Posted by In this comprehensive guide, we invite you on a remarkable journey to “Discover the 10 Best Colleges at Oxford.” Within these hallowed halls, we will unveil the unique attributes, rich history, and academic prowess of these esteemed institutions, aiding you in identifying the perfect college to foster your educational aspirations.
The University of Oxford is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, with a history dating back to the 11th century. It is home to over 30 halls and colleges where students can learn, live, and flourish. However, with so many options, it can be challenging to decide which college to choose. In this article, we will discover the 10 best colleges at Oxford, according to the Norrington Table, an annual ranking of Oxford’s best colleges based on their final performances.
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What is the Norrington Table?
The Norrington Table is an annual ranking of Oxford’s colleges based on their finals performances. The table is named after Sir Arthur Norrington, a former president of Trinity College, who created it in 1962. The ranking is based on the percentage of students who receive first-class degrees or upper-second-class degrees, which are the two highest degree classifications in the UK. The Norrington Table is a useful tool for students who are trying to decide which college to choose.
The 10 Best Colleges at Oxford
When it comes to the best colleges at Oxford, the Norrington Table is a great place to start. According to the 2020 Norrington Table ranking, the top 10 colleges at Oxford are: Each of these colleges has its own unique history, architecture, and culture, making them all excellent options for students looking to study at Oxford. Let’s take a closer look at each of these colleges.
1. All Souls College
All Souls College is one of the smallest colleges at Oxford, founded in 1438. It is located in the heart of Oxford and has a reputation for academic excellence. The college is known for its stunning architecture, including the famous Codrington Library. Notable alumni include the writer John Donne and the former Prime Minister of the UK, Sir Alec Douglas-Home.
2. Trinity College
Trinity College is one of the largest colleges at Oxford, founded in 1555. It is located in the heart of Oxford and has a reputation for academic excellence. The college is known for its beautiful gardens and historic buildings, including the 17th-century chapel. Notable alumni include the writer J.R.R. Tolkien and the former Prime Minister of the UK, David Cameron.
3. Christ Church
Christ Church is on of the Best Colleges at Oxford, founded in 1546. It is located in the heart of Oxford and has a reputation for academic excellence. The college is known for its stunning architecture, including the famous Tom Tower. Notable alumni include the writer Lewis Carroll and the former Prime Minister of the UK, William Ewart Gladstone.
4. University College
University College, also known as “Univ,” is one of the oldest colleges at Oxford, founded in 1249. It is located in the heart of Oxford and has a reputation for academic excellence. The college is known for its beautiful gardens and historic buildings, including the Radcliffe Camera. Notable alumni include the writer Percy Bysshe Shelley and the former Prime Minister of the UK, Harold Wilson.
5. Magdalen College
Magdalen College is one of the most beautiful colleges at Oxford, founded in 1458. It is located in the heart of Oxford and has a reputation for academic excellence. The college is known for its stunning architecture, including the famous Magdalen Tower. Notable alumni include the writer C.S. Lewis and the former Prime Minister of the UK, Clement Attlee.
6. Brasenose College
Brasenose College, also known as “BNC,” is one of the Best Colleges at Oxford, founded in 1509. It is located in the heart of Oxford and has a reputation for academic excellence. The college is known for its beautiful gardens and historic buildings, including the 17th-century chapel. Notable alumni include the writer William Golding and the former Prime Minister of the UK, David Cameron.
7. St. John’s College
St. John’s College is one of the largest colleges at Oxford, founded in 1555. It is located in the heart of Oxford and has a reputation for academic excellence. The college is known for its beautiful gardens and historic buildings, including the Bridge of Sighs. Notable alumni include the writer J.M. Coetzee and the former Prime Minister of the UK, Tony Blair.
8. Balliol College
Balliol College is one of the Best Colleges at Oxford founded in 1263. It is located in the heart of Oxford and has a reputation for academic excellence. The college is known for its beautiful gardens and historic buildings, including the 17th-century sundial in the front quad. Notable alumni include the former Prime Minister of the UK, Harold Macmillan, and the writer Aldous Huxley.
9. St. Catherine’s College
St. Catherine’s College, also known as “Catz,” is a modern college located in the east of Oxford. It was founded in 1962 and has a reputation for being one of the most innovative and forward-thinking colleges at Oxford. The college is known for its stunning architecture, which includes a distinctive tower. Notable alumni include the actor Hugh Grant and the journalist Martin Bashir all these making it rank as one of the Best Colleges at Oxford.
10. St. Edmund Hall
St. Edmund Hall, also known as “Teddy Hall,” is a small college located in the heart of Oxford. It was founded in 1236 and has a long history of academic excellence. The college is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, and it has a strong community spirit. Notable alumni include the writer J.R.R. Tolkien and the politician Aung San Suu Kyi.
Choosing from the Best Colleges at Oxford
Choosing a college at Oxford can be a daunting task, but there are a few things to consider that can help you make the right choice. Firstly, think about your academic interests and which colleges have a strong reputation in your field of study. Secondly, consider the location of the college and whether it is close to your department or other facilities that you will need. Finally, think about the size and atmosphere of the college and whether it is a good fit for your personality and interests.
Other Factors to Consider
There are other factors to consider when choosing the Best Colleges at Oxford, such as the facilities and extracurricular activities that are available. For example, some colleges have state-of-the-art libraries, sports facilities, and music rooms, while others have a strong tradition of drama or rowing. It is also worth considering the social life of the college and whether it has a strong community spirit or a more independent atmosphere.
Choosing a college at Oxford is an important decision, but with so many excellent options, it is hard to go wrong. The 10 best colleges at Oxford, according to the Norrington Table, are All Souls College, Trinity College, Christ Church, University College, Magdalen College, Brasenose College, St. John’s College, Balliol College, St. Catherine’s College
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