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Doing what you love

One of the many myths about Oxford is that there is no time to have fun. Alongside your college community you will be able to develop your interests, old or new, through over 400 clubs and societies, many of them University-wide.

Taking part in extra-curricular activities is not only lots of fun and great for your social life but will help you build skills which will stand you in good stead for the rest of your life and help with your career goals.

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Many students use the amazing opportunities at Oxford to foster their interests outside of their academic studies - for instance, did you know that Star Wars actors Felicity Jones and Riz Ahmed developed their acting skills in student productions while they were studying here?

Several students have used the University's excellent sporting facilities to help them on their way to becoming Olympians and Paralympians. Other students have focused on politics, journalism, or literature. Many sports and other activities are heavily subsidised so it's the perfect time to try something new - the choice really is yours!

Whether you want to aim for the stratosphere, or are just looking for a hobby, you will have lots of opportunities for meeting like-minded people as soon as you arrive.

You can become involved in any one of the over 400 clubs and societies that interests you whatever your experience or background. If you still think something is missing, you are welcome to set up your own, either through your college or University-wide.

Freshers' Fair

The Oxford University Students' Union (Oxford SU) Freshers’ Fair, held at the start of your first term in October, will ensure you know the extent of your options. 

Student at a Freshers' Fair. Copyright © OUImages / Oxford Atelier
Students smiling while working in a St Hugh's College study space
“Oxford is full of possibilities, allowing you to develop your academic work alongside pretty much anything else you could possibly be interested in. It can promise more than beautiful buildings and Quidditch, so it's really about realising the University’s potential as much as your own. Oxford is well and truly what you make it…”
— Jessica, student

Pursue your interests, old and new

Student performance of The Tempest

Stage and screen

Whether you are drawn to film or theatre, the vibrant drama scene at Oxford offers amazing opportunities for aspiring actors, writers, producers, directors and technicians.

Students recording a podcast

Journalism

Oxford's student newspapers and radio stations have long been the training ground for some of Britain’s most successful journalists and broadcasters.

Student playing a piano

Music

From classical to jazz, through indie, rock, drum 'n' bass, grime, folk and electric, all the styles of music you could dream of (and then some) are represented at Oxford.

Student rockclimbing

Sport

You will have the chance to play sport for fun, play for your college or compete for the University. Or maybe you just want to keep active? Multiple college and University facilities and Oxford’s beautiful green spaces make this easy.

Pre-Raphaelites Gallery in the Ashmolean Museum

Art

Whether you are a casual doodler, an aspiring artist, or you’d just like to meet other art lovers, there are plenty of opportunities in Oxford to experience and create art.

Students working together

Volunteering and activism

Oxford students have plenty of opportunities to engage in volunteering, fundraising and activism within the University and beyond.

Students in the Museum of Natural History

Your voice matters

At Oxford, students are able to play an active role in shaping their experience. There are lots of ways for you to share your views, raise issues, help bring about change and influence decision-making at your university.

Read more about how students influence change at Oxford

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Access Oxford

Deciding whether to go to university - and where - is a big step. Our free in-person and online events give you the knowledge, confidence and support you need to make the choice that’s right for you.

Students sat on a bench in an Oxford college

Wellbeing and community

Everyone wants to feel that they belong and can be themselves, and Oxford takes the wellbeing of all its students very seriously. 

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Applying

Considering an application to Oxford can feel like a big step but the only things that Oxford students really have in common are academic ability and intellectual curiosity. Our students come from all over the world and this helps make our University one of the most exciting learning environments anywhere.

Students walking in an Oxford college

College life

These small and friendly academic communities make Oxford the special place it is. Our colleges and halls provide a safe, supportive environment, leaving you to focus on your studies, enjoy time with friends and make the most of all the opportunities.