University of Oxford

The University of Oxford is the oldest university in the English-speaking world, with origins dating back to at least the 12th century. It is widely regarded as one of the world’s leading academic institutions, renowned for its teaching, research, and tradition. The University consists of 38 independent colleges and six Permanent Private Halls, each with its unique history and academic focus.

Oxford is a member of several prestigious university groups, including the Russell Group of research-intensive UK universities, the Coimbra Group (a network of leading European universities), and the League of European Research Universities (LERU). It is also a core member of Europaeum, a network of leading universities in Europe. In the 2025 Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide, Oxford maintained its position as one of the top universities in the UK.

In addition to academic prestige, the University of Oxford has been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), which assesses the quality of teaching in higher education. Its graduates are highly sought after, with excellent career prospects. Five years after graduation, the average salary for Oxford alumni stands at nearly £43,000, placing them among the highest earners in the UK. Moreover, Oxford boasts the highest proportion of students achieving 2:1 degrees and first-class honours, demonstrating the exceptional academic outcomes of its undergraduates.

A distinctive feature of the Oxford educational experience is the weekly one-to-one tutorial, where undergraduates engage in in-depth discussions with an expert in their field, often a world-leading scholar. This personalised teaching method is a hallmark of Oxford’s approach to education.

The University is home to the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe and the second-largest in the UK, second only to the British Library. The Bodleian contains over 13 million printed items and attracts scholars from around the globe. Each of Oxford’s colleges has its own character and traditions. Magdalen College (pronounced “maudlin”), founded in 1458, was established to be one of the grandest colleges in Oxford. Balliol College, with a history dating back to 1263, has produced five Nobel laureates. Each college operates independently, offering accommodation, tutorials, and a sense of community to its students while contributing to the overall University’s strength.

Oxford’s student body is notably diverse, with international students from over 140 countries comprising around one-third of the total enrolment. These students pursue a wide range of subjects, contributing to a vibrant academic community.