Which Durham College has the most formals? Gowned or not?

University College and Hatfield College have the most formals. Twice a week I think and both have gowned formals.

All colleges on the Bailey except Cuths have gowned formals, while Grey, Trevs and Mary's have gowned formals on the Hill with the rest going without.

Since University College is really over subscribed, is there anyway of securing a place? For example, is it based on academic performance?
Similarly, do you get a choice if you share a room with someone or are you just allocated a room?

Since University College is really over subscribed, is there anyway of securing a place? For example, is it based on academic performance?
Similarly, do you get a choice if you share a room with someone or are you just allocated a room?

I've heard academic performance does factor into it but I don't know for sure as I didn't apply there. If you want regular gowned formals you can also apply for Chads or Johns. Your chances would be greater for getting into those.

I believe Johns, University, Hatfield and Chads have two formals a week. It depends on the college as to the gowns.


The colleges used to be able to choose who they let in (to an extent), but now it is 100% completely random for every college. The university allocates using a randomly generated list - they work through it, putting people into their preferred college that they stated, and as the college gets full, people get allocated to less full ones. I was told this on a visit day in March You are allocated to a room without being able to 'choose' but before you go (after you get the grades and confirm you're going) you are sent a pretty detailed form to fill out. This is used to help place you with a roommate who you'll hopefully like, and will have a similar schedule to you (e.g. an all nighter, or an early riser etc).


There is definitely not a greater chance of getting into Chads - it is an oversubscribed as Castle because it is so small. Pretty much everyone who goes to Chads puts it as their choice, as with University. There might be slightly more room in Johns, but traditional bailey colleges are very popular I'm afraid.

John's only have one formal per week normally, a slight correction

Oops thank you, didn't realise that!

Also which would you say has the best location?
Thank you