Academic support

Graduate Mentor Scheme

Graduate mentors - usually current Merton postgraduate students, though in some subjects postgraduate students from other colleges - are available to provide supplementary, subject-specific academic support to Merton undergraduates. This can include:

  • Advice on essay planning
  • Feedback on writing style
  • Review of collection scripts
  • Advice on presenting solutions to problems
  • Guidance on appropriate formatting for extended essays and other submitted work
  • Advice on writing up science projects
  • Coaching in a foundational subject such as Mathematics

Exams Forums

The JCR's Academic Affairs Representative runs an Exams Forum in the second half of Hilary term, and again in Trinity term, for students taking the First Public Examination. All undergraduate finalists are expected to attend a Finals Forum in Hilary Term for advice on exam preparation, staying well, and practical arrangements.

Study Skills Sessions in Freshers’ Week

Undergraduates generally find that the ways of working which served them well at school need to evolve to fit the demands of university. Advice begins at Freshers' Week, if not before, but it is important to reflect throughout your degree on how, and not just what, you are learning. Whilst Oxford does not have a specific department to 'teach' study skills, there are many sources of advice within College, from departments and faculties, and from specialist services within the University. The tutorial system allows for an individually-tailored approach. Tutors are therefore a key resource. All Merton freshers are expected to attend a Survival Skills session arranged by the Senior Tutor and Academic Affairs Representative early in Michaelmas term.

Music facilities

All Music students are provided with a Yamaha Clavinova in their room, and benefit from the use of the TS Eliot Theatre and the Chapel for concerts and performances. Completed in 2016, Merton also has five acoustically-designed music practice rooms, available for use by all College members.