10 Famous People Who Studied at Oxford University

Studying at the world’s renowned university is every student’s dream. If you simply search terms like “the best university in the world” on Google, Oxford University appears pretty high up in the results.

Oxford University is known for offering its students the best education and world-class learning resources. This has attracted students from all over the world to pursue their studies in the United Kingdom. It is safe to say that the University of Oxford has created a quality standard for higher education around the world.

Besides on-campus experience, did you know that Oxford students are promised with amazing advantages in terms of academic and career opportunities?

If you have a dream to pursue your studies at Oxford University and don't know where to start, click the picture below to discover more details about it!

Nobody knows when Oxford University was exactly established. There is evidence of teaching as early as 1096, making it the oldest university in the English-speaking world and the world's second-oldest university.

The university received more attention after Henry II banned students from attending the University of Paris due to political conflicts. Since then, history marked the University of Oxford as one of the most prestigious universities in the UK.

Did you know that some of the world’s most famous actors, celebrities, and world leaders studied at Oxford University?

Many famous people graduated from Oxford University, from the ones you see on television to authors of the books that you read, you’d be surprised that they are actually Oxford alumni.

Whether you're curious about celebrities who went to Oxford, or looking for inspiration from Oxford University alumni who made history, this list features 10 famous people who went to Oxford University.

1. Kate Beckinsale

English actress and model

Kate Beckinsale, a London-born actress, is best known for her performances in Serendipity, Pearl Harbor, and the Underworld film series. Before rising to fame in Hollywood, she studied French and Russian literature at New College, Oxford University, making her one of the many famous actors who went to Oxford.

Beckinsale was an active member of the Oxford University Dramatic Society, where she polished her acting skills. As part of her degree, she spent her third year abroad in Paris. Eventually, she left Oxford before graduating to fully pursue her career in acting. Well, a good decision tho!

Today, Kate Beckinsale stands out as one of the most recognizable Oxford University alumni in the entertainment industry.

2. Rupert Murdoch

Australian-born American media magnate

Rupert Murdoch is one of the most powerful figures in global media. He studied Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) at Worcester College, Oxford University, joining the ranks of other famous Oxford alumni in politics and business. He took over his father's newspaper business at a young age and never looked back.

He was also known for his political activism and sharp editorial mind at the Oxford. Murdoch’s time at Oxford helped shape his early interest in journalism and leadership, the foundation of what would later become a vast global empire, including Fox News, The Times, and The Wall Street Journal.

3. Emma Watson

English actress, model and activist

Who doesn’t know Emma Watson? The British actress shot to global fame as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter film series, starting her career at just 11 years old. Despite becoming a household name early on, Emma stayed committed to her studies, proving that brains and fame can go hand in hand.

In 2011, she spent a year at Worcester College, Oxford University as a visiting student, before graduating from Brown University with a degree in English literature.

Balancing spells at Hogwarts with studies at Oxford? Now that’s impressive.

Emma Watson remains one of the most inspiring celebrities who went to Oxford, admired for both her acting and her activism as a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador.

4. Oscar Wilde

Irish poet and playwright

Oscar Wilde, author of the iconic novel The Picture of Dorian Gray, remains one of the most famous Oxford alumni in the world of literature. Known for his sharp wit, flamboyant personality, and unforgettable quotes, Wilde was one of the most celebrated novelists and playwrights in London during the late 19th century.

Wilde earned royal scholarship to Trinity College, Dublin and later encouraged to compete for a prestigious “demyship” at Magdalen College, Oxford University, which he successfully secured.

He specialised in Classical Moderations and Literae Humaniores (Greats), graduating with a double first, a distinction awarded to the top-performing Oxford University graduates. Today, Oscar Wilde is remembered not only for his literary genius but also as one of the most famous people who studied at Oxford

5. Indira Gandhi

Former Prime Minister of India

Indira Gandhi, India’s first female Prime Minister, came to the UK to care for her sick mother. While living there, she decided to continue her studies at Oxford University.

She didn’t pass the entrance exam on her first try due to her limited Latin, but she tried again and got in. At Oxford, she was an active student, joining societies like the Oxford Majlis Asian Society, where she engaged with other South Asian thinkers and future leaders.

Later, she became one of the most powerful women in the world and a key figure in Indian politics. She led the country through war, nationalised major banks, and launched the “Green Revolution” that helped improve food security in India.

6. Hugh Grant

English actor and film producer

Hugh Grant, loved worldwide for his charming roles in Notting Hill, Love Actually, and Four Weddings and a Funeral, is one of the most well-known actors who went to Oxford.

He earned a scholarship to New College, Oxford, where he studied English literature. During his time at Oxford, he starred in his first film, Privileged, which was produced by the Oxford University Film Foundation.

He graduated with upper second-class honours, but it was clear his future was on screen. Today, he’s not just a Hollywood favourite but also a proud member of the long list of famous Oxford alumni in entertainment.

7. Imran Khan

Former Prime Minister of Pakistan

Imran Khan, one of the most famous people to have studied at Oxford University, was admitted to Keble College after being turned down by Cambridge. He graduated in 1975 with a degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE).

Before entering politics, Khan was a legendary cricketer, best known for leading Pakistan to its first-ever Cricket World Cup victory in 1992. He later served as the Prime Minister of Pakistan, becoming a prominent figure on the global political stage.

Today, Imran Khan is widely recognised as one of the most influential Oxford alumni, admired both for his sporting legacy and political impact.

8. David Cameron

Former British Prime Minister

David Cameron, who served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 2010 to 2016, is one of the many famous Oxford alumni in politics. He passed the university’s entrance exam and was admitted to Brasenose College, Oxford, where he studied Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE), a popular course among UK leaders.

While at Oxford, Cameron was known for being a member of the exclusive Bullingdon Club, a private dining society. He graduated with first-class honours, laying the foundation for his future in British politics.

9. Margaret Thatcher

Former British Prime Minister

Margaret Thatcher, the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, studied Chemistry at Somerville College, Oxford. She began her studies in 1943 and graduated in 1947 with second-class honours.

While at Oxford, Thatcher’s interest in law and politics began to grow, even though she was pursuing science. This early exposure helped shape her path toward becoming one of the most influential leaders in British history.

Thatcher remains one of the most notable Oxford University alumni, known for breaking barriers and transforming UK politics.

10. Dr. Seuss

American author

Theodor Seuss Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss, got into Dartmouth College, where he became editor-in-chief of its humour magazine, Jack-O-Lantern. His passion for writing led him to Oxford University, where he enrolled at Lincoln College to pursue a PhD in English literature.

Although he didn’t complete his degree and eventually dropped out, his time at Oxford played a role in shaping his creative path. He returned to the U.S. and the rest is literary history.

Dr. Seuss may not have graduated, but he’s still remembered as one of the most creative minds to walk through the halls of Oxford University.

 

The list doesn’t stop here. There are many other famous personalities who have attended Oxford. From politicians, great scholars, skilled scientists, activists and more, you name it. 

Oxford University has long been more than just a place of learning, it’s where future leaders, creators, and changemakers begin their journey. From politics to entertainment, science to literature, its alumni have gone on to shape the world in remarkable ways.

Whether you’re exploring the lives of famous Oxford alumni or simply curious about celebrities who studied at Oxford, one thing is certain: Oxford’s legacy lives on through the people it inspires.

Want to be a part of the star-studded alumni of Oxford University? Head over to Bucksmore Education website to find out more!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who are the most famous Oxford alumni?

Oxford University has produced countless influential figures across fields. Some of the most famous Oxford alumni include Indira Gandhi, Stephen Hawking, Oscar Wilde, J.R.R. Tolkien, and David Cameron. Their global impact reflects Oxford’s legacy of academic and cultural excellence.

2. Which Harry Potter actor went to Oxford?

Emma Watson, who played Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter films, studied at Oxford University for a year at Worcester College as part of her English Literature degree. She later graduated from Brown University. 

3. Did any actors study at Oxford University?

Yes, many famous actors went to Oxford University, including Hugh Grant, Rosamund Pike, and Kate Beckinsale. They were active in student drama groups and started acting while studying there. Oxford has been a starting point for several Hollywood and British film stars.