Oxford Vs Cambridge: Which One Should You Choose?
Talk to Expert
Cambridge University Vs Oxford University: For centuries, the universities of Oxford and Cambridge have reigned supreme in the academic world. Both these universities stand among the top and oldest universities in the UK. However, the difference between Cambridge and Oxford universities is hard to deduce for international students.
Owing to their popularity, high standards of education and some similarities, Oxford University and Cambridge University are collectively referred to as “Oxbridge”. Although the answer to the question that which is better Oxford or Cambridge University differs for different students. However, there is no proper conclusion to this question as both of these universities have been ranked among the top 10 universities in the world for several consecutive years now. The summary of significant differences between the Oxford and Cambridge universities is given below.
| Universities’ Highlights |
||
|---|---|---|
| Particulars |
Oxford University |
Cambridge University |
| Founded in |
1096 |
1209 |
| QS World University Rankings 2024 |
#3 |
#2 |
| THE World University Rankings 2024 |
#1 |
#5 |
| Number of Courses Available |
52 undergraduate courses 416 graduate courses |
30 undergraduate courses 300+postgraduate courses |
| Total Students Enrolled in 2024-25 |
26,500+ |
24,000+ |
| Number of Colleges |
43 |
31 |
| Number of Noble Laureates |
79 |
121 |
| Number of Scholarships |
1000+ |
500+ |
| Average Cost of Studying |
INR 25 to 80 L |
INR 24 to 73 L |
| Minimum Grades Required |
A level |
A level |
| Required Minimum IELTS Scores |
7+ |
7+ |
| Best Courses |
Anatomy and Physiology, English language and Literature, Law and Legal Studies, Marketing, Medicine, Life Sciences, etc. |
Archaeology, Modern Languages, Anatomy and Physiology, Arts and Humanities, English Language and Literature, Mathematics, Chemistry, etc. |
- Oxford Vs Cambridge University: The History
- University of Oxford vs University of Cambridge: Rankings
- Oxford Vs Cambridge University: Admission Requirements
- Cambridge versus Oxford: Tuition Fees and Cost of Living
- Cambridge Versus Oxford: Locations
- Oxford University Vs Cambridge University FAQs
Oxford Vs Cambridge University: The History
Belonging to the Russell Group, both Oxford and Cambridge University were founded more than 800 years ago which makes them the oldest universities in the UK. However, Oxford University, founded in 1096 is believed to be the second-oldest university in the world that is still running and the oldest in the UK. However, Cambridge University, founded in 1209 is the fifth oldest in the world and the second oldest university in the UK.
The University of Cambridge was established by some scholars who migrated from the University of Oxford over a dispute, which led to the rise of the soft rivalry known as the Oxford-Cambridge rivalry. Both these universities have been having tough competitions over games, academics, rankings, research and teaching pedagogies.
University of Oxford vs University of Cambridge: Rankings
The University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford have been ranked in the top 10 universities in the world list by several ranking agencies and universities. Both these universities keep exchanging their positions on several parameters each year. A visual representation of the comparison of rankings of both universities is given below.
Oxford Vs Cambridge University: Admission Requirements
The admission requirements of both these highly competitive universities are pretty much the same but the accurate requirements differ across courses.
The specific differences between Cambridge and Oxford universities’ admission requirements are given below.
Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!
| Difference Between Oxford University and Cambridge University based on their Admission Requirements |
||
|---|---|---|
| Criteria |
University of Oxford |
University of Cambridge |
| Typical A-Level Grades |
AAA - AAA |
AAA - AA*A (Some colleges may ask for higher) |
| IB Diploma Score |
38-40 points |
40-42 points |
| Written Tests |
Required for most subjects |
Required for ~half of courses (others have written tests during interviews) |
| Specific Tests |
MAT (Mathematics), BSAT (Biomedical Sciences), HAT (History), MLAT (Modern Languages), TSA (Thinking Skills), PAT (Physics), etc. |
TMUA (Computer Science and Economics), ESAT (Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Engineering, Natural Sciences, Veterinary Medicine), LNAT (Law), UCAT (Medicine and Graduate Medicine), etc. |
Besides these differences, both universities require a personal statement and reference letters.
Overall:
- Both Oxford and Cambridge have extremely high entry requirements.
- Cambridge generally requires slightly higher grades than Oxford.
- Both universities emphasise interviews as a significant part of the selection process.
Cambridge versus Oxford: Tuition Fees and Cost of Living
The average cost of studying at the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge differ slightly. Below we have tabulated the difference between the average costs of studying and costs of living in the city of Oxford (University of Oxford) and Cambridge (University of Cambridge).
| Oxford v Cambridge: Cost of Living and Studying |
||
|---|---|---|
| Particulars |
University of Oxford |
University of Cambridge |
| Average Cost of Studying |
INR 25 to 80 L per year |
INR 24 to 73 L per year |
| Average Cost of Living in the Respective Cities |
INR 1.41 to 2 L per month |
INR 1.3 L per month |
Cambridge Versus Oxford: Locations
Cambridge University and Oxford University are located in the beautiful historical towns of Cambridge and Oxford respectively, in the UK. The city of Oxford is located to the northwest of London and takes about an hour to reach while Cambridge is located to the north of London and takes less than an hour to reach London. Both these cities are well connected and students can take a train to get to London.
Oxford is a bigger city than Cambridge and has better places to hang out for students like bigger restaurants, shops and nightlife options. Oxford is a bustling city while Cambridge is a calm city settled on either side of the River Cam.
Oxford offers a taste of city life with easy access to the capital, while Cambridge provides a more tranquil student experience surrounded by natural beauty. Consider which environment would best suit your study style and desired social life.
Oxford University Vs Cambridge University FAQs
Q. University Of Oxford Vs Cambridge - which is better to study an MBA?
A. While there is not much difference between the standards of education between these two universities, choosing between Oxford's Said Business School and Cambridge Judge Business School for your MBA as an international student depends on your specific goals and preferences.
While both these business schools stand among the best ones in the UK, they boast strong alumni networks and career services to help you land your dream job. However, some differences in these two top B-schools in the UK can help you make an informed decision. A few points of differences are given below.
- Rankings: Oxford's SAID Business School has been placed at number 18 in the QS Global MBA Rankings 2024 list while Cambridge's Judge Business School has been placed at number 9 (=9).
- Program Focus: Oxford Business School has a slight edge in Social Entrepreneurship, while Cambridge Business School leans towards Technology and Innovation. Consider making your decision based on your desired career path.
- Work Experience: Oxford accepts students with an average of 2 years of work experience, while Cambridge prefers 3 years. If you have less experience, Oxford might be more suitable.
- Living Costs: While there is only a slight difference in the tuition fees of both these universities, living expenses in Cambridge might be slightly lower than those in Oxford. However, scholarships and financial aid options are available at both universities.
- City Life: Oxford offers a more bustling city atmosphere with a wider range of shops and nightlife. Cambridge provides a calmer, more scenic setting ideal for nature lovers.
Q. University Of Oxford Vs Cambridge - which is better to study Physics?
A. Choosing between Oxford University and Cambridge University for Physics as an international student depends on your learning style and research interests. Both universities are world-renowned for Physics, so a wrong choice is not really possible.
Below are a few points on differences between Oxford and Cambridge universities for studying Physics to help you decide:
- Rankings: The Oxford University is placed at number 3 and the Cambridge University at number 5 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024: Physics & Astronomy.
- Oxford University offers a traditional single-honours Physics degree, allowing deep specialisation in Physics from the start. However, Cambridge University offers a Natural Sciences program where you study Physics alongside other sciences in Year 1, then specialise in Physics from Year 2.
- Physics coursework at Oxford University focuses on in-depth concepts in Physics making a strong foundation and understanding of its concepts. However, Cambridge University allows students to learn the related sciences along with Physics.
- Oxford University focuses on subjects like Theoretical Physics, Astrophysics, Particle Physics, etc. While Cambridge University focuses on Cosmology, Condensed Matter Physics, Nanoscience and more
Q. University Of Oxford Vs Cambridge - which is better to study Mathematics?
A. Both Oxford and Cambridge Universities are excellent choices for studying Mathematics. The first point of difference between the two universities is the QS World University Rankings for Subject Mathematics 2024 which is #4 for Oxford University and #2 for Cambridge University.
If you crave a structured program with a potential research focus along with enjoying a bustling city vibe, Oxford University might be an ideal choice. However, if you prefer flexibility in choosing Maths pathways and a more traditional exam style then, Cambridge University could be a great fit.
Ultimately, the best university depends on your preferred learning style, desired research area, and whether a lively city or a serene riverside setting appeals to you more. Research each department's strengths in your specific Maths interest for the edge.
Pick your stage and get free guidance from counsellors who've helped thousands get into top universities.
Starting research
Shortlisting colleges
Exam preparation
SOP/LOR writing
Scholarship & finance
Visa application
Statement of Purpose
Letter of Recommendation
Student Visa Application
Admission Essay Writing
Student Curriculum Vitae
Both Cambridge University and Oxford University are among the top 10 universities in the world by QS ranking 2024. Check the below points that distinguishes Cambridge University from Oxford University: