Through the centuries, gifts in wills have played a vital part in Oxford’s success. Many of Oxford’s colleges were founded through generous legacies and almost every part of the collegiate University has benefited from gifts in the wills of alumni, friends and supporters.

A gift in your will can support any aspect of University life with which you have a particular affinity. You could help Oxford to address major global challenges by funding research, ensure that exceptional students are able to take up their places at the University, and that they thrive while here, or provide stability for critical teaching posts into the future. Whichever area you choose to support, your legacy will help to shape lives for generations to come.

Watch the video below to learn more about the lasting impact that gifts in wills can have on research and students.

Discussing your plans

If you are considering leaving a gift to any part of the University in your will, our Legacies Officer Caroline Reynolds will be pleased to have an informal chat with you, providing any guidance you may need and the wording to share with your solicitor or family members.

A will is very personal, and we quite understand if you prefer to keep your intentions private. However, if you do wish to let us know about a gift in your will to the University, we will be delighted to be able to thank you personally and invite you to events of interest.

Leaving a gift in your will

If you would like some guidance on leaving a gift in your will, please download the PDF below.

Leaving a gift in your will (pdf)  

Making a gift to a college

If you would like to leave a gift in your will to a college, please contact its development office.

View a list of colleges

Pension benefits

You can also nominate Oxford as a beneficiary in your pension or SIPP (Self Invested Personal Pension). Please speak to your pension provider to nominate the University.

US residents

If you would like to know more about leaving a bequest from the USA please email Spencer Wisdom (spencer.wisdom@devoff.ox.ac.uk) or Caroline Reynolds (caroline.reynolds@devoff.ox.ac.uk), or call +44 (0)1865 611520.