Undergraduate Admissions FAQ

Do I have to be a genius to get in?
No, you don’t! Candidates who come for interview are frequently surprised by how ‘normal’ Univ students are. Our tutors do not expect you to be a genius but they do expect you to be enthusiastic about your subject, hard-working, and keen to learn more. Most of our candidates have obtained, or are predicted to obtain, high grades in school exams, but we are interested not only in achievement but also in potential. If you think you have what it takes, please do not let misconceptions about Oxford put you off applying.

Does it matter which school I’ve been to?
Absolutely not! We are interested in you – not your school – and whether you have the interest and ability to flourish at Oxford. Our students come from all sorts of backgrounds and have the widest possible variety of experiences.

What if I’m taking exams other than A Levels?
We regularly receive applications from students taking Scottish Highers, the International Baccalaureate, and other qualifications, and we consider every application on its own merits. If you are unsure about your particular qualifications, please contact our undergraduate admissions team, who will be happy to advise.

Should I apply before or after A Levels?
Whichever you like. Many candidates apply before taking their A Levels; others like to know their results before applying. If you apply as a post-A Level candidate and we make you an offer, this will be unconditional.

Can I take a gap year?
For the majority of subjects we are happy to consider applications from candidates who want to take a gap year – especially if you plan to do something related to your course during the year. However, it may not always be possible to accept deferred entry candidates because of number constraints, and candidates applying for deferred entry may sometimes be offered a non-deferred place instead. If you have any questions about deferred entry, please get in touch with our undergraduate admissions team and we’ll be pleased to advise you.

Can I apply if I am under 18?
Yes. University College follows the University policy, which is: “The University, mindful of its legal obligations, does not set any age requirements, but applicants for all undergraduate courses will be expected to demonstrate an approach to the study of their subject which includes demonstrable skills of critical analysis, wide contextual knowledge and the ability to manage their own time without the external imposition of a full daily timetable”.

How important is the interview?
The interview is just one part of the process. We also take into account all of the information on your UCAS form, any written work that you may have submitted, and the results of any written tests that you may have taken. The interview is your opportunity to demonstrate your passion for your chosen subject and your ability to succeed in it. Whether or not you will be asked to submit written work or take a written test depends on your subject. Information on this can be found in the Written work and written tests section of this website.

How can I prepare for the interview?
Think about what most interests you in your current studies and what has made you want to study your chosen subject – and be prepared to talk about it. The interview is a two-way conversation so we cannot predict exactly what will come up from either side. We will not be testing you on your knowledge so much as seeing if you can think through problems related to the subject you want to study. As in any conversation, it will go well if the participants focus on one another’s questions in a thoughtful and constructive way. We will not be trying to catch you out.

Does Univ accept organ and choral scholars?
Yes. We have a thriving music scene and are very keen to receive applications from potential organ and choral scholars. The application procedure is slightly different; please see the relevant section of the University’s admissions website for more information.

Does Univ accept mature students?
Yes, we are very happy to consider applications from mature students.

Does Univ accept graduates for a second BA?
We welcome applications from students wishing to read for a second BA. For a list of subjects in which we accept for a second BA, please see the University’s admissions website.

Does Univ accept visiting students?
Not normally.

Does Univ have any language requirements for non-native English speakers?
Yes; Univ follows the University’s English language requirements policy.

Will I fit in?
There’s no such thing as an Oxford or Univ type. Univ is a community of very diverse individuals, from all sorts of places and with all sorts of interests, all here for the same reasons: to study, make friends, enjoy their leisure, and prepare for their careers in the world beyond university.

Is it expensive to study at Univ?
No! In addition to the Oxford Opportunity Bursaries, we offer very generous Old Members’ Trust Bursaries.

What if I have problems while at Univ?
Just ask for help. Whether your difficulties are academic, personal, financial, or medical, we are well set up to help you and will do everything we can to make sure you have a highly enjoyable time at Univ.

How do I find out more?
Come and see us at one of our Open Days, or contact us to arrange a day to suit you. And remember, you’re thinking about your future, not your teachers’ or your parents’.

There is also a list of Frequently Asked Questions on the main University’s admissions website.