OUSSA Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions?
If you can't find what your looking for below, please do not hesitate to contact us at oussa@conted.ox.ac.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.
Q: “Do I have to write any essays for this course?
A: Yes, this is a standard requirement for the Oxford Summer School for Adults programme. You will have to submit a pre-course essay and an essay during the course. Your tutor will mark your on-course essay and you will received CATS points depending on your result. To find out more information concerning CAT Points being awarded please follow this link https://www.conted.ox.ac.uk/about/oussa-accreditation
Q: “Can I take the course without seeking credit?”
A: No. The course is accredited and there is no option not to seek credit.
Q: “Where do I go on the first day?”
A: Registration on the first day of your course will be in the reception at Rewley House. The full address has been provided below along with a map:
1 Wellington Square,
Oxford,
OX1 2JA.
Q: “I’m arriving in Oxford the day before my course begins. Can I book accommodation a day early?”
A: This cannot be organised through OUSSA programme, but you may be able to book B&B accommodation directly with Rewley House (res-ctr@conted.ox.ac.uk) or another Oxford college. Useful websites for this are:
- University Rooms: https://www.universityrooms.com/en-GB/city/oxford/home
- Conference Oxford: https://conference-oxford.com/bb-self-catering
- Experience Oxford: https://www.experienceoxfordshire.org/places-to-stay/colleges/
Q: What if I arrive after registration has closed?
A: If you will be arriving after 16:30, please contact the programme administrator beforehand if possible (oussa@conted.ox.ac.uk). You should enter Rewley House via the front door. On arrival report to the reception desk where they will have your welcome pack and further information.
Q: “Can I bring guests to dinner?”
A: Absolutely – with the exception of the opening (Saturday) and closing (Friday) dinners. Tickets for guest meals can be purchased from reception.
Q: “When can I check into my accommodation?”
A: Rooms are available from 13.30 on the first Saturday of your course.
Q: Are the bedrooms air conditioned?
A: No, as it’s an old historic building. Fans are available in each room.
Q: Will the bedrooms have a fridge?
A: No. but there is a fridge in the pantry in the building where bedrooms are located.
Q: Do the bedrooms have hair dryers?
A: All bedrooms have hair dryers.
Q: Is Wi-Fi available at the Department’s facilities?
A: Yes, although due to the thick walls some areas have better access than others.
Q: “When must I check out of my accommodation?”
A: You must check out by 10.30am on the final Saturday of your course.
Q: “How will I receive my course materials?”
A: All course materials are sent by email. If you do not have an email address, hard copies will be given to you on the day.
Q: "Do I need to bring my books with me?"
A: This should be listed on your course description, which will be emailed to you. If you are in any doubt, feel free to email us.
Q: "Will I receive a visa support letter?"
A: These are provided on a request-only basis, following full payment of course fees. Please email oussa@conted.ox.ac.uk. It is the responsibility of the participant to ensure they have taken the necessary steps to be admitted to the UK.
Q: "What type of visa should I apply for?"
A: Programme staff are not able to advise on visas. Please refer to the Department's advice on visas at: www.conted.ox.ac.uk/about/international-student-visas.
Q: "What happens if I need to cancel my course?''
A: Please read the terms and conditions, this will give you more information with regards to the cancellation process.
Q: "Can these courses be done online?"
A: All OUSSA classes are taught face to face, but the Department has a large and varied selection of online courses, which can be found here: www.conted.ox.ac.uk/about/online-courses
Q: Will I be given a Bodleian Library Card?
A: No. If you have a particular need to use Bodleian resources, you may be able to apply as an independent researcher. For details please see: www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/join-the-libraries/apply.
Q: Will I receive a certificate?
A: All participants receive a certificate of attendance at the end of their course.
Q: What is the weather like in England?
A: Unpredictable with both sun and showers during the summer!
Q: Is there anywhere close by to purchase essentials?
A: Yes, there are two supermarkets (Tesco Express and Sainsbury’s) nearby.
Q: Can I sign up for next year while in Oxford?
A: We are no longer offering pre-registration. Registration information for future years will be circulated after the programme has finished.