The process at a glance
- 01CAS Application
Receive your CAS from the university
After meeting offer conditions (academic results, English language requirements), pay your tuition deposit to receive the CAS. The CAS number is unique and valid for 3 months for visa applications. Verify all CAS details — course title, start date, tuition fees — before submitting your visa application.
- 02Visa Application
Apply for your Student visa
Complete the online visa application, pay the visa fee (£490+), pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (£776/year), and book a biometrics appointment at a UK visa application centre. Submit supporting documents: CAS, passport, financial evidence (tuition + living costs for up to 9 months), and tuberculosis test results if required for your country.
- 03Arrive & Register
Arrive in the UK and collect your BRP
You can arrive up to 1 month before your course starts (for courses longer than 6 months). Collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) from the specified Post Office location within 10 days of arrival. Register with the university and attend the international student orientation.
- 04Settle In
Open a bank account, register with NHS, and set up accommodation
Open a UK bank account with your passport, BRP, and university enrolment letter. Register with a local GP surgery for NHS healthcare. If living in university halls, confirm your accommodation. If renting privately, ensure your tenancy agreement is signed and protect your deposit in a government-backed scheme.
About University of Oxford
International students at University of Oxford in Oxford, enroll in undergraduate and graduate programs and work with the international student office, whose designated school official (DSO) signs the I-20 and handles SEVIS updates. Attend the international orientation, keep the DSO's contact details, and check with that office before you change your program, drop below full time, or start any job.
F-1 Visa Requirements for University of Oxford
International students coming to University of Oxford need an F-1 visa, obtained through a US embassy or consulate. After {name} issues your I-20, you complete the DS-160 form, pay the SEVIS fee, and schedule your interview. The international student services team at {name} offers visa document guidance and can connect you with current students for interview tips specific to your home country.
Housing Options for International Students at University of Oxford
International students at University of Oxford can choose between on-campus residence halls and off-campus apartments in Oxford. Dormitories offer convenience, meal plans, and a ready-made social network. Off-campus living provides more space and independence, often at a lower cost when sharing with roommates. The neighborhoods surrounding {name} are popular with students and offer good public transit connections to campus.
Working While Studying at University of Oxford
International students holding F-1 status at University of Oxford may engage in on-campus employment for up to 20 hours per week. The university hires students as research assistants, tutors, library staff, and administrative aides. Following one academic year, CPT and OPT provide pathways to off-campus work experience. {name} offers international student career workshops covering US work culture, resume standards, and interview techniques.
International Student Life in Oxford
Life as an international student at University of Oxford combines academic growth with cultural exploration in Oxford. The city welcomes international visitors with diverse neighborhoods, global cuisine, and cultural venues. {name} supports a wide range of international student organizations that arrange events, trips, and social activities. Getting around {city} is convenient with buses, trains, and bike-friendly routes connecting campus to the wider community.
UK universities combine world-class education with a shorter degree duration — saving you time and money while providing the Graduate Route visa for post-study work.
Student visa application and CAS process at University of Oxford
After accepting an offer from University of Oxford, the university issues a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number, which is required for the Student visa application. The CAS contains a unique reference number and details about your course and tuition fees. You must apply for the visa within 3 months of the CAS issuance date. University of Oxford's international student office provides detailed guidance on the financial evidence requirements — generally, you must show funds covering tuition for the first year plus £1,334 per month for living costs in London (or £1,023 per month outside London) for up to 9 months. The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of £776 per year must be paid as part of the application. University of Oxford typically offers pre-arrival guidance including airport pickup services, temporary accommodation, and orientation week activities specifically for international students.
Working while studying at University of Oxford and using the Graduate Route
As a Student visa holder at University of Oxford, you may work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official holidays. University of Oxford's career service helps students find part-time roles suitable for their visa conditions. Typical on-campus positions include student ambassador, library assistant, research participant recruiter, and administrative roles in various departments. University of Oxford also offers a campus job platform where international students can find approved part-time vacancies. After graduation, the Graduate Route visa allows 2 years of unrestricted work in the UK. University of Oxford's careers and employability service provides dedicated support for international students transitioning to the Graduate Route, including CV workshops tailored to the UK job market, networking events with UK employers, and one-on-one career coaching sessions for international job seekers.
Student life, accommodation, and support services at University of Oxford
University of Oxford provides dedicated support for international students through its international student office, offering guidance on visa compliance, cultural adjustment, and academic transition. Accommodation options include university-managed halls of residence (popular for first-year students) and private rentals in the surrounding city. University of Oxford's accommodation office can assist with applying for halls and understanding tenancy agreements. The students' union at University of Oxford operates over 200 societies and clubs, including nationality-specific societies for Indian, Chinese, Nigerian, and other international student communities. University of Oxford also offers English language support through academic skills centres, free counselling services, and NHS registration assistance. Opening a UK bank account, obtaining a National Insurance number for work, and registering with a local GP are important initial steps that University of Oxford's international orientation programmes typically cover during Welcome Week.
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What you learned
End-of-guide quiz
1 question
- 01
A UK international student graduates and wants to use the Graduate Route to work in London. When should they apply?
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Frequently asked questions
What English scores does University of Oxford require?+
University of Oxford requires international applicants to meet minimum English test scores: typically TOEFL 80-100 iBT or IELTS 6.5-7.0. Confirm with your specific program as requirements may vary.
Are international students eligible for scholarships at University of Oxford?+
University of Oxford offers limited merit-based financial aid for international students. Awards are competitive and consider academic achievement, standardized test results, and extracurricular activities.
How much do international students pay to attend University of Oxford?+
International students at University of Oxford can expect annual costs of $45,000 to $75,000, including tuition, housing, meals, health insurance, and personal expenses. Costs vary by program and housing choice.
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