Balliol College

Quick facts

• Large college
• Approx 390 undergraduates
• Approx 400 postgraduates
• Typical offer rate: 12%
• Typical acceptance rate: 10%

Reputation

One of Oxford's oldest colleges with a strong political heritage and multiple Prime Ministers as alumni. Best known for PPE, joint honours, and a welcoming atmosphere that belies its grand reputation. Cheap student-run bar and good sports support.

Academic strengths

Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE), History and Politics, History, Physics, Mathematics

Famous alumni

Boris Johnson, Richard Dawkins, Edward Heath

Atmosphere

Welcoming and relaxed despite political reputation

Location

Central

Sports

Good football team, near Roger Bannister's 4-minute mile track, financial support for Blues athletes

Dining

Low-cost lunch and dinner in halls, kitchen access in all rooms

Bar

The Lindsay Bar, student-run, cheap prices, table football and darts

Accommodation guarantee

First and final years