University of Oxford International Student Guide Admissions, Life & Support (2025)
Essential information for international applicants and students at Oxford — applying, visas, living, healthcare, and the university support network.
🎓 Before You Apply: Key Steps
Choose Course & College: Research course content and college options — look for colleges with strengths in your subject area and supportive international communities.
Check Entry Requirements: Review required qualifications (A-levels, IB or international equivalents), admissions tests (e.g., BMAT, TSA, LNAT) and sample interview questions.
References & Documents: Arrange academic references and certified transcripts early.
English Language: Meet IELTS/TOEFL requirements where required and ensure test dates align with admissions timelines.
📝 Application Process
UCAS for Undergraduates: Apply through UCAS by the early Oxford deadline (typically mid-October).
Graduate Applications: Use the University application portal for masters and DPhil — department deadlines vary.
Admissions Tests & Interviews: Many courses require tests and interviews; prepare thoroughly and practice with past papers.
Offers & Conditions: Respond to offers and submit any outstanding documentation to receive a formal offer and, later, a CAS for visa application.
🛂 Visas & Immigration (UK Student Route)
Most international students will apply under the Student route. Key points:
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS): Issued by your college/department once conditions are met; needed to apply for your visa.
Financial Evidence: Show funds to cover tuition fees and living costs as required by UKVI.
Immigration Health Surcharge: Paid as part of the visa to access the NHS during your stay.
Work Conditions: Student visas usually permit limited paid work during term; check your visa conditions carefully.
🏠 Accommodation for International Students
College Accommodation: Many colleges guarantee accommodation for first-year undergraduates — an excellent way to settle in quickly.
Graduate Accommodation: Colleges and university-managed options are available, but demand can be high — apply early.
Private Renting: If moving to private housing, use university-approved agents, beware scams, and understand tenancy contracts.
💷 Fees, Funding & Scholarships
International fees vary by course. Funding routes include:
University Scholarships: Clarendon, departmental scholarships and college awards.
External Funding: Government scholarships (e.g., Commonwealth, Chevening), home-country sponsors and charitable trusts.
Part-time Work & Bursaries: Limited by visa rules; colleges and departments may offer small bursaries or hardship funds.
🩺 Healthcare & Wellbeing
NHS Access: After paying the immigration health surcharge, register with a local GP to access NHS services.
University Wellbeing: Colleges provide welfare advisors, counselling, and disability support services for international students.
Mental Health Support: Peer-support networks, workshops, and counselling are widely available — reach out early if you need help.
📚 Academic Support & Study Resources
Tutorial System: Oxford’s tutorial/supervision model offers personalised teaching — prepare for active participation and independent study.
Libraries & Resources: Bodleian Libraries, college libraries and department resources offer extensive study support.
English & Academic Skills: Language support, writing centres and study skills workshops help international students adapt to UK academic expectations.
🌍 Settling In & Social Life
Orientation & Freshers' Week: Attend international-specific induction events to meet fellow students and learn about services.
International Societies: Join cultural and language societies for community events and support.
Practical Steps: Open a UK bank account, get a UK SIM and register with your college and GP soon after arrival.
🔒 Safety, Rights & Legal Support
Know Your Rights: Familiarise yourself with tenancy rights, work rules and visa conditions — university advice services can help.
Emergency Contacts: Save college porters, local emergency services (999) and university security numbers in your phone.
Legal Advice: The student union or university may provide legal advice clinics for issues like housing disputes or employment concerns.
❓ FAQs — International Students
When should I apply for my visa?
Apply once you have your CAS and have met offer conditions — visa processing times vary, so allow several weeks and check UKVI guidance.
Can I bring dependents?
Dependents are permitted under specific postgraduate conditions if financial thresholds are met — check UKVI rules and Oxford guidance.
How can I get help with cultural adjustment?
Colleges, international offices and student societies run mentoring, buddy schemes and social events to support cultural transition.
✅ Final Checklist for International Applicants
Confirm course tests and college-specific deadlines (UCAS/departmental).
Request references and certified transcripts early.
Budget for visa fees, the immigration health surcharge and initial living costs.
Apply for scholarships and funding as early as possible.
Plan to register with your college, GP and bank shortly after arrival.
Moving to Oxford is a big step — prepare early, use the university’s wide support network, and connect with other international students to build a strong community.