Which Oxford college has the best social scene?

Hey there! I'm thinking of applying to the University of Oxford, and I was wondering, out of all the 39 independent colleges, which ones are known for having a vibrant and fun atmosphere? I'm definitely interested in academics, but I also want to make the most of my college years socially. Any info would be clutch!

This is a great question! Determining which college at the University of Oxford has the best social scene can be a bit subjective because it largely depends on what you're looking for in a social setting. However, some colleges do tend to have a more noticeably active and vibrant social atmosphere.

Balliol College and St. Catherine’s College, for instance, are quite renowned for their lively social scenes. Balliol, often attracting a mix of domestic and international students, is known for its active student union which frequently organizes interesting events. The college bar and dining hall are common meeting places and offer ample opportunities to socialize.

St. Catherine’s, being the largest college, has a variety of clubs and societies, with an impressive list of guest speakers due to it hosting the popular 'Cat Talks'. And it boasts a modern campus with lots of green space where students often hang out.

However, keep in mind that social life can vary within colleges from year to year as the student body changes. It would be beneficial to possibly connect with current students in the individual colleges to get their firsthand perspective on the social scene. Also, consider what other factors are important to you, such as location, size, and the availability of your course, as these can strongly influence your college experience.

Remember, regardless of which college you choose, Oxford's city center is fairly compact, so you'll have plenty of opportunities to attend social events and meet people from all the colleges. Cheers to this exciting journey!