Last Updated on March 21, 2024 by Iain
Oxford University Acceptance Rate For Undergraduate Admissions
The University of Oxford’s undergraduate admissions process is comprehensive and competitive, attracting a large number of applications from across the world.
For the 2024 admissions cycle, the university’s overall acceptance rate is approximately between 15% and 17.5%.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the stages involved in the admissions process and the numbers associated with each stage:
Applications Received
Oxford receives thousands of applications each year.
For the 2024 cycle, the exact number of applications can vary by course and college, but typically, the university sees over 20,000 applications for its undergraduate courses.
Shortlisted for Interview
A significant portion of applicants are shortlisted for an interview based on their academic performance, personal statements, and other application materials.
The shortlisting rate can vary significantly by course, but on average, about 30% to 40% of applicants are invited to interview.
This means that, for every 100 applicants, approximately 30 to 40 are considered for the next stage of the admissions process.
Interviews Conducted
During the interview phase, candidates are assessed through one or more interviews with faculty members.
These interviews are designed to evaluate the applicants’ academic potential, depth of subject knowledge, and motivation for their chosen field of study.
The number of interviews and the format can vary by course.
Offers Made
After the interviews, the university makes offers to a select group of candidates.
The offer rate (the percentage of interviewed applicants who receive an offer) is typically around 30% to 50%, depending on the course and competition in that year.
Accepted Offers
Not all students who receive an offer choose to accept it. Some may decide to go to another university or pursue different opportunities.
The acceptance rate of offers (the percentage of applicants who receive an offer and choose to enroll) can vary, but historically, the majority of students who receive an offer from Oxford choose to accept it.
Final Enrollment:
The final step in the admissions process is enrollment, where accepted applicants officially become students of the University of Oxford.
The number of students enrolling can slightly vary from the number of offers accepted, due to personal circumstances leading some students to defer or decline their place after initially accepting.
These figures provide a detailed progression from the number of applications needed to reach the target final enrollment, based on the average rates of each stage of the admissions process.
As an example here are some typical indicative figures for the final enrollment for 2022 of 3271.
| Stage | Number |
|---|---|
| Applications | 27,884 |
| Shortlisted for Interview | 9,760 |
| Interviews Conducted | 9,272 |
| Offers Made | 3,709 |
| Accepted Offers | 3,338 |
| Final Enrollment | 3,271 |
Acceptance Rates Vary
Acceptance rates, however, can vary significantly depending on the subject and the college within the university.
For instance, highly competitive programs like Computer Science and Mathematics and Statistics have been known to have acceptance rates as low as 5%.
The acceptance rate is even more stringent for international students, estimated at approximately 9%.
It’s crucial to note that these statistics can fluctuate annually, so it’s recommended to research the specific program and college you’re interested in for the most current and accurate information on acceptance rates.
Oxford University Acceptance Rate For International Students
According to various data sources, the acceptance rate for international students at Oxford University can fluctuate based on a range of factors such as the academic year, program, and college.
Here are some recent estimates to consider:
- The overall acceptance rate for international students at Oxford University for the 2022 academic year stood at approximately 7.30%.
- Current general estimates suggest the acceptance rate for international students applying to Oxford hovers around 9%.
- For the 2021 academic year, the acceptance rate for non-EU international students was recorded at 7.8%.
Given that these acceptance rates are subject to change and can differ significantly based on the program and college, it’s essential to conduct specific research into the program and college you’re interested in for the most accurate and current information on your chances of acceptance.
What is the average SAT/ACT score for admitted students at Oxford University?
In terms of standardized tests, the average SAT/ACT score for admitted students at Oxford University varies depending on the specific program and level of study. Here’s a breakdown of some general estimates:
- For applicants from the United States, Oxford usually requires a minimum SAT score of 1480 and a minimum ACT score of 33.
- In courses that require two or more A* grades at A-level, the equivalent SAT score is typically 1480.
- Interestingly, Oxford’s preferred minimum SAT score is generally higher than that of most Ivy League schools.
- If you’re applying through a European Baccalaureate, Oxford will expect you to score an average of 85% or above in subjects specified at the A-level (or equivalent).
- It’s worth noting that Oxford University does not maintain a strict minimum SAT/ACT score requirement. The admissions process is holistic, considering a multitude of factors beyond standardized test scores.
Are there any other factors besides SAT/ACT scores that are considered in the admission process at Oxford University?
In addition to SAT/ACT scores, Oxford University evaluates a range of other factors in its admissions process. Below are some key elements that are taken into account:
- Academic Achievement: Oxford pays close attention to an applicant’s overall academic achievement, including metrics like GPA, AP exam scores, and other relevant qualifications.
- Admissions Tests or Written Works: Depending on the course you’re applying for, you may be required to undertake specific admissions tests or submit samples of written work.
- Personal Statement: As part of the application process, candidates must provide a personal statement that articulates their academic aspirations, achievements, and extracurricular activities.
- Interviews: Exceptional applicants are invited for interviews, which provide an additional layer of assessment.
- Holistic Approach: Oxford employs a holistic approach to admissions, taking into account not just academic metrics but also an applicant’s background, life experiences, and potential for growth.
How important are extracurricular activities in the admissions process at Oxford University?
Extracurricular activities do play a role in the admissions process at Oxford, although the significance can differ depending on the program and college. Here’s what various sources indicate about the role of extracurricular activities:
- According to the University of Oxford’s official website, participating in extracurricular activities can not only enhance your social life but also equip you with skills valuable for your future career.
- A post on The Student Room forum suggests that extracurriculars may serve as a differentiating factor in the admissions process, particularly when two applicants present similar academic qualifications.
- A video by a former Oxford student on YouTube posits that while extracurriculars are considered, they are not as important as academic achievements and admissions tests.
- Another video by a current Oxford student on YouTube advises that the importance of extracurricular activities can vary considerably depending on the specific program and college you’re interested in.
- It’s essential to align your extracurricular activities with your subject of interest and to focus on the skills and experiences you’ve gained that prepare you for your chosen course.
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