Oxford University is one of the most prestigious education providers in the world, with some considering it to be even more esteemed than its main rival, Cambridge University.
As a result, it’s no surprise that every year the University receives thousands of applications, with an average of six applicants vying for every available place.
If you’re lucky enough to have secured a place at this revered education establishment or are preparing to apply, here’s our guide to adjusting to and making the most out of this unique experience…
Choose the course that’s right for you
Deciding to attend a specific university means more than just picking a place to go: it’s also about finding the course that’s right for you. Select a course that will propel you towards the career you’ve always wanted. Oxford University is renowned for its quality education, so once you know what you want to do, you can find a course that offers you access to that career and will be interesting.
Work with an education consultant
The process of applying for and securing a place at this world-class university can be incredibly arduous and challenging. To make an application by Oxford’s 15 October deadline, you need to:
- choose a course and make sure that you have met or are on target to meet the admission requirements
- explore the University’s colleges and decide whether to express a college preference or make an open application on your UCAS form
- find out more about Oxford’s admissions timeline and note the deadlines for each stage of the admissions process.
You can make this process easier for yourself by working with an experienced education concierge. For example, the team at A & J Education have experience supporting clients in getting into some of the world’s most respected universities, including Oxford, by guiding them through the process and putting them on the right track towards that coveted place.
Read about your professors and their research
The professors and tutors who support you through your education will be a key part of your success, so it’s vital that you learn about them and the work they do. Read any books they may have written or contributed to, as well as essays that they’ve published. You should also try to find out about any current projects that they’re undertaking, so you know more about where their research is going and what you might be learning about if you study under them.
Find out about the University’s traditions
As one of the most selective universities in the UK, Oxford has developed a range of quirky traditions, which you should learn about before you attend so that you feel at home right from the moment you arrive. This knowledge will also mean that you’re never surprised by any strange traditions that you may come across during your time there.
Befriend your new classmates before term starts
Attending a new university can be daunting, particularly if you’re going without any of your friends and having to move far away from home. Make the change easier by making new friends before you start your course. Internet forums, social media and student sites will help you to find and connect with students who’ll be starting at Oxford at the same time as you.
Get to know the city
Oxford is a stunning, historical city, so you’ll have fun exploring it. Try o spend some time learning about the city before you go there. For example, you can learn where the best hangouts are and find out about the places you might want to live. As it is one of the most expensive cities to live in the UK, it’s worth exploring the city to find out where the most cost-effective areas are to live.
Attending Oxford can be a culture shock for many students, particularly those who didn’t attend a private school or don’t have family who went there, but these tips will hopefully help you to acclimatise and make the most of this incredible opportunity.
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