The University of Oxford is one of the best-known academic institutions in the world, and it has been in operation for the better part of a millennium. Organized around a network of independent colleges which accept students and oversee their progress, Oxford consistently ranks as one of the world’s 10 best universities. 

Education began at Oxford in the 11th century, though no one is sure when the university was founded. Throughout the years, Oxford has educated 25 British prime ministers and hundred of the world’s most influential people. Today, 20,000 students are enrolled, more than half of whom study at the undergraduate level.  

Student Life
The University of Oxford operates more than 300 clubs and organizations. The traditional gathering place for students is the Oxford Union, an elite debating society that also operates recreational facilities including snooker tables, two bars and a large library. 

The community at large is dominated by the university. It’s a cosmopolitan place with plenty of historic architecture, so students are never short on things to do.  Oxford’s many parks include the oldest botanical gardens in England. 

The University of Oxford has a thriving live-music scene, and a few famous bands (including Radiohead) got their start here. Local nightlife begins in the student union and goes on to include many pubs, restaurants and clubs in the community. 

Diversity
This is one of the most diverse educational communities in the world. One out of every three Oxford students hails from abroad, with 138 countries represented in the student body. The majority of postgraduate students come from outside the UK.  

The Student Information and Advisory Service can answer most of the questions prospective international students may have regarding application and admission. This organization will also help with questions about immigration and visa extension.

The college that admits these students watches over them, providing assistance and resources when needed.  Oxford’s distinct international atmosphere makes it easy for incoming students to find a niche. 

Academic Programs & Resources
The University of Oxford is ranked first in the UK by most counts, though some official rankings place it behind Cambridge. A comprehensive selection of courses is offered. 

Oxford’s leading areas of study are English, fine art, materials technology, politics, Middle Eastern and African studies, philosophy, music, education and business Studies, all of which rank first in the UK. Several of its other courses are ranked second or third. 

Students attend lectures and seminars, and then they return to their college of residence for small-group tutorials that may include one or two other students. Colleges aren’t affiliated with a particular course of study and instead offer an enriching, multi-disciplinary atmosphere.  

Faculty & Staff
There’s no question that Oxford employs one of the world’s most prestigious faculty of academics and professors. Over the years, this university has educated dozens of future world leaders and saints. A parade of Nobel Prizes has been awarded to Oxford’s professors and alumni in every category. 

A total of 8,500 staff and another 3,000 university employees work at Oxford. Considering the fact that only 20,000 pupils study here in a given year, students are never short of support in and outside of the classroom. High-level professors lead the lectures and seminars, while their assistants and college tutors work to reinforce the learning process in small groups. 

Safety, Health & Wellness
The University of Oxford Health and Safety Office maintains high standards. This office oversees everything from fire safety to the handling of hazardous waste in university laboratories. 

Beyond this, the Student Health and Welfare Committee attends major health and medical issues across campus. This service provides consultation, counseling and treatment on physical and mental health issues, ensuring that all students receive the best healthcare available while studying at Oxford. 

Sport and leisure facilities include soccer, rugby and boat clubs, fitness centers and aerobic classes. The University Sports Club offers the opportunity to get involved with practically any sport imaginable. 

For more information about studying at the University of Oxford, please click here