Subject Requirements & Typical Offers

How Oxford entry requirements work

Each Oxford course sets its own subject and grade requirements. These are published on the University’s course pages and in the “Admission requirements” tables.

Requirements usually specify:

• Required subjects (e.g. Maths and Physics for Engineering).
• Recommended subjects that strengthen your application.
• Typical grade offers (e.g. A*AA at A‑level, or equivalent in IB/other qualifications).

Common qualification patterns

Oxford accepts a wide range of qualifications. Common patterns include:

• A‑levels: Most science and maths courses ask for A*AA or higher, with specific subjects at A* or A.
• IB: Typical total points often in the high 30s to low 40s, with high grades at Higher Level in relevant subjects.
• Other qualifications: Oxford publishes equivalents for many national systems (e.g. European Baccalaureate, national curricula with APs, etc.).

Always check your specific course page for the exact requirements for your qualification type.

Subject requirements by area

While details vary by course, some common patterns are:

Sciences and maths

• Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering: Usually require Maths at the highest level; Physics and/or Further Maths are often required or strongly recommended.
• Physical Sciences (Chemistry, Physics, Materials): Require Chemistry and/or Physics at advanced level.
• Biological Sciences: Typically require Chemistry and/or Biology; some courses accept related combinations.

Humanities and social sciences

• History, English, Classics: Often require or strongly recommend an essay‑based subject (e.g. History, English Literature, a language).
• PPE, Economics & Management, Philosophy: Usually expect strong performance in maths or essay subjects depending on the course; check each course’s page.
• Law: No specific subjects required, but essay‑based subjects are helpful.

Medicine and life sciences

• Medicine: Requires Chemistry and usually one of Biology, Physics, or Maths at advanced level.
• Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences: Typically require Chemistry and often Biology.

How to check your course

To find the exact requirements for your situation:

• Go to the University of Oxford course pages.
• Open your chosen course and find the “Entry requirements” or “Admission requirements” section.
• Check:
  • Required and recommended subjects.
  • Typical offer in your qualification (A‑level, IB, etc.).
  • Any notes about specific subjects or combinations.

If your subjects don’t match exactly

If your current subjects don’t perfectly match the requirements:

• Check whether your course lists “recommended” vs “required” subjects; sometimes there is flexibility.
• Consider whether you can take an additional qualification (e.g. an extra A‑level, AS, or equivalent) before applying.
• Contact the college or admissions office for advice if you’re unsure; they can clarify whether your combination is acceptable.