Open applicants are assessed in exactly the same way as those who have nominated a college. Tutors do not know whether an applicant has chosen the college or has been allocated it as an open application. Every college teaches the same syllabus, set by the University, they all follow the same broad entrance procedures, arranged according to subject. Conditions set for entry may, however, vary between subjects and colleges, and for individual candidates. All colleges have such basic facilities as a library, dining room, common room, bar, laundry and computing facilities.
Most colleges provide their students with accommodation for at least two years.
Colleges vary in their size, age and location, but most are within easy walking distance of the city centre. The Undergraduate Prospectus contains detailed information about each college and is a good starting point for students to make a shortlist of colleges in which they are interested. While most subjects are taught at most colleges and the colleges do not specialise in certain subjects, not every college offers every subject. Some colleges offer undergraduates accommodation for the entire length of their degree. The number of candidates applying to any one college can vary considerably from year to year and subject to subject.