How to study in Oxford and how much it costs

Thinking of Oxford immediately brings to mind excellence, tradition, and… a challenge that anyone dreaming of an academic career cannot ignore. In 2025, the University of Oxford emerges clearly as the best in the world according to the Times Higher Education, confirming its title as the champion for the ninth consecutive year. In the prestigious U.S. News & World Report 2025–2026 ranking, it is firmly in fourth place among global institutions. It’s not just a matter of general reputation: among disciplines, Oxford dominates in medicine and computer science according to THE, and leads in English literature, anatomy, and geography in the QS rankings.

But imagine this excellence framed by very concrete numbers: in 2024, more than 23,000 young people applied to study at the university, for approximately 3,300 places available (according to Oxford University data). Only 3,245 were admitted, including 8.1% of students from disadvantaged economic backgrounds—a figure that’s higher than in the past.

In short, getting into Oxford is still a superhero test: you need an excellent level of English (minimum B2 level, C1 preferred), genuine motivation, the ability to express your passions, volunteer experience, and determination in a highly selective interview. But today that interview is no longer just a test: it’s the starting point of a university journey that is both a climb to the global intellectual elite and an investment in your personal history.

But how much does it cost to study at Oxford? Contrary to popular belief, they aren’t that expensive. Let’s dispel a myth: it’s not one of the most expensive universities. The annual tuition can still be a major obstacle for many, but compared to some American universities, Oxford’s tuition is just a fifth of that.

How to Apply to Oxford: Requirements and Application

The University of Oxford has been ranked as the top university in the United Kingdom and is considered, globally, one of the best universities to study at (the industry rankings speak for themselves). Therefore, to enroll at the University of Oxford, you need not only a strong will and a high level of ability, but also meet the necessary requirements and pass rather restrictive entrance exams.

Before learning what requirements you need to meet to apply to Oxford, here are the main courses:

• Economics and Management;
• Computer Science;
• Medicine;
• Mathematics and Computer Science;
• Biomedical sciences;
• PPE (Philosophy, Politics, and Economics);
• History and politics;
• Mathematics;
• Physics;
• Law.
  N.B. This list is for illustrative purposes only: Oxford offers over 50 undergraduate degree programs, each with specific requirements.

To enroll in a specific program, you must include all qualifications obtained, starting with your high school diploma, when completing the application. If you are from a foreign country, you must attach a English language certification: Oxford requires an advanced level (e.g., IELTS 7.5 with at least 7.0 in each section, TOEFL iBT 110, C1 Advanced 191 points, or Oxford Test of English Advanced level). Finally, you must submit a reference from the teacher of the subject closest to your chosen program.

Please note: To apply for the Arts course, you must submit a portfolio and complete a practical assignment during the selection process. For psychology, geography, humanities, philosophy, politics, economics, and PPE, you must take a test. These tests now vary depending on the course: for example, the MAT for mathematics and computer science, the BMAT for medicine, the TSA for PPE, and for English, the ELAT (abolished in 2024) is no longer used, but written essays must be submitted.

How much does it cost to enroll at Oxford

Oxford is universally considered one of the most prestigious universities in the world. This prestige, in many cases, comes at a high cost, but this is not the case for Oxford. It’s thought to be quite expensive, but in reality, it’s not that simple: the annual tuition fee depends on the student’s status.

• UK Students (Home): £9,535 per year, or approximately €10,400
• International Students (Overseas): from £35,260 to £59,260 per year, depending on the course (with medicine among the most expensive).

So, studying at Oxford costs around 10,400 euros per year just for those with "Home" fees; for international students, however, the cost can reach over 60,000 euros per year, including room and board.

To the tuition fee, however, you must also add living costs, which in Oxford are estimated to be between £1,425 and £2,035 per month (approximately 1,500 and 2,000 euros per month). It’s important to remember, however, that numerous scholarships and financial aid exist: among the best-known are the Clarendon, Rhodes, Weidenfeld, and Jardine Scholarships, which can fully cover tuition and living expenses.

Original article published on Money.it Italy. Original title: Come studiare a Oxford e quanto costa