Why Apply to Mansfield?
Choosing a college is a personal decision and there are many factors to consider. The best way to choose a college is to choose one you will feel comfortable living and learning in. You can gain a greater sense of the colleges through visiting on Open Days and access events, or by exploring digital resources if you are unable to travel to Oxford. Having said that, here is why we think our college is pretty great.
Mansfield is one of the smaller colleges, with around 76 undergraduates a year
You can see which subjects we offer for undergraduates and graduates on our subject pages.
Our location is the best of both worlds
We are a short walk from the science area and University libraries, but in a quiet position near the University Parks. See this map of Oxford to find out where we are located in relation to other University buildings and places in the city.
We offer accommodation for all years of your undergraduate course
Most undergraduate students, including all first years, live on main site in either modern ensuites or classic stone buildings overlooking the quad. Our other accommodation is a 15-minute walk away in East Oxford. All students have access to kitchens. In 2022/23 rent and utilities (including laundry) cost £1759 per term.
You can find out more about our accommodation and see room tours on our Living at Mansfield page. To find out about graduate accommodation please visit the graduate Living at Mansfield page.
Our food is some of the best in Oxford
Mansfield has been voted the best college for vegetarian and vegan food twice in a row. In 2023/23 lunch and dinner both cost £4.50 each. Our Chapel doubles as our dining hall, and the Crypt café offers food and drinks outside of mealtimes.
We have the highest proportion of state sector students of any Oxford college
Over 90% of our UK students come from state schools. Throughout our history, we have worked hard to make Oxford available to previously under-represented groups. Our staff and students are committed to making Mansfield a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone.
Our JCR is one of the biggest in Oxford
The JCR stands for the Junior Common Room which is both a student body and a social space. Whilst our JCR student body is smaller than other colleges, our JCR social space is one of the biggest which means there are lots of squishy sofas, games, and an opportunity for large social events. You can find out more about the social life at Mansfield on our student life pages for undergraduates and graduates.
Our libraries are open 24 hours a day
We have a well-stocked main library and three specialist reading rooms (PPE, Theology, History and Law). You can find out more about our libraries on our Library page.
We have two college cats!
Basil and Beatrice have been at Mansfield since 2019. They usually hang out in the Fellows' Garden but they also have their own room which is off the Fellows' Garden, and if you want to study in there in the evening you can ask our Tutor for Cats.
