Thousands visit Oxford University for Open Days

Thousands of prospective applicants and their families visited Oxford on 26 and 27 June as the University’s undergraduate colleges and departments opened their doors.

The Open Days are held each year to allow those interested in applying to the University to visit Oxford and learn more about the undergraduate courses, the colleges and the University in general.

All undergraduate colleges and departments held events, along with the University's museums, libraries and other facilities. Many hosted drop-in sessions and tours for prospective students and parents, giving visitors the chance to talk to tutors and current students.

Mike Nicholson, Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Oxford, said: 'Open days are a valuable opportunity to dispel the many myths and preconceptions which surround Oxford. The University wants to attract high quality candidates from any and every background, and the open days help us achieve this aim.

'We know that open days are a key factor in a student's choice of university so we work very hard to show students, parents and teachers all that the University and city of Oxford have to offer.'

Helen Charlesworth, Head of Enquiries and Marketing at Oxford University, said: 'People often ask, "where is Oxford University?", as though it is one place or one campus. The great thing about open days is we get to show people how the University is spread right across the city, as we open the doors to our colleges and departments.

'The collegiate system is a wonderful aspect of Oxford, where every student is part of a smaller college community while also a member of their department and the central University.

'We really look forward to welcoming visitors to open days and letting them see how being part of a friendly, welcoming college community enhances the university experience. It’s also a wonderful chance for people who live here to show off their city and University. We hope that everyone enjoys the days.'

Last year more than 14,000 visitors attended the events in June.

In anticipation of the events, Oxford University has been working closely with the county and city councils, transport providers and traders to ensure the days run smoothly and that local businesses are poised to take advantage of the extra trading opportunities generated by the surge in visitors.

A further Open Day will be held on 20 September.