Differing costs of Oxford colleges?

johnllew

Details of costs at Merton College: http://www.merton.ox.ac.uk/admissions/ug_fundingandfees.shtml

HC_2

Yes, we went to yesterday's open day and looked round several colleges.

Of course cost is not a major factor. However it's true that some colleges are significantly more expensive/cheaper than others (particularly with regard to accommodation) so my original post was really to see if anyone had any comments about specific colleges.

I think my DD has made her choice. Merton seems to tick all, or most, of her boxes.

I'm very surprised that some of you were asked about your choice of college.

From the OU website:
However, remember that tutors make their decisions based on your academic abilities and potential alone

From the Jesus College website:
Tutors will not know when they interview you whether you chose Jesus College as your first choice, or whether you submitted an Open Application. We recognise that it is unfair to ask candidates questions about their choice of college.

From the Guardian:
Says the Oxford guidance to applicants: "You will then be allocated to a college with fewer applications per place than average in your subject, and there is no disadvantage in this course of application. Tutors understand that many candidates will not be able to form a strong preference for one college, so how you came to select their college will not be discussed at interview."

However, it's not an issue. My DD has very sensible and solid reasons for choosing Merton.

Thanks for all your replies.

johnllew

HC wrote: »

My DD has very sensible and solid reasons for choosing Merton.

Well chosen. My son has just finished his Masters degree there. He enjoyed his 4 years at Merton immensely.

Masomnia

Yes I've heard good things about it. Very strong academically I hear, a sound choice

HC_2

She'd be thrilled to be offered a place at any of the colleges. I'm sure many prospective Oxford students feel that way. To be able to choose your favourite is just the icing on the cake.

Rosemary7391

Yes, I agree. I'm choosing a college for Cambridge, but honestly, if it means I can study in Cambridge..... I'll go to any college!

HC_2

Rosemary7391 wrote: »

Yes, I agree. I'm choosing a college for Cambridge, but honestly, if it means I can study in Cambridge..... I'll go to any college!

What subject will you be doing?

andromache_2

I know your DD has chosen already but just thought I'd add that it can be quite helpful to go to one of the richer colleges as they are more likely to give you money to help you out if you want to do a project abroad or do an expensive hobby or something similar

melancholly

just thought i'd add that most colleges (oxford and cambridge) have plenty of money to give students in financial support - like hardship funds, but also they give money if you do university level sport or if you do well in exams. most also have travel funds which can help pay for summer holidays (assuming you write an application playing on the 'educational' benefit!). this money is ringfenced by donars so that it can only be spent helping the students in specific ways so will be there year in year out, assuming you find out about it and apply.

the overall wealth isn't always the best indictor of this - some are very asset rich (e.g. own lots of expensive wine - no joke, my college did!) but more cash poor (and i mean that relatively, they're clearly not 'poor').