Oxford University
with OSS
As one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities, Oxford attracts students with its tradition of academic excellence, curiosity, and intellectual rigour. OSS programmes give students the opportunity to experience Oxford first-hand and step into the life of a true scholar.

Overview
The University of Oxford, founded in 11th Century England, is the English-speaking world's oldest university. It is located in the city of Oxford and is comprised of 39 colleges and 4 private halls.
Oxford University is a global leader in education. With a rich history spanning over 900 years, it has been home to many famous figures in British history, including 31 UK Prime Ministers. It has also proved fertile soil for many groundbreaking discoveries and scientific achievements – from penicillin to the pioneering work on the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.
As a hub of innovation and intellectual excellence, Oxford continues to inspire future generations of scholars and thinkers across all disciplines.*
*Please note that while we draw inspiration from the esteemed traditions of Oxford, we operate independently and are not formally affiliated with Oxford University or any other university facilities.
Colleges We're Working With
Where You'll Study & Stay
We work with a select group of colleges at Oxford and Cambridge that have been chosen for their academic environment, facilities and welcoming atmosphere for international students.

Founded in 1879, Somerville College is one of the University of Oxford's most historically significant colleges, having been established as one of the first to admit women. It has a long-standing tradition of intellectual courage and progressive thinking, shaping generations of leaders, scientists and public figures. Notable alumnae include Margaret Thatcher and Indira Gandhi. Located on Woodstock Road and boasting spacious gardens, Somerville offers the welcoming atmosphere of a campus alongside the full academic rigour of Oxford.


Somerville has one of the largest on-site accommodation provisions in Oxford, with students based within the college's grounds throughout the programme.
Here at Somerville, great food that’s not only delicious but also sustainable and affordable is the order of the day. The wonderful kitchen staff serves three meals a day during the week and two more on weekends (brunch and dinner). A wide range of vegetarian and vegan options are available with every meal, and source food locally and sustainably wherever possible.


Founded in 1326 by King Edward II, Oriel is one of Oxford's oldest colleges and the fifth-oldest in the university. Its magnificent Front Quad, completed in the 17th century, is one of the finest examples of English Baroque collegiate architecture. Situated just off the High Street and a short distance from Christ Church Meadow, Oriel provides students with a study environment steeped in centuries of history.


Students are housed within Oriel's historic college buildings, offering an authentic Oxford experience in one of the university's most architecturally remarkable settings.
Oriel's dining hall is one of the most impressive in Oxford. It is a high-vaulted room adorned with portraits and dark wood panelling. Meals are served daily and options are available for those with different dietary requirements.


Founded in 1929, St Peter's is one of Oxford's most welcoming and characterful colleges, situated in the heart of the city on New Inn Hall Street. Although it is a relatively young college by Oxford standards, it boasts a vibrant academic culture and a strong sense of community. The college comprises buildings dating back several centuries, including a beautiful chapel with a thriving choral tradition. It is also within five minutes' walk of Oxford's main libraries and the Bodleian Library.


Students are accommodated within the college's central site, placing them at the heart of Oxford from the very first day of the programme.
Experienced chefs prepare affordable, healthy and fresh meals daily, and the Dining Hall provides walk-in breakfast, lunch and informal dinners. The Catering team can cater for many different dietary requirements. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are always available.

Our Programmes in Oxford
Designed to cater to a wide range of interests and ambitions, Oxbridge Summer Scholars programmes enable students to make the most of their immersive experience in Oxford. Explore the programme dates and begin your Oxford journey with OSS.
Teaching style
The universities of Oxford and Cambridge are renowned for their distinctive teaching methods, designed to foster independent thinking and critical analysis. OSS offers students the unique opportunity to experience these world-class teaching approaches firsthand.



Lectures (40-60 Students)
Universities typically offer lectures, in which tutors convey both factual and interpretative material economically to a large audience. OSS keynote lectures are interdisciplinary and feature leading experts presenting cutting-edge research that Introduces students to new approaches and ideas that may challenge conventional thinking.
Seminars (10-20 Students)
The most common form of interactive teaching in UK universities is the seminar, in which an expert tutor guides a group of students in discussion, based on reading and material delivered in lectures.
At OSS, seminars are attended by all the students enrolled in a specific stream, typically around 10-12 students per stream. Seminar discussion is encouraged by pre-reading set by the tutors and by lecture introductions to each class.
Tutorials (2-8 Students)
Oxbridge is renowned for its tutorial system. Small groups of students engage in in-depth discussions with tutors, exploring specific topics and research questions. This interactive approach is replicated in the OSS programme, with tutorial classes limited to six students for focused debate and analysis.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
The Oxbridge Summer Scholars programme offers an experience that extends far beyond the classroom. Throughout the programme, students combine academic study with cultural exploration and the opportunity to experience university traditions and supervised social activities, creating a memorable and well-rounded educational experience.




Oxford Graduated Tutors
Experience the unique perspective of Oxford graduates and DPhil candidates. Our tutors offer a firsthand understanding of the university's academic culture and teaching methods.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I choose to do my programme specifically in Oxford?
Not exactly. Each OSS programme runs in pre-set locations and dates. If you want to experience Oxford specifically, you need to enrol in the programme that is scheduled in Oxford. Students cannot independently move their session to Oxford; location depends on the pre-arranged schedule.
Is OSS formally affiliated with Oxford University?
No. OSS is independent and not formally connected to Oxford University. The programme is privately run, even though it takes place within Oxford college premises and uses Oxbridge-style teaching.
What’s included besides academic sessions?
In addition to lectures, seminars, and tutorials, the experience includes accommodation in Oxford college halls, full-board meals, cultural excursions (such as visits to the Bodleian Library, Museums, and Christ Church), and social activities designed to give students a full sense of university life.
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