The University of Oxford is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, located in the historic city of Oxford, England. Founded in 1096, the university is steeped in tradition and history, with a reputation for academic excellence and intellectual rigor that spans centuries. With a student population of over 23,000 from all around the world, Oxford is a truly international institution, known for its world-class academic programs, groundbreaking research, and exceptional faculty. The university is comprised of 38 colleges and six permanent private halls, each with its own distinctive character and history, and offers over 350 undergraduate and graduate programs in a wide range of disciplines, including the arts, humanities, social sciences, and sciences.
At the heart of the University of Oxford is a commitment to academic excellence and the pursuit of knowledge, both within and outside the classroom. The university is home to some of the most distinguished scholars in the world, and its faculty and alumni have been recognized with numerous Nobel Prizes, Fields Medals, and other prestigious awards. Oxford also has a strong tradition of interdisciplinary research and collaboration, with many research centers and institutes dedicated to exploring some of the most pressing challenges facing the world today. With its rich history, outstanding academic programs, and commitment to intellectual inquiry, the University of Oxford continues to be one of the leading institutions of higher education in the world.
Based on the QS World University Rankings of 2024, University of Oxford is positioned as the #3 top university in the world, which makes it the #2 top university in United Kingdom. The university's global rank is improved by 1 point from last year.
University Profile
Get a quick snapshot of the university's key details.
2025 Ranking
#3
#2
University Name
University of Oxford
Year Established
1096
Motto
Dominus illuminatio mea
Motto in English
The Lord is my light
Governing Type
Public
Student Body
Co-education
Highest Degree
Doctorate
Campus Type
Urban
Colors
Oxford blue
Location
The university is located in Oxford, South East England. Find the address and map of the university below.
Address
Wellington Square, Oxford, South East England, United Kingdom
Map
Contact
Connect with the university easily! Find their contact details.
The following chart shows how the global ranking of this university has changed over the last 5 years.
Admission Info
Admission to the University of Oxford is highly competitive and selective, and the specific requirements and application process vary depending on the program of study. Generally, however, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Academic qualifications: Applicants must have completed, or be on track to complete, a secondary education that would allow them to enroll in a university in their home country. For undergraduate programs, this typically means having completed A-levels or their equivalent. For graduate programs, applicants must have a bachelor's degree or its equivalent.
English language proficiency: Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in English through a recognized language test, such as the IELTS or TOEFL.
Standardized tests: Some programs require applicants to take standardized tests, such as the SAT or ACT for undergraduate programs, or the GRE or GMAT for graduate programs.
Other requirements: Some programs may require additional materials, such as essays, personal statements, or letters of recommendation.
The application process for the University of Oxford typically involves submitting an online application through the university's website, along with any required materials and application fees. The application deadline varies depending on the program of study, but is generally in the fall for undergraduate programs and early in the year for graduate programs. After the application is reviewed, some applicants may be invited to an interview or assessment, which is typically conducted in person at the university or online. Admissions decisions are typically made in the spring or early summer, and successful applicants are offered a place at the university.
The University of Oxford offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid programs to help students cover the cost of tuition, living expenses, and other educational costs.
One of the most prestigious scholarship programs at the University of Oxford is the Rhodes Scholarship, which provides full funding for graduate study at the university to exceptional students from around the world. Other scholarship programs include the Clarendon Fund, which provides full scholarships for graduate study to outstanding students in all fields, and the Ertegun Graduate Scholarship Programme, which provides full scholarships for graduate study in the humanities.
In addition to these scholarship programs, the University of Oxford also offers a variety of need-based and merit-based financial aid programs, including bursaries, grants, and loans. These programs are designed to help students from all backgrounds and income levels access the educational opportunities available at the university.
The specific eligibility requirements and application processes for these scholarship and financial aid programs vary, and interested students should consult the university's website or contact the financial aid office for more information.
The number of Nobel laureates affiliated with University of Oxford is as follows.
As of Year
2023
Total Laureates
85
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