One of the benefits of Oxford's college system is that students have all the benefits of a large,
international university while living in a small, friendly community. This means that students will have support available from fellow students and staff at a college level, and their department, and the Oxford University Student Union and the wider University.
We believe this welfare structure is working well: our overall student drop-out rate is one of the lowest in the UK at
around 1%.
College support
One of the benefits of being part of a college community is that there is always help available if you run into any problems. This varies from college to college, but normally includes your subject tutor, student ‘peer supporters’, people in designated welfare roles, a National Health Service doctor (with whom you can enrol normally in your first week), and a college nurse who is available for minor medical problems.
University support
Student funding
Oxford’s financial support is unrivalled among UK universities, giving grants and bursaries to around 1 in 4 students in 2012–13.
More on financial support >>
Student Counselling Service
The counselling service is staffed by fully trained counsellors, psychologists and psychotherapists who are available to help you address personal or emotional problems that get in the way of having a good experience at Oxford and realising your full academic and personal potential. Its aim is to help you develop a greater ability to take decisions for yourself that effect real change. As well as individual and group sessions there are also workshops and self-help materials available.
More on student welfare services >>
Harassment
The University is committed to maintaining a working, learning and social environment in which the rights and dignity of all members of the University community are respected. The University has a network of Harassment Advisors in colleges and departments and runs a dedicated harassment line.
Childcare
Extensive childcare provision for student parents is available at reduced rates. University Childcare Services manage multisite nursery provision within Oxford, and four colleges operate independent nurseries. The University’s Childcare Fund can offer financial support to students with childcare related costs.
More on childcare >>
By students, for students
Nightline
Nightline is a confidential listening, information and support service run by students, for students. It is open overnight, 8pm–8am, every night in term-time. A male and a female volunteer are always available.
Student Advice Service
The Student Advice Service (run by Oxford University Student Union) is a free and confidential source of information, advice and advocacy for students. The service can help with both simple information requests and more complex problems, such as accommodation, harassment and abuse, academic problems, complaints and appeals.
