Congratulations on your offer from Lincoln! When you arrive in October, you will be joining the Lincoln MCR (Middle Common Room), the busiest, most exciting, and most tight-knit graduate community in Oxford. This handbook is a brief guide to introduce you to the MCR, who we are and what we do, and hopefully get you excited about your time here. Don’t worry if you’re unable to take it all in now — all of this information will be repeated over the course of Freshers’ Week and beyond, and you can always reach out to any member of the MCR Committee if you’d like to know more.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
We look forward to seeing you soon!
A message from your MCR President
A very warm welcome to Lincoln College and to our postgraduate community, the MCR. Whether you’re arriving from five minutes down the road or halfway across the world, we’re so excited to have you with us.
You’re joining Lincoln at a special moment. Although the College turns 600 in 2027, the anniversary celebrations are already well underway, with events, talks, and opportunities to get involved throughout the year. It’s a milestone that reminds us just how much history surrounds us here, but also how much of it is still being written. And you’re now part of that story.
Oxford is beautiful, brilliant, and occasionally baffling. It’s full of quirks, traditions, and more acronyms than anyone really needs. It can be inspiring, demanding, and occasionally overwhelming. But through all of that, the MCR is here for you.
It will challenge you, change you, and more than once leave you wondering if you’ve wandered into the wrong seminar. But through all of it, the MCR is here for you.
More than just a room with endless tea, biscuits and a coffee machine – the MCR is your home within a home. It's a place to unwind, come together, chat about research (or literally anything else), and remember you're not in it alone. We’re proud to be a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive community, no matter your background, your course, or how many degrees you’ve already collected.
This year’s calendar is packed with everything from Welfare Teas to Wine & Cheese nights and Pizza & Pints, MCR Dinners, exchange events, Lincoln Leads, and more. We’re also introducing new events shaped by the interests and cultures of you, our incoming cohort. If there’s something you want to see, we’d love to hear it.
You’ll meet people here from all walks of life, with wildly different interests and experiences, but that’s one of the best things about Lincoln. The MCR brings together people you might never otherwise cross paths with, and turns them into flatmates, collaborators, and lifelong friends.
It’s a privilege to serve as MCR President this year, and I’m really looking forward to meeting you all. However you're feeling about the year ahead – excited, nervous, somewhere in between – know that you're already part of a community that's here for you.
Here’s to the year ahead, to Lincoln, and to what comes next.
Best wishes,
Jessie
You’re joining Lincoln at a special moment. Although the College turns 600 in 2027, the anniversary celebrations are already well underway, with events, talks, and opportunities to get involved throughout the year. It’s a milestone that reminds us just how much history surrounds us here, but also how much of it is still being written. And you’re now part of that story.
Oxford is beautiful, brilliant, and occasionally baffling. It’s full of quirks, traditions, and more acronyms than anyone really needs. It can be inspiring, demanding, and occasionally overwhelming. But through all of that, the MCR is here for you.
It will challenge you, change you, and more than once leave you wondering if you’ve wandered into the wrong seminar. But through all of it, the MCR is here for you.
More than just a room with endless tea, biscuits and a coffee machine – the MCR is your home within a home. It's a place to unwind, come together, chat about research (or literally anything else), and remember you're not in it alone. We’re proud to be a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive community, no matter your background, your course, or how many degrees you’ve already collected.
This year’s calendar is packed with everything from Welfare Teas to Wine & Cheese nights and Pizza & Pints, MCR Dinners, exchange events, Lincoln Leads, and more. We’re also introducing new events shaped by the interests and cultures of you, our incoming cohort. If there’s something you want to see, we’d love to hear it.
You’ll meet people here from all walks of life, with wildly different interests and experiences, but that’s one of the best things about Lincoln. The MCR brings together people you might never otherwise cross paths with, and turns them into flatmates, collaborators, and lifelong friends.
It’s a privilege to serve as MCR President this year, and I’m really looking forward to meeting you all. However you're feeling about the year ahead – excited, nervous, somewhere in between – know that you're already part of a community that's here for you.
Here’s to the year ahead, to Lincoln, and to what comes next.
Best wishes,
Jessie
What is the MCR?
All graduate members of the College are members of the Middle Common Room (MCR) as well as the Junior Common Room (JCR), though MCR members rarely, if ever, frequent the JCR as it is mostly used by the undergraduates.
The term ‘Middle Common Room’ refers collectively to both the members of Lincoln College’s postgraduate community, as well as the Common Room that we all share within the College.
The physical Common Room itself is located in the Berrow Foundation Building, in the far corner of the Grove. The MCR is available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week for MCR members to meet up with friends, watch TV, play some games, do work or reading, or have a cup of tea. Within the MCR, you'll have access to:
The real MCR, however, is made up of its members, the College’s postgraduate community and the group of which you are now a part. Anyone pursuing a postgraduate degree or second BA at Lincoln is automatically made an Ordinary Member of the MCR. This extends to visiting students who are members of the College, as well as to undergraduates in the final year of a 4-year degree course.
The MCR actively encourages spouses and partners to become involved – the more, the merrier. Associate membership of the MCR is available to spouses or partners of ordinary members, to former members of the College engaged in postgraduate or postdoctoral work within Oxford and to visiting graduate students or mature scholars working with a Fellow of the College. Associate membership confers most of the rights and privileges associated with full membership, but does not permit voting rights in MCR elections and meetings, access to the library, or the ability to bring guests to events. The cost for associate membership is £70 per year, and those wishing to apply should do so via the College website. Please note that all applications are subject to approval.
The term ‘Middle Common Room’ refers collectively to both the members of Lincoln College’s postgraduate community, as well as the Common Room that we all share within the College.
The physical Common Room itself is located in the Berrow Foundation Building, in the far corner of the Grove. The MCR is available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week for MCR members to meet up with friends, watch TV, play some games, do work or reading, or have a cup of tea. Within the MCR, you'll have access to:
- a kettle with lots of tea options
- a bean-to-cup coffee machine
- a microwave
- a toaster
- a small fridge (with dairy and oat milk during term time)
- a biscuit jar
The real MCR, however, is made up of its members, the College’s postgraduate community and the group of which you are now a part. Anyone pursuing a postgraduate degree or second BA at Lincoln is automatically made an Ordinary Member of the MCR. This extends to visiting students who are members of the College, as well as to undergraduates in the final year of a 4-year degree course.
The MCR actively encourages spouses and partners to become involved – the more, the merrier. Associate membership of the MCR is available to spouses or partners of ordinary members, to former members of the College engaged in postgraduate or postdoctoral work within Oxford and to visiting graduate students or mature scholars working with a Fellow of the College. Associate membership confers most of the rights and privileges associated with full membership, but does not permit voting rights in MCR elections and meetings, access to the library, or the ability to bring guests to events. The cost for associate membership is £70 per year, and those wishing to apply should do so via the College website. Please note that all applications are subject to approval.
Meet the MCR Executive Committee
JESSIE RYAN-SMITH - PRESIDENT
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The fearless leader of the MCR. The primary duties of the President reside in overseeing the day-to-day running of the MCR: directing general MCR policy, arranging Committee meetings and working with them to set the MCR’s termly series of events, acting as the go-between for the MCR and the College administration, chairing MCR General Meetings and calling elections and by-elections, and acting as the main point of contact for the MCR and members of the larger Lincoln College, University, and non-University communities. The President is also invited to sit on a termly rotation of College committees to express the MCR’s comments, questions, and concerns regarding the College’s policies, projects, and plans. In addition to these meetings, the MCR President also attends weekly meetings with the Bursar and Domestic Bursar, with the Senior Dean, Head Porter, and the Chaplain, and other ad hoc meetings with MCR and College officers and the Rector. Learn more about Jessie.
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SHONA BROPHY - TREASURER
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Slated as both MCR Treasurer and Vice-President. Chiefly tasked with overseeing the responsible usage of a rolling treasury for the betterment of Lincoln College’s graduate community, this includes, but is not limited to, coordinating with the various MCR officers to create termly budgets, liaising with the College Bursar on subventions and MCR battels, and managing applications for large MCR events through Lincoln College’s various grant schemes. The Treasurer is also responsible for the timely reimbursement of MCR members, in addition to keeping a detailed set of books outlining the expenses and income of the MCR throughout the year and balancing the books when the budgeting period ends. Learn more about Shona.
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LAUREN FOX - SECRETARY
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Chiefly in charge of the MCR's administrative work, taking minutes at meetings, managing the MCR website, running the housing ballot, organising official matriculation and MCR photographs are just some of the Secretary's jobs. Without them, the institutional memory and daily administrative function of the MCR would simply not exist – also, who else would acquire snacks for the General Meetings!? The Secretary rounds out the Executive Branch of the MCR, acting as third in command in the absence of the President and Treasurer. The "Exec" is tasked with approving budget requests and discussing/approving any major decisions that the MCR should undertake. Learn more about Lauren.
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The Social MCR
Our world-famous events include lunches, dinners, including MCR dinners, exchanges with other colleges, Wine and Cheeses, our Valentine's bop, and, of course, our famous termly Emily Carr Party (which many people say is more exclusive and in-demand than even Christ Church Ball…). Details will always be on the Sharepoint calendar, so take a look there and do come along—our primary aim is providing spaces where the whole community can come together, relax, and enjoy each other's company. If you find that mission particularly appealing, do consider running to join the team – we'd love to have your help!
You can learn more about the mainstay events of the MCR's social scene here.
You can learn more about the mainstay events of the MCR's social scene here.
ALEX BAXTER - SOCIAL SECRETARY
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The MCR Social Secretaries are the backbone of the MCR. They run the various social events that grace the Term Card. Among these, but not limited to, are MCR dinners/lunches/exchanges, Wine and Cheeses, Pizza and Pints, and other special events such as the Garden Party, the Downing Exchange, and Christmas dinner. The two Social Secretaries work closely with the college Kitchen and Domestic Bursary to arrange all of these events. They are usually backed up by a team of Social Reps to help them with organising all the wonderful things they do. Social Secretaries commonly go to all of the events that they organise free of charge, and are always thinking of new ways to entertain the MCR. Learn more about Alex.
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SOCIAL REPS - ELECTED IN MICHAELMAS TERM
Social Reps help the Social Secretaries run events, such as movie nights and informal dinners, organise sporting events and watch parties, and liaise with college societies and sports clubs to facilitate members' involvement.
The Academic MCR
Lincoln Leads is the college’s annual lecture series where students present alongside Lincoln alumni from around the globe on a range of current topics. The Lord Florey Talks are another great opportunity to practise your presentation skills and share your research with a wider audience. You can learn more about both here.
We all know how difficult it is to dedicate time to writing in the busy Oxford schedule. Shut Up and Write is a weekly chance to work alongside fellow students, fuelled by free food and coffee, in a few hours of focused study.
To balance out the academics, we also host cultural and social events, such as Cultural Highlight Night, where students share food, drinks, and traditions from their home countries, and Academics at the Movies, which combines film with discussion. These events offer a relaxed space to share interests, meet new people, and take a break from hectic study schedules.
What to know in your first month
You’ll also hear about the Lincoln Links programme, which pairs incoming graduates with current MCR members. It’s a great way to arrive with a friendly face, ask questions about Oxford life, and begin building your Lincoln community.
How to get involved
All our events are open to everyone, and we’re always keen for new ideas. If you’d like to showcase your work at a Lord Florey Talk, present at Lincoln Leads, or get involved in one of our cultural highlight nights, just let the Academic Officers know! These events are designed for everyone in the MCR to contribute, whether you’re testing out an academic idea, sharing your passions, or simply showing up to support your peers.
Useful resources:
We all know how difficult it is to dedicate time to writing in the busy Oxford schedule. Shut Up and Write is a weekly chance to work alongside fellow students, fuelled by free food and coffee, in a few hours of focused study.
To balance out the academics, we also host cultural and social events, such as Cultural Highlight Night, where students share food, drinks, and traditions from their home countries, and Academics at the Movies, which combines film with discussion. These events offer a relaxed space to share interests, meet new people, and take a break from hectic study schedules.
What to know in your first month
You’ll also hear about the Lincoln Links programme, which pairs incoming graduates with current MCR members. It’s a great way to arrive with a friendly face, ask questions about Oxford life, and begin building your Lincoln community.
How to get involved
All our events are open to everyone, and we’re always keen for new ideas. If you’d like to showcase your work at a Lord Florey Talk, present at Lincoln Leads, or get involved in one of our cultural highlight nights, just let the Academic Officers know! These events are designed for everyone in the MCR to contribute, whether you’re testing out an academic idea, sharing your passions, or simply showing up to support your peers.
Useful resources:
- Keep an eye on the MCR weekly emails for event details and sign-ups.
- Come and chat with us if you’d like to present, host a discussion, or help organise something new. We’d love to hear from you!
NYASHA MUKONOWESHURO & DAN APPIAH - ACADEMIC OFFICERS
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Academic Officers are charged with overseeing the overall academic provision of the MCR. They are in charge of organising Lincoln Links in Freshers week, Lord Florey Talks, the weekly Shut-Up-and-Write events, and special Academics at the Movies. Chiefly on the docket for Academic Officers is the yearly Lincoln Leads series of panels, which bring together alumni, fellows, and MCR members to give short papers and discuss specially curated topics. Learn more about Nyasha and Dan.
Welfare at Lincoln
The Lincoln MCR is a wonderfully diverse community, and we do our best to make sure it remains a warm, safe, and
welcoming space for everyone, through a number of events and initiatives led by our two amazing Welfare Officers, and our Diversity, Disabilities and LGBTQ+ Reps.
What to know in your first month
Moving to Oxford can feel overwhelming at first, but the MCR has a wide range of welfare resources! We can help point you towards them, whether that be the college nurse, the university counselling service, the peer supporter network, LGBTQ+, international and BAME reps, and beyond. The weekly Welfare Teas are a great way to meet people informally, relax, and get to know the community.
You can learn more about welfare resources at Lincoln here.
How to get involved
Freshers are warmly encouraged to get involved in shaping the welfare side of the MCR! Come along to Welfare Teas, or just drop the Welfare Officers a message if you have ideas for future events or topics you’d like to see covered!
Useful resources
welcoming space for everyone, through a number of events and initiatives led by our two amazing Welfare Officers, and our Diversity, Disabilities and LGBTQ+ Reps.
What to know in your first month
Moving to Oxford can feel overwhelming at first, but the MCR has a wide range of welfare resources! We can help point you towards them, whether that be the college nurse, the university counselling service, the peer supporter network, LGBTQ+, international and BAME reps, and beyond. The weekly Welfare Teas are a great way to meet people informally, relax, and get to know the community.
You can learn more about welfare resources at Lincoln here.
How to get involved
Freshers are warmly encouraged to get involved in shaping the welfare side of the MCR! Come along to Welfare Teas, or just drop the Welfare Officers a message if you have ideas for future events or topics you’d like to see covered!
Useful resources
- Weekly Welfare Teas: Free snacks (and lots of them!!), hot drinks, and a chance to chat or unwind.
- Peer Support Drop-ins: You can always reach out one-to-one for a private conversation.
- Awareness Campaigns: Across the year, we’ll be marking key welfare initiatives (e.g. mental health awareness, consent workshops, stress-busting events in exam term).
XANTHE LUCKHAM-DOWN & JEREMY HUNT - WELFARE OFFICERS
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As Welfare Officers, we’re here to provide a listening ear and peer support for any MCR member who needs it. As trained peer supporters, we’re well equipped to help fellow students talk through anything – whether it’s academic stress, personal challenges, or just settling into Oxford life. Learn more about Xanthe and Jeremy.
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DIVERSITY
What to know in your first month
Lincoln has a multi-faith prayer and quiet room located on the main site, including washing facilities, which you can find more information about here. Lincoln also has a Chapel with regular services during term time, which you can find more about here. There are also several resources available in the University, including the OUIsoc's Muslim Prayer Room.
Lincoln's Hall can be very accommodating for dietary requirements. It is important to sign up beforehand through the meal booking portal (which you'll get access to once you have your university log-in) on a meal-by-meal basis to ensure that the option is reserved for you by hall staff. It is, however, still advisable to ask either Hall or the MCR Diversity Rep regarding provision for specific dietary needs, as coverage can vary.
For students wishing to keep kosher, or for those who only eat kosher meat, Jsoc the Oxford Jewish Congregation organises evening weekday meaty meals including Friday night dinner. The Jewish Chaplains also organise Shabbat lunches. Additionally, Chabad is able to help provide kosher food for students. Generally, they advise students to plan and bring any kosher food they want in Oxford as the nearest big kosher stores are in London. Jsoc will be sharing more information about Sukkot on their Instagram soon.
For students who eat halal, OUIsoc have a helpful Halal Food in Oxford guide on their website, which includes restaurants, takeaways, and shops. They also have a College Guide.
The University Freshers' Fair is a great way to connect with your ethnic, religious or national community and find useful resources. Lincoln College's slot is 11 am - 12 pm on Thursday, 9 October.
How to get involved
Useful resources
Lincoln has a multi-faith prayer and quiet room located on the main site, including washing facilities, which you can find more information about here. Lincoln also has a Chapel with regular services during term time, which you can find more about here. There are also several resources available in the University, including the OUIsoc's Muslim Prayer Room.
Lincoln's Hall can be very accommodating for dietary requirements. It is important to sign up beforehand through the meal booking portal (which you'll get access to once you have your university log-in) on a meal-by-meal basis to ensure that the option is reserved for you by hall staff. It is, however, still advisable to ask either Hall or the MCR Diversity Rep regarding provision for specific dietary needs, as coverage can vary.
For students wishing to keep kosher, or for those who only eat kosher meat, Jsoc the Oxford Jewish Congregation organises evening weekday meaty meals including Friday night dinner. The Jewish Chaplains also organise Shabbat lunches. Additionally, Chabad is able to help provide kosher food for students. Generally, they advise students to plan and bring any kosher food they want in Oxford as the nearest big kosher stores are in London. Jsoc will be sharing more information about Sukkot on their Instagram soon.
For students who eat halal, OUIsoc have a helpful Halal Food in Oxford guide on their website, which includes restaurants, takeaways, and shops. They also have a College Guide.
The University Freshers' Fair is a great way to connect with your ethnic, religious or national community and find useful resources. Lincoln College's slot is 11 am - 12 pm on Thursday, 9 October.
How to get involved
- We hold various diversity events throughout term time, including cultural celebrations and religious holiday dinners. Keep an eye on the MCR weekly emails for event details and sign-ups.
- Oxford has lots of ethnic, religious and national societies. You can find a comprehensive list here.
Useful resources
- Peer Supporters: Peers of Colour identify as students of colour and are trained to support Oxford students of colour. Peers of Faith are interested in beliefs around faith, religion and spirituality in the context of supporting other Oxford students.
- The University Counselling Service runs an online Students of Colour Group once a term for students to reflect on issues that may impact their academic and social experience at Oxford. They also run workshops periodically throughout the year.
MEHMET TATOGLU - DIVERSITY REPRESENTATIVE
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The Diversity Representative represents the interests of underrepresented groups within the MCR in consultation with various College committees, and may run any number of associated events. Learn more about Mehmet.
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DISABILITIES
What to know in your first month
If you have a disability or long-term health condition, you can access support from both the college and the university. This includes:
For more information about eligibility for support, see here.
If you’re not sure if you’re entitled to support, the university’s Disability Advisory Service runs a Monday/Wednesday/Friday 1-3 pm drop-in service, where you can speak to an advisor and ask any questions. This might be if, for example, you feel you might have a disability but have not yet received a diagnosis (e.g. because you are on an NHS waiting list waiting for an assessment) or had exam adjustments at your previous institution but no formal diagnosis.
How to access support
(1) Register with the university’s Disability Advisory Service
It’s best to register with the DAS as soon as possible, since the start of each academic year is a very busy time for them. To register, follow the steps on this website.
Before you have matriculated, you can register for support by completing the Disability Advisory Service registration form and emailing it to the DAS. The form and email can be found at the above link.
Once you have matriculated, you can still register with the DAS at any point during your studies. This includes if you receive a new diagnosis during your studies. To do so, fill out the disability field on Student Self-service (more guidance at the above link).
(2) Access college support
Rebecca Carley is the college’s disability coordinator and Examinations and Adjustments Officer. She can be contacted at [email protected]. Rebecca can help you with any necessary adjustments to teaching provision, examination arrangements, or accommodation.
(3) Support in the MCR
The MCR has a Disabilities Representative, who represents disabled students and works to ensure that all MCR initiatives are accessible to all students. The Disabilities Representative is also a source of informal support and can provide advice in accessing the various college and university services. For information about accessibility at Lincoln, including a link to an access guide of all Lincoln buildings, see https://lincoln.ox.ac.uk/student-life/accessibility.
(4) Other sources of support in the MCR
The MCR has a wealth of welfare resources, including trained Disability Diversity Peer Supporters and our two Welfare Officers. Please see the Welfare section for more info.
If you have a disability or long-term health condition, you can access support from both the college and the university. This includes:
- mental health conditions
- neurodiversity (including ADHD and autism)
- specific learning disabilities (such as dyslexia)
- genetic and progressive conditions (such as muscular dystrophy)
- physical or mobility impairments
- long-term illnesses
- sensory impairments, and
- medical conditions which have a significant impact on your day-to-day activities.
For more information about eligibility for support, see here.
If you’re not sure if you’re entitled to support, the university’s Disability Advisory Service runs a Monday/Wednesday/Friday 1-3 pm drop-in service, where you can speak to an advisor and ask any questions. This might be if, for example, you feel you might have a disability but have not yet received a diagnosis (e.g. because you are on an NHS waiting list waiting for an assessment) or had exam adjustments at your previous institution but no formal diagnosis.
How to access support
(1) Register with the university’s Disability Advisory Service
It’s best to register with the DAS as soon as possible, since the start of each academic year is a very busy time for them. To register, follow the steps on this website.
Before you have matriculated, you can register for support by completing the Disability Advisory Service registration form and emailing it to the DAS. The form and email can be found at the above link.
Once you have matriculated, you can still register with the DAS at any point during your studies. This includes if you receive a new diagnosis during your studies. To do so, fill out the disability field on Student Self-service (more guidance at the above link).
(2) Access college support
Rebecca Carley is the college’s disability coordinator and Examinations and Adjustments Officer. She can be contacted at [email protected]. Rebecca can help you with any necessary adjustments to teaching provision, examination arrangements, or accommodation.
(3) Support in the MCR
The MCR has a Disabilities Representative, who represents disabled students and works to ensure that all MCR initiatives are accessible to all students. The Disabilities Representative is also a source of informal support and can provide advice in accessing the various college and university services. For information about accessibility at Lincoln, including a link to an access guide of all Lincoln buildings, see https://lincoln.ox.ac.uk/student-life/accessibility.
(4) Other sources of support in the MCR
The MCR has a wealth of welfare resources, including trained Disability Diversity Peer Supporters and our two Welfare Officers. Please see the Welfare section for more info.
DISABILITIES REPRESENTATIVE - ELECTED IN MICHAELMAS TERM
The Disabilities Representative represents the views and interests of disabled students at Lincoln, provides resources and support, and organises appropriate events.
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LGBTQ+
What to know in your first month
How to get involved
Useful resources
- Outgoing LGBTQ+ Rep Daisy's advice is "go to events! I've met some of my best friends at the lgbtq+ events"
- Go to the Jolly Farmers
- Keep your eyes out for events at other colleges (e.g Wadham Queerfest)
- There are loads of queer people in Oxford – you just have to find them
How to get involved
- Join OULGBTQ+ Society
- Join Oxford Trans Assembly
Useful resources
- Peer supporters: Rainbow Peers identify as LGBTQ+ and are trained to support Oxford LGBTQ+ students.
- The MCR LGBTQ+ Representative can answer your questions and help you navigate issues. While they're currently up for re-election in Michaelmas, you can reach out to our outgoing Rep, Daisy Abraham, in the interim
- The OULGTBQ+ Society website has loads of resources and advice, including a Fresher's Guide
LGBTQ+ REPRESENTATIVE - ELECTED IN MICHAELMAS TERM
The LGBTQ+ Representative's role is to make sure queer issues and concerns are brought to the fore in the MCR and the college, to work closely with the Welfare team and provide pastoral care for members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and to provide fun LGBTQIA+ related activities throughout the year. Please get in contact if you have any problems, or if you have any ideas for an event, or if you just want to chat!
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PEER SUPPORTERS
Peer-supporters are fellow Lincolnites who are here for you and specially trained to talk about anything that is bothering
you. Their experiences of the same very specific student context allow for support with an “insider understanding” and
makes it accessible within the day-to-day structure of university life. It’s confidential, judgment-free and relaxed.
You can always find the Lincoln Peer Supporter poster in the MCR, and can also reach out to [email protected] to request support.
If you’re interested in joining our team of peer supporters, get in touch with one of the Welfare Officers!
you. Their experiences of the same very specific student context allow for support with an “insider understanding” and
makes it accessible within the day-to-day structure of university life. It’s confidential, judgment-free and relaxed.
You can always find the Lincoln Peer Supporter poster in the MCR, and can also reach out to [email protected] to request support.
If you’re interested in joining our team of peer supporters, get in touch with one of the Welfare Officers!
Sustainability at Lincoln
What to know in your first month
Lincoln and the MCR are committed to sustainability through a number of initiatives.
While you may be used to your waste sorting system at home, recycling is likely a bit different at Lincoln (and Oxford City Council)! Make sure to familiarise yourself with waste guidance posted near bins in the MCR and your accommodation before disposing of waste, and remember to avoid wishcycling. If you're not living in College accommodation, you can also check out Oxford City Council's waste guide, or download a free waste guide app like Horizon or Scrapp. As a reminder, incorrect waste sorting can lead to fines for the College, which could impact the MCR budget.
How to get involved
Lincoln has a Green Action Committee, which is open to students to join. Juliet, Lincoln's Sustainability Coordinator, is working on some exciting changes for the year ahead, so keep your eyes peeled.
There are also sustainability and climate change societies and organisations at the University. Make sure to visit the Freshers' Fair to learn more about them! Lincoln College's slot is 11 am - 12 pm on Thursday, 9 October.
Useful resources
For information about some of the College and the MCR’s sustainability initiatives, see here.
You can also reach out Jessie (formerly the Sustainability Rep – [email protected]) or Juliet ([email protected]) with questions, ideas and suggestions.
Lincoln and the MCR are committed to sustainability through a number of initiatives.
While you may be used to your waste sorting system at home, recycling is likely a bit different at Lincoln (and Oxford City Council)! Make sure to familiarise yourself with waste guidance posted near bins in the MCR and your accommodation before disposing of waste, and remember to avoid wishcycling. If you're not living in College accommodation, you can also check out Oxford City Council's waste guide, or download a free waste guide app like Horizon or Scrapp. As a reminder, incorrect waste sorting can lead to fines for the College, which could impact the MCR budget.
How to get involved
Lincoln has a Green Action Committee, which is open to students to join. Juliet, Lincoln's Sustainability Coordinator, is working on some exciting changes for the year ahead, so keep your eyes peeled.
There are also sustainability and climate change societies and organisations at the University. Make sure to visit the Freshers' Fair to learn more about them! Lincoln College's slot is 11 am - 12 pm on Thursday, 9 October.
Useful resources
For information about some of the College and the MCR’s sustainability initiatives, see here.
You can also reach out Jessie (formerly the Sustainability Rep – [email protected]) or Juliet ([email protected]) with questions, ideas and suggestions.
SUSTAINABILITY REPRESENTATIVE - ELECTED IN MICHAELMAS TERM
The Sustainability Representative is responsible for environmental and sustainability-related issues at Lincoln. They work and meet with College officials to create the College Environmental policy, support events (e.g. planting days, Waste Not Want Not swap shop events, and advocate for sustainability through the Student Union cross-college Environment & Ethics Reps group. They also promote sustainable waste management and other schemes within the MCR.
charities at Lincoln
Each year, the MCR selects several charities to support, including through our MCR Charities Fund and volunteering activities.
In the last Academic year (2024-2025), the MCR selected Red Cross, Global Returns Project, and Water Aid as recipients for the Charities Fund.
In the last Academic year (2024-2025), the MCR selected Red Cross, Global Returns Project, and Water Aid as recipients for the Charities Fund.
CHARITIES REPRESENTATIVE - ELECTED IN MICHAELMAS TERM
The Charities Representative organises (themed!) charity fundraising events, helps decide where to allocate MCR Charities Funds, and helps to develop ties between the wider Oxford community and the Common Room through charity outreach projects.
ACCOMMODATION
Lincoln has 3 main accommodation sites for graduate students: Bear Lane (~3 minutes from main college site), the EPA Centre on Museum Road (~10 minutes), and Little Clarendon Street (LCS, ~12 minutes).
Each site has its own vibe and community, and will have some members of the MCR Committee living there next year, so if you would like to know more about any of them, do get in touch with one of us and we will be more than happy to help. If you have any general questions about the provision of accommodation, feel free to email the MCR Secretary (Lauren) at [email protected].
Each site has its own vibe and community, and will have some members of the MCR Committee living there next year, so if you would like to know more about any of them, do get in touch with one of us and we will be more than happy to help. If you have any general questions about the provision of accommodation, feel free to email the MCR Secretary (Lauren) at [email protected].
BEAR LANE AND EMILY CARR HOUSE
The entire residence complex is referred to as Bear Lane, while Emily Carr house is a standalone house located within the Bear Lane complex, adjacent to the central courtyard of the complex. The rooms in Bear Lane can vary; most rooms include a sink within the room, and the bathrooms and kitchen are shared with those living in the same staircase. There is a communal laundry facility beneath staircase 20. All rooms come with a standard single bed, desk, chair and shelving.
Bear Lane is the closest residence available to the main college site, and is ideal for those who want to access MCR events, the dining hall, or any other college amenities quickly and conveniently.
The Emily Carr House is a house of 4 bedrooms, with residents sharing a kitchen and 2 bathrooms, both of which have a shower. Noise is moderate, as you may be able to get noise from the High Street, and the Bear Lane courtyard. Please note that the Emily Carr party will take place within the residence. This house is ideal for those who want to benefit from proximity to college, but would like to live in a stand-alone house rather than a traditional student residence.
Bear Lane is in a central location just below the High Street and is thus close to college as well as the Westgate Shopping centre, Covered Market, and Examination Schools. Below are sample photos of rooms in Bear Lane. Please note these photos are for reference, and additional materials like bedding are not included.
Key info
From Turl Street: 3-4 minutes’ walk
Nearby: Lincoln College Library, Rad Cam, Bodleian Old Library, Weston Library, Cornmarket Street, Westgate Shopping Centre, Examination Schools
Food shop:
Bear Lane is the closest residence available to the main college site, and is ideal for those who want to access MCR events, the dining hall, or any other college amenities quickly and conveniently.
The Emily Carr House is a house of 4 bedrooms, with residents sharing a kitchen and 2 bathrooms, both of which have a shower. Noise is moderate, as you may be able to get noise from the High Street, and the Bear Lane courtyard. Please note that the Emily Carr party will take place within the residence. This house is ideal for those who want to benefit from proximity to college, but would like to live in a stand-alone house rather than a traditional student residence.
Bear Lane is in a central location just below the High Street and is thus close to college as well as the Westgate Shopping centre, Covered Market, and Examination Schools. Below are sample photos of rooms in Bear Lane. Please note these photos are for reference, and additional materials like bedding are not included.
Key info
From Turl Street: 3-4 minutes’ walk
Nearby: Lincoln College Library, Rad Cam, Bodleian Old Library, Weston Library, Cornmarket Street, Westgate Shopping Centre, Examination Schools
Food shop:
- 3 minutes – Sainbury’s Local, Covered Market
- 6 minutes – Tesco Express
- 8 minutes – Sainbury’s, M&S Food Hall
- Shared bathrooms
- Shared kitchens
- Most rooms include a sink
- Varying room sizes (some include additional seating like couches!)
- Laundry: on-site communal laundry located in the basement of staircase 20
- Additional facilities: Bear Lane Reading Room, TV room, printing facilities, outdoor picnic tables, bike storage
LITTLE CLARENDON STREET (LCS)
Little Clarendon is slightly further from college, but is near the Radcliffe Quarter and closer to the neighbourhood of Jericho, and therefore has great access to nice restaurants, pubs, bars, and other shops. The residence is located directly above the Oxford Wine Cafe and small supermarkets. Rooms facing Walton Street receive more natural light, but also more noise from the street. Many rooms benefit from large windows and an ensuite bathroom. The rooms are uniform in layout and size, all including a single bed, desk and bookshelves. Noise level and natural light are the primary differences between rooms, and rooms of a higher grade generally receive more natural light.
Kitchens are shared with a larger number of students, and have two full ovens and several tables to accommodate. There is a laundry room, a shared balcony on the top floor, and a lift. This residence is ideal for those who want to live in a livelier area with access to many restaurants and pubs, but do not mind being further away from college or the noise that comes with the area.
Key info
From Turl Street: 14-16 minutes’ walk, 4-5 minutes’ cycle
Nearby: Leopold Muller Memorial Library, Rewley House Continuing Education Library, Jericho, Radcliffe Quarter
Food shop:
Kitchens are shared with a larger number of students, and have two full ovens and several tables to accommodate. There is a laundry room, a shared balcony on the top floor, and a lift. This residence is ideal for those who want to live in a livelier area with access to many restaurants and pubs, but do not mind being further away from college or the noise that comes with the area.
Key info
From Turl Street: 14-16 minutes’ walk, 4-5 minutes’ cycle
Nearby: Leopold Muller Memorial Library, Rewley House Continuing Education Library, Jericho, Radcliffe Quarter
Food shop:
- 1 minute – Co-op
- 5 minutes – Sainbury’s Local
- Many have en-suite bathrooms
- Shared kitchens (with nicer ovens)
- Varying room sizes (rooms with more natural light and less noise tend to be higher bands)
- Laundry: on site communal laundry located on 3rd floor
- Additional facilities: shared balcony on the top floor, lifts, bike storage (east of building)
EPA CENTRE
The EPA centre is slightly further from college, and many science students are encouraged to live here because it is closer to most science departments, though students studying any subject may live here. Being situated further from the city centre also means less noise from the street.
Rooms are fairly uniform, and all available are an A grade. Each room has an ensuite, and each flat has a shared kitchen and common area with a dining table and sitting area. Many rooms receive a good amount of natural light, but this will vary as some windows are frosted. Flats are normally shared between approximately 3 people, so each resident has slightly more communal space than in Carfax. Many flats also have a shared balcony area with seating. There is also a communal laundry facility, a large shared common area with a pool table, event space, and lecture room on the ground floor.
This residence is ideal for those who prefer sharing common spaces with a smaller number of people. There is also a porters lodge that is staffed 24 hours a day.
Key info
From Turl Street: 10-12 minutes’ walk, 3 minutes’ cycle
Nearby: 30-second walk to the Radcliffe Science Library and Natural History Museum; close to many science and engineering departments
Food shop:
Rooms are fairly uniform, and all available are an A grade. Each room has an ensuite, and each flat has a shared kitchen and common area with a dining table and sitting area. Many rooms receive a good amount of natural light, but this will vary as some windows are frosted. Flats are normally shared between approximately 3 people, so each resident has slightly more communal space than in Carfax. Many flats also have a shared balcony area with seating. There is also a communal laundry facility, a large shared common area with a pool table, event space, and lecture room on the ground floor.
This residence is ideal for those who prefer sharing common spaces with a smaller number of people. There is also a porters lodge that is staffed 24 hours a day.
Key info
From Turl Street: 10-12 minutes’ walk, 3 minutes’ cycle
Nearby: 30-second walk to the Radcliffe Science Library and Natural History Museum; close to many science and engineering departments
Food shop:
- 8- to 10 minutes – Tesco Express and Sainsbury’s Local
- En suite bathrooms
- Flat numbers 1-4: shared kitchen and common area between 3 people, balcony shared with the flat next door
- Flat numbers 5-6: shared kitchen and common area between 2 people, rooftop balcony
- Laundry: machines located in the basement
- Laundry: on-site communal laundry located in the basement
- Additional facilities: Museum Road common room (shared with 4th year undergrads), lifts, electric piano, event and lecture space, printing facilities, IT room, on-site pigeons (mail), 24-hour porter’s lodge, bike store
DIVINITY ROAD
Lincoln also has a small house located on Divinity Road. Shared between 4 people, the house is by far the furthest accommodation from college, and located in East Oxford by Cowley – residents may want to consider a bike or bus pass. 3 rooms have a double bed, with one room having a single bed, and all rooms include a desk and some shelving. The kitchen has also undergone renovations and is shared amongst the residents with an additional living space and dining area. Three of the bedrooms have ensuite bathrooms and there is a fourth communal bathroom.
This residence may be ideal for those preferring to live in a house on a residential street (most houses on Divinity Road are occupied by Oxford Brookes students) and do not mind a longer commute into the city centre and to college. The house is also the closest college residence to the John Radcliffe Hospital.
Key info
From Turl Street: 30-32 minutes’ walk, 7 minutes’ cycle
Nearby: Cowley Road, Lincoln College Recreation Ground, John Radcliffe Hospital (closest of all graduate housing)
Food shop:
Features:
This residence may be ideal for those preferring to live in a house on a residential street (most houses on Divinity Road are occupied by Oxford Brookes students) and do not mind a longer commute into the city centre and to college. The house is also the closest college residence to the John Radcliffe Hospital.
Key info
From Turl Street: 30-32 minutes’ walk, 7 minutes’ cycle
Nearby: Cowley Road, Lincoln College Recreation Ground, John Radcliffe Hospital (closest of all graduate housing)
Food shop:
- 1-2 minutes – Co-op, Erdem Food Centre, Al-Amin Halal Meat & Grocery
- 6 minutes – Tesco Express
Features:
- 4-bedroom house in a residential area
- Shared bathroom
- Shared kitchen and dining area
- Shared living space
- Most rooms include a sink
- Varying room sizes
- Laundry: on-site laundry (free!)
- Additional facilities: garden
Finance and Grants Information for Freshers
As well as providing social life and community, one of the main roles of the college is to support your academic and extracurricular activites during your time at Lincoln. There are a number of grants and scholarships that are available to Lincoln MCR members, and it is up to you to make the most of the resources being offered! Here is a short summary of some of the cash available for MCR students. For more detailed information, refer to the financial support for MCR students section on the college website!
ACADEMIC
These grants are available to fee-paying students to support activities associated with your degree studies. Please refer to the college website for more info.
- Book grants to cover a percentage of the resources purchased to support your degree studies. Applications must be submitted before Friday, Week 6 of Trinity term.
- Graduate research fund (£450/year for full-time students, £225/year for part-time students) for conferences, fieldwork, archival visits, etc. associated with your degree studies. Applications CANNOT be made retrospectively. Applications can be submitted throughout the year, as long as the total amount requested annually does not exceed £450.
- Carers’ research fund (£450) for students who have suspended their status for caring responsibilities or maternity leave to support conferences and fieldwork during suspension of status. Applications can be made throughout the year, so long as the total annual request does not exceed £450.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AND HARDSHIP FUNDS
For students who experience unexpected financial difficulties, the college and University have funds available to provide financial support. Please refer to the financial support section of the Lincoln website for details of application submission deadlines. The MCR has no affiliation with these grants and does not receive any information about who applies/reasons for application.
- Lincoln College Student Financial Support Fund (Please refer to the college website for details).
- Alumni graduate student financial assistance award is offered to support students with financial needs that are not covered by other sources.
- Miles Morland Foundation supports students from Africa with financial aid needs ot covered by other sources.
- University support: there are a number of financial support bursaries available from the University. Please refer to the college website for more information.
SPORTS AWARDS
- Blues’ Fund to support the costs associated with playing for University sports teams.
- Blockley Rowing Award to support the costs associated with rowing for the college. Please speak to the Boat Club committee for further information and refer to the college website.
OTHER FINANCIAL SUPPORT
The college also provides a number of scholarships for current Lincoln students with application deadlines throughout the year. These range from accommodation scholarships, subject specific scholarships, and nationality specific scholarships. Please refer to the graduate scholarships section of the Lincoln website to see what applies to you!
LINCOLN LINGO
- Michaelmas: first term
- Hilary: second term
- Trinity: third term
- Bod Card: Your (Bodleian) student card that you must collect when you arrive – you will need it for all meals and to get into most libraries, so try not to lose it!
- Freshers’ Week: 0 Week, before the start of Michaelmas. It is largely a week of social activity with many many events planned by the MCR for you to meet your fellow graduate freshers.
- Nougth Week: Oxford has a different system of labelling weeks (some say logical, others say needless). The first week of every term in Oxford is known as 1st Week, and subsequent weeks are known as 2nd, 3rd, 4th week and so on. Oxford weeks begin on Sundays so the first official day of term is Sunday of 1st week. The system extends to beyond the main 8-week term to -1st, 0th week before term starts and 9th, 10th week after term ends, but everything beyond 0th and 9th week normally causes more confusion than clarity, so it might be advisable to use the dates that the rest of the world uses for out-of-term times.
- Term Card: your essential guide to what’s on in the MCR during the term. It's shared at the start of each term, and you can also find it on the MCR intranet. The Term Card lists all major parties, general meetings, events, formal dinners, college exchanges, and more. You'll receive the Michaelmas Term Card shortly after your arrival.
- Matriculation: the ceremony at the end of your first term that officially initiates you into Oxford!
- Sub Fusc: Your formal wear at matriculation and graduation, including gown and mortar-board
- Hall: The College dining hall
- Buttery: The room next to Hall where breakfast, lunch, and First Hall are served
- First/Informal Hall: First sitting of dinner, served in the Buttery, every night except Saturdays
- Second/Formal Hall: Second sitting of dinner, a seated three-course meal – gown must be worn!
- Great Hall: A more posh formal hall every 2nd Thursday, complete with a cheese board and port!
- Deepers: Our College bar, also referred to as Deep Hall, run by Simon
- Battels: The bills you pay to College for accommodation, food, etc
- Porters: The lovely staff who man the Lodge
- Pidges: Pigeon-holes in the Lodge where mail is delivered
- Scouts: Cleaners who clean your rooms and different parts of College
- The Imp: Our College mascot
- Quads: The grassy squares surrounded by buildings that make up the College. Lincoln has 3: Chapel, Front & Grove
- Rector: The head of Lincoln College, Nigel Clifford
- Vac: Short for “Vacation”, the breaks in between terms
- Emily Carr party: The highlight of each term, a big house party at the Emily Carr House in Bear Lane the Saturday before 1st week
- MCR dinners: Fortnightly MCR dinners, which offer a sumptuous three-course feast provided by the Chef
- MCR exchange dinners: Oxford has a fine tradition of cultural exchange between its colleges, and Lincoln is at the forefront of that group – we invite another college to come and dine at Lincoln, and in return we go to them and sample life and food at their college.
- Bop: A bop is a large college party usually run in Deepers or a similar location. Undergraduate bops generally admit students from the college in question. Graduate bops, however, are usually much larger and involve many Colleges. The Lincoln graduate bop is known as the Emily Carr party and occurs once per term, usually on the Saturday of 1st Week
JOIN OUR COMMUNITY!
The information in this handbook is just the beginning. You can find out more about the MCR by exploring this website, which includes the great MCR Constitution if you wish to read it for some strange reason.
For wider College matters, you can also check out the very comprehensive Lincoln website.
Follow us on Instagram @lincolnmcr, join the “Lincoln College MCR 2025-26” Facebook group, and join our WhatsApp Community (you'll be sent the link in an email by College!).
And if you’d like to get involved more, do consider joining the MCR Committee – keep your ears open for more info on open positions and how to run… In the meantime, enjoy the rest of your summer, and we look forward to seeing you in October!
For wider College matters, you can also check out the very comprehensive Lincoln website.
Follow us on Instagram @lincolnmcr, join the “Lincoln College MCR 2025-26” Facebook group, and join our WhatsApp Community (you'll be sent the link in an email by College!).
And if you’d like to get involved more, do consider joining the MCR Committee – keep your ears open for more info on open positions and how to run… In the meantime, enjoy the rest of your summer, and we look forward to seeing you in October!
