Guides for applying
Applying to university can be a daunting process whatever your background. We want to make sure that this is as easy as possible for everyone.
Who are we looking for?
We have a diverse group of people that make up our undergraduate student population here at St Hilda's and we are confident that anybody from any background can feel comfortable and at home here. There is no "typical" person we are looking for. Ultimately, we want students who are genuinely enthusiastic and engaged with their subject, have an excellent academic record, and who are ready for the academic challenge that St Hilda's and the University of Oxford offers.
Personal Statement
Your personal statement is your time to shine! Remember, we don't know anything about you and we want to know who you are, why you want to study a particular subject, and why you are passionate about it.
Admissions tests
The admissions tests are designed to stretch you and we want to see how you do. There are lots of past papers available on the University's website, so give them a go and see how you get on!
Interviews
Interviews are a mock tutorial; a chance for you to have a taste of what teaching would be like at St Hilda's. It is also an opportunity for you to meet the tutors and for them to meet you too and to see how you work. We know that you might be nervous, so don't worry! Remember, they're human too! They want you to do your best and they won't ask you any trick questions or try to catch you out.
For international students
Students applying from outside the UK are required to follow the same procedures as UK students. You do not have to come to Oxford or the UK to sit an admissions test as there are test centres all over the world. To find a suitable test centre, you can visit the assessment testing website where you can find a list of test centres. Please be aware that you may have to travel to visit the nearest test centre.
If you are invited to interview and you have applied from outside the EU, we will endeavour to hold an interview over the internet if you are unable to obtain a visa in time to travel. You do not need to download any particular type of software to do this, but you must make sure you have a webcam and a microphone available.
For disabled students
Whether you have disclosed your disability on UCAS or not, please let us know if there are any special arrangements or support that would help you, so that we can make any appropriate, reasonable arrangements for you in good time, if you are invited to interview. Mentioning your disability or Specific Learning Difficulty will not affect your application, as admissions decisions are made solely on the grounds of academic merit. Information provided may be shared with colleagues in the college (and University more widely) who would be involved with making any required arrangements.
For care leavers
At St Hilda's College, we are committed to supporting students from all backgrounds, including students with a background in care. We want you to receive the necessary help that you need in order to have a successful university experience. We can help provide you with accommodation support, financial support, and through the University you will be assigned a support coordinator who will be available to you throughout your time at the University of Oxford to discuss any academic, accommodation or financial concerns you may have. Your support coordinator will also act as a link between you and your Local Authority.
For teachers
Choosing where to go to university can be a life-changing decision and whilst this is exciting it can also be daunting. We hugely value the supporting role that teachers and careers advisors can play in encouraging students to consider their options and make informed decisions. If you are a teacher and have questions about how to support your students, you can email the Undergraduate Admissions Manager who will be happy to help. There is also extensive guide for teachers on the University's website.
For families
It is hard to know how to support someone applying to university and give them the best advice. We hope that exploring the St Hilda's website will give you an insight into student life at the college and explain how to apply. We also want you to know that students are in safe hands at St Hilda's College and we take their wellbeing seriously. You may also find the University's fees and funding page and the guide for families helpful.
Please note, due to GDPR regulations, we will not be able to discuss information specific to an applicant or offer-holder with anyone other than the applicant. This includes parents, guardians, and teachers.
