On Feb. 17, 270 sixth grade students were offered admission to Oxford Academy for the class of 2032. These students were selected from the 655 applicants to California’s #2 public high school.
Every year, Oxford undergoes a rigorous admissions process to build its classes. Applicants are required to submit 4th and 5th grade final report cards, 5th grade standardized testing scores, a teacher recommendation and short answer question responses. Those who meet the school’s academic standards are later invited to take a three-hour admissions test and submit a video interview.
The school accepts 25 students from the 8 feeder areas of the Anaheim Union High School District (AUHSD), totaling to 200 local students. Oxford offers 70 additional spots to students who live outside of AUHSD, with some of the most represented areas including Buena Park, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Fountain Valley and Huntington Beach.
“In general, you’re going to find the bulk of students are coming from the surrounding areas,” Assistant Principal Mr. Hurley said. “You’ll find a handful of students that are far out there, but their families really want them to have the education here.”
Looking to make admissions more holistic, Oxford introduced a video interview component during the 2021-2022 admissions cycle. Weighted 20% in the overall admissions process, the video interview evaluates students for character rather than academic prowess.
“We didn’t want to deviate too much from the process,” Hurley said. “Yet, at the same time, we don’t want things to be so test-oriented that we’re dismissing the person as a whole.”
Strong academics remain a top priority for the school, however. The Oxford test, which consists of four parts—a multiple choice English and math section, free response math section, and timed essay—ensures the school admits the brightest students. Many prospective students prepare months, even years, in advance, utilizing test preparation centers like PACE Academy, Perfect Score Academy and Megastudy Academy in Cypress.
“The Oxford test was easier than I expected. My academy prepared me to understand many rigorous concepts,” incoming seventh grade student Justin Shin said, who attended Megastudy Academy.
However, some students found the exam to be rigorous and challenging, even with months of preparation. Regardless, it’s clear that many incoming students are excited to spend the next six years at Oxford.
“Overall, the test and admissions process was difficult, but the results made me proud,” incoming seventh grader Eunchae Shin said. “Oxford will be a place that will support me for my future years.”
