13 Dec 07

Oxford University’s latest breakdown of application figures shows a sharp increase of applications and acceptances from black ethnic minorities backgrounds. This news coincides with support from parliamentarians for Oxford’s engagement with black ethnic minority students.

The University has just published its latest figures for undergraduate courses entry 2007, which was the most competitive year in the history of the University.

13,639 candidates applied, an increase of 8.1 per cent on 2006. The number of applications from black ethnic minorities rose by 19 per cent, with acceptances rising by 21 per cent.

 

An Early Day Motion tabled by Evan Harris MP welcomed Oxford University’s latest initiative to raise aspiration and attainment among black boys.

The motion states ‘that this House welcomes the University of Oxford Black Boys Can Programme which is run in conjunction with the National Black Boys Can Association, […] wishes the 26 students in this year's programme every success; and encourages more higher education institutions in the UK to participate in such schemes.’

Mike Nicholson, Director of Undergraduate Admissions, said: ‘Competition for a place to study at Oxford University has been fiercer than ever last year. It is good to see that specifically targeted outreach activities, such as our work with black ethnic minorities, is beginning to bear fruit.

‘We are also grateful for Evan Harris MP’s interest and support for our work the National Black Boys Can Association.’

The total number of acceptances for entry 2007 was 3,160, equating to an overall success rate of 23.2 per cent, down on the previous year’s success rate of 25.4 per cent. The lower overall success rate is explained by the increase in applications while the number of available places remained constant.