About the Programme
Aim for Oxford offers the opportunity to explore subjects with university researchers, experience academic and social life at Oxford University, receive expert advice on how to apply and be supported throughout the process.
The programme is completely free for Year 12 students attending state schools in the North East of England (Darlington, Durham, Gateshead, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Newcastle upon Tyne, North Tyneside, Northumberland, Redcar and Cleveland, South Tyneside, Stockton on Tees and Sunderland).
Applications for our sixth cohort (starting January 2026) will open in September 2025.
In 2026, we expect to hold a series of four academic enrichment, information and guidance sessions across four Saturdays between January and April 2026,(17th January, 14th February, 21st March and 18th April) followed by a free four-night summer school at Oxford University (Monday 17th – Friday 21st August 2026).
We cover the cost of reasonable travel expenses to all sessions.
Participants who decide to make applications to Oxford will progress to the Year 13 programme (September 2026 onwards) and receive continued support in their application.
Applications
Applications for the 2026 programme will open on 5th September 2025.
We will approach nominated teachers for a reference in November 2025 and expected to communicate outcomes to all applicants in December 2025.
All successful applicants will require parent/carer permission to participate in the programme (due by the end of December 2025).
- Your IMD score is 1 or 2.
- Your ACORN postcode score is 4 or 5
- You have been eligible for free school meals
- Neither of your parents went to University
- You are from an ethnic minority background that is underrepresented at Oxford
- You have been, or currently are, in care
- You are a young carer
