Exeter College is proud to announce the success of 15 students who have applied successfully to two of the UK’s top universities, with 12 receiving offers from the University of Oxford and three from the University of Cambridge. 

Students gain a place at the prestigious institutions, commonly known as Oxbridge, by passing a rigorous application and interview process that can take months.  

This year, 65 students from Exeter College applied to Oxbridge, with 15 receiving an offer to study, meaning that 23% of students who applied got offers. The successful students will be studying a range of subjects, from Fine Art and Philosophy to Medicine, Architecture and Physics, reflecting the broad curriculum available at Exeter College. 

“Exeter College is a really nice environment where you feel like you’re encouraged to aim high and take opportunities. Both students and staff have encouraged me to do my best.” 

Thomas Wilkinson, 19, studying UAL Art Foundation Diploma

Exeter College Lecturer Martin Gilbert, who leads on the Reach Academy, said; “I am really proud of all the students that made an application to either Oxford or Cambridge this year.  

“At Exeter College we encourage all students to make competitive UCAS applications and it is so nice to see this many students holding offers for two of the top universities in the world after such a rigorous application process. All the applicants have gained a huge amount from the process and the support they get from their teachers, tutors and our Future Steps Team is exceptional.” 

For the University of Oxford, over half of the 41 Exeter College students that applied got interviews, with 12 receiving offers to study with them. This equates to a 30% success rate, which is higher than the national average of 21% for state schools and 18% for Further Education colleges, putting Exeter College among the best in the country for getting into Oxford.* 

For the University of Cambridge, nearly all students who applied were interviewed, with three students receiving offers to study.  

“It’s going to be really exciting studying at such a prestigious place for four years doing the subject I’m passionate about.”

Troy Dale, 18, has an offer to study Physics at Oxford

Jade Otty, Vice Principal, said; “We are so pleased for, and proud of these learners, and everyone who made an application for Oxbridge this year. 

“Alongside the support we offer at Exeter College for such competitive university applications, these learners have had the courage and confidence to sit entrance exams as well as multiple interviews whilst staying focused on their study for their A Levels or International Baccalaureate.  

“The resilience and dedication this has taken, this year especially, is inspiring. Our teachers at College who have supported their applications could not be prouder of them.” 

Many of the students applications were supported by the Exeter College Reach Academy, which helps academically minded students with extra-curricular seminars, support and guidance to help raise aspirations and boost achievement.   

Student Stories 

Erin Fraser-Smith is continuing the family tradition of going to Exeter College and getting into Oxford, as her sister Ella received an offer to study Earth Sciences last year. Erin is hoping to study Medicine and work around the world as a doctor. 

Erin (pictured below), 17, who studied at Chulmleigh College before coming to Exeter College, said, “The application process was quite stressful but because I had support from Martin and the Reach Academy it was quite clear to me. 

“The actual interview itself was quite relaxed and I actually really enjoyed it. They asked me very weird and wonderful questions – I couldn’t even tell you what they were!” 

Thomas Wilkinson (pictured below), 19, who studies UAL Art Foundation Diploma and was also named Reach Academy Student of the Year at the Exeter College Student Awards 2022, has been offered a place to study Architecture at the University of Cambridge.  

He said, “I applied last year also. I think this year I felt much more prepared and because it was separated from taking my A Levels, I had more time to nail my portfolio and personal statement. 

“The Reach Academy has been tremendously helpful. Martin Gilbert really helps elevate everyone’s applications and when you go to him with questions about improving your personal statement or what to put or how to approach interviews, he is always incredibly supportive.  

“Exeter College is a really nice environment where you feel like you’re encouraged to aim high and take opportunities. Both students and staff have encouraged me to do my best.” 

Troy Dale, 18, studied at St James before coming to Exeter College. His offer to study Physics at Oxford is particularly impressive as he is the first Exeter College student to receive an offer to study Physics for several years. 

He said, “It’s going to be really exciting studying at such a prestigious place for four years doing the subject I’m passionate about. 

“The application process was challenging. I had never done any academic interviews, so it was an experience. I thought that even if I didn’t get in it would be a good learning experience.  

“I only thought about Oxford at the end of last year so it’s not something I had thought about pursuing before. I just thought I would go for it and try my best and perhaps good things would happen. 

“Even though I wasn’t part of the Reach Academy, Martin took me in as one of his own, helped me with my personal statement and offered loads of support still. I felt like I had all the support I needed to apply there.” 

Students with offers to study will find out if they are guaranteed a place after their 2022 exam results. 

Want to join Ofsted Outstanding Exeter College? Apply online now. 

*The national averages come from the application data released by the University of Oxford at the end of each application year.