We have made special arrangements with the Oxford Union (one of the oldest private clubs in England and a social center -- dining room, bar, discos, parties, etc., as well as a traditional debating society) to elect to membership one term or one year students recommended by us. Students are "elected" to membership and about half of Oxford's students do join which makes it the largest private club (it is not officially part of the university) in Oxford. There are always well-known speakers from all over the world. Some Oxford students will tell you that it is "elitist" or "pretentious" even though more than half the students are members. (Remember that British students often appear to be "pretentious" when they are really making fun of themselves- it is a common form of humour in Oxford.) During the first week of Michaelmas term, admission is free to all, so you will be able to attend some of the opening parties and debates and decide for yourself. According to the rules of the Union, only degree candidates are eligible for Life membership, but one term students are eligible for one term membership, which may be renewed. If you wish to join, the procedure is very simple. Please read this section very carefully (you will be given a copy of it in your arrival package on your first day in Oxford.) We include the procedure in the Handbook to give you plenty of advance notice. If you decide NOT to join please ring our office (201132) before 1.00 pm on Monday of Oxford's first week. You will receive a refund of about £50 (the current termly fee) which you may use to join other clubs. If you DO WISH TO JOIN, simply present yourself to the Union Office (ground floor) AFTER 2.00 pm on Tuesday of First Week but BEFORE 5.00 pm on Friday of that week, identify yourself in some way, give them one passport-sized photograph of yourself and they will immediately issue you with a card. We will not be able to offer you membership of the Union or a refund to join other clubs after the deadline on that Friday. If by some chance, you join on your own in some way then you are on your own and no refund is possible. The important point is to go to the Union only between Tuesday (after 2 pm) and Friday of the First Week in order to join. Please do not go to the Union office before 2 pm on that Tuesday because they will not have your card at that time. You may obtain photos from a machine in the entrance to the Covered Market of High Street near Carfax (the city center). You should have 4-5 photos made (or bring them with you) since (as you were told in your admissions letter) you will need other photos in Oxford for various purposes. An Alternative: As you know, we always consult with students to make improvements in our programs. Not every student wishes to join the Union (in the past 90% have done so). If you prefer not to join (see above) you will receive a check for the fee which you can use to join other clubs or teams in which you have a greater interest. We believe this policy offers greater flexibility and fairness to all students. "The WISC academic program was very good. Great freedom of subject matter." TT, Stanford