Your Oxford
One of the best things about going to university is the social life, and Oxford is no exception.
Alongside your ready-made college community, you can pick and choose from over 400 clubs and societies to create your own amazing Oxford experience. Extracurricular activities are not only lots of fun and great for your social life; they build your skills too - complementing your academic and career opportunities
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“Most people have so many interests that go way beyond their degree. The wide range of societies that exist and activities that you can get involved in is testament to this”
Oxford is... enjoying what you love
While studying is a major part of life at Oxford, there is still plenty of time to have a laugh, relax and develop both old and new interests. The Oxford Student Union's Freshers' Fair at the start of your first term will ensure you know the extent of your options. You can become involved in any club or society that interests you, whatever your experience or background. If you think something's missing, you are welcome to set up your own.
Oxford is a small and compact city, easily explored on foot or by bike or bus. It is also known as a safe city: the Complete University Guide ranks Oxford in its top ten safest student cities.
There are plenty of beautiful green spaces to enjoy as well as riverside walks, and it's easy to get out into the countryside too.
Entertainment-wise, Oxford offers everything from student club nights to stand-up comedy. The city has regular classical concerts, plays and musicals, several cinemas and many live music venues.
Stage and screen
Oxford’s vibrant drama scene covers both stage and screen, and offers amazing opportunities to actors, writers, producers, directors, designers and technicians.
Music
The musical world of Oxford is broad and diverse. From classical to jazz, through to indie, rock, grime, folk, dance and far beyond - any genre of music you love can be found.
Sport
With over 80 sports clubs and some of the best sporting facilities of any UK university, you will have the chance to play for fun, play for your college, compete for the University or just keep active.
Journalism
Many renowned journalists and broadcasters began their careers at Oxford. Even if you don’t want to make journalism a career, you can develop your skills and get your voice heard by creating content for one of Oxford’s varied and dynamic student media.
Campaigning
If you’re keen to spend your free time driving change and speaking up for what you believe in, you can work with one of Oxford Student Union’s many established campaigns, or set up your own.
Volunteering
Do something completely different and have a positive impact on your local community by getting involved in the wider city of Oxford through the Oxford Hub.
Learn a language
Start from scratch or carry on learning a language at our Language Centre to support your studies, career or travel plans. You can also improve your academic English both before you arrive, and while on your course.
How will you spend your time when you're not studying?
Everyone wants to feel that they belong and can be themselves, and Oxford takes the wellbeing of all its students very seriously. All our undergraduates belong to a college which means that you will have your own close-knit community from day one. You will also have lots of opportunities to join groups, societies and campaigns that celebrate the diversity of our community as well as promote change.
Choosing Oxford
Receive step-by-step guidance, key dates and practical advice along with a closer look at student life at Oxford - all straight to your inbox.
Come to an Open Day
Our 2026 undergraduate Open Days will be held on 1 and 2 July and 18 September.
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