Oxford 2025-2026 BCL/MSCs/MJUR/MPHIL/MLF

UniWork76

187 63

Posted Aug 21, 2024 10:55

Welcome, Prospective Law Applicants for 2024-2025!

Hi everyone! I noticed there wasn’t a thread for this year’s applicants, so I thought I’d start one. Let this forum serve as your platform to ask questions or seek advice on your journey.

Nice to meet you all! I will be re-applying this year, thus I am quite familiar with the process, feel free to ask questions. I will try to answer to the best of my knowledge.

Hope everyone is doing well with their applications as the opening date for applications draws near.

Let’s use this space to collaborate—feel free to ask questions, share your experiences, and seek advice. Wishing you all the best of luck in your application journey!

[Edited by UniWork76 on Sep 19, 2024]

quote

recentBCLg...

32 14

Posted Sep 18, 2024 15:48

Hello!

I recently graduated from the BCL and wanted to make myself available on this forum to answer any questions that might arise for applicants and prospective students. In the past, forums have been littered with information that has proven to be inaccurate and I hope to provide as much clarity as possible regarding the application process and studying at Oxford. As a disclaimer, I do not work for the University. I simply want to share the knowledge that I have obtained during the application process and my studies at Oxford to help ease as much anxiety and uncertainty as possible. For added context, I also applied to Cambridge (for the MCL and LLM) and LSE (for the LLM) and was accepted to all programmes but chose to study at Oxford.

Looking forward to future correspondence and wishing you all the best of luck!

[Edited by recentBCLgrad on Sep 18, 2024]

quote

Yooo

7 13

Posted Oct 05, 2024 22:43

Hello!

I recently graduated from the BCL and wanted to make myself available on this forum to answer any questions that might arise for applicants and prospective students. In the past, forums have been littered with information that has proven to be inaccurate and I hope to provide as much clarity as possible regarding the application process and studying at Oxford. As a disclaimer, I do not work for the University. I simply want to share the knowledge that I have obtained during the application process and my studies at Oxford to help ease as much anxiety and uncertainty as possible. For added context, I also applied to Cambridge (for the MCL and LLM) and LSE (for the LLM) and was accepted to all programmes but chose to study at Oxford.

Looking forward to future correspondence and wishing you all the best of luck!

Thank you for the assistance, just to be sure. is it a must that every applicant has to attach the sample written work essay. PS I am applying for the MLF

[quote]Hello!

I recently graduated from the BCL and wanted to make myself available on this forum to answer any questions that might arise for applicants and prospective students. In the past, forums have been littered with information that has proven to be inaccurate and I hope to provide as much clarity as possible regarding the application process and studying at Oxford. As a disclaimer, I do not work for the University. I simply want to share the knowledge that I have obtained during the application process and my studies at Oxford to help ease as much anxiety and uncertainty as possible. For added context, I also applied to Cambridge (for the MCL and LLM) and LSE (for the LLM) and was accepted to all programmes but chose to study at Oxford.

Looking forward to future correspondence and wishing you all the best of luck! [/quote]

Thank you for the assistance, just to be sure. is it a must that every applicant has to attach the sample written work essay. PS I am applying for the MLF

quote

recentBCLg...

32 14

Posted Oct 09, 2024 18:36

A general piece of advice that I would like to share concerns the collegiate system at Oxford. As part of your application, you have the option of making a college preference or to make no such preference. I strongly recommend making a college preference. Although all of the colleges at Oxford will have incredible resources, alumni and support, there are differences between the colleges that will shape your experience at Oxford. For example, some colleges are located closer to the Faculty of Law while others are closer to other amenities (like libraries, shops and sports facilities). In addition, each college will offer different types of accommodation (some old, some new and in different locations), have different policies regarding formal dinners and may only cater to graduate students. It is important to note that choosing to express a college preference (or refraining from doing so) will not impact your application or how you will be taught on the BCL because the Faculty of Law determines whether you are accepted and carries out teaching obligations. Indeed, if your application is successful, you will find out from the Faculty long before you will hear from any of the colleges (who might offer you scholarships to study there, for example). Therefore, while successful applicants are not guaranteed a place at their preferred college, it is (in my estimation) worth making a preference as the University will try to accommodate it.

quote

UniWork76

187 63

Posted Oct 10, 2024 14:46

A general piece of advice that I would like to share concerns the collegiate system at Oxford [...] the University will try to accommodate it.

Do you happen to have any advice regarding the colleges, meaning which you believe are the better ones for the experience, formal dinners etc? Last year I got accepted and received an offer from the college I chose as my preference. I was planning on choosing them again this year as for personal reasons I was not able to take up the place last year. Though not the largest or most popular, I chose them based on personal factors I took into account, such as amenities, accommodation, food, formal dinners, support, etc. Do you have happen to have any insights for example into some of the main colleges like Jesus, Balliol, Trinity, Brasenose, Christ, Corpus, St Johns, University or any other colleges that we would not be able to learn about online?
I am aware that should you receive a scholarship you'll be transferred anyway - but I would appreciate any insight you might have as you have seen it first hand.

[quote]A general piece of advice that I would like to share concerns the collegiate system at Oxford [...] the University will try to accommodate it. [/quote]

Do you happen to have any advice regarding the colleges, meaning which you believe are the better ones for the experience, formal dinners etc? Last year I got accepted and received an offer from the college I chose as my preference. I was planning on choosing them again this year as for personal reasons I was not able to take up the place last year. Though not the largest or most popular, I chose them based on personal factors I took into account, such as amenities, accommodation, food, formal dinners, support, etc. Do you have happen to have any insights for example into some of the main colleges like Jesus, Balliol, Trinity, Brasenose, Christ, Corpus, St Johns, University or any other colleges that we would not be able to learn about online?
I am aware that should you receive a scholarship you'll be transferred anyway - but I would appreciate any insight you might have as you have seen it first hand.

quote

miki3999

1.040 270

Posted Oct 11, 2024 10:26

A general piece of advice that I would like to share concerns the collegiate system at Oxford [...] the University will try to accommodate it.

Do you happen to have any advice regarding the colleges, meaning which you believe are the better ones for the experience, formal dinners etc? Last year I got accepted and received an offer from the college I chose as my preference. I was planning on choosing them again this year as for personal reasons I was not able to take up the place last year. Though not the largest or most popular, I chose them based on personal factors I took into account, such as amenities, accommodation, food, formal dinners, support, etc. Do you have happen to have any insights for example into some of the main colleges like Jesus, Balliol, Trinity, Brasenose, Christ, Corpus, St Johns, University or any other colleges that we would not be able to learn about online?
I am aware that should you receive a scholarship you'll be transferred anyway - but I would appreciate any insight you might have as you have seen it first hand.

ChCh has very generous grants, you can (or could at least) buy books worth up to GBP 300 and they will reimburse them. The Hall is probably the best in Oxford (if not Oxbridge), the food is ok and fairly cheap. In the Graduate Common Room you can see Einstein's manuscripts, play COD on a PS5 and occasionally see mice. They also have decent alumni benefits that I sometimes use.

I would say Magdalen is also very nice and is a living piece of history. Academically it is also very strong (but this applies more to UGs).

Jesus struggled financially a little bit in the recent years (probably because they invested a lot in modern accommodation). It is very central, although it is really hard for a graduate to get a place onsite. They have more acco in Cowley, which is 15 mins away by bus from the city centre.

LMH seems popular among graduates (and celeb students, such as Emma Watson.) It has a bit of a Harvardian vibe.

Harris Manchester is also popular among grads, it is fairly central and is close to the cheapest lunch option in Oxford (the Alternative Tuck Shop).

New is old but gold. You can occasionally see Hugh Grant there! Great chapel as well. This is also where they filmed lots of Harry Potter (besides ChCh).

Exeter has great views overlooking the Rad cam. It is also super central and cosy inside. I saw a rat there one day though lol

[quote][quote]A general piece of advice that I would like to share concerns the collegiate system at Oxford [...] the University will try to accommodate it. [/quote]

Do you happen to have any advice regarding the colleges, meaning which you believe are the better ones for the experience, formal dinners etc? Last year I got accepted and received an offer from the college I chose as my preference. I was planning on choosing them again this year as for personal reasons I was not able to take up the place last year. Though not the largest or most popular, I chose them based on personal factors I took into account, such as amenities, accommodation, food, formal dinners, support, etc. Do you have happen to have any insights for example into some of the main colleges like Jesus, Balliol, Trinity, Brasenose, Christ, Corpus, St Johns, University or any other colleges that we would not be able to learn about online?
I am aware that should you receive a scholarship you'll be transferred anyway - but I would appreciate any insight you might have as you have seen it first hand. [/quote]

ChCh has very generous grants, you can (or could at least) buy books worth up to GBP 300 and they will reimburse them. The Hall is probably the best in Oxford (if not Oxbridge), the food is ok and fairly cheap. In the Graduate Common Room you can see Einstein's manuscripts, play COD on a PS5 and occasionally see mice. They also have decent alumni benefits that I sometimes use.

I would say Magdalen is also very nice and is a living piece of history. Academically it is also very strong (but this applies more to UGs).

Jesus struggled financially a little bit in the recent years (probably because they invested a lot in modern accommodation). It is very central, although it is really hard for a graduate to get a place onsite. They have more acco in Cowley, which is 15 mins away by bus from the city centre.

LMH seems popular among graduates (and celeb students, such as Emma Watson.) It has a bit of a Harvardian vibe.

Harris Manchester is also popular among grads, it is fairly central and is close to the cheapest lunch option in Oxford (the Alternative Tuck Shop).

New is old but gold. You can occasionally see Hugh Grant there! Great chapel as well. This is also where they filmed lots of Harry Potter (besides ChCh).

Exeter has great views overlooking the Rad cam. It is also super central and cosy inside. I saw a rat there one day though lol

quote

recentBCLg...

32 14

Posted Oct 11, 2024 18:03

A general piece of advice that I would like to share concerns the collegiate system at Oxford [...] the University will try to accommodate it.

Do you happen to have any advice regarding the colleges, meaning which you believe are the better ones for the experience, formal dinners etc? Last year I got accepted and received an offer from the college I chose as my preference. I was planning on choosing them again this year as for personal reasons I was not able to take up the place last year. Though not the largest or most popular, I chose them based on personal factors I took into account, such as amenities, accommodation, food, formal dinners, support, etc. Do you have happen to have any insights for example into some of the main colleges like Jesus, Balliol, Trinity, Brasenose, Christ, Corpus, St Johns, University or any other colleges that we would not be able to learn about online?

I am aware that should you receive a scholarship you'll be transferred anyway - but I would appreciate any insight you might have as you have seen it first hand.

Although I have visited all of Oxford's colleges at least once, I do not know nearly enough to confidently speak on their positive/negative aspects. However, I would say that most of what you read online will not be entirely inaccurate. For full disclosure, I attended Brasenose. It is located right beside Radcliffe Camera and about a 10 minute walk from the Faculty of Law. I did not know this at the time of my application, but Brasenose has the reputation of being the "law college" at Oxford because it has a dedicated law library and educates more graduate and undergraduate law students than any other college. I can share more of my experiences at Brasenose should anyone find it helpful but a quick Google search should reveal the location and appearance of all other colleges. While Oxford does (informally) keep rankings on academic performance (known as the Norrington Table), it pertains more to undergraduate students who are taught by tutors at their college (as opposed to graduate students who are taught by their faculties). Wikipedia also has a lot of basic information about the colleges that is worth having a look at (just search "Colleges of the University of Oxford"). I would advice doing your own due diligence because only you will know what aspects of college life matter most to you and can weigh them accordingly. Information on food, accommodation and history will be available on the respective websites of each college. At the end of the day, all of Oxford's colleges are amazing and the process of college allocation is entirely out of an applicant's hands (which should be comforting because it takes the pressure off!). Hope this helps!

[Edited by recentBCLgrad on Oct 11, 2024]

[quote][quote]A general piece of advice that I would like to share concerns the collegiate system at Oxford [...] the University will try to accommodate it. [/quote] 
 
Do you happen to have any advice regarding the colleges, meaning which you believe are the better ones for the experience, formal dinners etc? Last year I got accepted and received an offer from the college I chose as my preference. I was planning on choosing them again this year as for personal reasons I was not able to take up the place last year. Though not the largest or most popular, I chose them based on personal factors I took into account, such as amenities, accommodation, food, formal dinners, support, etc. Do you have happen to have any insights for example into some of the main colleges like Jesus, Balliol, Trinity, Brasenose, Christ, Corpus, St Johns, University or any other colleges that we would not be able to learn about online? 
I am aware that should you receive a scholarship you'll be transferred anyway - but I would appreciate any insight you might have as you have seen it first hand. [/quote] 
 
Although I have visited all of Oxford's colleges at least once, I do not know nearly enough to confidently speak on their positive/negative aspects. However, I would say that most of what you read online will not be entirely inaccurate. For full disclosure, I attended Brasenose. It is located right beside Radcliffe Camera and about a 10 minute walk from the Faculty of Law. I did not know this at the time of my application, but Brasenose has the reputation of being the "law college" at Oxford because it has a dedicated law library and educates more graduate and undergraduate law students than any other college. I can share more of my experiences at Brasenose should anyone find it helpful but a quick Google search should reveal the location and appearance of all other colleges. While Oxford does (informally) keep rankings on academic performance (known as the Norrington Table), it pertains more to undergraduate students who are taught by tutors at their college (as opposed to graduate students who are taught by their faculties). Wikipedia also has a lot of basic information about the colleges that is worth having a look at (just search "Colleges of the University of Oxford"). I would advice doing your own due diligence because only you will know what aspects of college life matter most to you and can weigh them accordingly. Information on food, accommodation and history will be available on the respective websites of each college. At the end of the day, all of Oxford's colleges are amazing and the process of college allocation is entirely out of an applicant's hands (which should be comforting because it takes the pressure off!). Hope this helps!

quote

recentBCLg...

32 14

Posted Oct 11, 2024 23:42

Hello!

I recently graduated from the BCL and wanted to make myself available on this forum to answer any questions that might arise for applicants and prospective students. In the past, forums have been littered with information that has proven to be inaccurate and I hope to provide as much clarity as possible regarding the application process and studying at Oxford. As a disclaimer, I do not work for the University. I simply want to share the knowledge that I have obtained during the application process and my studies at Oxford to help ease as much anxiety and uncertainty as possible. For added context, I also applied to Cambridge (for the MCL and LLM) and LSE (for the LLM) and was accepted to all programmes but chose to study at Oxford.

Looking forward to future correspondence and wishing you all the best of luck!

Thank you for the assistance, just to be sure. is it a must that every applicant has to attach the sample written work essay. PS I am applying for the MLF

According to Oxford's website for the MLF (https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate...), submitting a piece of written work is mandatory as part of your application. The same requirement applies for BCL (https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate...) and MJur (https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate...) applicants. In all instances, Oxford requires a written sample of 2000 words. Personally, I uploaded one of my assignments that I wrote as part of my undergraduate LLB degree. I choose an assignment that I thought best demonstrated my academic abilities rather than the one that I achieved the highest mark on (although, these two metrics often coincide). The piece of written work that I chose to submit was originally 2500 words but I cut it down to 2000 words by removing the introduction, conclusion and some of the content that I did not think was absolutely necessary. I explained as much in the header of my written sample, providing context for what I was submitting.

[quote][quote]Hello!

I recently graduated from the BCL and wanted to make myself available on this forum to answer any questions that might arise for applicants and prospective students. In the past, forums have been littered with information that has proven to be inaccurate and I hope to provide as much clarity as possible regarding the application process and studying at Oxford. As a disclaimer, I do not work for the University. I simply want to share the knowledge that I have obtained during the application process and my studies at Oxford to help ease as much anxiety and uncertainty as possible. For added context, I also applied to Cambridge (for the MCL and LLM) and LSE (for the LLM) and was accepted to all programmes but chose to study at Oxford.

Looking forward to future correspondence and wishing you all the best of luck! [/quote]

Thank you for the assistance, just to be sure. is it a must that every applicant has to attach the sample written work essay. PS I am applying for the MLF [/quote]

According to Oxford's website for the MLF (https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate...), submitting a piece of written work is mandatory as part of your application. The same requirement applies for BCL (https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate...) and MJur (https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate...) applicants. In all instances, Oxford requires a written sample of 2000 words. Personally, I uploaded one of my assignments that I wrote as part of my undergraduate LLB degree. I choose an assignment that I thought best demonstrated my academic abilities rather than the one that I achieved the highest mark on (although, these two metrics often coincide). The piece of written work that I chose to submit was originally 2500 words but I cut it down to 2000 words by removing the introduction, conclusion and some of the content that I did not think was absolutely necessary. I explained as much in the header of my written sample, providing context for what I was submitting.

quote

UniWork76

187 63

Posted Oct 12, 2024 16:07

Thank you both for your answers. I might do some new reseearch this year to make sure. Last year I got an offer from my preffered choice of Trinity. I have seen that they just renovated their Hall or something. But I do remember their accommodation, Hall and gym were really appealing to me.
Once more thanks for the insights - I will check them all out once more.

quote

NeoSoulThe...

1 2

Posted Oct 13, 2024 07:16

I am applying to the MFL program this year.

I have a question regarding my university's marking scheme (high ranked university in my country, non-EU) as reflected in the transcript.

My transcript has both - percentage of marks and GPA.

My percentage of marks is above the minimum criteria for the MFL but my GPA isn't (falls short by a whisker).

Taking into account other factors such as work experience (2+ years, working at a well known firm), research experience, publications etc., I feel I have a good shot at the MFL.

How would Oxford assess my application? Would I be disqualified at first instance because of my GPA?

quote

UniWork76

187 63

Posted Oct 13, 2024 13:41

I am applying to the MFL program this year.

I have a question regarding my university's marking scheme [...] Would I be disqualified at first instance because of my GPA?

I doubt that you'd be disqualified based on that. I am pretty sure Oxford has become, throughout the years, well-versed in assessing applications from every country along with their specific grading systems.

I cannot tell you your chances, nor any of ours. You have to remember that every year Oxbridge receives hundreds (if not potentially thousands) applications from the elite students. A lot of them the top 1% of their cohorts. That is not to say you do not have a chance, but all of our chances are slim to begin with I would say.

For example I, received an offer last year, even though my friend who was unsuccessful (who applied with me) had higher average marks. Oxford I think is very well versed in judging applications. And though marks are certainly important, such a slight margin will most likely not make or break your application. So I would say your experience and publications as well as your recommendations will play a large role.

So certaintly do not be discouraged, at the end of the day, we all need a bit of luck to go alonng with our applications.

[quote]I am applying to the MFL program this year.

I have a question regarding my university's marking scheme [...] Would I be disqualified at first instance because of my GPA?
[/quote]

I doubt that you'd be disqualified based on that. I am pretty sure Oxford has become, throughout the years, well-versed in assessing applications from every country along with their specific grading systems.

I cannot tell you your chances, nor any of ours. You have to remember that every year Oxbridge receives hundreds (if not potentially thousands) applications from the elite students. A lot of them the top 1% of their cohorts. That is not to say you do not have a chance, but all of our chances are slim to begin with I would say.

For example I, received an offer last year, even though my friend who was unsuccessful (who applied with me) had higher average marks. Oxford I think is very well versed in judging applications. And though marks are certainly important, such a slight margin will most likely not make or break your application. So I would say your experience and publications as well as your recommendations will play a large role.

So certaintly do not be discouraged, at the end of the day, we all need a bit of luck to go alonng with our applications.

quote

recentBCLg...

32 14

Posted Oct 14, 2024 17:24

I am applying to the MFL program this year.

I have a question regarding my university's marking scheme [...] Would I be disqualified at first instance because of my GPA?

I doubt that you'd be disqualified based on that. I am pretty sure Oxford has become, throughout the years, well-versed in assessing applications from every country along with their specific grading systems.

I cannot tell you your chances, nor any of ours. You have to remember that every year Oxbridge receives hundreds (if not potentially thousands) applications from the elite students. A lot of them the top 1% of their cohorts. That is not to say you do not have a chance, but all of our chances are slim to begin with I would say.

For example I, received an offer last year, even though my friend who was unsuccessful (who applied with me) had higher average marks. Oxford I think is very well versed in judging applications. And though marks are certainly important, such a slight margin will most likely not make or break your application. So I would say your experience and publications as well as your recommendations will play a large role.

So certaintly do not be discouraged, at the end of the day, we all need a bit of luck to go alonng with our applications.

I second this piece of advice! Like anything in life, luck plays a factor and all we can do is our best. However, rest assured that Oxford will have individuals that specialise in assessing applications from all over the world and will therefore be familiar with the particular marking scheme used by your institution. There were many masters students from non-EU universities when I studied at Oxford so I do not think that you will be at any disadvantage.

[quote][quote]I am applying to the MFL program this year.

I have a question regarding my university's marking scheme [...] Would I be disqualified at first instance because of my GPA?
[/quote]

I doubt that you'd be disqualified based on that. I am pretty sure Oxford has become, throughout the years, well-versed in assessing applications from every country along with their specific grading systems.

I cannot tell you your chances, nor any of ours. You have to remember that every year Oxbridge receives hundreds (if not potentially thousands) applications from the elite students. A lot of them the top 1% of their cohorts. That is not to say you do not have a chance, but all of our chances are slim to begin with I would say.

For example I, received an offer last year, even though my friend who was unsuccessful (who applied with me) had higher average marks. Oxford I think is very well versed in judging applications. And though marks are certainly important, such a slight margin will most likely not make or break your application. So I would say your experience and publications as well as your recommendations will play a large role.

So certaintly do not be discouraged, at the end of the day, we all need a bit of luck to go alonng with our applications. [/quote]

I second this piece of advice! Like anything in life, luck plays a factor and all we can do is our best. However, rest assured that Oxford will have individuals that specialise in assessing applications from all over the world and will therefore be familiar with the particular marking scheme used by your institution. There were many masters students from non-EU universities when I studied at Oxford so I do not think that you will be at any disadvantage.

quote

Aniket Kum...

2 3

Posted Oct 17, 2024 15:36

Hello!

I recently graduated from the BCL and wanted to make myself available on this forum to answer any questions that might arise for applicants and prospective students. In the past, forums have been littered with information that has proven to be inaccurate and I hope to provide as much clarity as possible regarding the application process and studying at Oxford. As a disclaimer, I do not work for the University. I simply want to share the knowledge that I have obtained during the application process and my studies at Oxford to help ease as much anxiety and uncertainty as possible. For added context, I also applied to Cambridge (for the MCL and LLM) and LSE (for the LLM) and was accepted to all programmes but chose to study at Oxford.

Looking forward to future correspondence and wishing you all the best of luck!

Hi there, I hope you're doing well. I wanted to reach out to you as I was curious whether you would have any insights to share regarding the application process and scholarships (if any), and if you had any tips for LORs or writing the SOPs... would greatly appreciate any valuable information you might have. Thanks :) -- aniketsinha262@gmail.com

[quote]Hello!

I recently graduated from the BCL and wanted to make myself available on this forum to answer any questions that might arise for applicants and prospective students. In the past, forums have been littered with information that has proven to be inaccurate and I hope to provide as much clarity as possible regarding the application process and studying at Oxford. As a disclaimer, I do not work for the University. I simply want to share the knowledge that I have obtained during the application process and my studies at Oxford to help ease as much anxiety and uncertainty as possible. For added context, I also applied to Cambridge (for the MCL and LLM) and LSE (for the LLM) and was accepted to all programmes but chose to study at Oxford.

Looking forward to future correspondence and wishing you all the best of luck! [/quote]

Hi there, I hope you're doing well. I wanted to reach out to you as I was curious whether you would have any insights to share regarding the application process and scholarships (if any), and if you had any tips for LORs or writing the SOPs... would greatly appreciate any valuable information you might have. Thanks :) -- aniketsinha262@gmail.com

quote

IJMM

18 5

Posted Oct 18, 2024 19:20

Hello everyone, I noticed that the MLF is now requesting GRE scores on the application portal. Does anyone know if this is a new requirement or if they were asking for GRE scores before? Thank you!

quote

recentBCLg...

32 14

Posted Oct 19, 2024 16:30

Hi there, I hope you're doing well. I wanted to reach out to you as I was curious whether you would have any insights to share regarding the application process and scholarships (if any), and if you had any tips for LORs or writing the SOPs... would greatly appreciate any valuable information you might have. Thanks :) -- aniketsinha262@gmail.com

Hello, thanks for your message!

Regarding the application process, I recommend getting it done early! In my application cycle, I began and finished all my applications in one week. I did not dwell on them and focused as I figured most of the process was out of my control (such as the strength of other applicant and the subjective nature of assessing applications). With that being said, I definitely did not rush the applications and tried to present myself in the best light possible.

Regarding scholarships, successful applicants are automatically considered for scholarships upon their application (there is no separate process). I was lucky enough to receive a partial scholarship and I know of successful applicants who have received full scholarships. Although I am not sure how scholarships are awarded, it must be based on the materials submitted as part of your application (such as grades and personal information disclosed). Of course, many students also find scholarships external to Oxford (for which I unfortunately have no insight).

Regarding the statement of purpose, it is very short (300 words) and Oxford admits that "in most cases the statement will not constitute part of the formal assessment, though may provide information relevant to consideration for scholarships" (see: https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate/courses/bachelor-civil-law). There are as many ways to write a personal statement as there are applicants. Personally, I chose to discuss my interests in law and elaborate on how the BCL could enhance those interests and further my career goals. I would not overthink the personal statement.

Regarding references, you require three and Oxford prefers academic references (see link above for this information as well). All three of my references were academic: (1) the dean of the law school; (2) the head of awards and prizes at the law school and my academic tutor; (3) a professor of my law school who taught me throughout my studies. I recommend sorting out your referees sooner rather than later. Indeed, putting someone under pressure to write a recommendation about you is not an ideal situation. Personally, I gave my referees notice of the deadlines and provided them with information about what Oxford was looking for in the personal statement, which includes referees that "will support intellectual ability, academic achievement and motivation" (link above). There is additional information available as well (see: https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate/applying-to-oxford/how-to-guides/choosing-your-referees; see also: https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate/applying-to-oxford/information-for-referees).

Hope this helped and best of luck!

[Edited by Hilda on Oct 21, 2024]

[quote] Hi there, I hope you're doing well. I wanted to reach out to you as I was curious whether you would have any insights to share regarding the application process and scholarships (if any), and if you had any tips for LORs or writing the SOPs... would greatly appreciate any valuable information you might have. Thanks :) -- aniketsinha262@gmail.com [/quote] 
 
Hello, thanks for your message! 
 
Regarding the application process, I recommend getting it done early! In my application cycle, I began and finished all my applications in one week. I did not dwell on them and focused as I figured most of the process was out of my control (such as the strength of other applicant and the subjective nature of assessing applications). With that being said, I definitely did not rush the applications and tried to present myself in the best light possible. 
 
Regarding scholarships, successful applicants are automatically considered for scholarships upon their application (there is no separate process). I was lucky enough to receive a partial scholarship and I know of successful applicants who have received full scholarships. Although I am not sure how scholarships are awarded, it must be based on the materials submitted as part of your application (such as grades and personal information disclosed). Of course, many students also find scholarships external to Oxford (for which I unfortunately have no insight). 
 
Regarding the statement of purpose, it is very short (300 words) and Oxford admits that "in most cases the statement will not constitute part of the formal assessment, though may provide information relevant to consideration for scholarships" (see: https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate/courses/bachelor-civil-law). There are as many ways to write a personal statement as there are applicants. Personally, I chose to discuss my interests in law and elaborate on how the BCL could enhance those interests and further my career goals. I would not overthink the personal statement. 
 
Regarding references, you require three and Oxford prefers academic references (see link above for this information as well). All three of my references were academic: (1) the dean of the law school; (2) the head of awards and prizes at the law school and my academic tutor; (3) a professor of my law school who taught me throughout my studies. I recommend sorting out your referees sooner rather than later. Indeed, putting someone under pressure to write a recommendation about you is not an ideal situation. Personally, I gave my referees notice of the deadlines and provided them with information about what Oxford was looking for in the personal statement, which includes referees that "will support intellectual ability, academic achievement and motivation" (link above). There is additional information available as well (see: https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate/applying-to-oxford/how-to-guides/choosing-your-referees; see also: https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate/applying-to-oxford/information-for-referees). 
 
Hope this helped and best of luck!

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recentBCLg...

32 14

Posted Oct 19, 2024 16:36

Hello everyone, I noticed that the MLF is now requesting GRE scores on the application portal. Does anyone know if this is a new requirement or if they were asking for GRE scores before? Thank you!

Hello,

Oxford's website says "The How to apply section of your course page will state whether GRE test scores are required as part of your application. If you have questions about this requirement, contact the relevant academic department using the details on the course page, under 'Course-related enquiries'." Upon checking the relevant page for the MLF, there is no such stipulation (see here: https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate/courses/msc-law-and-finance). However, I would double check by contacting the relevant department and to be absolutely sure, I would email both the Law Faculty and the Saïd Business School (since the MLF is taught jointly).

[Edited by recentBCLgrad on Oct 22, 2024]

[quote]Hello everyone, I noticed that the MLF is now requesting GRE scores on the application portal. Does anyone know if this is a new requirement or if they were asking for GRE scores before? Thank you! [/quote] 
 
Hello, 
 
Oxford's website says "The How to apply section of your course page will state whether GRE test scores are required as part of your application. If you have questions about this requirement, contact the relevant academic department using the details on the course page, under 'Course-related enquiries'." Upon checking the relevant page for the MLF, there is no such stipulation (see here: https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate/courses/msc-law-and-finance). However, I would double check by contacting the relevant department and to be absolutely sure, I would email both the Law Faculty and the Saïd Business School (since the MLF is taught jointly).

quote

IJMM

18 5

Posted Oct 21, 2024 21:37

Hello everyone, I noticed that the MLF is now requesting GRE scores on the application portal. Does anyone know if this is a new requirement or if they were asking for GRE scores before? Thank you!

Hello,

Oxford's website says "The How to apply section of your course page will state whether GRE test scores are required as part of your application. If you have questions about this requirement, contact the relevant academic department using the details on the course page, under 'Course-related enquiries'." Upon checking the relevant page for the MLF, there is no such stipulation (see here: https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate/courses/msc-law-and-finance). However, I would double check my contacting the relevant department and to be absolutely sure, I would email both the Law Faculty and the Saïd Business School (since the MLF is taught jointly).

Thank you very much!

[quote][quote]Hello everyone, I noticed that the MLF is now requesting GRE scores on the application portal. Does anyone know if this is a new requirement or if they were asking for GRE scores before? Thank you! [/quote]

Hello,

Oxford's website says "The How to apply section of your course page will state whether GRE test scores are required as part of your application. If you have questions about this requirement, contact the relevant academic department using the details on the course page, under 'Course-related enquiries'." Upon checking the relevant page for the MLF, there is no such stipulation (see here: https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate/courses/msc-law-and-finance). However, I would double check my contacting the relevant department and to be absolutely sure, I would email both the Law Faculty and the Saïd Business School (since the MLF is taught jointly). [/quote]

Thank you very much!

quote

Yvonne Wal...

3 6

Posted Oct 29, 2024 14:42

Hello everyone! I am going to apply for BCL this year.

For the essay submission, would it affect my application if the topic of my essay is different from the subjects which I indicated an interest in pursuing in my personal statement (e.g. submitting an essay on criminal law, while indicating an interest in commercial law in my personal statement)?

By the same token, do the fields which my referees specialize in have an impact as well?

Thanks so much!

quote

UniWork76

187 63

Posted Oct 29, 2024 15:06

Hello everyone! [...] For the essay submission, would it affect my application if the topic of my essay is different [...]

That is a good question and something I personally wondered about and also something my friends asked me about for their applications. Personally that is how I had structured my APP when I was applying last year. Whether in the end it had an affect on me receiving an offer, I can't tell you for certain.

I would say it's strategically better (personal opinion). I personally wrote a whole new written work just so it matches my subject areas I demonstrated interest in the motivational letter. I also had one of my three feresees specialise in that area of law. Im the end it created this little ecosystem that all tied together nicely (me conveying interest in a subject area ehich I discovered through referee 1 - referee 1 reference about my performance in the subject - my written work on that subject in an area that was relevant at that time)

I would guess it would be very hard, or nearly impossible to get all 3 referees from your preferred area of interest. Having at least 1 would be preferable should you have studied that topic already. However maybe you want to do something totally new where that would be impossible. Honestly, as long as they can testify to your skills I would say it's fine.

[quote]Hello everyone! [...] For the essay submission, would it affect my application if the topic of my essay is different [...]
[/quote]

That is a good question and something I personally wondered about and also something my friends asked me about for their applications. Personally that is how I had structured my APP when I was applying last year. Whether in the end it had an affect on me receiving an offer, I can't tell you for certain.

I would say it's strategically better (personal opinion). I personally wrote a whole new written work just so it matches my subject areas I demonstrated interest in the motivational letter. I also had one of my three feresees specialise in that area of law. Im the end it created this little ecosystem that all tied together nicely (me conveying interest in a subject area ehich I discovered through referee 1 - referee 1 reference about my performance in the subject - my written work on that subject in an area that was relevant at that time)

I would guess it would be very hard, or nearly impossible to get all 3 referees from your preferred area of interest. Having at least 1 would be preferable should you have studied that topic already. However maybe you want to do something totally new where that would be impossible. Honestly, as long as they can testify to your skills I would say it's fine.

quote

recentBCLg...

32 14

Posted Oct 29, 2024 16:15

Hello everyone! [...] For the essay submission, would it affect my application if the topic of my essay is different [...]

However maybe you want to do something totally new where that would be impossible. Honestly, as long as they can testify to your skills I would say it's fine.

This is a very interesting thread because my approach to the application was completely different but also successful (which just proves that there is a variety of approaches that one can take to be accepted onto the BCL!). Personally, I submitted a piece of written work that I had completed in my final year of law school. The subject area was shipping law and the specific topic was the arrest of vessels (very very niche). The written work that I submitted had no connection to my personal statement (where I discussed interests in Corporate and Finance Law), nor did it have any connection with my referees (who did not teach private law subjects and specialised in public law). According to the BCL website, the admissions team is looking for the following in each aspect of the application.

Personal Statement: motivations for applying, academic/work experience and interests.

Written Work: demonstrates your abilities to critically engage with legal materials.

References: attests to your intellectual ability, academic achievement and motivation.

As long as your application demonstrates this, I do not think it is more/less favourable to have the topic of your written work match your interests (mine did not match at all!).

[quote][quote]Hello everyone! [...] For the essay submission, would it affect my application if the topic of my essay is different [...]
[/quote]

However maybe you want to do something totally new where that would be impossible. Honestly, as long as they can testify to your skills I would say it's fine. [/quote]

This is a very interesting thread because my approach to the application was completely different but also successful (which just proves that there is a variety of approaches that one can take to be accepted onto the BCL!). Personally, I submitted a piece of written work that I had completed in my final year of law school. The subject area was shipping law and the specific topic was the arrest of vessels (very very niche). The written work that I submitted had no connection to my personal statement (where I discussed interests in Corporate and Finance Law), nor did it have any connection with my referees (who did not teach private law subjects and specialised in public law). According to the BCL website, the admissions team is looking for the following in each aspect of the application.

Personal Statement: motivations for applying, academic/work experience and interests.

Written Work: demonstrates your abilities to critically engage with legal materials.

References: attests to your intellectual ability, academic achievement and motivation.

As long as your application demonstrates this, I do not think it is more/less favourable to have the topic of your written work match your interests (mine did not match at all!).

quote