PPH stands for permanent private hall. PPHs are very similar to Oxford colleges, except that they tend to be smaller and typically offer a narrower, more specialist range of subjects. University of Oxford students at PPHs are members of the University just like students at colleges, and have access to exactly the same University facilities and activities. PPHs tend to have a close-knit community due to their smaller size, which enables students to be known and supported as individuals.
The University of Oxford has six PPHs, all of which are Christian foundations, although each has its distinctive ethos and purpose. You do not need to be religious to attend a PPH, as there is no obligation to take part in any religious activity.
Note that from September 2023 St Stephen’s House will have the status of an Anglican Theological College and will no longer be a Permanent Private Hall of the University of Oxford.