Your First Week
Arrival at Merton
New undergraduate students are asked to arrive at Merton by 5:00pm on Monday 6th October. With the exception of international students, it is not possible for us to provide accommodation in advance of this date. The Accommodation Office will be in touch to let you know whether you should arrive in the morning or afternoon.
International undergraduates - please read the separate page for international students for more information about arrivals.
Directions to the College can be found in the JCR Freshers' Guide; its location is shown on Google Maps. If you're travelling to Merton by car, it is best to enter the High Street from the east, turning left into Rose Lane. Please be aware that the Botley Road, the major route into Oxford from the west, will still be closed in October.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: All Fresher Undergraduates arriving on Monday 6th October between 8:00am and 5:00pm should go directly to the Rose Lane car park (Postcode: OX1 4DT) where we will be using the TS Eliot Theatre to welcome and sign in new students, and issue room keys. Parking will be available in the Rose Lane car park, but only whilst registering and unloading - once this has happened then vehicles must be moved to allow space for other incoming students. Staff members will be present to assist in managing the flow of cars.
- Oxford Park & Ride - information from Oxfordshire County Council
- Car parking in the city centre - information from Oxford City Council
Freshers' Week Timetables
The College and the JCR have put together a full and varied timetable of academic, welfare and social events and activities for Freshers' Week. The final Freshers’ timetable is now available and shows the key events including meetings with tutors and Department/Faculty inductions. Some of the events are compulsory, and these are clearly marked on the timetable.
The JCR Freshers' Guide will let you know what to expect in your first week at Merton.
College Admission Ceremony
The College Admission Ceremony is held at 6:00pm on Tuesday 7th October in the Chapel, and marks your formal admission to the College. It will be followed by the Admissions Dinner on the same evening.
Remember to complete the Food Allergies Form by 10th September 2025.
University Admission Ceremony (Matriculation)
The University Matriculation Ceremony takes place on Saturday 18th October. Matriculation is the technical term for your official admittance to the College and University.
Sub-fusc must be worn. There is more guidance about suitable clothing for matriculation here. You will also need a gown for formal events, although most students wait until arriving to buy one. There are a number of stockists of academic gowns in Oxford, including:
