IFES: Our Story

The International Fellowship of Evangelical Students (IFES) has a vision to see students around the world built into communities of disciples, transformed by the gospel and impacting the university, the Church and society for the glory of Christ.

Students are at the centre of IFES’ vision:

students reaching students with the good news of Jesus Christ
students growing into life-long disciples of Christ
students serving and strengthening the Church

Founded in 1947 by 10 national movements, the IFES community now has student movements in 152 countries - there are about 500,000 students involved in IFES worldwide.

Through student initiative IFES’ ambition is, by 2020, to double the number of students involved as active, committed members of IFES groups, influencing their societies for Christ.

IFES has enjoyed the benefits of an Oxford base since it moved into rented accommodation in 2001. The purchase of a building would provide a more secure home for the international service centre, the chance to stabilise and save property costs, and provide the global fellowship a valuable long-term asset which will open up new opportunities for hospitality and training.

As well as the ministry synergy from co-locating with UCCF, there will also be the chance for further cost savings on things such as meeting room hire, IT and communication infrastructure, and other support services.