Exploring Oxford's Acceptance Rate by Subject
Gaining admission to Oxford University is a highly coveted achievement, as it is one of the top universities in the world. But what does it take to gain admission? Are there any differences in the acceptance rates between different subjects? In this article, we explore Oxford's acceptance rate by subject to give potential applicants an insight into their chances of being accepted.
Understanding Oxford's Acceptance Rate by Subject
The Oxford acceptance rate by subject is a complex and nuanced topic. While Oxford University does not release an overall acceptance rate for all subjects combined, data indicates that acceptance rates can vary significantly across different subjects. This variability is influenced by factors such as the number of applicants, the availability of places, and the specific demands of the course.
Variability in Acceptance Rates Across Subjects
Certain subjects at Oxford have a reputation for being more competitive than others, with lower acceptance rates. For example, highly sought-after courses such as Medicine and Law are reported to have acceptance rates around 15-20%, reflecting the intense competition among applicants. In contrast, subjects such as Engineering tend to have even lower acceptance rates, sometimes closer to 10%, making them exceptionally competitive fields.
Oxford has some particularly competitive degrees. If you’d like to gain admission into Oxford, it’s worth considering the varying acceptance rates per course. Below is a detailed table of the acceptance rates for Oxford’s most competitive and popular courses, as well as courses with the highest acceptance rates.
Oxford Undergraduate Course Acceptance Rates (2007-2022)
| Course | Acceptance Rate | Number of Applicants |
|---|---|---|
| BA/MMatd Mathematics and Statistics | 4.6% | 262 |
| BA/MCompSci Computer Science | 4.6% | 843 |
| BA Economics and Management | 5.2% | 1,732 |
| BMBCh Medicine | 7.6% | 2,054 |
| BA/MBioMedSci Biomedical Sciences | 7.9% | 558 |
| BA/MCompPhil Computer Science and Philosophy | 8.6% | 151 |
| BA/MMatdCompSci Mathematics and Computer Science | 10% | 603 |
| BA/MMatd Mathematics | 10% | 1,732 |
| BA History and English | 11% | 121 |
| BA Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) | 11% | 2,300 |
| BA Law | 13% | 1,674 |
| BA/MPhys Physics | 11% | 1,630 |
| MEng Engineering Science | 17% | 1,097 |
| BA Language and Literature | 25% | 942 |
| BA History | 25% | 933 |
| MChem Chemistry | 23% | 862 |
| BA/MPhysPhil Physics and Philosophy | 9.2% | 174 |
Oxford’s Courses with the Highest Acceptance Rates
Alternatively, if you’re curious about applying to one of Oxford’s courses with the highest acceptance rate and/or least competition, take a look at the table below.
| Course | Acceptance Rate | Number of Applicants |
|---|---|---|
| BA Music | 54% | 146 |
| BA European and Middle Eastern Languages | 48% | 31 |
| BA Modern Languages | 47% | 371 |
| BA Classics | 46% | 252 |
| BA Modern Languages and Linguistics | 40% | 86 |
| BA Theology and Religion | 38% | 112 |
| BA Classics and English | 37% | 35 |
| BA Geology / MEarthSci Earth Sciences | 33% | 111 |
| BA English and Modern Languages | 32% | 99 |
| BA Physiological Sciences | 29% | 95 |
| BA Philosophy and Modern Languages | 25% | 63 |
| BA History and Modern Languages | 28% | 83 |
| BA Ancient and Modern History | 27% | 98 |
| MEng Engineering, Economics and Management (EEM) | 11% | 100 |
| BA Archaeology and Anthropology | 18% | 103 |
These figures highlight the significant differences in acceptance rates across various subjects at Oxford. The acceptance rate for a given subject can reflect the level of demand for that course, the number of places available, and the academic rigor required to succeed in that field.
Learn more about Oxford University acceptance rates.
Key Factors Affecting Oxford Acceptance Rate by Subject
1. Academic Excellence
Academic excellence is paramount in determining the Oxford acceptance rate by subject. Oxford University seeks the brightest and most capable students, and this is reflected in its rigorous academic requirements.
A-Level Requirements and Grades
Oxford’s entry requirements typically range from AAA to AAA at A-levels or equivalent qualifications, depending on the subject. Competitive subjects often have higher academic thresholds, requiring applicants to excel in subjects directly related to their chosen field. For example, a student applying for Mathematics and Statistics would be expected to demonstrate outstanding performance in Mathematics and further mathematics-related subjects.
How to Strengthen Your Academic Profile:
- Focus on Relevant Subjects: Ensure you achieve top grades in subjects closely aligned with your intended course. For STEM subjects, strong performance in mathematics and science subjects is crucial.
- Broaden Your Knowledge: Engage in additional reading, attend relevant lectures, and participate in academic competitions to deepen your understanding of your subject area.
2. Subject-Specific Knowledge and Passion
Oxford looks for students who not only excel academically but also have a deep passion for their chosen field of study. Demonstrating this passion through your application is critical.
Demonstrating Subject Mastery
Applicants are expected to showcase their understanding of their subject through their personal statement, interviews, and any required written work or portfolios. For instance, an applicant for History might highlight their engagement with historical research, while a Computer Science applicant might discuss programming projects they’ve undertaken.
How to Demonstrate Your Passion:
- Personal Statement: Use your personal statement to convey your enthusiasm for your subject. Highlight specific experiences, such as projects, research, or extracurricular activities, that demonstrate your commitment.
- Interview Preparation: Be prepared to discuss your subject in depth during the interview. Oxford interviews are designed to assess how you think and how you approach new problems, so practicing with sample questions can be invaluable.
Explore how to get into Oxford.
3. Admissions Tests
Many Oxford courses require applicants to take subject-specific admissions tests, which play a critical role in the selection process. These tests assess a range of skills, including problem-solving, critical thinking, and subject-specific knowledge.
Importance of Admissions Tests
For competitive courses like Medicine, Economics and Management, and Computer Science, the admissions test can be a significant determining factor in whether an applicant progresses to the interview stage. Success in these tests often requires thorough preparation and familiarity with the test format.
How to Prepare Effectively:
- Practice Past Papers: Familiarize yourself with the style and content of the test by practicing past papers. This can help you understand what to expect and improve your performance.
- Develop Test-Taking Strategies: Work on time management, as well as strategies for tackling different types of questions, to maximize your score on the day of the test.
Find Oxbridge admissions tutors here.
4. Interviews
If you make it through the initial stages of the application process, you will likely be invited to an interview, which is one of the most crucial components of the Oxford admissions process. The interview is designed to assess your intellectual potential, your ability to think critically, and how you approach new ideas.
What to Expect in an Oxford Interview
Oxford interviews are not just about assessing what you know; they are about seeing how you think. The questions posed during the interview often go beyond standard A-level material, challenging you to apply your knowledge in novel ways.
How to Excel in the Interview:
- Engage with New Material: Regularly challenge yourself with new concepts and ideas related to your subject. This will help you become more comfortable with the kind of thinking required in the interview.
- Mock Interviews: Consider participating in mock interviews to simulate the real experience. This can help reduce anxiety and improve your ability to articulate your thoughts under pressure.
5. Extracurricular Activities
While Oxford is primarily focused on academic excellence, extracurricular activities can also play an important role in your application. These activities provide insight into your interests, skills,
and the contributions you might make to the university community.
Relevance and Impact
Engaging in extracurricular activities that are related to your intended course can demonstrate your commitment and passion. Leadership roles, participation in relevant clubs or societies, and independent projects are all valuable experiences that can enhance your application.
How to Highlight Your Extracurricular Activities:
- Quality Over Quantity: Focus on a few meaningful activities that show depth of involvement and relevance to your course.
- Reflect on Your Experiences: Be prepared to discuss how your extracurricular activities have shaped your understanding of your subject and contributed to your personal development.
In Summary
The Oxford acceptance rate by subject is influenced by a variety of factors, including the number of applicants, the number of available places, and the specific demands of the course. Understanding these factors and how they apply to your chosen subject can help you navigate the application process more effectively.
By focusing on academic excellence, demonstrating your passion for your subject, preparing thoroughly for admissions tests and interviews, and engaging in relevant extracurricular activities, you can significantly increase your chances of being accepted at Oxford. Remember, applying to Oxford is highly competitive, but with the right preparation and dedication, your efforts can pay off.
If you're looking for more detailed advice or support with your Oxford application, consider exploring resources that can help you maximise your chances of success.
