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Supportive and inclusive

Everyone wants to feel that they belong and can be themselves and choosing where to study is about more than academic excellence - it’s about finding a place where you feel at home. At Oxford, that sense of belonging is shaped not just by what you study, but by the community you become part of. We know that feeling supported, recognised, and comfortable in your environment plays a vital role in helping you thrive, both personally and academically.

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With around 24,000 students from across the globe at Oxford - each with an amazing range of interests - you will meet people like you and not like you. This is likely to be one of the most enjoyable and liberating aspects of your student life here. 

Students walking in an Oxford college
“I've never felt unwelcome in Oxford - the colleges and departments have brilliant support networks and everyone has been so kind and friendly irrespective of their cultures, beliefs, sexuality, social upbringing etc. Oxford is not just for the posh and rich - it's for everyone.”
— Abbie, Student
Listen to students discuss their experiences of settling in and finding their people at Oxford. Please note that the video includes both undergraduate and postgraduate student experiences. 

 Read the video transcript.

Students in the Radcliffe Science Library
“I suffer with my mental health, and sometimes that can affect my work and motivation. It’s really important to me that my university can offer me the support I need, and Oxford definitely does. The welfare team at my college is awesome.”
— Heather, Student

Finding your people

We know that everyone wants to feel at home. Oxford has a wide range of groups for those of different faiths, as well as cultural societies for those who may be currently less well-represented. This can be a great way to build a support system and spend time with people who share your interests, beliefs, heritage or background.

Students high-fiving. Copyright © University of Oxford / UAO

Help when you need it

Oxford takes the wellbeing of all of its students very seriously, but term time is full on and sometimes things might feel stressful or you might find yourself running out of steam. There are plenty of ways to find support. You can always talk to friends but there is also trained and professional support available, both from your college and the University.

Students playing Jenga. Copyright © University of Oxford / UAO

Oxford is for you

Everyone should feel welcomed, valued and respected at Oxford. Oxford students come from over 170 countries. Over a fifth of all our undergraduate students have declared a disability and more than a quarter of undergraduate students identify as black or minority ethnic.

Students laughing. Copyright © University of Oxford / UAO

Oxford SU

The University’s Student Union works hard to make sure that everyone feels that they have a voice. Read more about their current campaigns, and the support they can offer.

Students in a college JCR. Copyright © University of Oxford / UAO

Colleges

Your college provides a welcoming and safe environment from the moment you arrive. College staff and students from other year groups enjoy helping you settle in to their ready-made and close-knit community. Read more about Oxford's colleges and the support they can offer.

Students in an Oxford college quad. Copyright © University of Oxford / UAO

Your Oxford community is...

Students walking in an Oxford college

Your college

Oxford’s colleges give you the best of both worlds: a large, vibrant university and a small, supportive community. Each offers a welcoming home with its own distinct character.

Globes in the Duke Humphrey's Library

For the world

Oxford’s impact is felt around the world. Here, you’ll learn from people whose ideas and discoveries are shaping the future and changing lives.

Students walking in front of the Bridge of Sighs

Your city

Oxford is a compact and vibrant city, easy to explore on foot or by bike. Its strong sense of community and great connections make it a fantastic place to live and study.
 

Students on an outdoor bench

Choosing Oxford

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