Oxford and Cambridge are globally renowned for being academically rigorous and prestigious universities. But is Oxbridge right for you?
Oxbridge is known for academic excellence, a rigorous application process, and unique traditions, but it’s also known for its intense workload and distinctive college system. This blog will be an unfiltered guide through the key aspects of life at Oxford and Cambridge — from the quirks of the college system to the challenges of academic life — to help you decide whether Oxbridge is the perfect place for you.
The (Unusual) College System
One of the quirks of Oxbridge, shared only with a select few other UK universities like Durham, is the college system. The University itself is comprised of a collection of smaller colleges; Oxford has 39 colleges, and Cambridge has 31. Students are members of a specific college which provides accommodation, social life, and academic support.
This can be a little confusing at first. To simplify, here's an example of Student A's daily life, studying Physics at Queen's College, Oxford:
Queen's College: The majority of social life, accommodation, food, and some academic work like tutorials.
The Faculty of Physics: Where Student A might attend lectures and do lab work.
The University: Bestows upon Student A their degree and organises examinations.
The college system has some great benefits. Colleges are tight-knit communities, making it possible to make friends with people you might not have otherwise met. Students often become very proud of their colleges, and there are some light-hearted rivalries between neighbouring colleges.
That said, there are some downsides. It can create a tendency to primarily socialise within college and can limit interactions with the broader university community.
Colleges also vastly differ in terms of the quality of accommodation, cost, financial assistance, size, and facilities. It's very important to carefully consider what you want to get out of a college.
The (Rigorous) Application Process
The Oxbridge admissions process differs from other UK universities.
It begins much earlier. Candidates must submit personal statements in September, as opposed to January.
Candidates must take a subject-specific entrance exam. The Oxbridge admissions tests, along with predicted grades, are a key factor in decisions.
Oxbridge relies heavily on interviews. These are often intense, with an interest in assessing how genuinely you are passionate about your subject. It's important to note, however, that they are looking for academic potential rather than endless knowledge. The tutors want to see that you can be taught, after all!
The (Challenging) Academic Life
Oxford and Cambridge famously have an intense workload. Term times are short at only 8 weeks long, and students benefit from 6 weeks of winter and spring breaks. The average Oxbridge student therefore spends only about half of the year at university.
Term times are consequently difficult. Students are expected to write 1-3 essays or problem sheets a week, on top of lectures and tutorials/supervisions.
The tutorials (Oxford) or supervisions (Cambridge) are probably the most unique part of the Oxbridge experience. Students have a weekly meeting with their tutor in small groups of only one or two students.
These sessions focus on discussing essays, solving problems, or exploring complex topics in-depth. This process of individualised feedback and fostering critical thinking and debate is a cornerstone of Oxbridge's academic reputation for intense, interactive learning.
The (Eccentric) Customs and Traditions
Matriculation: The first of many formal ceremonies, where new students officially become members of the university.
Subfusc: Also called formal academic dress, students wear a black suit or skirt, a white shirt, and a gown. This is worn for important exams, matriculation, and graduation.
Formal Hall: Usually held weekly, students attend formal dinners in academic gowns, often accompanied by Latin grace.
May Morning (Oxford): On May 1st, Oxford students gather at 5AM at Magdalen Bridge to listen to the choir sing from the tower.
May Balls: These extravagant, all-night parties feature themed dress, black-tie dress codes, fireworks and luxurious entertainment.
Examination carnations: Students wear a white carnation on their subfusc for their first exam, a pink carnation for any middle exams, and a red carnation for the last.
There are many more traditions across Oxford and Cambridge. Their timelessness adds to the charm of Oxbridge, and makes for extraordinarily unique memories.
Will I Thrive at Oxbridge?
Oxbridge is ideal for students who are genuinely passionate about their chosen subject. An Oxbridge student must be well organised, with excellent time management. Self-motivation and discipline are crucial to hitting tight deadlines. The intense environment requires a degree of resilience and stress management.
Although it might be unusual, rigorous, challenging, and downright strange sometimes, Oxbridge remains a dream for many.
So, how on earth do you make a decision? You should assess your personal priorities, visit the campuses if you can, and talk to Oxbridge students or graduates.
Still wondering?
Avalon Education is home to dozens of Oxbridge application tutors who would be happy to help you work out if Oxbridge is for you. We can connect you with a tutor who has completed your chosen course at either Oxford or Cambridge, and advise you personally on whether you might find it suitable.
Book your one-hour trial session today for just £5 – but hurry, offer ends August 1st!
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