oxford physics phd requirements

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General Information

Welcome to the pages for postgraduate students at oxford physics, current students.

Information for current students can be found in the sections below. Please note that although most of the information is applicable to members of all sub-departments, there are some instances when the information may be specific to a particular sub-department.

Graduate Liaison Committee

The purpose of the Graduate Liaison Committee (GLC) is to discuss issues that may concern graduate students in the department such as the quality of graduate courses, availability of skills training, accessibility to library and IT services, and general student welfare. The Committee is chaired by the Chairman of Graduate Studies and the department is represented at MPLS divisional meetings by the Physics Departmental Representative. Furthermore, each sub-department has their own representative(s) who ensure the representation of their students' interests and dissemination of important information.

Current members can be found here .

Training and Courses

Transferable skills are an important part of your graduate studies. This section contains links to a number of courses that you may, in agreement with your supervisor, find relevant for your research and career.

Researcher Training Tool

The RTT (formerly the Graduate Academic Programme or GAP) is where you will find listings for many of the lectures and courses held by the department. It also holds information on courses held across the MPLS division which are open to Physics students. To access the RTT (requires you to use your Oxford SSO) please click here .

Teaching and Demonstrating Training

Postgraduate students play an integral role in the demonstrating and teaching of undergraduate courses. The department holds a two day teaching training course at the start of Michaelmas term which is mandatory for all incoming second year graduate students or post-docs interested in teaching or demonstrating. Please keep an eye on your email in September if you are interested in this course.

MPLS Training

The MPLS site provides information about skills training taking place within the MPLS Division, and allows you to register for Divisional training courses, learn more about the skills framework, sign up to the Division's Facebook page, and get news updates on available skills training.

Oxford University's IT Learning Programme (ITLP) includes over 200 classroom-based and over 1000 online courses to help you in your studies, research, administration and future career.

Welfare and Support

Within the Department, your supervisor, Director of Graduate Studies and Academic Administrator are all available to offer support. The Physics Graduate Liaison Committee provides a channel through which graduate students’ views and concerns can be brought to the attention of the Departmental Graduate Committee. The Department also has harassment advisers who can be found here . There is more information available on the University's equality page.

OUSU’s Student Advice Service also provides a confidential and impartial listening and advice service, and the University has a professionally staffed confidential Student Counselling Service for assistance with personal, emotional, social and academic problems.

There is an extensive framework of support for graduates within each college. Your college will allocate to you a College Advisor from among its Senior Members, usually in a cognate subject, who will arrange to see you from time to time and whom you may contact for additional advice and support on academic and other matters. In college you may also approach the Tutor for Graduates and/or the Senior Tutor for advice. The Tutor for Graduates is a fellow of the college with particular responsibility for the interests and welfare of graduate students. In some colleges, the Senior Tutor will also have the role of Tutor for Graduates. Each college will also have other named individuals who can offer individual advice.

Social and Networking

There are several opportunities available for networking both within the department and across the wider University. There are seminars and colloquia held regularly in term time throughout the Physics department, and many of these are open to all members of the Department. For details on upcoming seminars, keep an eye on your email or check the RTT on Weblearn.

The Department has an active Oxford Women in Physics Society , who aim to promote career development of women in physics while providing a welcoming support network. They hold regular networking and social events and can be found on Twitter and Facebook as well as around the Department.

Designing a Successful DPhil Workshop

A number of graduate students organised a workshop for graduate students this term on "Designing a Successful DPhil". The slides from this workshop contain a lot of useful information and resources for DPhil students, and can be found here .

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What does it take to get into an Oxford PhD?

First, to get into an Oxford PhD (DPhil) you are at least expected to have (a) 1st Class or Summa Cum Laude master’s or bachelor’s degree. Second, you need a unique and convincing (b) research proposal as well as a (c) personal statement. Finally, you need to get a (d) prospective DPhil supervisor’s support for your application.

Table of Contents

Furthermore, securing external funding prior to your DPhil application may support your application among other things that increase your chances to get a funded PhD in the UK.

Why does Oxford call PhD a DPhil?

The Difference between DPhil and a regular UK PhD is the introduction of Probationer Research Student (PRS) status for DPhil students. A probationary research student needs to prove her ability to pursue independent research.

Universities like LSE and Imperial College both require you to complete a research master’s before embarking on a PhD journey. So besides the Probationer Research Student (PRS) designation, the idea is not unique to Oxford.

Overall, Oxford uses this phase of Probationer Research Student (PRS) to ensure your potential to complete the DPhil program.

100 years ago the Oxford philosophy tutor at St John’s, Sidney Ball, suggested a Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil). Its still the same thing which German researchers named as PhD. 100 years of the DPhil

Besides DPhil, Oxford also offered various doctoral training programs (1 yr research master + 3 years of independent research thesis project) in collaboration with other universities & industry partners.

What is required to be a PhD student at Oxford?

If you are seeking country-specific DPhil requirements to accurately measure your grades you can look at the types of qualifications and grades from countries outside the UK .

If you need further details on international equivalences you can read my post on what are the requirements for PhD in the UK .

DPhil just after a 4-year Bachelor’s degree

Yes, if you are an outstanding student both in your grades and accomplishments e.g., research experience you got a good shot at getting into the Oxford DPhil, even without a master’s degree.

Research Proposal and Personal Statement

The most important part of your DPhil, and of course PhD, the application is a research proposal and your personal statement.

A good research proposal is highlighted by most PhD supervisors (70%) in the UK and many also indicated the importance of the overall quality of your application.

Moreover, the alignment with supervisors’ own research (60%) and the applicant’s ability to contribute to the field (60%) was highly mentioned by the UK PhD supervisors in a recent UK research & supervision survey .

“Originality for me probably, it has to be something that hasn’t been fully done before so there is really a need for that particular topic”. Arts & Humanities, Russell Group, West Midlands, Late career

Publications

Why publications are needed? They are the only thing that proves your familiarity with the process of conducting and publishing peer-reviewed research. Sometimes the conference papers also help in demonstrating your understanding of the research process.

If you have publications in a respected journal and your research proposal question for the DPhil aligns with your previous published work then you really are in a sweet spot.

However, if you do not have publications then you need to put forward other proofs demonstrating your ability to complete independent projects and overcome challenges.

Pre-DPhil Research Experience

However to summarize it here any experience in or outside academia that aligns with your intended research topic and the prospective research supervisor can strengthen your application.

Graduate Tests

This may be due to the fact that GRE tests you on specific criteria and many research areas may emphasize more their subject-related knowledge.

Language Tests

Oxford DPhil usually requires an overall 7.5 on IELTS and 110 on TOEFL. You can check your program specifications from the course-specific page on Oxford’s website.

How smart do I need to be to be accepted as a PhD student to Oxford or Cambridge?

How competitive is oxford phd.

The competition gets brutal when the acceptance rate drops to around 12.7 % when it comes to the doctoral training center for mathematical, physical, and life science and 8% when we look at the doctoral training center for medical sciences.

Is it hard to get into a PhD at Oxford?

Oxford DPhil admission looks brutal when we see the high number of applications i.e., 10,890 in 2020-21 entry, and such low numbers of acceptances e.g., 1780 for the respective year.

Oxford’s Master’s or DPhil

The Probationer Research Student (PRS) comes in handy when it comes to assessing the potential for success of a DPhil student.

Is it worth doing a PhD at Oxford?

Yes, its totally worth it. Any body will encourage you to pursue a PhD at such institution.

Plus, a more prudent move for a PhD applicant is to consider the personality match as well as the research group match for better PhD experience and growth.

Oxford prestige works more if you get further away from it. It’s simple at Oxford everyone is like you and if you move to another country where people consider Oxford as a high-prestige institution they will appreciate your exposure to this world-class institution more.

How long does a PhD at Oxford take?

A DPhil is typically designed to complete in 4-years. DPhil is designed to first embark you as Probationer Research Student (PRS) where you complete (i) taught courses and (ii) draft your research proposal for the DPhil.

It is possible to complete a PhD (DPhil) at Oxford in less than 3 years

To complete the DPhil fast you need to be extremely laser-focused on what you are trying to accomplish in your thesis and have a little bit of luck too.

Can one obtain a joint DPhil at Oxford – a doctorate from two different departments?

This means they are mentored by two professors with different areas of research. Interdisciplinary research is appreciated when you look for jobs post-DPhil.

How much does Oxford Pay you as a PhD stipend?

However, the situation may vary due to different types of grants. You may get paid more if your research project is financed by an industry employer who is willing to pay more.

FAQS: What does it take to get into an Oxford PhD?

Can i get an oxford phd, what is the difference between a phd an a dphil.

A PhD and A DPhil are the same things. There is no difference in the research thesis or viva process. However, a DPhil at Oxford requires you to complete a set of courses and develop a research proposal during Probationer Research Student (PRS) status. If you complete the requirements you are promoted and you can work on your DPhil thesis.

How do I get into Oxford University to do a DPhil degree?

Is it difficult to get into oxford for phd, what is the average gpa to get into oxford dphil.

GPA or your previous grade is only one element, among many, when it comes to your DPhil application. Still, a minimum GPA of 3.7 out of 4.0 is written in the entry requirement for many DPhil program pages on the Oxford website.

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The Best Oxford Colleges for Physics in 2024

Choosing the right university course is not easy, but if already decided to go with Physics and Oxford, we are here to help with our guide. Oxford University is world-renowned for its physics courses, consistently ranking among the top universities globally for physics education and research. If you are applying to Oxford this year, you will need to choose the right college . With over 20 colleges to choose from, deciding what is the best Oxford College for Physics could be challenging. 

In this guide, we break down the best Oxford colleges for physics, looking at factors like tutoring, facilities, acceptance rates and more. 

Why Study Physics at Oxford?

So, first of all, let’s see why you need to study Physics at Oxford University .

There are many reasons why Oxford remains a top destination for aspiring physicists. Firstly, Oxford Physics has extremely strong research programmes. For 2024 The Complete University Guide ranked Oxford Physics in 2nd place in the UK, just behind Cambridge . This means students get exposure to pioneering discoveries and innovative projects.

Secondly, Oxford physics students benefit from world-leading facilities like the Beecroft Building which houses extensive physics labs. The brand-new Stephen Hawking Building also provides amazing learning spaces and experiences in physics. 

Oxford colleges use a tutoring system, where students receive personalised guidance from expert tutors. This close academic support allows students to thrive and achieve their potential in physics. Working and learning in smaller groups has huge benefits when it comes to physics, maths and chemistry. 

What Are The Best Oxford Colleges for Physics?

Now let’s explore the top Oxford colleges for Physics, considering factors like tutor expertise, research output, facilities, Norrington table and more. 

Balliol College

Balliol is consistently one of the most popular choices for prospective physicists. One of the best Oxford Colleges for Physics. It offers outstanding tutoring and research opportunities. 

In the 2021 REF results, Balliol had the highest output of 4* physics research among all Oxford colleges. Joining an active research culture allows students to develop their skills and ambitions as researchers. 

Balliol’s admission statistics also prove its popularity, with over 80 applications per place making acceptance highly competitive at just 10% in 2022. If you decide to go with Balliol, make sure to have the best A-Level grades, Oxbridge personal statement , and good PAT score and to be brilliant at Interview.

University College 

Founded in 1249, University College is Oxford’s oldest college and has exceptional physics alumni including mathematician Sir James Jeans and pioneer of quantum theory Max Born.

As one of the best Oxford Colleges for Physics , two Professors of Theoretical Physics currently tutor at Univ, exposing students to specialist knowledge.

In 2021, Univ accepted just over 11% of physics applicants, though numbers fluctuate each year.

University College also provides newly renovated physics facilities like the Rees Centre laboratory which aids practical learning. The Junior Common Room creates a welcoming community.

Trinity College 

​​Trinity College offers an excellent environment for motivated students to pursue undergraduate studies in physics. The college has a long tradition of excellence in physics education and research. As one of the best Oxford Colleges for Physics students benefit from the personalised tutorial system, close contact with Fellow tutors, and access to world-class facilities.

For the first three years at Trinity, physics teaching is provided mainly by college tutors through a combination of small group tutorials and problem classes. This complements the broader lecture courses organised by the University of Oxford. First-year students can expect to devote equal time to physics and mathematics. Tutors typically provide one tutorial and one problem class per week, allowing for high contact hours and individualised attention.

In the fourth year, most teaching shifts to specialised courses run by the physics department and an intensive research project. 

However, Trinity tutors continue to provide academic supervision and support throughout the final year. The college also sets practice exams early in each term to help students consolidate their knowledge and prepare for university examinations.

With its long track record of successful graduates, Trinity has a highly competitive physics admissions process. Prospective students are assessed for excellent mathematical skills and scientifically curious minds. The college provides the resources and environment for motivated students to thrive in physics, supported each step of the way by expert tutors.

Magdalen College

Magdalene is gaining increasing recognition for physics, with famous physicist Brian Josephson among its notable alumni. 

It has seen major investments in physics resources like the state-of-the-art Brackenbury building with modern labs and computing equipment. Students also arrange subsidised trips to facilities like CERN.

Magdalene’s tutors have strong research backgrounds, from astrophysics to quantum computing.

In 2022 it accepted just 9% of applicants showing its competitiveness .

The small yearly intake creates close-knit learning, and Magdalene’s riverside location provides a picturesque study setting.

St Edmund Hall 

‘Teddy Hall’ has an excellent reputation among aspiring physicists with around 70 applications annually, it’s considered of the Best Colleges for Physics at Oxford. Two specialist Physics tutors teach students.

The college excels in practical learning, using labs in the Denis Sciama Building. Hall has its physics library for easy access to key texts. It also accepts a higher proportion of Physics applicants compared to other colleges – 17% in 2022.

Small class sizes in a supportive college environment give students excellent access to academics. Hall attracts physicists fascinated by exploring the universe and its theoretical dimensions.

The Queen’s College

Queen’s has an outstanding academic heritage in science and maths and is home to the University’s long-running Theoretical Physics research group.

Tutors with specialisms like astrophysics, quantum optics and physics education research teach students. In 2021, Queens had the 3rd highest research output score for physics in Oxford, demonstrating its strengths. That puts Queen’s on the table of best Oxford colleges for Physics for the last few years.

The newly renovated George Clerk Physics building provides modern labs and study rooms. Queen’s intimate academic community and riverside location make it a distinctive choice.

Recommended for reading:

• Norrington Table, Oxford Colleges Ranking
• How To Make A Successful Oxbridge Application
• The Best Oxford Colleges
• Applying to Russell Group Universities
• How to Apply to Oxford University
• Choosing Oxbridge College
• The Best Oxford Colleges for Engineering
• Oxford Colleges Pros and Cons

Entry Requirements for Physics at Oxford

To study undergraduate Physics at the University of Oxford, you will need excellent grades as well as a passion for the subject. Physics is a highly competitive course, and only the best students will have a chance to be considered for an interview at Oxford . 

Typical entry requirements for Physics at Oxford:

• A-Levels: A*AA (with an A* in Physics, Maths , Maths Mechanics modules or Further Maths ). 
• IB: 38-40 points total, with 6 or 7 points in Physics and Maths at Higher Level. 
• Other qualifications like BTECs may also be accepted when combined with A levels. 

It’s also vital to have strong performances in admissions tests like the PAT to demonstrate aptitude for physics. Oxbridge admissions are highly competitive, so focus on getting the best possible grades and exam results.

Oxford Physics Acceptance Rate 

In 2022, the acceptance rate for physics across Oxford colleges was around 12% . This means less than 1 in 8 applicants gain a place. Learn more about Oxford acceptance rate . 

For the top Oxford colleges for physics like Balliol and Magdalene, acceptance rates can be under 10%. The lowest acceptance rate for Physics was Trinity at just 6.8%. 

This highlights the extremely high level of competition for physics places at Oxford. Applicants should have realistic expectations and apply wisely to universities. 

For admission in 2023, the Oxford Physics Department received 1633 total applicants for their Physics and P hysics Philosophy programmes , according to the Department feedback report . This represents an 8.5% decrease compared to 2021 applicant figures, which saw a total of 1785 applicants. Of the 1633 applicants in 2022, 1605 students were competing for the 191 admission slots available. 

In case you miss your chance to be admitted and decided to take a Gap Year , here are useful guides you can read and prepare yourself for University life after Gap Year.

• How to Plan Your Gap Year: A Step-by-Step Guide For
• What To Do In A Gap Year As a Student
• How To Apply To University After A Gap Year

Is Oxford Good for Physics?

Undoubtedly, Oxford is one of the best possible universities to study undergraduate physics based on global university rankings. It’s ranked 2nd in the UK for Physics courses, according to the national league tables.

In the 2023 QS World Rankings for Physics, Oxford placed 3rd in the world behind only MIT and Harvard. This reflects its outstanding reputation among academics and employers.

The research power of Oxford Physics also ensures students learn cutting-edge content at the forefront of physics innovation. Whether studying astrophysics, quantum physics, applied physics or more, Oxford provides a world-leading physics education.

Does Oxford Have an Entrance Exam for Physics?

Along with achieving top grades, prospective physics students must sit admissions tests. This allows Oxford tutors to effectively assess aptitude for the course.

The two main tests are the Physics Admission Test (PAT) and Mathematics Admissions Test (MAT). Most applicants choose the PAT to demonstrate physics skills. 

The PAT takes 2 hours and involves multiple choice questions and long written responses on physics knowledge and problem-solving. The MAT focuses solely on mathematical ability over 2.5 hours. 

Learn more about PAT Test .

Some colleges may also require applicants to take the Physics Higher Admissions Test (HAT). This 3-hour test covers the A-Level physics syllabus in depth. Practice papers help students prepare effectively for these essential exams.

Final Thoughts

This breakdown of the top colleges provides a starting point for choosing where to apply for physics at Oxford. Remember that interests and instincts will also guide your decision.

Oxford remains a world-leading university for undergraduate physics. Its excellent tutoring resources, research output, facilities and more equip students for success in this complex but rewarding subject.

• The Best Oxford Colleges for Law

Admission to the DPhil in Philosophy

Application information and procedure.

For detailed information about admission requirements for and applying to the DPhil in Philosophy, please visit the University's Graduate Admissions page for the DPhil in Philosophy .

Frequently Asked Questions about Admissions

Entry requirements, what qualifications do i need to apply.

The entry requirements for the DPhil in Philosophy state the following:

“As a minimum, applicants should hold or be predicted to achieve the equivalent of the following UK qualifications:

• the BPhil in Philosophy from the University of Oxford with a distinction or near-distinction grade, or an equivalent national or international qualification; and
• a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in philosophy or a closely-related degree which involved substantial engagement with philosophy. However, entrance is very competitive and most successful applicants have a first-class degree or the equivalent.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.6 out of 4.0. However, most successful applicants have a GPA of 3.7 or above."

I have a non-UK qualification. How can I find out whether my qualifications match the entry requirements for the DPhil in Philosophy?

If your degree is not from the UK, visit the University's  International Qualifications page for guidance on the qualifications and grades that would usually be considered to meet the University's minimum entry requirements. If your degree is from a country not included in that list, then you should contact the UK National Information Centre for the recognition and evaluation of international qualifications and skills ( UK ENIC ).

Not all my degrees are in philosophy. Can I still apply?

I have an undergraduate degree in philosophy (or a closely-related degree) and a one-year masters in philosophy (or a closely-related degree). am i eligible to apply for the dphil in philosophy.

The entry requirements state that the Faculty of Philosophy usually asks for an undergraduate degree in Philosophy (or a closely-related degree), as well as a master’s degree that is equivalent to our two-year master's course, the BPhil in Philosophy. A one-year master's in Philosophy is usually not strictly equivalent to our BPhil in Philosophy. The admissions board may decide to accept a one-year master's as an eligible degree for admission to the DPhil in Philosophy, but this cannot be guaranteed. The Faculty unfortunately cannot give you an assessment as to whether your current degrees make you eligible, as the whole application (including, and especially, the writing sample and references) is reviewed in order to make a decision on admissions to the course, It is therefore impossible to predict the judgement that will be made by the admissions board.

I have an undergraduate degree in Philosophy (or a closely-related degree) and a master’s degree that is not in Philosophy (or a closely related discipline) OR an undergraduate degree not in Philosophy (or a closely-related degree) and a master's degree that is in Philosophy (or a closely related discipline). Am I eligible to apply for the DPhil in Philosophy?

The entry requirements state that the Faculty of Philosophy usually asks for two degrees in Philosophy (or a closely-related degree) for admission to the DPhil in Philosophy. The admissions board may decide to consider you for admission to the DPhil in Philosophy, but this cannot be guaranteed. The Faculty unfortunately cannot give you an assessment as to whether your current degrees make you eligible, as the whole application (including, and especially, the writing sample and references) is reviewed in order to make a decision on admissions to the course. It is therefore impossible to predict the judgement that will be made by the admissions board. However, please note that admission to the DPhil in Philosophy is very competitive (we receive approximately 160 applications for around 20 places) and the vast majority of DPhil applicants have an undergraduate and graduate degree in philosophy (with some also having publications and relevant work experience), so you may want to take this into account when deciding to apply for the course.

I have an undergraduate degree and a master’s degree but they are not in Philosophy (or a closely-related degree), am I eligible to apply for the DPhil in Philosophy?

The entry requirements state that the Faculty of Philosophy usually asks for two degrees in Philosophy (or a closely-related degree) for admission to the DPhil in Philosophy. The admissions board may decide to consider you for admission to the DPhil in Philosophy, but this cannot of course be guaranteed. The Faculty unfortunately cannot give you an assessment as to whether your current degrees make you eligible, as the whole application (including, and especially, the writing sample and references) is reviewed in order to make a decision on admissions to the course. It is therefore impossible to predict the judgement that will be made by the admissions board.

However, please note that admission to the DPhil in Philosophy is very competitive (we receive approximately 160 applications for around 20 places) and the vast majority of DPhil applicants have an undergraduate and graduate degree in philosophy (with some also having publications and relevant work experience), so you may want to take this into account when deciding to apply for the course.

If you are serious about studying a masters and/or doctoral degree in Philosophy at the University of Oxford, you could possibly look into studying a philosophy conversion course (in the UK these are usually called a 'Graduate Diploma in Philosophy'). A philosophy conversion course offers you a way to earn another undergraduate degree (but this time in Philosophy) in one year instead of three years (it is shorter because you already have an undergraduate degree). Oxford University unfortunately does not have such a course but there are many other universities in the UK that do. You can do a web search for “philosophy conversion course UK” or “graduate diploma in Philosophy UK” to find them. There may also be one-year masters courses elsewhere which allow you to enter without an undergraduate degree in philosophy, upon completion of which you may be eligible for our graduate degrees in Philosophy.

What is a closely-related degree?

The DPhil entry requirements state that the Faculty usually asks for an undergraduate degree with honours in Philosophy or a closely-related degree which involved substantial engagement with philosophy, and the BPhil in Philosophy or an equivalent national or international qualification. It is not possible to provide a list of degrees that would be considered as closely-related to Philosophy as it is not the degree name that is taken into account when considering admissions, but the quantity of philosophy-related modules/topics/content taken as part of the degree. For example, someone with a degree in Politics who has completed considerable work in Political Theory and Political Philosophy may be deemed to be suitable to apply for our course. Similarly, someone with a Law degree who has completed considerable work in Jurisprudence or Philosophy of Law/Legal Philosophy or someone with a degree in Theology who has studied Philosophical Theology topics, may also be deemed suitable to apply for our course. But this judgement is to be made by the admissions board once it is in receipt of your complete application. It is therefore not possible for the Faculty to give you an assessment as to whether your degree is closely related and would make you eligible to apply for the DPhil in Philosophy, as the whole application (including, and especially, the writing sample and references) is reviewed in order to make a decision on admissions to the course and it is therefore impossible to predict the judgement that will be made by the admissions board.

My GPA/grades and/or my final degree results fall short of the entry requirements. Will I still be considered for admission to the DPhil in Philosophy?

An applicant will not be automatically excluded if they do not meet the minimum degree result(s) or GPA listed in the entry requirements but the Faculty unfortunately cannot give you an assessment as to whether your application would or could result in an offer, as the whole application (including, and especially, the writing sample and references) is reviewed in order to make a decision on admissions to the course. It is therefore impossible to predict the judgement that will be made by the admissions board.

Do I need to have publications to be accepted onto the course?

You are not required to have any publications but these may be an advantage as admission to the course is very competitive.

What funding opportunities are available?

Please click on the following links for information about the funding available for the DPhil in Philosophy:

• DPhil in Philosophy funding page .
• You may also want to check this graduate funding page  for relevant funding.

SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS/ APPLICATION MATERIAL TO BE SUBMITTED

Written work/ writing sample, what is the requirement for the written work/writing sample, to be submitted with my dphil in philosophy application.

You should submit an academic essay of 4,000 to 5,000 words on a subject related to your proposed research topic. The essay should be typed or word-processed in English and must be clearly marked with your name and the date of composition.

Is it ok if my written work/writing sample is over/under the word limit?

It is in your interest to follow the exact instructions that are written on the admissions pages. We cannot offer you any assurance that the piece will be accepted if it over or under the advertised length. You may decide to truncate / extend your writing sample so that it reaches the word limit.

Does the word count for the written work/writing sample include footnotes and/or the bibliography?

The word count does not need to include the end bibliography. Footnotes and in-text referencing are included.

Can my writing sample be a selection from a longer piece of work?

Yes, your writing sample may be a part of a larger essay, article or publication, but in this case it is probably wise to use some of the word limit to put the writing sample into context, identifying what is discussed in the rest of the essay, article or publication and how the writing sample fits in with this. 

Can my writing sample be a piece that has been submitted for assessment at my current or a previous institution?

Yes, you are permitted to submit an essay that has been assessed for degree credit, as long as the work is entirely your own.

Is it possible to submit a co-authored piece for my written work/writing sample as part of my application?

Unfortunately, co-authored papers are not permitted to be submitted as your writing sample. You should mention your publications on your CV but your writing sample should be work that is solely written by you.

Research Proposal / Personal Statement

What is the requirement for the research proposal and personal statement, to be submitted with my application.

Your research proposal should comprise a detailed outline of your proposed research, written in English, covering areas such as the background to the research, methodology, expected results and the contribution to the field of learning. It should be up to 2,000 words. Footnotes and in-text referencing are included in the word count, but the end bibliography will not be.

Your personal statement should be written in English and explain your motivation for applying for graduate study at Oxford. It should be up to 500 words. Both documents should be uploaded as one document.

English Language Requirements

What are the english language requirements.

Applicants whose first language is not English are usually required to provide evidence of proficiency in English at the higher level required by the University for all of our graduate courses. Please see the English Language Requirements page for details of the required test scores.

Can I ask for a waiver from the English language requirement?

University policy allows academic departments the discretion to waive the requirement to provide English language scores if an applicant has completed, or is currently completing, a degree-level course that is:

• at least nine months in duration
• undertaken at a recognised institution where teaching and assessment throughout the course is undertaken entirely in English; and
• has been completed within 2 years of the start date of the course to which you are applying.

English language waivers are discretionary, and if your application to the course is successful, your offer letter will make it clear whether your language waiver has been granted, or whether you are required to submit satisfactory test scores before taking up your place. Further information on waivers can be found here .

Transcripts

What if i have transcripts that are not in english.

Any non-English transcripts should be accompanied by a certified translation.

Can I submit references that are non-academic?

Academic references are usually required. However, if you have been out of education for a long time, or if you have substantial relevant working experience, then a maximum of one professional reference may replace an academic reference provided that it speaks to your ability to undertake philosophy studies at graduate level.

Can I include my GRE scores in my application?

The entry requirements for all of our graduate courses in Philosophy state ‘No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought’, which indicates that you are not required to upload any GRE scores to your application. You may choose to upload your scores if you feel they would strengthen your application. Please note, however, that we cannot advise on how GRE scores would impact the assessment of your application, or the minimum scores that it would be advantageous to include.

Do I need to upload a CV?

Yes, as part of your application you will need to upload a 1-2 page CV, which includes your most relevant qualifications, achievements and publications (if applicable). We cannot offer any assurance that the CV will be accepted if it is over the advertised length.

Which colleges can I apply for?

Please click on the following link to see which colleges accept students for the DPhil in Philosophy:

• DPhil in Philosophy college list .

GENERAL QUESTIONS

Should i contact potential supervisors before applying for the dphil.

There is no need to contact potential supervisors before applying, although you are welcome to do so if you want. You are in any case encouraged to check whether there are potential supervisors for your proposed area of research at Oxford and indicate in your application if there are particular faculty members you would like to work with. Please take a look at our Faculty Members page to see if you think there are any Faculty members who could be an appropriate supervisor to guide you on your research. Please note that it can never be guaranteed that your proposed supervisor will be assigned to you, even if you receive prior informal approval from that supervisor.

What if the Board of Admissions decides that I am not eligible for the DPhil in Philosophy, can I be considered for admissions to the BPhil in Philosophy instead?

Unfortunately, the Faculty of Philosophy can only consider you for a place on a course that you have applied for, so your DPhil application cannot be considered for admission to the BPhil in Philosophy (or any other course in the Faculty of Philosophy or the rest of the University). Instead, you may decide to apply for the BPhil in Philosophy at the same time as applying for the DPhil in Philosophy, as a back-up for your DPhil application. If you were to be offered a place on the BPhil in Philosophy, and successfully completed it, you would be eligible to apply for the DPhil in Philosophy. 

Is it to my advantage to apply before the deadline?

The Faculty of Philosophy’s admissions process operates a gathered field (in line with University policy). It does not matter when you apply as long as it is before the set deadline. Earlier application does not result in an earlier decision as all applications have to be reviewed and assessed simultaneously, after the deadline has passed.

Is it possible to receive a waiver from the application fee?

You can check to see if you are eligible for an application fee waiver on the central Graduate Admissions  webpages.

Can I study this course part-time?

All our graduate courses (DPhil in Philosophy, BPhil in Philosophy, MSt in Philosophy of Physics and MSt in Ancient Philosophy) are offered as full-time in-person courses only.

Students unable to study full-time may instead be interested in the part-time MSt in Practical Ethics , run by the University's Department for Continuing Education.

Can I study this course via distance learning/online? Will I need to move to Oxford?

The Faculty of Philosophy at the University of Oxford does not offer any graduate (master's or doctoral) courses in Philosophy via distance learning/online. All our graduate courses (DPhil in Philosophy, BPhil in Philosophy, MSt in Philosophy of Physics and MSt in Ancient Philosophy) are only available as full-time in-person courses. 

It should also be noted that all graduate courses have a minimum number of terms of ‘statutory residence requirement’ in Oxford. ‘Residence in Oxford’ means residence within twenty-five miles of Carfax in the city centre. A ‘term’s residence’ means forty‑two nights within term, rather than within the shorter period of ‘Full Term’ (Weeks 1 to 8 of term – see Oxford University’s Dates of Term ). Nevertheless, since all classes and lectures, and most supervisions, take place within Full Term, it is in practice expected that students are resident in Oxford at least throughout Full Term.

Students unable to meet the residence requirements may instead be interested in the part-time MSt in Practical Ethics , run by the University's Department for Continuing Education, as a large part of this course can be studied via distance-learning.

Will I need to attend an interview?

Interviews are not normally held as part of the admissions process for any of the Faculty of Philosophy’s graduate courses.

Is it possible to do a compilation/integrated thesis for the DPhil in Philosophy?

Yes, it is possible to submit several relatively independent but thematically interrelated papers. The examination regulations require that there be such a thing as ‘the subject of the thesis’, so these papers must collectively represent a coherent and focused body of research into a single subject. But they may also be independent of each other, in the sense that each paper need not presuppose familiarity with the arguments of the other papers. Each paper may therefore resemble a journal article more than a traditional monograph chapter. A thesis consisting of interrelated papers should include an opening integrative chapter, stating how the papers in the thesis relate to each other and to an overall field of learning in which the subject of the thesis falls. It is recommended that the connections between the papers (as well as any conclusions to be highlighted) and re-emphasised in the conclusion, which should be the last chapter.

Can I apply for the MLitt in Philosophy?

The Masters of Letters (MLitt) in Philosophy is awarded on the basis of a thesis of maximum 50,000 words. In practice, applicants are admitted for the MLitt only in exceptional cases, and few students submit a thesis for the MLitt. The MLitt is more often an exit award for DPhil students who fail or withdraw from the DPhil degree but meet the requirements for the MLitt.

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Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil)

What is a dphil.

A DPhil is Oxford's name for a PhD - a higher research degree which allows you to make an original contribution to mathematics in the form of a thesis. A DPhil takes three to four years to complete. During your DPhil, you will be supervised by at least one academic, although some students will have more than one supervisor (particularly if they are working across disciplines). Unlike CDT courses (and PhDs in other countries), you will begin to do research straight away and there is no prescribed taught component. 

As part of your study toward a DPhil in Mathematics at Oxford, you will also be required to complete broadening and skills training and deliver class teaching to undergraduates, to enhance your broader mathematical knowledge and develop your career. You are very welcome to attend seminars and there may also be journal clubs or seminar series specific to your area of study. 

If you enjoy doing mathematics, and would like to be part of a lively and world-class research institute, take a look at our research groups to see if they align with your own interests. 

How to apply

All applications should be submitted online through the University's Graduate Application Form . Before you apply, check that you can meet the entry requirements , and read the   University of Oxford's graduate application guide .

Key Deadlines

Application deadlines for the DPhil in Mathematics:

• 8th January 2025
• 4th March 2025

Please apply by the 8th January deadline to be considered for available University-administered or Departmental scholarships. 

Martingale Foundation Postgraduate Scholarships

The Martingale Foundation awards fully funded Scholarships for postgraduate degrees in the mathematical sciences at research universities in the UK. 

Tuition fees and research expenses are fully covered, and Scholars receive a tax free living wage stipend. Martingale Scholars also receive access to leadership and career develop through a multi-year programme of training and support. Visit the Martingale website for more information.  

Applications for the 2025 academic year are open until 27 October 2024.  

Why do a PhD?

Research interests:  group theory, representation theory and algebraic aspects of geometry.

Who's who in Algebra

Find out more about the group

Combinatorics

Research interests: extremal combinatorics, graph theory, and combinatorial number theory.

Who's who in Combinatorics

Functional Analysis

Research interests: operator theory, including unbounded operators, and abstract differential equations.

Who's who in functional analysis

Research interests: algebraic geometry,  geometric representation theory , and differential geometry.

Who's who in Geometry

History of Mathematics

Research interests: history of algebra (19th and 20th century), history of modern algebra, and Soviet mathematics. 

Research interests: analytic topology,  geometric stability theory, and the model theory of p-adic fields and diophantine geometry.

Who's who in Logic

Machine Learning and Data Science

Machine Learning and Data science are being developed using wide ranging mathematical techniques. Our particular research expertise include: applied and computational harmonic analysis, networks, optimisation, random matrix theory, rough paths, topological data analysis, and the application of these methods.

Who's who in machine learning and data science

Mathematical & Computational Finance

Research interests: behavioural finance, financial big data, high dimensional numerical methods, stochastic analysis.

Who's who in Mathematical and Computational Finance

Mathematical Biology

Research interests:  cancer modelling, collective behaviour, gene regulatory networks, multiscale modelling, pattern formation, and sperm dynamics.

Who's who in Mathematical Biology

Mathematical Physics

Research interests: gauge and gravity theories (quantum field theories), string theory, twistor theory, Calabi-Yau manifolds, quantum computation and cryptography.

Who's who in Mathematical Physics

Number Theory

Research interests: analytic number theory, arithmetic geometry, prime number distribution, and Diophantine geometry.

Who's who in Number Theory

Numerical Analysis

Research interests: complexity in optimisation, symmetric cone programming, numerical solutions of PDEs. 

Who's who in Numerical Analysis

Oxford Centre for Industrial and Applied Mathematics

Research interests: energy, industry, geoscience, networks, finance, methodologies.

Who's who in OCIAM

Oxford Centre for Nonlinear Partial Differential Equations

Research interests: geometric analysis, inverse problems, nonlinear hyperbolic systems, specific PDE systems.

Who's who in OxPDE

Stochastic Analysis

Research interests:  rough path theory, Schramm-Loewner evolution, mathematical population genetics, financial mathematics, self-interacting random processes.

Research interests: geometric group theory, 3-manifold topology and knot theory, K-theory, algebraic topology.

Who's who in Topology

International qualifications

The University offers general guidance on the types of qualifications and grades from countries outside the UK that would usually be considered to meet its minimum entry requirements.

You should also make sure that you meet the entry requirements for the specific course you are applying to, as specified on each course page . Academic departments may use other sources of information on grading standards, eg within your specific subject area, in setting both entry requirements and offer conditions for individual courses.

How to use this guidance

This guidance is intended as a source of information to help you decide whether your qualifications are likely to offer a suitable background for applying to a graduate course at Oxford, alongside the entry requirements for your specific course.

This overview information is offered for the countries from which the University receives a high number of applications and/or queries and does not cover every type of qualification and grading scale which may be considered an acceptable basis for a competitive application to Oxford. There can also be significant complexity and variability within any national system of higher education which can affect how a particular grade is considered, eg differences in grading between institutions.

Please note that admissions to Oxford are very competitive and that meeting the minimum entry requirements will not guarantee an offer of a place.

The academic department will review your application on the basis of the materials you provide and in relation to other applications to the course.

Countries for which guidance is available

If guidance for your country is not shown below and you would like to discuss your suitability for a graduate course, contact the academic department using the details provided on the  course page .

Undergraduate qualifications

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a 'strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system, you will usually need one of the following qualifications:

• a Bachelor Degree with an overall grade of a Distinction; or
• a Bachelor Honours Degree with an overall grade of Second Class (Upper/A/1) Division.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a 'first class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system, you will usually need one of the following qualifications:

• a Bachelor Degree with an overall grade of a Higher Distinction, with a percentage of 80% (from Universities using a 80%-100% range) or 85% (from universities using a 85%-100% range); or
• a Bachelor Honours Degree with an overall grade of First Class.

Masters’ qualifications

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system, you will usually need:

• a Master’s Degree with an overall grade of a Credit (66%) for a Pass equivalent;
• a Master’s Degree with an overall grade of a Second Class (Upper Division) or Distinction for a Merit equivalent; or
• a Master’s Degree with an overall grade of a High Distinction for a Distinction equivalent.
• a Título de Bacharel with an overall grade of 7.5 out of 10;
• a Título de [subject area] with an overall grade of 7.5 out of 10; or
• a Título de Licenciado/a (when awarded after a minimum of four years) with an overall grade of 7.5 out of 10.

Due to the high variation in grading practices between institutions, these grading standards are approximate and provided for general reference only. Assessors are advised to consult the individual institution’s grading system and to look closely at individual grades as well as any overall grade.

• a Título de Bacharel with an overall grade of 9 out of 10;
• a Título de [subject area] with an overall grade of 9 out of 10; or
• a Título de Licenciado/a (when awarded after a minimum of four years) with an overall grade of 9 out of 10.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system, you will usually need one of the following qualifications:

• a Título de Mestre;
• a Grau de Mestre; or
• a Diploma de Mestre.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours’ in the UK system, you will usually need:

• a bachelor’s (honours) degree or a general four-year bachelor’s degree with an overall grade of ‘B+’ or 76%, a GPA of 3.1 out of 4.0, or a GPA of 7 out of 9;
• bachelor’s degree ( Baccalauréat/Bachelier, without honours) from Quebec with an overall of ‘B+’ or 76%,  a GPA of 3.1 out of 4.0; or a GPA of 7 out of 9: or
• an applied bachelor’s degree with an overall grade of ‘B+’ or 76%,  a GPA of 3.1 out of 4.0, or a GPA of 7 out of 9.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘first-class undergraduate degree with honours’ in the UK system, you will usually need one of the above qualifications with an overall grade of ‘A’ or 83%, a GPA of 3.6 out of 4.0 or a GPA of 8 out of 9.

Masters' qualifications

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system, you will usually need a master’s degree/ Maîtrise or Master of Philosophy. An overall grade of ‘B+’ or 77%, or a GPA of 3.5 out of 4.0, is usually considered equivalent to a merit grade in the UK system.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘ strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours ’ in the UK system,  you will usually need a bachelor’s degree with an overall grade of 85% from a Double First Class University, former Project 985 or Project 211 institution or 90% from other institutions. Applicants with scores of less than 90% from other institutions should also have at least a passing grade in a master’s degree.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘ first-class undergraduate degree with honours ’ in the UK system, you will usually need an overall score of 90% from a Double First Class University, former Project 985 or Project 211 institution or 95% from other institutions. Applicants with scores of less than 95% from other institutions should also have at least a passing grade in a master’s degree.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system, you will usually need a master’s degree with an overall grade corresponding to the following:

• 60% for a passing grade in the UK system
• 80% from a Double First Class University, former Project 985 or Project 211 institution, or 85% from other institutions, for a merit grade in the UK system
• 88% from a Double First Class University, former Project 985 or Project 211 institution, or 90% from other institutions, for a distinction grade in the UK system.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a  ‘ strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours ’ in the UK system , you will usually need a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university with an overall grade of 80% (‘B+’) or ‘Very Good’, or a GPA of 3.5 out of 4.0.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a  ‘ first-class undergraduate degree with honours ’ in the UK system , you will usually need a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university with an an overall grade of 85% (‘A’) or ‘Excellent’, or a GPA of 3.7 out of 4.0.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system , you will usually need a master’s degree ( Majister ) with an overall grade corresponding to the following:

• 50% (‘C’) for a passing grade in the UK system
• 80% (‘B’) for  a merit grade in the UK system
• 90% (‘A’) for a distinction grade in the UK system.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours’ in the UK system , you will usually need one of the following qualifications:

• Licence/Grade de Licence from a Grande École with an overall grade of 13 out of 20;
• Licence/Grade de Licence (post-2009) from other universities with an overall grade of 14 out of 20;
• Diplôme d'Ingénieur from a recognised institution with an overall grade of 13 out of 20; or
• Maîtrise (pre-2009) with an overall grade of 14 out of 20.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a  ‘ first-class undergraduate degree with honours ’ in the UK system , you will usually need one of the following qualifications:

• Licence/Grade de Licence  from a  Grande École with an overall grade of 14.5 out of 20;
• Licence/Grade de Licence from other universities with an overall grade of 16 out of 20;
• Diplôme d'Ingénieur from a recognised institution with an overall grade of 14.5 out of 20; or
• Maîtrise (pre-2009 qualification) with an overall grade of 16 out of 20.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system,  you will usually need one of the following qualifications:

• Diplôme d'Ingénieur with Grade de Master
• Diplôme d'Études Approfondies (DEA)
• Diplôme d'Études Supérieures Spécialisées
• Diplôme de Master/Grade de Master.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a 'strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours'   in the UK system,  you will usually need either:

• a bachelor’s degree, ie Fachhochschulediplom or Diplom (FH) if awarded post-2002, with an overall grade of 1,9;
• Magister Artium/Diplom (awarded 2002 and before) with an overall grade of 2,0; or
• Law (Jura), Erste Staatsexam with an overall grade of 6,5 or above (on a 0–18 scale).

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a 'first class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system,  you will usually need either:

• a bachelor’s degree, ie Fachhochschulediplom or Diplom (FH) if awarded post-2002, with an overall grade of 1,5
• Law (Jura), Erste Staatsexam with an overall grade of 9.0 or above (on a 0–18 scale).

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system , you will usually need a  Master  (post-2002) or Magister Artium/Diplom (pre-2002) qualification. An overall grade of 2,0 is usually considered equivalent to a merit grade in the UK system. An overall grade of 1,4 is usually considered equivalent to a distinction grade in the UK system. 

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system , you will usually need either:

• Ptychío/Diploma from AEI institution with an overall grade of 8.0 out of 10.0; or
• Ptychío/Diploma from a TEI institution with an overall grade of 8.0 out of 10.0.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘first-class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system , you will usually need either:

• Ptychío/Diploma from AEI institution with an overall grade of 8.5 out of 10.0; or
• Ptychío/Diploma from a TEI institution with an overall grade of 9.25 out of 10.0.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system , you will usually need a master’s degree from a recognised institution. If the course requires a merit, an overall grade of 7.0 out of 10.0 is usually required. If the course requires a distinction, an overall grade of 8.5 out of 10 is usually required.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours’ in the UK system , you will usually need a bachelor’s degree (honours) with an overall grade of 2:1 (upper second-class) or a GPA of 3.5 out of 4.0.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘first class undergraduate degree with honours’ in the UK system , you will usually need a bachelor’s degree (honours) with an overall grade of first-class or a GPA of 3.7 out of 4.0.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system , you will usually need a master’s degree from a recognised institution. If a merit grade is required for your course, an overall grade of ‘Credit’ or a cumulative GPA of 3.2 out of 4.0 is usually required. If a distinction grade is required, an overall grade of ‘Distinction’ or a GPA of 3.5 out of 4.0 is usually required.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system , you will usually need one of the following qualifications:

• a professional bachelor’s degree (4 years) from a recognised institution with an overall grade of 60% for degrees awarded by prestigious institutions (eg Institutions of National Importance ), or 70% for degrees awarded by other institutions; or a cumulative GPA of 3.3 out of 4.0, 5.0 out of 7.0, 6.0 out of 8.0 or 8.0 out of 10.0; or
• a standard bachelor’s degree (3 years) from a recognised institution with an overall grade of 65% for degrees awarded by prestigious institutions (eg Institutions of National Importance ), or 70% for degrees awarded by other institutions.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘first class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system , you will usually need either:

• a professional bachelor’s degree (4 years) from a recognised institution with an overall grade of 65% for degrees awarded by prestigious institutions (eg Institutions of National Importance ), or 75% for degrees awarded by other institutions; or 3.5 out of 4.0, 5.5 out of 7.0, 6.5 out of 8.0 or 8.5 out of 10.0. 
• a standard bachelor’s degree (3 years) from a recognised institution with an overall grade of 70% for degrees awarded by prestigious institutions (eg Institutions of National Importance ), or 75% for degrees awarded by other institutions.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system , you will usually need a master’s degree awarded by a recognised institution with an overall grade corresponding to the following:

• 55% for a pass grade in the UK system
• 60% for a merit grade in the UK system
• 70% for a distinction grade in the UK system.
• a bachelor's degree (3 years), ie Karshenasi (formerly Licence ) with an overall grade of 17 out of 20; or
• a professional doctorate (5-6 years), ie  Doktura , with an overall grade of 17 out of 20.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘first-class undergraduate degree with honours’ in the UK system , you will usually need:

• a bachelor's degree (3 years), ie Karshenasi  (formerly  Licence ) with an overall grade of 18 out of 20; or
• a professional doctorate (5-6 years), ie  Doktura, with an overall grade of 18 out of 20.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system , you will usually need a master’s degree (2 years), ie Karshenasi Arshad (formerly Fogh Licence ), with an overall grade corresponding to the following:

• 14 out of 20 for a pass grade in the UK system
• 16 out of 20 for a merit grade in the UK system
• 18 out of 20 for a distinction grade in the UK system.

Entry requirements for UK qualifications can be directly applied to Irish qualifications. For example, if your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘first-class undergraduate degree with honours’ in the UK system it will also require a first-class undergraduate degree with honours in the Irish system.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours’ in the UK system, you will usually need Laurea (a three-year bachelor’s degree), Diploma Accademico di Primo Livello, Licenza di Accademia di Belle Arti , or Diploma di Istituto Superiore per le Industrie Artistiche with an overall grade of 106 out of 110.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘first class undergraduate degree with honours’ in the UK system , you will usually need a Laurea (a three-year bachelor’s degree), Diploma Accademico di Primo Livello, Licenza di Accademia di Belle Arti , or Diploma di Istituto Superiore per le Industrie Artistiche with an overall grade of 109 out of 110.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system , you will usually need one of the following:

• Laurea Magistrale/Specialistica
• Diploma Accademico di Secondo Livello (from an AFAM institution)
• Laurea Magistrale a Ciclo Unico
• Laurea (pre-1999) ( vecchio ordinamento )

If your course requires a merit in the UK system, you will usually need an overall grade of 106 out of 110. If your course requires a distinction in the UK system, you will usually need an overall grade of 110 out of 110.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system,  you will usually need a bachelor’s degree with an overall grade of 80%, ‘B’ (high) or ‘Excellent’.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘first class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system , you will usually need a bachelor’s degree with an overall grade of 90%, ‘A’ (high) or ‘Outstanding’.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system , you will usually need a master’s degree from a recognised institution. If your course requires a merit grade in the UK system, you will usually need an overall grade of 76%, ‘B+’ or ‘Good’. If your course requires a distinction grade in the UK system, you will usually need an overall grade of 90%, ‘A’ (high) or ‘Outstanding’.

Korea (Republic of)

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours’ in the UK system,  you will usually need a bachelor’s degree with an overall grade of 85% or ‘B+’, or a cumulative GPA of 3.2 out of 4.0, 3.4 out of 4.3, or 3.6 out of 4.5. 

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘first class undergraduate degree with honours’ in the UK system ,  you will usually need a bachelor’s degree with an overall grade of 95% or ‘A’, or a cumulative GPA of 3.6 out of 4.0, 3.8 out of 4.3, or 4.0 out of 4.5.

If your course requires a master’s degree in the UK system , you will usually need a master’s degree from a recognised institution. If your course requires a merit in the UK system, you will usually need an overall grade of 85% or ‘B+’. If your course requires a distinction in the UK system, you will usually need an overall grade of 90% or ‘A’.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours’ in the UK system , you will usually need a bachelor’s degree with an overall grade of Class 2 Division I, ‘B+’ or 72%, or a GPA of 3.4 out of 4.0.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘first-class undergraduate degree with honours’ in the UK system , you will usually need a bachelor’s degree with an overall grade of Class 1, ‘A’ or 80%, or a GPA of 3.7 out of 4.0. 

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system, you will usually need a master's degree from a recognised institution. 

The Netherlands

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a 'strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system,  you will usually need  a bachelor’s degree with an overall grade of 7.5 out of 10.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a 'first-class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system ,  you will usually need a bachelor's degree with an overall grade of 8 out of 10.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system ,  you will usually need a master's degree from a recognised institution. If your course requires a merit in the UK system, you will usually need an overall grade of 7.5 out of 10. If your course requires a distinction in the UK system, you will need an overall grade of 8.0 out of 10.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a 'strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system , you will usually need a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university with an overall grade of 2:1 or 65% or a GPA of 4.0 out of 5.0.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a 'first-class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system ,  you will usually need a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university with an overall grade of first-class honours or 70%, or a GPA of 4.5 out of 5.0.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system , you will usually need a master’s degree from a recognised university. If your course requires a merit in the UK system, you will need an overall grade of 65% or 4.0 out of 5.0. If a distinction in the UK system is required, you will need a master’s degree with an overall grade of 70% or 4.5 out of 5.0. 

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a 'strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system , you will usually need one of the following qualifications: 

• a four-year bachelor’s degree with an overall grade of First Division, 75% or ‘A’ , or a GPA of 3.5 out of 4.0
• a Bachelor of Law (LLB)
• a master’s degree after a two- or three-year bachelor’s degree with an overall grade of ‘Pass’ or 65%; or
• a Doctor of Medicine/Veterinary Medicine/Pharmacy; 

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a 'first class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system ,  you will need a bachelor’s degree from a well-ranked institution with an overall grade of ‘A+’ or 80%, or a GPA of 3.8 out of 4.0. 

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system , you will usually need one of the following qualifications:

• a master’s degree following a four-year bachelor's degree (MPhil or LLM); or
• a second master’s degree following a two- or three-year bachelor's degree (MPhil or LLM).

If your course requires a merit in the UK system, you will usually need an overall grade of 80% or a GPA of 3.75 out of 4.0. If your course requires a distinction in the UK system, you will usually need an overall grade of 85% and above or a GPA of 3.85 out of 4.0. 

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours’ in the UK system , you will usually need one of the following qualifications: 

• Lincencjat/Inzynier awarded post-2001 with an overall grade of 4.5/5.0, 5.0/6.0 or Dobry Plus ; or
• Magister/Magister Inzynier awarded pre-2001 with an overall grade of 4.5/5.0, 5.0/6.0 or Dobry Plus .

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘first class undergraduate degree with honours’ in the UK system ,  you will usually need one of the following qualifications:

• Lincencjat/Inzynier awarded post-2001 with an overall grade of 5.0/5.0 or 6.0/6.0; or 
• Magister/Magister Inzynier awarded pre-2001 with an overall grade of 5.0/5.0 or 6.0/6.0.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system , you will usually need a master’s degree, ie Magister/Magister Inzynier, from a recognised institution. If your course requires a merit in the UK system, you will usually need an overall grade of 4.5 out of 5.0, 5.0 out of 6.0 or Dobry Plus. If your course requires a distinction in the UK system, you will need an overall grade of 5.0 out of 5.0 or 6.0 out of 6.0.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours’ in the UK system , you will usually need a Licenciatura/Licienciado with an overall grade of 15/20 or a Diploma de Estudos Superiores Especializados (DESE) with an overall grade of 16/20.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘first-class undergraduate degree with honours’ in the UK system , you will usually need a Licenciatura/Licienciado with an overall grade of 17/20 or a Diploma de Estudos Superiores Especializados (DESE) with an overall grade of 18/20.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system, you will usually need a Mestrado/Mestre with an overall grade corresponding to the following:

• 10/20 for a passing grade
• 16/20 for a merit grade
• 18/20 for a distinction grade.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a 'strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system , you will usually need one of the following qualifications:

• a bachelor’s degree from a highly-ranked institution with an overall grade of ‘Good’ or 4.5/5.0
• a Bologna Bachelor’s from other institutions with an overall grade of Excellent or 4.8/5.0; or
• a Specialist Diploma (completed post-1991) with an overall grade of ‘Good’ or 4.5/5.0.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a 'first class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system ,  you will usually need one of the following qualifications:

• a bachelor’s degree from a highly-ranking institution with an overall grade of ‘Excellent’ or 4.8/5.0; or
• a Specialist Diploma (completed post-1991) with an overall grade of ‘Excellent’ or 4.8/5.0.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system , you will usually need you will usually need a master’s degree ( Magistr ). If your course requires a merit in the UK system, you will usually need to have a ‘Pass’. If your course requires a distinction in the UK system, you will usually need to have an overall grade of ‘Diploma with Excellence’ with the total percentage of ‘Excellent’ marks being no less than 75%.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a 'strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system , you will usually need a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university with an overall grade of Upper Second Class Honours/Lower Second Class Honours or CAP/GPA of 4.0 out of 5.0 or 3.5 out of 4.0.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a 'first class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system ,  you will usually need a bachelor's degree from a recognised university with an overall grade of First Class Honours/Upper Second Class Honours or a CPA/GPA of 4.5 out of 5.0 or 3.7 out of 4.0.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system , you will usually need a master's degree from a recognised university. If your course requires a merit in the UK system, you will usually need a CAP/GPA of 4.0 out of 5.0 or 3.5 out of 4.0.

South Africa

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a 'strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system , you will usually need one of the following qualifications:

• a Bachelor’s Honours Degree with an overall grade of 70% or second class division 1; or
• a Professional Bachelor’s Degree with an overall grade of 70% or second class division 1.
• a Bachelor’s Honours Degree with an overall grade of 75% or first class; or
• a Professional Bachelor’s Degree with an overall grade of 75% or first class.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system, you will usually need a Master’s Degree.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a 'strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system , you will usually need a Titulo Universitario Oficial de Graduado, Titulo de Licenciado/Ingeniero/Arquitecto with an overall grade of 7.5/10 or 2.5/4.0.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a 'first class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system ,  you will usually need a Titulo Universitario Oficial de Graduado, Titulo de Licenciado/Ingeniero/Arquitectoan  with an overall grade of 8.5/10 or 2.75/4.0.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system , you will need a post-Bologna (obtained since 2007) master's degree, ie Título de Máster (when recognised by the Ministerio de Educación ). If your course requires a merit, you will need a grade of at least 7/10 or 2.5/4.0. If your course requires a distinction, you will need a grade of at least 8/10 or 2.75/4.0.

Switzerland

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours’ in the UK system , you will usually need a post-Bologna bachelor’s degree or Diplom/Diplome/Diploma or Lizentiat/Licence/Licenza or Staatsdiplom/Diplôme d'État/Diploma di Stato from a recognised university with an overall grade of 5/6, 8/10 or 2/5, or ‘gut’, ‘bien’, ‘bene’ or ‘good’.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a ‘first-class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system , you will usually need a post-Bologna bachelor’s degree or Diplom/Diplome/Diploma or Lizentiat/Licence/Licenza or Staatsdiplom/Diplôme d'État/Diploma di Stato awarded by a recognised university with an overall grade of 5.5/6, 9/10 or 1.5/5 (where 1 is the highest mark).

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree , you will need a post-Bologna master’s degree awarded by a recognised university (in addition to a first-cycle bachelor's degree or Diplom/Diplôme/Diploma or Lizentiat/Licence/Licenza ) with an overall grade corresponding to the following:

• 4/6 or 7/10 or 2.5/5 (where 1 is the highest mark) for a passing grade in the UK system
• 5/6 or 8/10 or 2/5 (where 1 is the highest mark) for a merit in the UK system
• 5.5/6 or 9/10 or 1.5/5 (where 1 is the highest mark) for a distinction in the UK system.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a 'strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system , you will usually need a Lisans Diplomasi or Mühendis Diplomasi with an overall GPA of 3.3 out of 4.0.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a 'first class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system ,  you will usually need Lisans Diplomasi or Mühendis Diplomasi with an overall GPA of 3.6 out of 4.0.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system , you will usually need a Yüsek Lisans Diplomasi, Tip Doktorlugu Diplomasi/DisHekimligi/Veteriner Hekim , or Bilim Uzmanlığı Diplomasi/Yüksek Mühendis Diplomasi with an overall grade corresponding to the following:

• a GPA of 3.0 for a passing grade in the UK system
• a GPA of 3.4 for a merit in the UK system
• a GPA of 3.7 for a distinction in the UK system.

Guidance on Ukrainian undergraduate qualifications is due to be published shortly. We would advise affected applicants to wait for the guidance to be published before submitting their application.

Guidance on Ukrainian masters' qualifications is due to be published shortly. We would advise affected applicants to wait for the guidance to be published before submitting their application.

United States of America (USA)

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a 'strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system , you will usually need a bachelor’s degree with an overall GPA of 3.5 out of 4.0/4.3 or 4.0 out of 5.0.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a 'first class undergraduate degree with honours' in the UK system ,  you will usually need an overall GPA of at least 3.7 out of 4.0/4.3 or 4.5 out of 5.0.

If your graduate course at Oxford requires a master's degree in the UK system , you will usually need a master's degree from a recognised institution with an overall GPA of 3.3 out of 4.0. 

If guidance for your country is not shown above  and you would like to discuss your suitability for a graduate course, contact the academic department using the details provided on the  course page .

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Find out more about our undergraduate degrees: the three-year BA Physics, the four-year MPhys and the four-year MPhysPhil offered jointly with the Department of Philosophy, or, for the fourth year, transfer to the MMathPhys course. The BA and MPhys courses are accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP).

Why physics?

Physics is about unravelling the complexity of the universe to discover how and why it works. Physicists around the world are unlocking the secrets of our Universe and discoveries in physics form the foundation of countless technological advances. The contributions of physics to solving global problems such as energy production, environmental protection, global warming and public health are essential; by choosing to study physics, you have the potential to have an enormous impact on our society.

Physics is an exciting and challenging field to study, requiring an adventurous and inquiring mind, and good mathematical abilities. The rewards include a deeper understanding of the world around us and the development of valuable transferrable skills that are highly sought after by many employers. Our alumni go on to pursue a broad spectrum of careers – not only in research but also in banking and finance, management consultancy, teaching, computing, the civil service, geophysical surveying and many others.

Why Oxford?

We want our student body to be as diverse as the world and Universe it studies and welcome students from all walks of life and from all around the world. We are committed to our equality, diversity and inclusion agenda and work hard to increase access for all .

Your study at Oxford will be a stimulating mix of mainstream lectures, training on experimental methods in our teaching laboratories, specialist lectures and focused tutorials, all complemented and underpinned by independent study. Our teaching philosophy is that a student will spend most of their time on attending lectures, experiment in the teaching laboratories, complete weekly assignments to be presented and discussed in tutorials, consulting different resources, and coming to a view of the subject which works for them – a view that will be developed and honed further in tutorial discussion. The aim is that the experience should be a preparation for tackling new problems, rather than an exercise in memorising received knowledge.

A key component of our teaching is the college-based tutorial: an hour of discussion with a tutor around pre-set work. Typically, students attend tutorials or classes in small groups, typically twice a week. Our teaching laboratories allow students to develop the experimental skills that enable them to carry out research as well as contributing to life skills such as team work, problem solving and clear communication. You will have access to a range of experimental laboratories including nuclear physics, astrophysics, biophysics, optics, electronics and condensed matter physics.

Oxford offers a vibrant student experience with hundreds of clubs and societies bringing enthusiasts together to offer a release from the academic rigour and colleges operating busy social calendars and providing tailored support. Find out more about student life at Oxford: https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/student-life

The courses

We offer two undergraduate physics degrees: the three-year BA and the four-year MPhys, with an average combined intake of 180 each year. All applicants apply for the four-year MPhys in the first instance. In addition, a further degree course, the four-year MPhysPhil, is offered jointly with the Department of Philosophy and has an average annual entry of 16. In year 3, MPhys and MPhysPhil students can apply to transfer for their fourth year to the MMathPhys, a high-level course in mathematical and theoretical physics . Selection is on the basis of academic potential and motivation. For details of our entrance procedure, see our How to apply page.

Study Physics at Oxford

Physics is an exciting and challenging field to study requiring an advernturous and inquiring mind, and good mathematical abilities. Download this booklet to find out more about studying physics at Oxford.

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