Applications are now open for the Astrophoria Foundation Year 2026
The Radcliffe Camera, University of Oxford
Think Oxford isn’t for you? You might be surprised.
The Astrophoria Foundation Year is a one-year, fully funded programme for UK state-school students with strong academic potential who’ve faced personal or educational challenges that mean they might not expect to meet Oxford’s usual entry requirements. If you’ve never seriously considered applying to Oxford University, this could be the opportunity that changes your mind.
Applications are now open for entry in 2026.
Important dates
You have time to consider your options: the deadline to apply for the Foundation Year is 6pm on Tuesday 14 January 2026. This is later than the main undergraduate application deadline.
Explore your options
The Astrophoria Foundation Year offers a range of courses designed to support students from underrepresented backgrounds in preparing for undergraduate study at Oxford.
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Find about the courses available on the Astrophoria Foundation Year.
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Find out how to apply for Astrophoria Foundation Year courses.
Meet us at the next Open Day
Want to find out more in person? The next Oxford University Open Day is on Friday 19 September 2025, and the Astrophoria Foundation Year team will be there to answer your questions. It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore the University and get a feel for the colleges and courses.
Whether you're still deciding or ready to apply, we encourage you to come along and make the most of the day.
What’s on: Departmental talks and events
To help you plan your visit, we’ve compiled a list of all the relevant departmental talks and sessions happening on the day. From subject-specific presentations to Q&A panels and opportunities to meet staff and students, there’s something for everyone.
The Astrophoria Foundation Year team will be in the Open Day Information Centre all day, or you can join us for our talk from 2-2.30pm.
