Magdalen

Magdalen (pronounced ‘Maudlen’ ever since its founding in the mid-15th century) has some of the most beautiful buildings in Oxford, new as well as ancient. It is set in 100 acres of grounds which include the Deer Park and Addison’s riverside walk. Magdalen’s spaciousness has helped to determine its character – diversified, informal and without pressure to conform to any stereotype or set of views. Students are represented on all the key committees which run the college. The atmosphere is relaxed, devoid of social pressures, but with unambiguous ambitions towards academic and extra-curricular success.

Every year we aim to admit 118 undergraduates who demonstrate academic talent and commitment, entirely on merit and irrespective of social or ethnic background. We welcome applications from students with disabilities. Magdalen is able to provide for students who run into financial problems. There are a large number of travel and research grants every year, as well as annual tutorial prizes for the most promising and successful of our students.

All undergraduates can live in college for the entire duration of their course, whether three years or four. Many college rooms have superb views, and all have access to bathroom facilities nearby. Every room has free internet access, a telephone and a mini fridge. Meals are available at competitive prices in the dining hall or in the 14th century Old Kitchen Bar which acts as an ideal social centre shared by everyone: students, tutors and college staff.

There are 100,000 volumes spread among the college’s five libraries, with the main ones open 24 hours per day. There is a large DVD collection, with an emphasis on modern language classics of cinema. The musical and theatrical lives of the college are particularly strong and the college auditorium seats up to 160 people and has superb ‘studio’ acoustics. We possess two music practice rooms and a dedicated modern languages room. Our computer facilities for students are outstanding. We have our own professionally maintained grounds for football, rugby, cricket and hockey as well as nine tennis courts and our own squash courts, all on site, and an extremely well-equipped Boat Club.

Drama thrives. The Magdalen Players are renowned for their many high-class productions. Musical opportunities abound – as well as the famous Magdalen Choir and the Magdalen Orchestra, student bands and jazz groups are active. College societies cater for all interests, e.g. poetry, films and debating. Sport is very popular at all levels and more successful in competition than ever before at Magdalen. The athletics, tennis and badminton teams have all won cups. Rowing – men’s and women’s – is traditionally strong.