Thinking about applying to Oxford for Economics and Management? You’re not alone. In the 2023-24 UCAS cycle, only 83 out of 1,542 applicants were accepted. With a 5.9% success rate, Economics and Management is the most competitive undergraduate degree at one of the most prestigious universities in the world.
From choosing the right A-levels to preparing for the TSA and acing the interviews, every part of the application counts. That’s exactly why we’ve created this guide: to help you understand what Oxford is looking for and how to stand out.
At The Profs, our expert Oxford Admissions Tutors have helped hundreds of students get into top universities. Join the 95% who secured a place at their first or second-choice university.
Keep reading to find out what it takes to study Economics and Management at Oxford.
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How to Get Into Oxford University
How to choose an Oxford College
Contents:
- Why Study Economics and Management at Oxford?
- What are the Entry Requirements?
- Is There an Admissions Test?
- How to Write a Winning Personal Statement
- How to Nail the Oxford Economics and Management Interview
- Course Structure: Economics and Management at Oxford
- What Does a Typical Week Look Like at Oxford?
- Get 1-to-1 Personalised Support
- FAQs: Economics and Management at Oxford
Why Study Economics and Management at Oxford?
Oxford’s Economics and Management degree is the gold standard if you’re interested in how the economy and organisations function. But what makes this programme stand out?
1. Academic Prestige
The course is run jointly by Oxford’s world-renowned Department of Economics and the elite Saïd Business School. The degree is intellectually stimulating and prepares you for careers in sectors such as investment banking, consulting, policy, and even academia. You’ll explore core areas like:
- Macroeconomics.
- Microeconomics.
- Financial analysis.
- Management studies.
- Strategic management.
2. Unique Learning Style
Oxford’s tutorial system is at the heart of this course. You’ll engage in in-depth discussions with leading academics in weekly sessions, developing the ability to analyse and solve problems independently. This will be advantageous in sectors such as investment banking or consulting. You’ll also attend:
- Lectures (delivered by subject-matter experts).
- Seminars.
- Workshops (sometimes at the business school library).
Earning Potential
Oxford graduates consistently rank among the UK’s top earners. According to Adzuna’s 2024 report, their average salary five years after graduation is £49,086.
According to Discover Uni, Oxford graduates in all full-time Economics courses earn an average salary of:
- £40,500 after 15 months.
- £43,000 after three years.
- £57,000 after five years.
The bottom line: there are many reasons to study Economics and Management at University of Oxford. The salary boost, however, is arguably the biggest draw for E&M applicants.
That’s why it’s so important to craft an application that reflects your unique academic identity. Work one-to-one with our University Admissions Tutors to triple your chances of getting into this course at Oxford.
What are the Entry Requirements for the Programme?
Oxford Economics and Management is fiercely competitive. Thousands of high-achieving applicants apply each year, and only a small percentage receive offers.
So, what exactly are the admissions tutors looking for?
Academic Qualifications
A Levels: The standard offer is A*AA, including Mathematics with at least an A grade. If your school offers Further Mathematics, taking it can also strengthen your application, especially given the course’s quantitative demands.
International Baccalaureate: You’ll need a total score of 39 points, including core points, with a minimum of 7, 6, 6 at Higher Level. One of those Higher Level subjects must be Mathematics, and you’ll typically need a score of 6 or 7.
Scottish Advanced Highers: the usual offer is AA or AAB. Again, Advanced Higher Mathematics is expected.
Oxford also welcomes applications from students with other international or UK qualifications.
Oxford also takes a contextual approach to offers. That means your academic performance is considered in light of the opportunities available at your school or college. If you’ve achieved top grades despite educational disadvantage or limited resources, that’s taken into account.
Specific Subject Requirements
Only Mathematics is a required subject. Because Economics and Management is a demanding course with a strong emphasis on quantitative economics, Maths forms the foundation of the undergraduate education. Your application won’t be considered if you don’t achieve at least an A in Maths.
Tip: Work with a specialist A-Level Tutor to boost your grade. In 2024, 61% of our school-aged students achieved an A or A* (that’s 3x the national average!)
Language Requirements
And for students whose first language isn’t English, you’ll need to meet Oxford’s English language proficiency requirements, which typically involve a high IELTS or TOEFL score.
Worried about meeting the entry requirements? Our Oxford Admissions Tutors will have the tools and knowledge needed to help you get into Oxford for Economics and Management. 98% of our experts have postgraduate education, and all bring at least two years of teaching experience.
Is There an Admissions Test?
Important Update: As of the 2026/27 admissions cycle, Oxford has replaced the TSA with the TARA for its Economics and Management course. For more information, please see our guides on How to Prepare for the TARA and Changes to Oxford’s Admissions Tests.
Yes – if you’re applying for Economics and Management at Oxford, the Thinking Skills Assessment (TSA) will be a key part of your application. The TSA helps admissions tutors assess whether you’re equipped to handle the demands of the programme.
What Exactly Is the TSA?
The TSA is a 90-minute, computer-based test made up of 50 multiple-choice questions. It’s split into two key areas:
Problem-solving: These questions test your numerical reasoning, spatial awareness, and analytical skills in interpreting and manipulating data.
Critical thinking: These questions assess how well you can evaluate arguments, identify assumptions, and draw valid conclusions from complex information. For Economics and Management applications, only Section 1 is required.
The TSA isn’t about prior subject knowledge. You won’t be asked about macroeconomics or business models. Instead, it’s all about how you think and:
- Analyse information quickly.
- Recognise logical flaws.
- Make sound, evidence-based judgements.
- Work accurately under pressure.
If you enjoy puzzles, logic games, or problem-solving challenges, you might actually find the TSA quite fun – but it’s definitely no walk in the park.
How Important Is the TSA?
Very. In fact, it often carries as much weight as your A-level predictions and personal statement in the admissions process. A high TSA score can boost your chances significantly, especially if your academic profile isn’t quite perfect. On the flip side, a weak TSA score can be a deal-breaker, even if your grades are excellent.
You also can’t retake the TSA in the same admissions cycle. It’s a one-shot deal.
When and How Do You Sit the TSA?
- The TSA is usually held in late October each year.
- You’ll need to register in advance through your school, college, or an approved test centre.
- The test is now computer-based and will take place at a Pearson VUE authorised test centre.
How Is The TSA Scored?
For the problem solving section, it is one mark per question. Scores are then calculated using the TSA scale from approximately 0-100. Based on the 2023 data, the average score for section 1 was around 55-65.
What Score Is Oxford Looking For?
- Exceptional: 80 and above.
- Highly competitive: 70 and above.
- Average: 60 and above.
Results are automatically sent to Oxford. You’ll receive your score in January, after the application process is complete.
TSA Preparation with The Profs
Here at The Profs, we’ve helped hundreds of students master the TSA and secure places on courses like Economics and Management. We focus on what moves the needle:
- Building speed, confidence, and accuracy under pressure.
- Sharpening logical reasoning and problem-solving skills with expert guidance.
- Tracking progress through mock exams and diagnostic assessments.
The TSA is rigorous, and preparation matters. Our experienced Admissions Test Tutors know exactly how to fast-track your progress and maximise your chances of success. Laying the groundwork early gives you the best shot at studying at Oxford next year.
How to Write a Winning Personal Statement
Your personal statement is a chance to show Oxford that you’re not only qualified, but that you think, write, and learn in a way that fits their expectations for the Economics and Management degree.
Step 1 – Why do you want to study this course?
Insider tip: Oxford wants to see evidence of a curious and analytical mind. Instead of just stating that you’re interested in the subject, explain what first sparked your interest. Was it a debate on behavioural theory, a podcast on bankruptcy, or perhaps reading Freakonomics?
Then show you truly understand what the course involves. Is it the quantitative side of economics that excites you most, the strategic aspects of management, or the intersection of both?
Make sure to link your interest to future goals, too. Whether you’re aiming for a career in banking, consulting, or launching your own SME, explain how an Economics degree will help you get there.
You could also reflect on a piece of timely news — something that made you think more deeply about how organisations or the economy function. Opinion pieces in The Times, The Economist, or The Guardian can be a great source of inspiration here.
Finally, don’t forget to highlight relevant experiences. Have you attended an open day at Oxford? Sat in on a lecture at the Saïd Business School? Or maybe you’ve been reading a published work by an Oxford professor? Whatever it is, make sure it’s tied back to your motivation for applying. Whichever examples you choose, they should clearly support your Oxford Economics and Management application.
Step 2 – How have your studies prepared you for it?
Start by using your academic background to your advantage. Mention your A-Levels (or equivalent), especially if you’ve studied subjects like Maths, Economics, Business, Politics, or other social sciences. (For example, studying political theory may have helped you explore how incentives shape behaviour — an idea rooted in Economics).
You could also highlight how a specific module, such as General Management or Microeconomics, sparked your interest in a particular niche within the course.
Finally, make sure to demonstrate your aptitude through any extended essays, independent projects involving statistics, or analytical reading that challenged your thinking and deepened your understanding of the subject.
Step 3 – What else have you done beyond school?
Oxford looks for more than grades. They want students who actively pursue their interests beyond the classroom, especially in ways that directly relate to the course. That might mean gaining relevant work experience, shadowing professionals, or taking part in academic research programmes that show you’re already thinking like a student of the subject.
Have you entered an essay competition? If not, consider checking out the Royal Economic Society’s “Young Economist of the Year” or the FCDO Next Generation Economics competition.
You can also discuss independent reading you’ve done around topics like capitalism, organisational theory, banking, finance, or investment. (A good place to start is Oxford’s Economics & Management reading list, which offers suggestions tailored for prospective students.)
Don’t forget: online courses (MOOCs) and extracurriculars tied to Economics or Management can also help you show curiosity, initiative, and genuine commitment to your chosen undergraduate course.
Need help crafting a standout application? Our award-winning Personal Statement Tutors can guide you in highlighting your unique academic identity and put you ahead of thousands of other applicants. Some are former Oxbridge admissions tutors, too!
How to Nail the Oxford Economics and Management Interview
The Oxford interview for Economics and Management is not a test of how much you already know, especially not in Economics or Management. Instead, it’s designed to assess how you think and if you’re well-suited for an academic degree at Oxford. You’ll usually have two online interviews (Economics and Management), often with different colleges.
To strengthen your application, start by doing extra research on any topics you’ve mentioned in your personal statement. Interviewers will be testing how well you can apply your existing knowledge to unfamiliar situations, so it’s worth diving deep into new avenues. You should also stay sharp by following the latest developments in Economics, Finance, and Management, going beyond the school curriculum.
During your interview, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification or follow up with a thoughtful question. This shows you’re engaging critically, weighing up ideas, and seeking full understanding before forming a view.
And if you can, arrange a mock interview with someone who understands the Oxbridge process—getting feedback from an expert can make all the difference.
Don’t wait until you’re shortlisted. Only around 45% of Oxford applicants are invited to interview, and most only begin preparing once they receive the invite. But the strongest candidates start earlier.
Hone your technique in one-to-one sessions with our Interview Training Tutors. They’re subject specialists who tailor each consultation to your exact needs and provide mock interviews with actionable feedback.
Course Structure: Oxford Economics and Management
Year 1:
- Introductory Economics.
- General Management.
- Financial Management.
Three written exams (Prelims) at the end of the year. These must be passed to continue, but do not count towards your final degree classification.
Years 2 and 3:
Eight courses, including:
- At least two Economics papers, one of which must be Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Quantitative Economics, or History of the World Economy.
- At least two Management papers.
Popular options include:
- Game Theory, Economics of Industry, Money and Banking, Development Economics.
- Strategic Management, Finance, Marketing, Organisational Behaviour, Entrepreneurship and Innovation.
Most modules are assessed through final written exams. Some include coursework, and students may choose to submit a thesis in either Economics or Management in place of one paper.
What Does a Typical Week Look Like at Oxford?
Studying Economics and Management at Oxford is incredibly rewarding. The course blends quantitative theory with real-world business insight, all delivered through Oxford’s distinctive teaching style.
A Typical Week
You can expect:
- Up to six lectures per week, covering topics like microeconomics, strategic management, and organisational behaviour.
- Two to three tutorials or classes, usually in very small groups.
- Independent study time for reading, writing essays, and tackling problem sets, with around 2–3 days of preparation for each tutorial.
Teaching Format and Term Structure
Oxford’s academic year is split into three terms: Michaelmas, Hilary, and Trinity. Each term has eight intensive teaching weeks known as ‘full term’.
During these weeks, you’ll:
- Attend lectures and small-group tutorials.
- Receive tailored feedback from your tutors.
- Study in college spaces, lecture halls, and the Business School Library.
All first-year students are known as freshers and arrive in late September or early October for Freshers’ Week, which includes welcome events and college orientation.
Workload and Expectations
The University expects full-time commitment during term time usually around 40 hours per week of focused academic work. That includes both contact hours and independent study.
Assessment is typically through exams at the end of the first year and finals in the third year, which determine your degree classification. Some papers may also include submitted coursework or essays.
Colleges also hold informal assessments called collections at the start of each term, to help you track progress.
Life Beyond the Lecture Hall
- On-site accommodation for at least the first year.
- Dining halls, common rooms, libraries, and green spaces.
- Academic and personal support, including tutoring, welfare officers, and peer mentors.
To triple your chances of getting into Oxford for Economics and Management, reach out to our Undergraduate Admissions Tutors.
Get 1-to-1 Personalised Support
Getting into Oxford for Economics and Management takes more than just top grades.
That’s where The Profs come in. Our Oxford Admissions Tutors know exactly what it takes to succeed at every stage. We offer:
- Hands-on support with the TSA.
- Personal statement guidance.
- Intensive interview preparation.
- Candidate profiling to determine whether Economics and Management, History and Economics, or Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) is the right fit for you.
With a 95% success rate for students receiving offers from their top two university choices, we’ve helped hundreds of applicants achieve life-changing results. If you’re serious about studying Economics and Management at Oxford, we’re here to help you.
Get in touch with our Oxford Admissions Tutors today and start planning your path to success.
FAQs: Economics and Management at Oxford
How many students apply, and how competitive is it?
The course receives thousands of applications each year, with an offer rate of ~5%. You need top grades, a strong TSA score, and excellent performance in the interview to be competitive.
Do I need to have studied Economics at A-level?
No. Economics is not a required subject, but Mathematics to A-level (or equivalent) is essential. Many successful applicants are studying Further Maths, though this is not required.
What can I do with a degree in Economics and Management?
You can go on to work in investment banking, consulting, policy, tech, or complete further study, such as a Master’s or doctorate. The course builds a strong foundation in financial analysis, strategic thinking, and organisational behaviour.
Do I get to choose which college I go to?
Yes. When applying through UCAS, you can choose a specific Oxford college, or opt for an open application. However, your place at that college is not guaranteed. Due to the competitive nature of Economics and Management, your application may be reallocated to another college for consideration.
