How Hard is it to get into Oxford?

There is no doubt that Oxford is one of the hardest institutions in the world to get into. It attracts the best students in all disciplines from around the world, and as such is highly competitive. The university strives to upholds its rigorous admissions standards to maintain its reputation as a prestigious academic institution.

This guide will discuss exactly what it is in the Oxford admissions process that makes it so difficult to get accepted, which will improve your own chances of admission.

What is the Oxford Acceptance Rate?

On average, Oxford has an acceptance rate of approximately 13-17%. While this may seem significantly higher than the acceptance rate at many top American universities, it would be a mistake to assume that being offered a place is any easier. 

There are generally higher barriers to applying to Oxford, not least the restriction that you can only apply to either Oxford or Cambridge in a given year and that you can only apply to 5 UK universities in an academic year. Arguably, this means that students are unlikely to apply if they do not feel, and have not been advised by their teachers, that they have a realistic chance of admission.

To find out more about the Oxford acceptance rate, read our comprehensive guide What is the Oxford Acceptance Rate?

Why is it so Difficult to get into Oxford?

Oxford is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, a reputation that derives from its outstanding teaching and research, and also its highly rigorous admissions process. This ensures that it continues to admit the brightest, most promising, and most motivated students globally. 

This has led to Oxford being ranked as number one in the Times Higher Education Guide for the eighth year running. Oxford has a particularly demanding admissions process requiring high grades, demonstrated exceptional interest and aptitude in your chosen subject, high scores in tests and written work, and an excellent performance in interviews.

Which Subjects are Hardest to get into?

The acceptance rate can vary substantially across subjects at Oxford, so it is a good idea to take a look at Oxford’s own official statistics for the subject you are interested in. Generally, this is a function of the size of the course and the number of applicants, meaning that small courses with many applicants will have a lower acceptance rate. 

All subjects have their own admissions processes tailored to finding the best students for that course. A sample of the most difficult courses to get into includes Economics and Management with an acceptance rate of 7%; Computer Science with an acceptance rate of around 9%; Medicine where only 11% of applicants ultimately get a place; History and Politics also has an acceptance rate of 11%; and Law with Law studies in Europe only admits 12% of applicants.

Top Tips for Oxford Application Success

The keys to a successful Oxford application are a combination of ability, strategy, passion, and planning. It is essential to pay attention to every aspect of your application from your personal statement to any written tests and your interview,  preparing well for each. 

Bear in mind that the other applicants are likely to all be well-qualified students with excellent grades so you need to think about ways you can stand out through outstanding test scores and demonstrating exceptional passion for your subject. Be sure to read our top tips for a successful Oxford application to give yourself the best chance of success at every stage of the process. 

To summarise, Oxford is looking for the following qualities and its admissions processes are designed to identify them in students.

Academic Excellence

Oxford is looking for students who have a strong academic record and have shown exceptional intellectual ability. This includes high grades, particularly in relevant subjects, as well as a real commitment for learning. This can also be demonstrated further by taking advanced courses and challenging yourself.

Critical Thinking Skills

In all subjects, Oxford values students who can think deeply and critically about the complex issues in and around their chosen area of study. Oxford is looking for students who can analyse problems, develop creative solutions, and communicate their ideas effectively. These skills show that they would thrive in the tutorial system, and potentially be able to make an impact advancing within their subject and in the wider world.

Passion for your Subject

Oxford is particularly looking for students who have a genuine passion for their chosen subject. This includes a deep interest in the field, a desire to learn more, and a commitment to pursuing a career in the area. Extracurriculars are an important way to showcase this, as well as wider reading outside of your schoolwork.  

How to get into Oxford

Applying to Oxford can seem daunting, but with preparation it can be a rewarding process too. If you’re thinking of applying to Oxford, look no further than our guide How to get into Oxford University in 2024 . 

How can Dukes Plus Help you Succeed?

At Dukes, we provide support for applications to various universities across the world, including Oxford. Our programs offer personalised guidance, and strategic advice to strengthen your Oxford application.

We can support you to identify and showcase your unique strengths, align your application with Oxford University’s values, and effectively communicate your accomplishments and potential contributions to the admissions committee. For more information on how Dukes can assist with your Oxford application, please visit our Oxbridge admissions consulting page. 

Alternatively, you can contact us here, and we can help you submit a winning application.