The University of Oxford comprises over 40 colleges and private halls, each with its own history, character, and sense of community. Many of these colleges offer residential facilities alongside academic instruction, giving students the convenience of living close to their learning environment. Most accommodation is located either within the college grounds or just a short walk away, minimising the need for daily travel.
Each college provides a wide range of living and learning facilities, typically including libraries, lecture and seminar rooms, computer labs, dining halls, common rooms, gyms, and laundry areas, all conveniently situated near student accommodation. Some colleges also offer additional amenities such as study support centres, music practice rooms, or sports facilities, ensuring a balanced and enriching university experience. Living in college accommodation enables students to take part in the collegiate community, enjoy social and cultural activities, and experience the unique traditions of Oxford.
Accommodation & Facilities (Optional Services for Programme Participants)
Bedrooms in Colleges
Rooms are simply yet comfortably furnished and are typically accessed via stairs, often within buildings of four or five floors. Some rooms include a personal washbasin, while full bathroom facilities (shower and toilet) are generally shared among a small number of adjacent rooms. As many college buildings are of historic character, not all rooms are accessible by lift. Students with mobility requirements are encouraged to inform us in advance so that every reasonable effort can be made to allocate suitable, more accessible accommodation where available.
Living in close proximity to peers fosters a strong sense of community and provides convenient access to shared college facilities. A selection of optional accommodation is available to participants enrolled in our programmes, offering a choice between twin rooms, standard single rooms and ensuite rooms, subject to availability.
Students with Disabilities and Mobility Issues
The Oxford International Study Abroad Programme is committed to providing equal opportunities for all students, including those with disabilities or mobility challenges. We aim to offer reasonable adjustments and support to ensure full participation in our programmes.
Accommodation and Accessibility
Students with specific mobility or accessibility requirements are encouraged to contact us prior to submitting their application. This allows us to discuss possible arrangements and confirm whether the facilities can meet individual needs. Please note that, due to the historic nature of some college buildings, accessibility may be limited in certain areas.
Support Services
Although we do not employ specialist support staff, we work closely with Oxford University colleges to coordinate appropriate adjustments. These may include providing materials in alternative formats, assisting with mobility within college grounds, or making adaptations to teaching and learning methods.
Application Process
When applying, applicants are asked to provide detailed information regarding any disability or mobility issue. This information enables us to assess individual requirements and make suitable arrangements. All disclosures will be treated in confidence and shared only with relevant members of staff involved in providing support.
Pre-Arrival Consultation
We strongly recommend that students with disabilities or mobility issues consult with the programme administrator before applying. Early communication helps us plan effectively and ensures that any necessary adjustments can be made in good time.
St Antony’s College, University of Oxford
The Nissan Theatre
St. Antony’s College’s Library
For programmes held outside the summer session (during Oxford University term time), we may arrange alternative lodging as optional services. These include:
• Homestays with local Oxford families
• Private apartments
• Local 3- or 4-star hotels
Staying with Oxford residents offers a valuable opportunity to experience British daily life and culture firsthand. Homestay families may provide meals, light housekeeping, and assistance with shopping or cooking, although the range of services varies depending on the individual homestay agreement.
Guests will generally have access to essential amenities such as a desk or workspace, storage, and bathroom facilities (shared or private, depending on the host). In homestays, some facilities may be shared with others.
As demand is high, early booking is recommended to maximise the likelihood of securing accommodation that matches your preferences. For late applications, it may not be possible to meet all requests in full.
Students who prefer may choose to arrange their own apartment or hotel accommodation independently.
Other Bedrooms Options (Homestay, Apartment, or Hotel Bedrooms)
Meals (Optional Catering Services)
During the programme, participants have the option to purchase meal plans served in the college dining hall. Those who opt in can enjoy buffet-style meals offering a range of British and international cuisine, with both hot and cold dishes and daily vegetarian options. Meals are freshly prepared by the college catering team, providing a balanced and varied menu throughout the week. A formal Gala Dinner is also available as an optional closing event, featuring a set menu served in the traditional Oxford dining style.
The college catering service offers an extensive selection of dishes, typically including soups, rolls, a salad bar, fruit, cheese, and desserts.
Students who prefer not to take part in the college meal plan are welcome to make their own dining arrangements off campus. Oxford city centre offers a wide variety of cafés, restaurants, and supermarkets, all within easy walking distance of most colleges, ensuring flexibility and convenience for every participant.
Oxford International Study Abroad Programme has contracts with the Colleges of Oxford University for the use of facilities and also contracts with lectures and professors from Oxford University on our courses. OISAP is not affiliated with the University of Oxford in any way.
Oxford International Study Abroad Programme
Belsyre Court, First Floor, 57 Woodstock Road
Oxford, OX2 6HJ, United Kingdom
www.oxfordstudyabroad.org.uk
P: +44 (0) 1865 521959
E: info@oxfordstudyabroad.org.uk