Logos
Guidance for using University logos.
Primary University logo
The primary University logo is the square version with a white keyline. This should be used in most applications. Placement in the top left corner is preferred, but this may be adjusted where the design requires an alternative position for clarity or visual balance.
The logo should never appear without a white keyline.
Using the logo on backgrounds
You can use the logos on a light or a dark background. The keyline is now built into the logo, so you can use the same file on any background.
Logo variants
- Rectangle version (for restricted vertical space) with white keyline
You must
only use the horizontal rectangle version of the logo with a white keyline if height (vertical space) is restricted always use the correct logo artwork without any modifications or additions.
- Pantone version (for spot-colour printing)
- One-colour version (for etching or specialist use – contact Brand and Design)
- Favicon (digital use only)
- Historic versions (see Historic logos)
Clear space and sizing
Size and positioning
You must always retain the original proportions when resizing the logo to avoid distorting the image. You must use a minimum width of 65 pixels for the square version and 123 pixels for the rectangular version.
Leaving clear space around the logo
You must leave some empty space between the logo and other design elements to make sure the logo stands out clearly.
The exclusion zone should be a minimum of 30% of the height of the logo for both the square and rectangular versions.
Incorrect use
Incorrect use of the University logo weakens brand recognition and can damage the clarity and authority of Oxford communications. This includes altering the logo’s proportions, colours or typography, or using it in unapproved contexts. The examples shown illustrate common errors and should be avoided in all circumstances.
- Do not rearrange any element within the logo
- Do not recolour the logo
- Do not rotate the logo
- Do not tint or use any transparency on the logo
- Do not replace the fonts in the logo
- Do not alter the proportions of the logo
Download the logos
Logo downloads are available here for University staff. If you are external to the University and require these logos, please read ‘Protecting the Brand’ for any other proposed use or contact [email protected].
Legal protection & trademarks
The University of Oxford name, logo and associated marks are legally protected and may only be used in accordance with these guidelines. Their use is subject to trademark and intellectual property law, and unauthorised or incorrect use may result in legal action. Any proposed use outside the guidance, or by external parties, must be approved by the University.
FAQs
Which logo should I use?
- CMYK for print
- RGB for digital
- Please contact us if you require a one colour version.
- rectangle when space is limited
- favicon ONLY for social media