St John's College

It is an extremely popular college for graduates, who make up approximately 40% of the student community.

The college places a high value on the contributions made by graduate students. Interaction between graduates and full-time academics is warmly encouraged and the College Advisor system, independent of academic supervision, fosters close links with the Senior Common Room (SCR). The college hosts regular MCR/SCR events throughout the year, including lecture suppers, subject dinners and drinks parties.

The college is centrally located and very close to the Bodleian and Taylor Institution libraries and to the Science Area.

Please note that applications are not accepted for part-time study at St John's College.

Accommodation and meals

Accommodation is available to first year students who are new to Oxford University and may also be available in subsequent years, via a ballot run by the MCR.

Most single rooms are on campus or in central locations which are just a short walk from the college and the city centre.

The college does offer couples and family accommodation; however, availability is limited, so early applications are recommended. Most of these flats are nearby to the college, around fifteen minutes' walk.

Meals in the college's dining hall are available throughout most of the year. The Kendrew Café is open during the daytime for lunch, drinks and snacks. 

The college bar is the social hub of the college.  As well as serving a wide variety of drinks, the bar is stocked with a large variety of board games and hosts various events throughout the year.

Shared kitchen facilities are provided in most of the college's accommodation blocks.

Library and IT services

In 2019 St John's opened a new library and study centre equipped with 90 study seats and multiple seminar rooms. There is also a separate law library for law students.

There are resource rooms within the college, including one which is for use by graduate students only, located in the MCR, which can be used for study. Most student rooms have network connections.

Sport, music and college facilities

The MCR run various teams and sports, specifically for graduates, in addition to those of the college. Sports facilities, include squash courts, a gym, a sports ground and a boathouse. There are music rooms, an art collection and a college bar.  

St John’s students partake in a lively mix of music and drama events in college. The college hosts regular concerts, has a number of well-equipped music rooms, a joint orchestra with St Anne’s College and a chapel choir. 

The college’s art collection includes many portraits of former presidents, fellows and distinguished alumni and benefactors.

The college's nursery provides places for up to 26 babies and young children of college and University staff and students. Early enquiries are encouraged as there is usually a waiting list. 

Facilities for students with disabilities

St John’s College is committed to supporting students with disabilities in their studies, whilst ensuring that they can experience the independence of student life. There are a limited number of rooms with disabled access and some facilities for visually impaired students.  Please contact the college about any accessibility requirements. 

MCR

The college has a very active Middle Common Room (MCR) committee who organise a wide range of social and intellectual activities for graduate students including guest night dinners, excursions, film nights and bops.

The MCR is located in a modern building which includes a resource room, television room, kitchen and a large function space where many events are held. The international nature of the graduate community and the organisational skills and enthusiasm of the MCR committee ensure that new members are made to feel immediately at home.