Your Oxford
One of the best things about going to university is the social life, and Oxford is no exception. Alongside your ready-made college community, you can pick and choose from over 400 clubs and societies to create your own amazing Oxford experience. Extra-curricular activities are not only lots of fun and great for your social life; they build your skills too - complementing your academic and career opportunities
“Most people have so many interests that go way beyond their degree. The wide range of societies that exist and activities that you can get involved in is testament to this”
Oxford is... enjoying what you love
While studying is a major part of life at Oxford, there is still plenty of time to have a laugh, relax and develop both old and new interests. The Oxford Student Union's Freshers' Fair at the start of your first term will ensure you know the extent of your options. You can become involved in any club or society that interests you, whatever your experience or background. If you think something's missing, you are welcome to set up your own.
Oxford is a small and compact city, easily explored on foot or by bike or bus. It is also known as a safe city: the Complete University Guide ranks Oxford in its top ten safest student cities.
There are plenty of beautiful green spaces to enjoy as well as riverside walks, and it's easy to get out into the countryside too.
Entertainment-wise, Oxford offers everything from student club nights to stand-up comedy. The city has regular classical concerts, plays and musicals, several cinemas and many live music venues.
Stage and screen
Oxford’s vibrant drama scene covers both stage and screen, and offers amazing opportunities to actors, writers, producers, directors, designers and technicians.
Music
The musical world of Oxford is broad and diverse. From classical to jazz, through to indie, rock, grime, folk, dance and far beyond - any genre of music you love can be found.
Sport
With over 80 sports clubs and some of the best sporting facilities of any UK university, you will have the chance to play for fun, play for your college, compete for the University or just keep active.
Journalism
Many renowned journalists and broadcasters began their careers at Oxford. Even if you don’t want to make journalism a career, you can develop your skills and get your voice heard by creating content for one of Oxford’s varied and dynamic student media.
Campaigning
If you’re keen to spend your free time driving change and speaking up for what you believe in, you can work with one of Oxford Student Union’s many established campaigns, or set up your own.
Volunteering
Do something completely different and have a positive impact on your local community by getting involved in the wider city of Oxford through the Oxford Hub.
Learn a language
Start from scratch or carry on learning a language at our Language Centre to support your studies, career or travel plans. You can also improve your academic English both before you arrive, and while on your course.
Choosing Oxford
Sign up to our Choosing Oxford newsletter and visit our undergraduate admissions website for all the latest information about applying to Oxford.
Feedback
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Open days
Our 2025 University-wide undergraduate Open Days will be held on 2 and 3 July and 19 September. Further information will be published on our website in the build up.