Oriel College (Oxford): Detailed Guide, General Information and Contacts

Oriel College’s location is in Oriel Square between Merton Street and the amenities of the town centre. The College has a quieter tourist trade, making it less likely that tourists will interrupt your daily routine, unlike some of the more ‘Harry Potter’ colleges.

The College provides financial assistance funds for students who run into financial difficulties. Additionally, there are a limited number of bursaries for students in a wide variety of subjects and students from specific regions of the UK. Financial support is provided for estranged students, disabled students and there are a small number of scholarships available. More information for undergraduate financial support can be found here.

For postgraduate students, there is less financial support, but the College offers assistance funds which includes several awards, travel grants and a limited number of scholarships. More information can be found here.

Oriel College has a strong musical community. There is a Music Room, hosting a piano and a mixed Choir who perform at events throughout the year. There are musical societies like the ‘Acaporiel’, as well as a barbershop quartet. Members of the JCR and MCR regularly put on drama plays in College, and an Oriel Garden Play takes place at the end of Trinity Term. As well as the strong arts community and specific College societies, there are over 300 university societies you can join.

Oriel College guarantees accommodation for undergraduate students for the entire duration of their course. Accommodation is split into categories and priced according to size, location, facilities, and condition.

For postgraduates, accommodation is guaranteed for the first year only and this is usually located at the College’s annexe. Otherwise, students can find accommodation on Rectory Road, which is a 10–15-minute walk from the main College site.

More information can be found here.

Oriel College is famous for its rowing talent, having achieved ‘Head of the River’ in Eights Week 25 times in the past 40 years. Rowing is open for students of all abilities and Oriel often takes part in rowing competitions. There are other sports teams including hockey, netball, badminton, football, ultimate frisbee and more. The facilities include squash courts and 3 gyms and an outdoor sports ground near the city centre.

The Welfare team is supported by the JCR and MCR male and female reps, as well as Peer Supporters. More information can be found here.

• Formal Hall is served six nights a week with the students wearing suits and gowns.
• Oriel is the only College in Oxford history to hold both men’s and women’s Head of the River in the annual Torpids races.
• Oriel has a ‘Visiting Musician’ programme where each year a professional musician holds two masterclasses with students and a concert in Oriel.

Cecil John Rhodes

Alexander Todd

Edmund Fellowes