Our Guide to Oxbridge Admissions
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There are many stories, myths and rumours surrounding the admissions process for the universities of Oxford and Cambridge. As a result, many students understandably feel some confusion and anxiety when thinking about applying to these prestigious universities. To help you better understand the Oxbridge admissions process and what studying at these universities is like, our experienced team of Oxbridge alumni have put together these FAQs.
What is Oxbridge?
Oxbridge is a term used to refer to the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge. Oxford and Cambridge are generally regarded as two of the best universities in the world. Students can obtain Bachelor’s Degrees, Master's Degrees and Doctorates at Oxford and Cambridge.
Should I choose Oxford or Cambridge?
There are some key differences between Oxford and Cambridge that may impact your application decision. These differences include:
Can I apply to both Oxford and Cambridge?
No, it is not possible to apply to both Oxford and Cambridge in the same year.
What is an Oxbridge college?
Oxford and Cambridge are collegiate universities, meaning that all students are members of a college. Students will likely live, eat, socialise and play sports in their colleges. Colleges will also play a role in students’ academic lives, such as by scheduling supervisions, and may provide financial support, such as grants and bursaries.
How do I apply?
You can apply to Oxford or Cambridge through the online UCAS system. This system allows you to apply to up to five universities in the UK per academic year.
Which college should I choose?
When making your application to Oxbridge, you will need to decide which college to apply to. Colleges can have some significant differences which may impact your decision about where to apply.
Their differences may include:
You may also choose to make an ‘open application’, meaning you could be matched to any appropriate college with spaces to offer.
What does an application to Oxbridge include?
Your application to Oxbridge will include your:
For Cambridge, you must also complete My Cambridge Application (previously the Supplementary Application Questionnaire, SAQ).
If you are applying from outside the EU, for Graduate Medicine, or for an Organ Scholarship to Cambridge, you will also need to complete the Cambridge Online Preliminary Application (COPA).
If you are applying to Oxbridge from outside the UK, you may also need to take an English language assessment. More information about Oxford’s language requirements here. More information about Cambridge’s language requirements here.
Download Our Free Guide to Oxbridge Admissions
This free resource contains a wealth of information and insights about Oxbridge admissions from a former Oxford interview panellist and Oxbridge alumni.
Got more questions about Oxbridge admissions?
Attend our Oxbridge Applications Workshop at 12:30pm on 20th October 2022 for tips and insights from a former Oxford interview panellist and Oxbridge alumni.
Whatsapp us on +852 9049 3014 to register for the workshop, or call our UK team directly on 07392013379.
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Contact our experienced admissions team today for specialist advice on applying to Oxbridge.