Additional study support
Starting at Oxford is exciting, but it’s normal to feel a little anxious about managing the workload or whether you’ll keep up. The good news is that, alongside your tutorials, lectures, and classes, Oxford offers a wide range of additional study resources to support your studies so you can quickly develop any new skills you need to enjoy your course.
The University’s additional study resources — from workshops and one-to-one guidance to libraries, online tools, and peer mentoring — are there to help you build skills, stay organised, and gain confidence. With these practical supports, you’ll find ways to manage your studies effectively while gradually feeling at home with your academic routine.
Many of our online study resources are open access and you may find helpful when preparing for school-leaving qualifications as well as after you arrive.
Developing strong study skills
Oxford provides guidance on essential academic skills - such as planning essays, note-taking, critical reading, referencing, and effective revision. These resources are designed to help you work more efficiently, so even if you’re feeling unsure at first, you’ll have tools to manage the demands of university study.
Oxford Study Skills Centre has produced a number of short (2-minute) videos covering different aspects of essay writing, including:
Online guidance and digital resources
During your studies, you can access:
- Self-help guides on writing, researching, and study techniques
- Virtual learning platforms hosting reading lists, course materials, and key information
- Library databases and past papers to support independent study.
These resources help you stay organised, plan effectively and help minimise stress about workload.
Workshops and courses
Many colleges and departments run optional workshops covering topics such as:
- Essay writing and structuring arguments
- Presentation and communication skills
- Exam preparation and revision strategies.
Attending a few sessions can help you feel more prepared and give practical tips for tackling workloads without feeling overwhelmed.
One-to-one college support
In addition to your tutorial teaching, colleges sometimes provide additional personalised guidance tailored to your needs. You can meet with advisors or study skills staff to discuss:
- Managing deadlines and planning work
- Improving academic writing or research approaches
- Developing practical strategies to study more confidently.
These sessions are confidential and focused on helping you feel capable and organised.
Peer mentoring and student-led support
Learning from fellow students is another way to navigate workload concerns. Peer mentors and study groups offer tips and strategies for managing academic demands, as well as reassurance that many students experience the same challenges.
Library and research support
Oxford’s libraries provide a vast range of resources for essays, projects, and independent research, including:
- Books, journals, and online materials
- Subject and research guides and specialist advice
- Training on finding and using sources effectively
- Ask and support service - help from expert librarians
- A getting started guide
Finding and using these resources early can be very helpful.
Don't miss out on our comprehensive study skills guidance - even before you arrive
Are you used to sourcing books from a library? Are you confident at note-taking? Would you like some tips on successful essay writing and how to make sure you are answering the question?
