Oxford SAT Requirements: Do You Need an SAT Score to Get In?

Unlike many U.S. universities, the University of Oxford does not require the SAT for admission. Instead, Oxford primarily evaluates applicants based on their A-Levels, International Baccalaureate (IB), Advanced Placement (AP) exams, and other country-specific qualifications.

In this guide, we will cover:

• Whether Oxford accepts SAT scores
• What qualifications you need to apply
• How U.S. students can meet Oxford’s entry requirements
• Tips for a successful Oxford application

1. Does Oxford Accept SAT Scores?

Oxford does not use the SAT or ACT as part of its admissions process. Instead, it requires U.S. applicants to submit Advanced Placement (AP) scores.

Key Takeaways:

• The SAT is not required for Oxford admission.
• Oxford prefers AP exams instead of the SAT or ACT.
• Applicants must meet specific subject requirements depending on their chosen course.

Find Oxford’s official entry requirements for your course.

2. What Are the Admission Requirements for U.S. Students?

U.S. students need to provide college-level qualifications, as Oxford does not consider a high school diploma alone to be sufficient.

Oxford Requirements for U.S. Students:

Oxford typically expects applicants to have:

• At least three AP scores of 5 in subjects relevant to the course they are applying for.
• A strong academic record, including high grades in relevant high school subjects.
• Competitive performance in Oxford’s admissions tests (such as the TSA or MAT).

Check if your course requires an admissions test.

3. Should You Submit an SAT Score to Oxford?

Since Oxford does not require the SAT, submitting a high SAT score (e.g., 1480+) will not strengthen your application unless you also meet the AP exam requirements.

When the SAT Might Be Useful:

• If you are missing one AP score, a very high SAT (1550+) might help demonstrate your academic ability.
• If your school does not offer AP courses, Oxford may consider an SAT score alongside additional academic evidence.

When the SAT Won’t Help:

• If you do not have at least three AP scores of 5, a strong SAT score alone will not qualify you.

Oxford focuses primarily on subject-specific exams and academic qualifications, making the SAT largely irrelevant for admissions.

4. How to Strengthen Your Oxford Application

If you’re a U.S. student aiming for Oxford, focus on the following:

1. Earn High AP Exam Scores

• Aim for at least three AP scores of 5 in subjects related to your intended major.
• Some competitive courses may require four or five APs (e.g., Medicine, Engineering, Law).

2. Prepare for Oxford’s Admissions Tests

• Many Oxford courses require an admissions test, such as:
  • TSA (Thinking Skills Assessment) – for PPE, Economics & Management, and other courses.
  • MAT (Mathematics Admissions Test) – for Mathematics and Computer Science.
  • LNAT (Law National Aptitude Test) – for Law applicants.
• Admissions tests play a major role in shortlisting applicants for interviews.

3. Write an Outstanding Personal Statement

• Oxford’s admissions process places heavy emphasis on academic interest rather than extracurriculars.
• Your personal statement should focus on why you are passionate about your subject, rather than general achievements.

Get expert feedback on your Oxford personal statement.

5. Final Thoughts: Do You Need the SAT for Oxford?

No, Oxford does not require the SAT for admission. U.S. applicants should focus on AP exams, IB scores, and Oxford’s subject-specific admissions tests instead.

Key Takeaways:

• The SAT is not required for Oxford admission.
• U.S. students must submit at least three AP scores of 5 or equivalent qualifications.
• Oxford’s admissions tests and interviews play a major role in the selection process.
• A strong SAT score will not compensate for missing AP scores.

If you’re a U.S. student applying to Oxford, focus on AP exams, admissions tests, and a strong academic personal statement.

Start your Oxford application preparation today.