Your First Week
Arrival at Merton
New undergraduate students are asked to arrive at Merton by 5:00pm on Monday 5th 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.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: If you're travelling to Merton by car, please note that Oxford City Council is planning to operate new traffic filters in the city centre from 28th September 2026. These will be monitored with ANPR cameras with fines of £70 for unauthorised vehicles. We therefore recommend that you drive into Oxford from the eastern bypass, travelling down either the Cowley Road (B480) or Iffley Road (A4158) to the High Street (please see this map).
From either Cowley Road or Iffley Road, cross Magdalen Bridge and turn left into Rose Lane. Please go directly to the Rose Lane car park (postcode: OX1 4DT, what3words ///serves.nodded.name) 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, vehicles must be moved to allow space for other incoming students as there is very limited space. Staff members will be present to assist in managing the flow of cars.
St Clement's car park is the closest to Merton but may become full. Oxford also has a number of Park and Ride services.
- 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 Freshers' Week timetable will be available shortly: we will alert you when it is published so you can start planning your week.
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 6th 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 2026.
University Admission Ceremony (Matriculation)
The University Matriculation Ceremony takes place on Saturday 17th 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:
