Inspiring Oxford Frequently Asked Questions

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Bookings and enrolment

Can I book a single room or a non-residential place via the enrolment form?

The quickest way to secure your place on a course is to enrol online and as such we request that all single accomodation or non-residential bookings are made via the website. If you are not able to pay online and instead need to pay via an invoice, please contact: inspiringoxford@conted.ox.ac.uk.

I would like to attend with a partner or friend, how do I book shared accommodation?

If you wish to book a twin or double room for two people, each person should complete an enrolment form and send this to us by email.

Forms can be found on each individual course page and these can be edited online and do not need to be printed. Completed forms should be sent by email to: inspiringoxford@conted.ox.ac.uk.

Shared rooms are charged per person and cannot be booked by individuals, or shared with strangers. 

I'm not able to book single accommodation online, is it available?

If the single accommodation fee option is showing as 'Unavailable' online, this means the accommodation is full during that week of the programme. Non-residential participants are welcome to contact inspiringoxford@conted.ox.ac.uk, and the programme administrator can add you to a waiting list for accommodation in Brasenose College.

Useful websites for alternative accommodation around Oxford are:

I am under 18 years old, can I attend?

The Department for Continuing Education is not able to enrol anyone under the age of 18 on any summer course, without exception.

The course I would like to book is full, can extra places be added?

Class sizes are restricted by the size of the teaching rooms, and we are not able to add extra places to a course. It is recommended to add yourself to the waiting list, and we will be in touch should a place become available.

What happens if I need to cancel my enrolment?

You will receive a copy of the cancellations and refund policy when you enrol.

Can these courses be taken online?

No, all Oxford Experience courses are taught in-person. The Department offers a large and varied selection of online courses: www.conted.ox.ac.uk/about/online-courses.

Can this course be taken for credit?

No, al Inspiring Oxford courses are not accredited. The Department offers accredited summer schools through another programme: www.conted.ox.ac.uk/about/oussa.

I am on a waiting list, how likely am I to get on the course?

It is difficult to predict whether places become available on waiting lists, as it depends on cancellations from other enrolees. Should a place become available before 1 May 2025 we will contact waitlisted individuals via email. If you have not heard from us by 1 May 2025, you should assume that no places have became available and we will not be able to enrol you on the course in summer 2025.

What is the average age of students on the course? 

Last year we had a wide range of ages from 18-80+. The average age of participants was around 40. This provides ample engagement between people of various generations which we feel is what makes Inspiring Oxford unique.

What do the course fees cover?

The course fees include the full cost of accommodation, meals, fieldtrips, social excursions including Shakespeare theater tickets and punting. 

Which countries do 'Inspiring Oxford’ participants come from?

We have participants from many countries around the World.

Where will the teaching be held?

As stated on the website, all courses will be held at Brasenose College. 

What is the average class size?

The average class size is 10, however this can range from 5-15 depending on enrolment and the tutor’s discretion.

Before your arrival

Where do I go on the first day?

Registration on the first day of your course will be at Brasenose College Please arrive at the College Porter's Lodge where you will be directed to the Inspiring Oxford welcome desk.

What time can I arrive at Brasenose College on the starting Sunday?

Registration is from 12:00pm onwards, until 5.00pm.

What if I arrive after registration has closed?

If you will be arriving after 5.00pm, please contact the programme administrator beforehand if possible (inspiringoxford@conted.ox.ac.uk). You should enter the college via the Main Entrance on Radcliffe Square. On arrival report to the Porters Lodge where they will have your welcome pack and can direct you to your room.

Do I need to read everything on the reading list?

The recommended readings are optional, and are suggestions if you would like background information prior to the course.

When can I purchase tickets for optional excursions/walking tours?

The social programme is included in your course fee. There will be sign-up sheets if you have a preferred time slot or walking tour.

I have a dietary requirement, who should I tell?

If you did not disclose a dietary requirement as part of your application, please contact the programme administrator prior to your arrival at inspiringoxford@conted.ox.ac.uk. 
 

Can you give me advice on visas?

We regret that we are unable to provide advice on individual visas. Students are advised to consult their closest British Embassy, Consulate or High Commission for the most up-to-date advice. Students should also refer to the University's Visa & Immigration team at
 

I would prefer, or need, a room on the ground floor. Who should I tell?

If you did not disclose a disability or mobility impairment on your application, please contact the programme administrator prior to your arrival at inspiringoxford@conted.ox.ac.uk. 
 

Is there a dress code?

It is requested that participants wear a jacket and tie or equivalent for High Table and final the dinner. There is no dress code during classes or other events.
 

Will the bedrooms at Brasenose College have a fridge?

No, unless it is required for medication.
 

Will the bedrooms at Brasenose College have a safe?

Bedrooms do not have a safe, however each participant will be given a personal electronic fob that will only give them access to their specific building, and their specific bedroom.
 

18. Will I be given a Bodleian Library Card?

No, as the courses on Inspiring Oxford are not accredited.
 

What type of certificate will I receive?

Students who successfully complete the programme will receive a “certificate of attendance” which will include your name, course studied, tutor and programme director. These are handed out on the Friday before the final dinner.
 

What if I have to leave early and will not be around to receive my certificate?

If you inform us on or before Wednesday we will be able to issue your certificate early. Please make sure to let us know as soon as possible to avoid any potential issues.
 

Do I need to have a degree or formal education in the subject I choose to attend?

No. As long as you have a curiosity and desire to learn with like-minded participants, there are no barrier to entry. So long as you meet the basic criteria of being over 18 and having a grasp of the English language.
 

I currently live in the UK/Oxford – Can I stay offsite and only attend the lessons? 

Yes. You can apply for a non-residential placement. We strongly recommend to stay in the College as it is an integral part of the experience. If you would like to apply for a no-residential placement please e-mail us directly at inspiringoxford@conted.ox.ac.uk. 
 

Am I able to take this course online?

No, this is only offered as an in-person course. 
 

I have other commitments and/or events I wish to attend, will recordings be provided of classes I do not attend?

No. If you choose to attend other events instead of attending your classes, then you forfeit those classes. 
 

What is the weather like in England?

Unpredictable with both sun and showers during the summer!
 

Can I bring friends or family?

As outlined on our website, the accommodation and course are for participants only.