Oxford Acceptance Rate

The University of Oxford, one of the most prestigious institutions globally, maintains a highly competitive admissions process for its undergraduate programs. For the most recent admission cycle (Class of 2028), Oxford's overall acceptance rate is estimated at around 17.5%, based on historical data and official statistics published by the university. This selectivity is influenced by a consistently large and diverse applicant pool, with over 23,000 applicants annually vying for limited spots. The university is transparent about its admissions data, regularly publishing detailed statistics on its official website, including breakdowns by course and applicant demographics, which helps prospective students understand their chances.

• Overall Acceptance Rate: 17.5% for the Class of 2028, with approximately 23,000 applicants and around 3,300 admitted students, consistent with prior years.
• Early Action/Decision Rate: Not applicable, as Oxford does not offer an early action or early decision program; all applications are submitted by a single deadline (typically mid-October) and assessed uniformly.
• International Student Rate: Approximately 15.0%, reflecting a slightly lower acceptance rate for international applicants due to additional entry requirements and intense competition, with over 40% of applicants coming from outside the UK.

Over the past decade, Oxford’s acceptance rate has remained relatively stable, hovering between 16% and 18%, despite a gradual increase in application numbers, particularly from international students. This stability reflects the university’s commitment to maintaining a rigorous selection process based on academic merit and potential, often assessed through interviews and admissions tests. Compared to peer institutions like the University of Cambridge (with a similar acceptance rate of around 18-20%) or Ivy League schools in the US (often below 10%), Oxford’s selectivity is notable but slightly less extreme. The lack of an early decision option means applicants face a single, highly competitive round, while international admissions have become increasingly competitive due to growing global interest. For the most accurate and up-to-date data, prospective students are encouraged to visit Oxford’s official admissions page at www.ox.ac.uk/admissions.