Is Oxford Worth the Money as an International Student?
Are you considering applying to study at Oxford as an international student, but unsure if it’s worth the cost?
It’s no secret that Oxford University is a prestigious institution with a long history of academic excellence, but with tuition and living costs that can be significantly higher for international students, it’s understandable to have doubts.
In this article, we’ll provide some tips for getting into Oxford as an international student, examine the benefits of studying at Oxford and why it may be worth the investment, and encourage you to take the opportunity to apply.
Table of contents
5 Tips for Getting Into Oxford as an International Student
1) Attend an Oxford summer school: Consider attending an Oxford summer school as a way to get a taste of what it’s like to study at the University and get a head start on your application.
Summer programs at Oxford offer a variety of academic and extracurricular activities, and can provide valuable insights and experiences that can help you stand out in your application. It’s never too early to start preparing for your application to Oxford, and attending a summer school can be a great way to get a head start.
2) Get excellent grades: Oxford is known for its high academic standards, so it’s important to maintain a strong academic record. Take challenging courses, seek out opportunities for independent research, and strive for top grades.
3) Consider taking the Oxford Online Preliminary Application (OPAL): If you’re an international student living outside of the UK, you may be eligible to take the Oxford Online Preliminary Application (OPAL). This is a free, online test that can help you determine if you’re ready to apply to Oxford and provide feedback on your strengths and areas for improvement.
4) Demonstrate your potential: In addition to your grades, Oxford is looking for students who have the potential to thrive at the University. Consider how you can demonstrate your passion, curiosity, and potential for academic and personal growth in your application.
5) Don’t rule out Cambridge: While Oxford may be your top choice, it’s always a good idea to have backup options. Consider applying to the University of Cambridge as well, which has a similar reputation and academic program offerings.
Why Is Oxford University Worth The Money?
Now that we’ve covered some tips for getting into Oxford as an international student, let’s consider why the University may be worth the investment.
According to the University’s own data, 21,500 people applied for undergraduate study in 2018, and 43% of the undergraduate intake is made up of international students. Additionally, 64% of the graduate intake is made up of international students.
These figures demonstrate the strong appeal of Oxford to students from around the world, and the diverse and international nature of the University’s student body.
World Class Academics Taught At The University of Oxford
In addition to its academic reputation, Oxford offers a wide range of world-class courses and a beautiful setting in a small, historic city.
The University also has a number of unique local traditions and festivities, including the May Day tradition and ceremonies at the Sheldonian Theatre and Examination Schools, that add to the experience of studying at Oxford.
Incredible Resources Available For International Students
Finally, the University has a number of resources available for international students, including the International Student Advisory Service and the Oxford Student Union International Students Campaign, to help ensure that students have a smooth and successful transition to studying in the UK.
Take Your Chance and Apply to Oxford
If you’re still on the fence about applying to Oxford as an international student, we encourage you to take the chance and go for it.
While it’s understandable to have concerns about the cost, remember that studying at Oxford can be a valuable and rewarding experience that can open up numerous opportunities and set you on a path to success. With hard work and preparation, you may just find that it’s worth the investment.
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