate study website's 'Fees and Funding' section provides a list of all scholarships, their requirements, and how to apply.
  • Question
    How do I find business courses for Oxford University?
    GB742
    Top Answerer
    You can go to the Oxford University website, select your level of study (undergraduate, graduate, continuing education) under the 'Admissions' drop-down. If you then scroll down the page, you will find a 'course finder' search bar which will allow you to search for business courses at your selected level of study (it should be noted, though, that Oxford does not offer undergraduate business courses).
  • Question
    I’m not a teen yet but what can I do at the moment to get into Oxford?
    GB742
    Top Answerer
    Try to focus on performing your best at school and establishing good study habits, as Oxford requires all candidates to be academically strong. If you have a clear idea of which subject/subjects you may wish to pursue, try to get involved in supercurricular activities surrounding your subject, for example, reading books or attending events such as lectures.
  • Question
    In the summary of the admissions paper for math, it says a proportion of A's at GCSE (where applicable). Is this for math or is this an average of all GCSE results?
    Hann B
    Community Answer
    The proportion of A grades (or grade 7 and above using the new grades system) is an average of all GCSE grades. GCSE grades are counted in this way as candidates often study a different number of subjects at GCSE.
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