[1][2] It was founded on 2 March 1892, by a group of former students in Aberystwyth to mark St David's Day.

[3] The Association has had a number of branches in various parts of Wales, England, Northern Ireland and overseas during various times during its history: the Oxford, Cambridge and London Branches were established before 1900, with Swansea, Cardiff and Northern England Branches created in 1899.

[4][5][6] Celebrations for the OSA's Centenary took place in 1992 with various dinners and dances and the launch of the Alumni Magazine Prom.

[9] The Association (OSA), as an independent body, has supported the university throughout its history and has raised substantial sums to support the university's work.

The Association's Members have included various distinguished Aberystwyth University alumni.