Master's · Oxford Mathematical Institute
Oxford's MSc in Mathematical and Computational Finance is a ten-month, full-time course taught by the Mathematical Institute. For 2027-28 entry the page asks for a first-class or strong upper second-class degree in mathematics or a related discipline, with a background in probability, statistics, differential equations, linear algebra and analysis. It seeks no GRE or GMAT, holds no interview as a rule, and shows two deadlines: 13 November 2026 and 27 January 2027.
2027-28 entry · Official information
Taken from the University of Oxford graduate course page for the MSc in Mathematical and Computational Finance and read on 2 November 2026. The page describes 2027-28 entry; confirm every date and rule on the page before you rely on it.
The minimum is a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in mathematics or a related discipline. For US degrees the page says the minimum overall GPA normally required is 3.6 out of 4.0.
Applicants should have a background in probability, statistics, ordinary and partial differential equations, linear algebra and analysis, and must demonstrate aptitude and knowledge, particularly in real analysis, through the application.
Successful candidates come from a range of quantitative degrees, but students without a mathematics degree must still demonstrate in their application sufficient mathematical knowledge to excel.
The page says no GRE or GMAT scores are sought and that interviews are not normally held for this course.
The page shows 12:00 midday UK time on Friday 13 November 2026 for applications more likely to receive earlier decisions, and 12:00 midday UK time on Wednesday 27 January 2027 as the final deadline. The expected start date is 27 September 2027.
The assessment includes two practical examinations in financial computing with C++, alongside written examinations, two projects and a dissertation.
Official sources
Read on 2 November 2026 on the University of Oxford graduate course page for the MSc in Mathematical and Computational Finance, which describes 2027-28 entry. The module reading lists, the Mathematical Institute's own pages, the Application Guide, the fee and living-cost sections, the college information and the graduate destinations were not read and are not stated.
Fit
The page frames the entry rule through the mathematics a candidate can show, not through the degree title. The readings below mix Oxford's wording with Avandy's judgment, and the labels say which is which.
The page names a degree with honours in mathematics or a related discipline. It still asks you to show a background in probability, statistics, ordinary and partial differential equations, linear algebra and analysis.
The page says successful candidates come from a range of quantitative degrees, but those without a mathematics degree must demonstrate sufficient mathematical knowledge in the application. Map your transcript to the listed topics, and to real analysis in particular.
This course is taught by the Mathematical Institute and focuses on the mathematical and computational skills needed to develop, calibrate and numerically evaluate models for financial data. If your interest is broader, compare it with a finance master's from a business or economics department.
Decision
The course is ten months and full-time, with attendance in Oxford. The structure combines compulsory core material, a compulsory computing course and four electives.
The first term focuses on compulsory core material plus one compulsory computing course. The assessment includes two practical examinations in financial computing with C++.
Students choose four options. Typical options include Advanced Volatility Modelling, Advanced Monte Carlo Methods, Asset Pricing, Market Microstructure and Algorithmic Trading and Decentralised Finance (all listed on the page as typical).
Treat the programming element as part of the fit, not an extra. The page does not name a prerequisite programming language, so do not claim C++ experience you do not have, and show the computing you have actually done.
Application
The page lists two deadlines, labelled differently. Choose by when your documents will be complete.
The earlier date is labelled as one for applications more likely to receive earlier decisions. The later date is the final deadline for 2027-28 entry. Applicants who apply by the January deadline and receive an offer are considered for Oxford scholarships.
Up to 1,000 words on motivation, relevant experience and education, and the areas that interest you. It is assessed for reasons for applying, understanding of the area of study, commitment beyond the degree course, capacity for sustained and intense work, reasoning ability and the ability to absorb new ideas, often presented abstractly, at a rapid pace.
Because the page singles out real analysis, name the analysis course you took and what it covered. A concrete line about a mathematical result you can discuss answers the page's phrase about abstract ideas better than a general statement of interest in finance.
Planning
This page describes the 2027-28 cycle, the cycle now open. The dates and rules here belong to that cycle only.
Map your transcript to probability, statistics, differential equations, linear algebra and analysis, choose between the two deadlines, brief three referees (at least two academic) and draft the statement. Re-read the page before submitting, because Oxford can change a course page.
Support
Avandy provides independent academic and admissions support. It is not affiliated with the University of Oxford or any of its departments. Support sits within the Avandy Trinity Advisory Model: a Strategic Admissions Consultant, a PhD-level Academic Mentor and a Subject-specific Tutor, working to the published requirements of each course. No outcome is promised.
Questions
The page asks for a degree in mathematics or a related discipline, and says candidates come from a range of quantitative degrees, but those without a mathematics degree must demonstrate sufficient mathematical knowledge in their application.
No. The page says no Graduate Record Examination or GMAT scores are sought.
The page says interviews are not normally held for this course.
12:00 midday UK time on Friday 13 November 2026 for applications more likely to receive earlier decisions, and 12:00 midday UK time on Wednesday 27 January 2027 as the final deadline.
Three, of whom at least two must be academic. The department may start assessing once two references are in by the course deadline.
Students and families
Tell us about your degree, your grades, your relevant experience and the master's courses you are weighing. A senior adviser will review the academic profile before recommending how to prepare the application.
