Student City Guide: Oxford 2025

Are you an international student planning to study at Oxford? If yes, you’re in for amusement! From student accommodation in Oxford to the city’s best places to eat, shop and have fun – our Oxford city guide covers it all. Our Oxford city guide will cover the most outstanding institutions, the best places to eat, the most popular tourist destinations, student housing near Oxford, and tidbits about student life. So, without further ado, let's get started with our Oxford Guide 2024!

Oxford City Guide: Why Study in Oxford?

Oxford, a historic city, is renowned for its prestigious university and rich cultural heritage. In this Oxford City guide, immerse yourself in a world-class academic environment surrounded by centuries of intellectual history.

Top Universities of Oxford

It would be hard to list all of Oxford's prestigious universities in our Oxford City guide for students because there are so many. As a result, Oxford's top and well-known universities will be included in our Oxford Guide 2024.

1. Lincoln College

Lincoln is one of Oxford's smallest colleges but comes on top in our Oxford guide, with roughly 300 undergraduates. Lincoln College is located in the city centre, near the University libraries and departments, and provides outstanding facilities and housing for its graduate students.

2. Oxford Smith Form College

Oxford Sixth Form College was put in place in 1988 and is located in the centre of Oxford. It serves students looking for a high-quality alternative to traditional GCSE and Sixth Form education.

3. University of Oxford

The University of Oxford is the oldest in the English-speaking world and the best one added to our Oxford guide. It is so old that no one knows when it was founded, though it is thought that teaching began there as early as the 11th century.

4. City of Oxford College

Oxford, England's City of Oxford College, is a further education college. It used to be known as Oxford & Cherwell Valley College (OCVC), but when the Oxford & Cherwell Valley College Group was reorganised in 2013, it changed its name to Activate Learning.

5. Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes University has a rich history dating back over 150 years. They began as a modest School of Art in rented classrooms and have since developed into one of the UK's top modern institutions, with a reputation for teaching and research excellence on a local, national, and worldwide level.

Top Degrees/Courses to Study in Oxford

Explore cutting-edge programs in fields such as Law, Medicine, Computer Science, and Literature. Oxford offers a diverse range of courses, ensuring you receive a top-notch education in your chosen discipline, which you can find below in our Oxford guide. 

Eligibility and  Requirements to Study in Oxford

To join the ranks of Oxford scholars, meet the university's academic standards. Strong academic records, relevant qualifications, and a passion for your subject are key. Specific entry requirements vary by course, so be sure to check the details for your chosen program.

Scholarships for Oxford Universities

Unlock financial opportunities through Oxford's scholarships. The university provides various scholarships based on merit, need, and specific criteria. Investigate these options to support your academic journey in this esteemed city.

Oxford City Guide: Oxford Student Accommodation

For newcomers navigating student life in Oxford, understanding the housing landscape is crucial. Explore diverse options, from on-campus rooms, ideal for convenience, to studio-style student halls for added comfort. En-suite options offer privacy with enhanced security, while shared accommodations promote cost-sharing and social connections. Don't overlook PBSA, Purpose Built Student Accommodation, which provides affordable options with student-friendly amenities across Oxford. Find your ideal student residence in this vibrant city.

Top Student Accommodations in Oxford

1. Cambridge Terrace

Living at Cambridge Terrace puts you close to the city's dreaming spires so we are putting it on the top in our Oxford city guide. You won't have to worry about the dreadful morning commute because you're just a 10-minute walk from Oxford Business School and a 20-minute walk from The University of Oxford!

2. Student Castle Oxford

Student Castle Oxford is a purpose-built student accommodation on Osney Lane, adjacent to all Oxford University institutions and less than a 10-minute walk from Oxford.

3. West Way Square

On Horspath Driftway, West Way Square, is an attractive and affordable Oxford student apartment. Slade Park is one of Oxford's most exclusive student residences. There is also a continuous bus service between Slade Park and Oxford Brookes University. The facility offers self-contained studios and fully furnished cluster apartments.  

Now that we've seen what housing alternatives are available in your future location let's explore what this wonderful city offers in our Oxford travel guide.

Oxford City Guide: Career in Oxford for Students

In our Oxford city guide, you may have already gotten the idea that Oxford City isn't as costly as its neighbouring cities. But living away from home can come hefty if your expenses aren't managed well. In this Oxford student guide, we have listed the best side hustles to make extra money that you can easily find around the city. 

Oxford City and all other parts of the UK have ample opportunities for both part-time and full-time career opportunities.

Part-time jobs in Oxford

From serving coffee as a barista to assisting in libraries or working as a research assistant, there's a diverse range of roles to suit your skills and schedule.

1. Part-time tutoring

2. Become a web writer

3. University application mentor

4. Student Ambassador

5. Library Assistant

6. Event Staff

7. Social Media Coordinator

8. Research Assistant

9. Data Entry Clerk

10. Barista

Full-time jobs in Oxford

For those seeking a more immersive work experience, dive into full-time positions in Oxford

1. Junior Analyst

2. Lab Technician

3. Customer Service Representative

4. Marketing Assistant

5. Sales Associate

6. Content Writer

7. Junior Graphic Designer

8. Assistant Manager (Retail/Restaurant)

9. Junior Software Developer

10. Project Coordinator

Oxford City Guide: Living in Oxford

Oxford city is a lovely place with a lot of history and architectural beauty and is one of the UK's oldest educational institutions. If you're thinking about relocating to Oxford, the expenses mentioned below in our Oxford city guide will help you make an informed choice about the costs of moving and living there.

What is the Cost of Living in Oxford? 

Wondering about the living expenses in Oxford? While prices may differ based on the area, the figures below provide a glimpse of what's out there. Oxford's well-connected cityscape adds to the charm of living here. In our Oxford City Guide, discover top student accommodations tailored to students' budgets. We urge students to choose housing wisely to align with their financial plans. For more detailed information, check out the Cost of Living in Oxford: Your Ultimate Guide.

Travelling in Oxford

Travelling is a breeze in Oxford thanks to the interconnected and well-connected transportation throughout the city! We have listed the best modes of transportation in this Oxford travel guide.  

1. Bus

There are connecting bus services between Oxford City Centre and most other parts of the city - including the University campus. Several different companies operate buses - the two largest companies are Arriva and First Oxford. 

2. Cycling

Cycling is fun, cheap, good for you, and good for the environment, and one of the best means of travel listed in this Oxford travel guide. In the UK, you cycle on the left side of the road, and cyclists cannot use footpaths unless there is a marked cycle lane. The university campus has 300 spaces, a secure cycle park and shower facilities, and tools to help you keep your bike safe. 

3. Taxis

Oxford City Council issues licences for taxi operators and carries out inspections to ensure that standards are maintained. Taxis must display their licence details - you can usually see these next to the registration plate at the rear of the vehicle and usually inside the car above the front passenger seat.

Top Restaurants Oxford

You don't need to break the bank to enjoy the finest dining experiences in Oxford. The city offers a diverse range of cuisines and restaurant types to cater to all budgets. Oxford has made significant strides in culinary excellence, showcasing a remarkable variety of high-quality food. Whether you're seeking hidden gems in narrow lanes or exquisite cottages featuring the culinary creations of chefs like Raymond Blac, there's a plethora of options waiting to be explored; check out the 15 best restaurants in Oxford! 

Top Tourist Hotspots in the City

Oxford city is one of Europe's oldest and most renowned university cities, and it has long competed with Cambridge for intellectual supremacy in England. Some of the top tourist attractions in Oxford are 

1. Oxford’s City Centre

2. University Church of St. Mary the Virgin

3. Christ Church Cathedral

4. Christ Church College

5. Sheldonian Theatre

In this era of digitalisation, every facility is present in your palm. Students visiting Oxford City are advised to download ‘must-have apps’ such as the Official Oxford Gateshead City Guide for complete city information and the Q Tap app that allows you to book and pay for beverages in advance.

Oxford is a captivating city blending rich history, iconic universities, and charming architecture. From historic colleges to riverside punting, every corner tells a story. With its timeless beauty and academic prestige, Oxford is a must-visit destination, offering a unique blend of tradition and modern allure. Explore the enchanting streets for a journey into British heritage and intellectual brilliance.