Universities like Oxford and Cambridge have attracted students, academics, and history enthusiasts for centuries. Both universities are renowned worldwide for their academic excellence and historical significance. Both of these universities are among the oldest universities in the world, which share similarities as well as differences.
Whether you’re drawn to Oxford’s dreamy spires or Cambridge’s serene riverside atmosphere, deciding between the two can be challenging. In this blog, we explore the Oxford vs Cambridge comparison to help you understand their key features and determine which university aligns better with your goals.
Table of contents
- Oxford University
- Cambridge University
- World University Ranking for Oxford vs Cambridge
- Best Subjects in Oxford vs Cambridge
- Assessment Methods in Oxford vs Cambridge
- Courses Offered in Oxford vs Cambridge
- Admission Requirements for Oxford vs Cambridge
- Cost of Living in Oxford vs Cambridge
- Scholarship and Financial Aid in Oxford vs Cambridge
- Campus Life of Oxford vs Cambridge
- Notable Alumni of Oxford vs Cambridge
- FAQs
Oxford University
Oxford University is one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities, located in Oxford, England. It was founded in 1096 and has a rich history of academic excellence. The university comprises 39 colleges, offering a wide range of courses in sciences, arts, and humanities.
This university is known for its rigorous education system and attracts students from all over the globe. Oxford also emphasizes extracurricular activities, fostering well-rounded development. Graduates from Oxford are highly regarded, which makes it a dream institution for aspiring scholars.
Cambridge University
Cambridge University is located in Cambridge, England and is one of the world’s top universities, It was established in 1209, known for its excellence in teaching, research, and innovation. The university has 31 colleges and offers a wide variety of courses across disciplines like science, arts, engineering, and humanities.
Its beautiful architecture, including the King’s College Chapel, and historic libraries creates a unique learning environment. Cambridge encourages students to participate in extracurricular activities, including sports and arts. Graduates from Cambridge are highly respected globally, making it a preferred choice for students seeking world-class education.
World University Ranking for Oxford vs Cambridge
Oxford and Cambridge are consistently ranked among the best universities worldwide. Both universities excel in teaching, research, and innovation. Oxford often secures the top spot in global rankings, including the Times Higher Education rankings, recognized for its diverse programs and cutting-edge research.
Cambridge is known for its strong emphasis on STEM subjects and humanities. While rankings may vary yearly, Oxford and Cambridge remain prestigious choices for students seeking world-class education. Below we have mentioned the comparison between QS World Ranking of Oxford University and Cambridge University.
| Ranking | Oxford University | Cambridge University |
| QS World University Ranking 2025 | 3rd | 5th |
| QS World University Ranking 2024 | 3rd | 2nd |
| QS World University Ranking 2023 | 4th | 2nd |
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- The Best Accommodation at Manchester University for Students
- Top 5 Unmissable Things to Do in Oxford
Best Subjects in Oxford vs Cambridge
Oxford and Cambridge are known for their academic excellence, but each university shines in specific subjects. Oxford is highly regarded for humanities, law, politics, and medicine, offering world-class programs and resources. Whereas, Cambridge excels in STEM fields like engineering, computer science, and mathematics, along with natural sciences.
Both universities provide outstanding opportunities in business and economics. Choosing between them depends on your field of interest and career goals. Both institutions ensure students receive a top-quality education, making them global leaders in academics. Here you can find the best subjects of Oxford vs Cambridge.
| Universities | Popular Subjects |
| Oxford | English Language and Literature, History, Geography, and Modern Languages |
| Cambridge | Natural sciences, Engineering, Mathematics, Archaeology, Mathematics, and History. |
Assessment Methods in Oxford vs Cambridge
Oxford and Cambridge have distinct assessment methods. At Oxford, tutorials play a key role, with students regularly submitting essays and discussing them in small groups. Exams are held annually, with a strong focus on written tests.
Cambridge emphasises supervision sessions, where students receive personalised feedback on their work. Both universities demand consistent effort and critical thinking. Choosing between them depends on your preferred learning and evaluation style, as both maintain high academic standards. Find the preferred teaching method and assessment in both universities below.
Oxford University- Oxford employs the tutorial system, where students engage in one-on-one or small group discussions with professors. This method fosters critical thinking and in-depth exploration of subjects. Formal assessments occur primarily at the end of the first and final years, determining degree classifications.
Cambridge University- Cambridge also uses a supervision system which emphasises interactive seminars and group discussions. Assessments are conducted annually, and the final degree is based on the cumulative results of these evaluations.
Courses Offered in Oxford vs Cambridge
Oxford and Cambridge offer a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Both universities provide interdisciplinary programs, catering to diverse academic interests. Oxford emphasises theoretical learning, while Cambridge blends theory with practical application.
Prospective students should explore course content and teaching methods to choose the university that aligns with their career goals and academic preferences. Look at the courses offered at Oxford and Cambridge University to choose the right one for you.
| Courses | Oxford University | Cambridge University |
| Popular Courses | Law, Humanities, and Social Sciences. | Engineering, Medicine, and Mathematics |
| Flexible programs | Science and Engineering programs. | Natural Sciences and Joint degrees. |
| Strong Emphasis | Literature, History, and Modern Languages. | Interdisciplinary learning in Science and Technology |
Admission Requirements for Oxford vs Cambridge
When comparing Oxford and Cambridge, both universities have similar admission processes, but there are slight differences. Both universities require students to submit a personal statement and references. You may also need to sit an entrance exam, depending on your course.
For some courses, Cambridge asks for a separate written test, while Oxford includes one as part of the interview process. Additionally, both universities emphasize interviews to assess candidates’ skills and suitability for the course. Find the admission requirements of both Oxford vs Cambridge Universities in the table below.
| Admission Requirements | Oxford University | Cambridge University |
| Grade | AAA or AAA at A-Level. | AAA at A-Level or equivalent. |
| Tests | Subject-specific admission tests like the TSA or LNAT. | Written assessments based on chosen subjects. |
| Interviews | Heavily weighted in the admission process. | Designed to evaluate critical thinking and subject knowledge. |
Cost of Living in Oxford vs Cambridge
The cost of education and living at both Oxford and Cambridge is similar. Tuition fees for international students typically range between GBP 22,000 to GBP 38,000 per year, depending on the course. Living costs, including accommodation, food, and personal expenses, can range from GBP 10,000 to GBP 15,000 annually.
While Oxford and Cambridge are in different cities, both have relatively high living costs due to their prestigious locations. If looking for accommodation, you can look for the best student accommodation in Oxford. We have mentioned the cost of living while comparing Oxford vs Cambridge University.
| Costs | Oxford University | Cambridge University |
| Tuition Fees | GBP 9,250 per year (Approx.) | Varies by course, ranging from GBP 25,000 to GBP 40,000 annually. |
| Cost of Living | Higher due to its lively city atmosphere. | Slightly lower, given its quieter setting. |
Also Read:
- Best Places to Visit in Oxford: Checklist of Must-Visit Places
- 5 Best Cafes in Cambridge for Students
Scholarship and Financial Aid in Oxford vs Cambridge
Both Oxford and Cambridge offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help students with tuition and living expenses. Scholarships are available based on academic merit, financial need, and specific subject areas.
Oxford has the Oxford University Scholarship Scheme, while Cambridge provides the Cambridge Bursary Scheme. Both universities also offer funding opportunities for international students. It’s essential to research the specific scholarships available for your course and eligibility criteria before applying.
Oxford University Scholarships
Look at the scholarships and financial aid offered by Oxford University to support the students.
| Scholarship | Purpose |
| Reach Oxford Scholarship | Covers tuition, living costs, and airfare. |
| Hill Foundation Scholarship | Fully funded for students demonstrating academic excellence. |
| Palgrave Brown Scholarship | Provides annual grants to financially disadvantaged students. |
Cambridge University Scholarships
Cambridge University offers scholarships on the basis of merit and the need to help their students. You can look at the Cambridge University scholarship and its purpose.
| Scholarship | Purpose |
| Cambridge International Scholarship | Covers tuition and living expenses for academically outstanding students. |
| Aker Scholarship | Fully funded for master’s and Ph.D. students. |
| Beit Cambridge Scholarship | Supports students planning to return to their home country after their studies. |
Campus Life of Oxford vs Cambridge
Campus life at Oxford and Cambridge is vibrant and offers a unique blend of academic and extracurricular activities. Both universities have a collegiate system, where students live and study in individual colleges, fostering a close-knit community. Oxford’s life offers you the experience of the best restaurant Oxford has to offer for students.
Both universities emphasize academic excellence while providing opportunities for socializing, personal growth, and leadership. Look at the location and campus life of Oxford vs Cambridge University.
| University | Location |
| Oxford University | Located in a vibrant, bustling city with numerous cultural and social activities. Surrounded by rolling hills, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. |
| Cambridge University | Located in a quieter, smaller city, offering a peaceful academic environment. Known for its flat, scenic landscapes along the River Cam. |
Notable Alumni of Oxford vs Cambridge
Both Oxford and Cambridge have offered some of the world’s most influential figures. Oxford alumni include famous leaders like former U.S. President Bill Clinton, renowned author J.R.R. Tolkien, and scientist Stephen Hawking. Cambridge, on the other hand, boasts alumni such as Sir Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, and former British Prime Minister David Attenborough.
These prestigious universities have also educated numerous Nobel laureates, actors, and global innovators. The rich history and impact of Oxford and Cambridge alumni reflect the high-quality education and opportunities provided at both institutions. Look at the table below to find out the notable alumni of both universities.
| University | Notable Alumni |
| Oxford University | Malala Yousafzai: Activist and Nobel laureate. C.S. Lewis: Author of The Chronicles of Narnia. Tim Berners-Lee: Inventor of the World Wide Web. |
| Cambridge University | Isaac Newton: Pioneer of modern physics and mathematics. Stephen Hawking: Renowned theoretical physicist. Charles Darwin: Father of the theory of evolution. |
The choice between Oxford vs Cambridge ultimately depends on individual preferences, academic interests, and career goals. Both universities are different in terms of prestige, academic excellence, and global recognition.
If you’re planning to apply, start by identifying your academic goals and researching which university aligns better with your aspirations. Prioritise your preferences and choose the best for you!
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FAQs
Oxford and Cambridge are two of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the UK. While both offer world-class education, Oxford is known for its formal tutorials, while Cambridge uses a slightly different approach called supervision. Both have unique traditions and campuses, but both are highly regarded globally.
Oxford is considered the older of the two, with its founding traced back to the 12th century. Cambridge was founded later in 1209, but both universities have centuries of history and offer rich academic traditions.
The admission processes for both universities are similar, with each requiring an application through UCAS, a personal statement, and references. Oxford often requires additional written tests, while Cambridge may have a different set of criteria based on the course. Both institutions value interviews and academic excellence.
Both universities offer a wide range of courses in humanities, sciences, engineering, and social sciences. However, some subjects may have different names or slight variations in content. It’s essential to check specific course structures to find the best fit for your interests.
The tuition fees for both Oxford and Cambridge are similar for international students. UK students may pay lower fees, depending on government funding. However, living costs in both cities can be high, with accommodation, food, and transport expenses varying depending on lifestyle.
Both Oxford and Cambridge offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid programs. They provide grants for international students, undergraduates, and postgraduates. The types of scholarships and eligibility vary, so students should research each university’s specific offerings.
Both Oxford and Cambridge attract a significant number of international students. The number varies slightly each year, but both universities maintain strong global networks, fostering an international community on campus.
Both Oxford and Cambridge have excellent graduate employment outcomes, with many alumni going on to secure top positions in various industries worldwide. The universities’ reputations and extensive networks help graduates find high-quality job opportunities after completing their degrees.
Both Oxford and Cambridge offer vibrant social lives, with plenty of clubs, societies, and events. The differences between the two often come down to personal preference, as both offer strong traditions, college-based activities, and a chance to meet students from diverse backgrounds.
Oxford and Cambridge have similar campus life, as both have colleges, student societies, and a range of extracurricular activities. However, Oxford tends to have more urban areas around it, while Cambridge is quieter, with more scenic surroundings. Both offer a supportive, close-knit community for students.
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