Balliol

Balliol is one of the oldest and most diverse colleges. In the 19th century, it pioneered the selection of students solely on academic ability. This remains the cornerstone of our admissions policy: we are committed to attracting women and men of exceptional talent regardless of social, cultural or educational background. Our lively student community is drawn from a broad spectrum of schools within the UK, and also from the EU and overseas.

Many prominent figures in public life, particularly in the 20th century, graduated from Balliol. The college has retained its reputation for high academic standards, combined with a friendly atmosphere and lively spirit of intellectual debate.

In 2009–2010 Balliol celebrated the thirtieth anniversary of the admission of women undergraduates to the college with a number of events and the booklet Women at Balliol: www.balliol.ox.ac.uk/about-balliol/balliol-women

Daily life focuses on Balliol’s site on Broad Street in the city centre, close to University libraries and many departments. Its modern annexe is five minutes away on Jowett Walk.

All students are guaranteed college rooms for the first and final years of their course. Many live in college; others have rooms in the Jowett Walk building. All rooms are single study-bedrooms with free internet access.

Student meals are served in hall and there is an optional scheme for pre-payment which is economical and increasingly popular. There is also a student-run cafeteria in the Junior Common Room (JCR). There are self-catering kitchenettes on the main site and in the new buildings.

Facilities for disabled students are available on the main site. Please contact us to discuss your needs before applying.

Balliol has one of the largest college libraries, a law library and its own archives. There is a well-equipped computing room.

The centre of undergraduate life is the JCR, which organises a number of social events. Balliol has one of the largest and most active student bodies in the University and has an entirely student-run and very cheap bar as well as its own cafeteria. The college also has a gym, a music room and a purpose-built studio theatre, as well as a range of sports facilities, including a boathouse. The chapel is a centre of worship for all denominations, and all of the major religious faiths are active in Balliol.

Access bursaries and hardship grants assist students with their financial needs during their studies, and there are also special grants for research and travel.

Balliol prides itself on its friendly atmosphere and diverse community. There are many student societies, some based on particular subjects; others, such as the sports, drama and music societies, bring together all sections of the college community.

For more information, see the website.