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The United Kingdom is home to two of the world’s most well-known universities: the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. Though each educational institution is prestigious, they are frequently compared regarding academic achievement, course offerings, and overall campus experience.
This article will compare the two universities, Oxford vs Cambridge, comprehensively, taking into account factors such as university rankings, educational and living costs, and academic opportunities.
Oxford Vs Cambridge Highlights
| Aspect | Oxford | Cambridge |
| Location | Located in Oxford, England, a historic city | Located in Cambridge, England, a picturesque town |
| Acceptance Rate | – Acceptance rate: Approximately 15-17.5% – Postgraduate acceptance rate: About 30% – Highly competitive subjects like Computer Science and Mathematics: as low as 5% | – Undergraduate acceptance rate: Approximately 21% – Postgraduate acceptance rate: Around 34%In 2023, Cambridge received 21,713 undergraduate applications and admitted 4,650 students, resulting in an acceptance rate of 21.2%.For the 2024 academic year, the university received 21,202 applications as of February 14, 2024. – Arts & Humanities: 40.01% – Biological Sciences: 30.78% – Clinical Medicine: 22.62% – Humanities & Social Sciences: 32.92% – Physical Sciences: 29.44% – Technology: 29.43% |
| Average Fees | – For Home students pursuing their first undergraduate degree: £9,250 for 2024. – For international students and specific courses like MBA, Engineering, Science, Arts, Information Technology, and Management: Tuition fees range from £16,000 to £56,000. | Home Students (UK & EU) – Undergraduate: £9,250 per year – Postgraduate: Varies by course, ranging from £8,337 to £16,320 per year International Students – Undergraduate: Ranges from £24,507 to £63,990 per year, depending on the course i.e. group 1 (e.g. Classics, Economics, History): £24,507 – Postgraduate: Varies by course, with most falling in the range of £24,000 to £37,000 per year |
| College System | Collegiate system with 38 constituent colleges | Collegiate system with 31 constituent colleges |
| Teaching Style | Tutorial system, emphasising one-on-one teaching | Supervision system, small-group teaching |
| Research Focus | Humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences | Natural sciences, engineering, and technology |
| Famous Alumni | J.R.R. Tolkien, Stephen Hawking, Emma Watson | Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Stephen Fry |
| Rowing Tradition | Competitive rivalry through the traditional race between the two | |
| Architecture | Gothic architecture predominates | Gothic and neoclassical architecture mix |
| Notable Differences | Oxford’s tutorial system offers intensive personal teaching | Cambridge’s supervision system focuses on small-group teaching |
World University Rankings Of Oxford Vs Cambridge
While both universities consistently secure top positions in global university rankings, deciding which one is superior depends on many factors and viewpoints. One common factor is that both Oxford and Cambridge excel in academia. Let’s understand their distinctions through ranking:
Oxford Ranking
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The University of Oxford holds a prestigious position among the world’s leading universities. As one of the oldest academic institutions, it has earned renown as a top global university.
Here are the rankings for the University of Oxford:
- 3rd in QS World University Rankings 2024
- 1st in Times Higher Education Rankings 2022
- 2nd in QS World University Rankings 2022
Cambridge Ranking
Cambridge University stands as one of the foremost and highly esteemed universities globally. Renowned for its widespread acclaim, Cambridge has consistently advanced in rankings. Here are the rankings for Cambridge University:
- 2nd in QS World University Rankings 2024
- 3rd in QS World University Rankings 2022
- 4th in World University Rankings 2022
Oxford Vs Cambridge Statistics
Both universities consistently receive many applications from around the world and offer a range of popular courses. They rank highly globally for their faculty-to-student ratios, reflecting their commitment to quality education. Oxford and Cambridge each have specific strengths and attract top students internationally. Here is a table summarising overall statistics for Oxford University and Cambridge University:
| Category | Oxford University | Cambridge University |
| Annual Undergraduate Places | 3,300+ | 3000+ |
| Application Increase | 25.3% since 2015 | 5.3% from 2018 |
| Top Countries for Applications | UK (39,473), China (3,943), US (2,179), Singapore (1,459), Hong Kong (1,324) | China (1,184), Hong Kong (537), Singapore (459), US (384), Malaysia (260) |
| Most Popular Courses | Economics & Management, Computer Science, Medicine, Biomedical Science, Maths & Computer Science | Natural Sciences, Engineering, Medicine, Mathematics, Law |
| Faculty/Student Ratio | 8th in the world (1:3.12) (2023 QS Ranking) | 12th in the world (1:3.41) (2023 QS Ranking) |
Subject Strengths
Despite their subtle contrasts, both institutions maintain their global standing for academic excellence, attracting students worldwide. Whether aiming for Oxford or Cambridge, prospective applicants benefit from understanding each university’s strengths. Comparing Oxford and Cambridge reveals their closely matched academic success:
- Both universities achieve global excellence across various fields of study, often securing top positions in multiple courses.
- QS World University Rankings by Subject consistently feature both institutions.
- A slight difference lies in their curricula: Oxford represents 40 subjects, while Cambridge showcases 41 subject strengths.
Here is a more detailed understanding of their strengths that highlight their distinctiveness:
- Oxford University Strengths:
- Renowned for humanities and social sciences, it lacks flexibility in science degrees.
- Offers joint degree options across disciplines.
- Tops global rankings in English Language and Literature, Geography, History, and Modern Languages.
- Cambridge University Strengths:
Source: oxfordsummercourses.com/articles
- They are globally acclaimed for Natural Sciences courses.
- Provides flexibility with joint courses and natural sciences degrees.
- Undergraduate study available.
- Leads in world rankings for Archaeology, History, and Mathematics.
Oxbridge League Table Performances Via Complete University Guide
The University of Cambridge, which had led the UK university league table for a decade, dropped to 2nd place in 2023 but has reclaimed the top position in the 2024 table. It ranks within the top ten for 45 subjects and holds the first place for 32 subjects, including:
- Architecture
- Classics
- Iberian Languages
- Linguistics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Pharmacology & Pharmacy
The University of Oxford is listed in the top ten for 40 subjects in the 2024 university subject tables and ranks first in 15 areas, such as:
- Art & Design
- Business & Management Studies
- English
- Music
- Philosophy
- Politics
Subject-wise Placing
| Category | Oxford | Cambridge |
| Law | 1st in 2024 | 2nd in 2024 |
| Emphasis on studying legal sources first-hand | It covers English law, and also touches on other legal systems from history and the world | |
| Medicine | 2nd in 2024 | 1st in 2024 |
| Pre-clinical Medicine course followed by BA course in Medical Sciences | Two Medicine courses available: standard and graduate options | |
| Economics | 2nd in 2024 | 1st in 2024 |
| BA course in Economics & Management, taught by Saïd Business School and Department of Economics | BA Economics course covers core, pure, and applied areas, uses ideas from other disciplines | |
| Engineering | 2nd in 2024 | 1st in 2024 |
| Engineering Science course leads to MEng degree, specialisations in Biomedical, Civil, Chemical, Information, Electrical, or Mechanical | Engineering course allows graduation with BA after three years, option to continue for MEng degree, broad understanding, specialisations from third year |
Courses Offered At Oxford Vs Cambridge
Oxford and Cambridge exhibit variations in their course offerings, featuring similarities alongside distinct programmes. Additionally, their approaches to joint courses differ. While both universities offer numerous learning and research opportunities, Oxford adopts a traditional method with lectures and tutorials. In contrast, Cambridge favours a more interactive approach, incorporating seminars and small group discussions. Exploring the courses and their rankings shows the unique characteristics that set Cambridge and Oxford apart!
| Course Name | Oxford Ranking (QS) | Cambridge Ranking (QS) |
| Accounting & Finance | 4th | 6th |
| Archaeology | 2nd | 1st |
| Business & Management | 9th | 8th |
| Economics | 8th | 10th |
| English Language & Literature | 1st | 2nd |
| Geography | 1st | 3rd |
| Mathematics | 6th | 3rd |
| Medicine | 2nd | 4th |
| Physics & Astronomy | 5th | 4th |
| Psychology | 3rd | 4th |
Admission Requirements For Oxford Vs Cambridge
Oxford and Cambridge universities have stringent admission criteria, seeking exceptional grades and achievements from applicants. In addition to academic performance, they consider personal statements, recommendation letters, and extracurricular involvement, including participation in clubs or activities. Admission is highly competitive due to their high standards, making it challenging for candidates to meet their criteria.
University Of Oxford:
- Academic Transcripts
- 2-3 Letters of Recommendation
- Resume & Personal Statement
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Interview
- Subject-specific written admission assessment
- Standardised test scores
- Additional Requirements (Work experience, Research proposals, etc.)
University Of Cambridge:
- Academic Transcripts
- 1-2 References
- Resume & Personal Statement
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Subject-specific written admission assessment
- Standardised test scores
- Additional Requirements (Work experience, Research proposals, etc.)
Scholarships And Bursaries By The Two
A notable contrast between Oxford and Cambridge is the scholarships and bursaries their respective colleges offer. While there are some common scholarships available in the UK, such as the Chevening scholarship and Commonwealth scholarships, both universities also provide prestigious scholarships and bursaries that have the potential to impact recipients’ lives and careers significantly. Here are some key scholarships offered by the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge:
University Of Oxford Scholarships:
- Hill Foundation Scholarship: This scholarship is fully funded and covers course fees and living costs. It is aimed at increasing the Oxford scholar community.
- Bright Oceans Corporation Scholarship: Fully funded for undergraduate students from China with exceptional academic merits.
- Palgrave Brown Scholarship: Provides an annual living cost grant for students with low financial backgrounds.
- Reach Oxford Scholarship: This scholarship covers course fees, living costs, and one return airfare per year for eligible applicants.
- Dr Ateh Jewel Foundation Awards: Need-based scholarship providing financial support for students from low-income families.
University Of Cambridge Scholarships:
- Aker Scholarship: Fully funded, covering the total cost of study for master’s or PhD students, with only ten recipients annually.
- Beit Cambridge Scholarship: This scholarship covers tuition fees, stipends, and allowances and is available for students returning to their home country after the course.
- Cambridge International Scholarship: This scholarship covers the University Composition Fee and maintenance allowance, awarded based on academic strengths and research abilities.
Cambridge University Vs Oxford University: Life At The Two Universities
The Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, collectively known as Oxbridge, are the UK’s oldest universities. They are both over 800 years old and steeped in tradition.
Accommodation
- In their first year at Oxford, students are guaranteed to live with their college. Some colleges provide housing for the duration of their degree, but many students prefer to arrange their own elsewhere in the city.
- Throughout their studies at Cambridge, students live in the designated accommodation of their college. The majority of student housing is on-site or nearby.
Facilities And Services
- Both universities, Oxford vs Cambridge, provide comparable services. Hundreds of clubs and societies, competitive and recreational sports, active student unions, financial aid, and strong academic and pastoral support networks are all part of this.
- Some colleges at both universities would prefer that full-time students should not undertake part-time work during the school year.
Location
- Oxford is about 60 miles north-west of London and takes about an hour to reach by train. Cambridge is about 60 miles north of London, and it takes less than an hour to get there.
- Both universities, Oxford vs Cambridge, are small and beautiful towns that are easy to get around on a walk or by bicycle. Oxford is known for being larger and more lively than Cambridge. Cambridge is thought to be more peaceful and picturesque.
Cambridge University Vs Oxford University: Which Is More Selective?
Both Oxford and Cambridge are very selective universities. The acceptance rate at Oxford is 19%, while that of Cambridge is 20%. One important thing you should know is that the GPA requirement at Oxford is lower than that of Cambridge, which means that you need a lower GPA to be accepted at Oxford University than at the University of Cambridge.
While wondering is Oxford better than Cambridge University, it is important to note that although both universities require high scores on standardised tests, there are some differences between them:
- At Oxford, applicants who have taken the SATs need an average score within a certain range, while at Cambridge, they need to achieve a minimum score.
- On the other hand, applicants who have taken the ACTs, must have achieved a minimum score—but again with more flexibility than SATs scores.
Choosing one over the other will ultimately depend on your own personal preferences and priorities. If you’re looking for a larger, more varied community or want an education that appeals more directly to your interests, then Oxford is probably a better fit for you. If tradition or prestige is important to you, Cambridge might be more appealing because it has been around longer than any other European university! We hope that this guide on Oxford vs Cambridge has helped you!
FAQs
Q1. Which is better: Cambridge or Oxford?
Ans: Both Cambridge and Oxford are prestigious universities with unique strengths; the choice depends on your preferred programme, campus, and academic environment.
Q2. What are the main differences between Cambridge University and Oxford University?
Ans: Cambridge and Oxford have distinct course offerings, campus layouts, and historical traditions, so the decision is a matter of personal preference.
Q3. Cambridge University vs Oxford University: Which has a stronger reputation?
Ans: Both universities have strong global reputations, and their standings vary by different academic disciplines and research areas.
Q4. Is student life better in Oxford or Cambridge?
Ans: Both Oxford and Cambridge offer exceptional student experiences, but the preference for student life depends on individual preferences, course offerings, and campus culture.
Q5. How should I choose between Cambridge and Oxford for my studies?
Ans: Consider factors like the course you want to study, campus atmosphere, and location to decide whether Cambridge or Oxford is the better fit for your academic goals.
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