To keep things simple, here are the top ten reasons (in no particular order) why our undergraduate students think Magdalen is a great college to be a part of. Click on a heading to see the answers.
Accommodation provided for all three years. Most of the rooms are within college itself, and the others are a maximum of three minutes walk from college itself. This is a massive bonus, and not something all colleges can offer. There’s no risk of ending up the other side of town from your friends.
It’s beautiful! Most colleges are pretty, but Magdalen is particularly stunning, with several quads and extensive grounds, including Addison’s walk (where C. S. Lewis is said to have dreamt up Narnia), which are really handy for de-stressing walks. Magdalen Tower provides amazing views of Oxford, and is the focus of May Morning celebrations. There’s also a deer park (no biggie).
Academic success. Magdalen came top of the Norrington table (which ranks colleges on finals results) in 2015, which is the first time in six years, and has historically been a top college in this respect.
Generous student support. Over 25% of Magdalen students receive some type of financial support during their studies. The college is committed to ensuring that financial hardship stops no-one from studying here. Money is also available to support research projects and course-related trips abroad, as well as JCR funding for creative projects.
Facilites. Extensive sports facilities, free gym membership, music practice rooms, free punting in the summer, and numerous pitches. Pool, table tennis, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, a Sky Sports subscription, a huge DVD collection, the list goes on….
Societies. Dynamic student societies, including music, drama, art, poetry, film and sports clubs all flourish, as do a number of discussion groups and subject specific societies. Learn more about our societies and sports.
Entertainment. The JCR throws parties (‘bops’) every fortnight for the whole college, as well as a number of other events through the year. These vary from garden parties, Arts Weekend to open mic nights and magicians being hosted in the OKB.
Libraries. A newly refurbished 24 hour college library completed in 2014 and law library are really convenient. Also, Longwall Library boasts one of the best study-spaces-to-members-of-college in Oxford.
A fun, friendly and inclusive student body, with a vibrant and welcoming LGBTQ+ community, a great welfare team, women’s discussion and cooking groups, and a well-stocked student run shop to cater to all your snacking needs, Magdalen will make you feel right at home.
May Day. The 1st of May is traditionally marked by Magdalen choir singing at dawn – students across the university party through the night and head to Magdalen Bridge at 6am to listen.