Foundation needed for Oxford Uni Fine Art?

[Costello71]

Is a Foundation course in Fine Art absolutely needed for Fine Art degree at Oxford Uni?
My daughter is predicted 2 A* and an A.
Fine Art is predicted A*

Most fine art degrees require foundation

It’s ’heavily encouraged’. It matures their portfolio, provides a good transition between school and doing art full time snd after trying out different media let students confirm or narrow their focus. I think the majority of successful applicants to Ruskin have a FAD (or rather are taking it in the year they apply). They will expect a merit or better.

Isn't it needed at most universities for fine art? Why do you think Oxford would be less picky about this?

I’d separate ‘usual for art degrees’ from ‘required by Oxford’. Oxford/Ruskin currently says a post-18 Art Foundation is highly recommended, not listed as compulsory, so I would check the current wording and email admissions if still unsure. The real test is probably portfolio strength and interview preparation, not just predicted grades.

It isn’t needed but most successful applicants will have done one. The same applies at the Slade. I’d recommend your daughter research and apply for foundation years as well as Fine Art degrees as statistically, she’s likely to need one, although of course that may not be the case.

Her portfolio, personal statement and ability to talk about her work are just as/more important than A-level results. (Someone could have super A level results and really struggle on a BA Fine Art- the level of independence and discourse required is much higher).

Don’t know about Oxford sorry but I know someone who is at Falmouth doing fine art and she got unconditional offers from all universities she applied to without having done a foundation course. I think portfolio and interviews were more important.