Welfare and support

If you will be a member of a college during your studies, it will have a doctor and nurse, and you are strongly advised to register with your college doctor during your studies. Our health pages provide advice about accessing health care in the UK, important vaccinations and sexual health.

If you’re a disabled student, have a long-term physical or mental health condition, or a specific learning difficulty (SpLD) such as dyslexia, we’re committed to providing the support you need throughout your time at Oxford. Our Disability Advisory Service (DAS) is a team of specialist advisors who can give you information and advice on relevant issues, and help facilitate your access to study.

We'd really encourage you to tell the University about your disability as early as possible, so that you can benefit from the full range of support available; but you can get in touch with DAS at any time during your studies.

For more information about disclosing your disability when you apply, visit our Support for disabled applicants page.

The University Counselling Service is free, confidential and staffed by fully-trained counsellors and psychotherapists. The team helps people from many different backgrounds and cultures, and can provide support for a wide range of personal issues. You can receive individual or group counselling, or participate in a range of topical workshops to help you build essential skills to respond to the demands of life at university.

The University of Oxford is committed to fostering a safe environment in which all students can thrive. Harassment and sexual misconduct in any form are not tolerated here. The University takes a proactive approach to preventing and responding to such behaviour. 

All students starting a course at Oxford are required to complete Harassment and Sexual Misconduct online training. Our dedicated webpage outlines the University’s policies, procedures and available support for current students. It brings together essential information for students, ensuring everyone knows where to go for help and how concerns are raised.

Student peer supporters are available in colleges and departments to talk with you informally about any issues or problems you might be experiencing. There are around 350 peer supporters across the University, who are carefully selected and trained to take up this role, and receive ongoing support and supervision.

Independent from the University and colleges, Oxford SU Advice is there to support students at Oxford. Providing confidential advice and guidance exclusively for Oxford students, the service can help you navigate University processes and explore the support options available at Oxford and beyond. Find out more or contact the SU Advice service via their website.

Open every night during term-time from 8pm, Nightline is an independent and confidential listening, information and support service, run by students for students. You can contact Nightline by phone or text. For further information about how to contact Nightline and opening times, visit the Nightline website.