Oxford Traditions
There are lots of Oxford traditions that you will come across at Oxford. The following gives you all you need to know about Oxford's traditions, with some videos and pics to give you a taste!
SubFusc
Matriculation
SubFusc is the formal dress students must wear to Matriculation, formal exams and some other specified events. It consists of a Dark suit and a white tie or a black ribbon. Some love SubFusc, some hate it, but it certainly draws in the likes on Facebook!…
This the ceremony that marks the joinging of each student as a member of the University of Oxford. The ceremony lasts about 15 minutes in the Sheldonian Theatre in central Oxford. After this, new students tend to enjoy a day exploring the bars of Oxford… Matriculation occurs the Saturday after Fresher’s week.
Term Names
Oxford uses some peculiar language.
Here The first term of the year is named Michaelmas, the second term is called Hilary, while the third and final term of the year is referred to as Trinity.
The Week System
The university adopts a system whereby the weeks of term are numbered. Term officially starts in 1st week, but students are expected to move in during 0th week, while the week before has been called by some ‘-1st week’. So when you get to Oxford, you’ll find yourself mentioning Wednesday of 5th instead of Wednesday the 20th of May.
Formal Hall
A formal is a sit down three-course meal. They are a really good opportunity to gather a group of friends for some downtime and high quality food. We usually have one each week at St. Hugh’s, at the impressive cost of £9.
May Day
The 1st of May is quite a big occasion in Oxford. Students often opt to welcome in the new month by heading out for an all-nighter in the City on the 30th of April, with most managing to stay out until dawn. At 0600, Magdalen College choir sing at the top of the college’s tower. The songs ring out across the area where around 5,000 people gathered in 2015. It is an experience not to be missed!
Bops
Bops are parties that happen in the college bar. They Bring out questionable dance moves, but importabtly are occassions to get to know other people in college you may not have spoken to before. They are usually themed, hence the interesting costumes to the right and above!
The Boat Race
Another thing not to be missed while studying at Oxford is getting down to the Thames to watch the famous Boat Race. Oxford vs Cambridge. Dark Blues vs Light Blues. Most universities do not have as impressive a varsity matchup, so we are lucky to have days like this!