Prospective students now face another hurdle

A test for would-be English undergraduates is also being contemplated, for the following year.

The university said the aim was to distinguish between the large numbers of candidates predicted to get straight As in their A-levels.

The tests, taken prior to interviews, would be designed so that students would not benefit from coaching.

Text-based

"Generally speaking, every effort is made to ensure that all applicants, whatever their age, social or educational background, are given an equal chance to demonstrate their academic potential in their chosen subject to the tutors," a spokesperson said.

The history test would be modelled on the tests introduced already for law and medicine, and would be comparable to elements of the AS-level and Advanced Extension Award (AEA) exams.

It would be text-based, aiming to assess the skills required for the study of history as defined in the published selection criteria.

"The aim of the test will be to assess them all in a fair and objective way, placing those from home and overseas and from all backgrounds and age-groups on as level a footing as possible."

Schools canvassed

Oxford stressed that, unlike the old Oxford entrance exams, abolished in 1995, the new test was specifically designed so that students did not need any additional coaching.

"This test is still in development, so we are not yet able to give fuller details of its nature and content at present."

If it did go ahead, schools and colleges would be given more detailed information by the beginning of May.

The first candidates would take it this autumn, for entry the following year.

The English faculty's consideration of a test is at a less advanced stage, with schools being contacted for their opinions.

"The debate is completely open at the moment," the spokesperson said.

If it were introduced it would be for those applying for entry in October 2006.