Program Overview

Introduction to Computer Science at Oxford

The Computer Science program at Oxford is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of computer systems and networks. The course concentrates on creating links between theory and practice, covering a wide variety of software and hardware technologies and their applications.

Course Overview

The course offers the opportunity to develop a more comprehensive understanding of Computer Science as a subject and focuses on the mathematical underpinnings of computer science. It provides students with the chance to gain practical problem-solving and programming skills.

Course Structure

The Computer Science course can be studied for three years (BA) or four years, leading to an award of Master of Computer Science (MCompSci). Students do not need to choose between the three-year and four-year options when applying to the course. All students apply for the four-year course and then decide by the end of their third year whether they wish to continue to the fourth year.

Academic Requirements

• A-levels: AAA including at least an A in Mathematics, with the A in Mathematics, Further Mathematics, or Computer Science.
• Advanced Highers: AA/AAB with an A in Mathematics
• International Baccalaureate (IB): 39 (including core points) with 766 at HL (the 7 must be in HL Mathematics)
• BTEC: Please visit the Computer Science website for the latest information on standard offers for students taking BTECs.
• Any other equivalent qualification: View information on other UK qualifications and international qualifications.

Subject Requirements

• Essential: Candidates are expected to have Mathematics to A-level (A* or A grade), Advanced Higher (A grade), Higher Level in the IB (score 7), or another equivalent.
• Recommended: Further Mathematics A-level is highly recommended. Candidates taking Further Mathematics are required to achieve AAA including Mathematics and Further Mathematics with the A in Mathematics, Further Mathematics, or Computer Science.

Admissions Process

All candidates must follow the application procedure as shown on the Applying to Oxford pages. The following information gives specific details for students applying for this course.

Admissions Test

• Test: MAT
• Test dates: 22 & 23 October 2025
• Registration window: Registration: 18 June 19 September (6pm BST) Booking: 18 August 26 September (6pm BST)

Written Work

You do not need to submit any written work when you apply for this course.

Careers

By studying Computer Science at Oxford, students will open up a world of exciting career opportunities. Computer scientists are in high demand, and with the knowledge, skills, and experience gained as a graduate at Oxford, they can expect to be extremely sought after.

Fees and Funding

• Home: Ł9,790
• Overseas: Ł62,820 Please note that for full-time Home undergraduate students, current university policy is to charge fees at the level of the cap set by the government.

Living Costs

Living costs at Oxford might be less than expected, as world-class resources and college provision can help keep costs down. Living costs for the academic year starting in 2026 are estimated to be between Ł1,405 and Ł2,105 for each month students are in Oxford.

Financial Support

Home students with a family income of around Ł50,000 or less are eligible for one of the most generous bursary packages of any UK university. The UK government also provides living costs support to Home students from the UK and those with settled status who meet the residence requirements.

Studying at Oxford

The Oxford tutorial is central to teaching at Oxford. College tutorials are led by academic tutors who teach as well as do their own research. Students will also receive teaching in a variety of other ways, depending on the course.

College Life

Our colleges are at the heart of Oxfords reputation as one of the best universities in the world. Each college has a unique character but generally provides similar facilities, including a porters lodge, dining hall, lending library, student accommodation, tutors teaching rooms, chapel and/or music rooms, laundry, green spaces, and a common room.

Connect with Us

The Department of Computer Science runs dedicated outreach programs, events, and activities aimed at promoting computer science and supporting talented students from all backgrounds to apply to the course. Teachers, school students, and parents are invited to join the Department of Computer Science mailing list to hear about upcoming opportunities.