While studying abroad could certainly be taken as an opportunity to explore the world, choosing to study abroad at Oxford University will definitely put more of an emphasis on ‘study’ than ‘abroad.’ Never fear, there are plenty of awesome study spots around town to help you focus and finish that paper on time! I’ve compiled a list of different spots from a variety of settings that will hopefully suit anyone who stumbles upon this list. Enjoy the grind!
- The Radcliffe Camera
- This item on the list stands to represent the many different libraries scattered throughout Oxford (more than 100!). Located at the center of town, this beautiful, two-story library is a great place to complete your readings or type out your weekly paper. Open only to holders of Bodleian library cards (which you will get as a student), you are sure to be surrounded by other hard-working and focused library-goers. The stunning sun-lit ceiling is sure to make any work feel enjoyable. Close by, you can find the main Bodleian library which has plenty of study space and a similar, yet different atmosphere if you’re in the mood for a change of setting after a few hours grinding away.
- The Missing Bean
- The Missing Bean is centrally located and has a great atmosphere. If you like to surround yourself with other people, either chit-chatting or typing away, this is the place to go. Putting this location on the list was a tough choice, seeing as there are so many amazing coffee shops to work at in Oxford, so if the Missing Bean isn’t your cup of tea (pun intended), you will be sure to find another that suits your fancy!
- Pret a Manger
- This global chain makes for a cheap and relaxed environment to study in. This location has a great upstairs work area, so if you’re in the mood for a coffee shop atmosphere, but not for the price that often comes with the scene, be sure to check out Oxford’s ‘local’ Pret. It also opens before most other coffee shops in town, so if you’re an early bird, this could be your go-to study spot.
- Your College Library
- Each college at Oxford University has their own library that is only accessible to the students at that college. The college libraries are typically open longer than the Bodleian libraries (such as the Radcliffe Camera), which suits students who think best at night. And, if you are lucky enough to live on campus, the library might just be a hop, skip, and a jump away! And that’s definitely something that deserves bonus points.
- Your Dorm Room
- While all of these options are great, close to nothing in Oxford is open all hours of the day. Well, nothing except your dorm room. If you’re a real night owl, early riser, or just a home body, your dorm room is likely a wonderful place to study!
Needless to say, there are plenty more options to choose from. These should get you started, but definitely get about and explore more! Happy studying.
