Oxbridge comprises two of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the English-speaking world – Oxford and Cambridge. They are not only the UK’s oldest and most renowned institutions but also two of its highest-ranking universities.
Approximately 7,200 students enrol at Oxbridge each year, and the interview stage is widely regarded as the most challenging part of the admissions process.
Several key factors distinguish Oxbridge from other UK universities. Learn more below about studying at Oxbridge, or contact StudyIn to book your free consultation and begin your application for the next intake.
Oxbridge Explainer for Indian Students
Oxbridge Universities
Oxbridge refers to two of the UK’s most iconic universities: Oxford and Cambridge. Both are among the most popular UK universities and represent the academic aspirations of millions of students worldwide.
The University of Oxford is a world-leading institution for learning, teaching, and research. It is the oldest university in the English-speaking world and is organised into four academic divisions: Humanities, Mathematical, Physical & Life Sciences, Medical Sciences, and Social Sciences. Each division comprises multiple departments, faculties, and schools.
The University of Cambridge is the fourth-oldest university in the world and hosts over 20,000 students from more than 140 countries. It consists of 31 constituent colleges, and 91% of Cambridge graduates report being in permanent employment within 15 months of graduation.
Cambridge is organised into six faculties: the School of Arts and Humanities, the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, the School of Biological Sciences, the School of Physical Sciences, the School of Clinical Medicine, and the School of Technology.
Oxbridge Courses
Oxbridge courses are among the best in the world, consistently ranking in the global top five. Oxford excels in Archaeology, Arts, History, Law, Literature, Medicine, Philosophy, and Psychology. Cambridge is highly ranked in Archaeology, Engineering, History, Linguistics, Medicine, and Modern Languages.
Oxbridge College System
Oxford and Cambridge are composed of 40 and 30 colleges, respectively. These colleges are often historic and architecturally impressive, offering a unique academic and residential experience.
Each college provides common rooms, accommodation, libraries, and computer facilities. On average, each college hosts around 400 students pursuing their Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees. The college system fosters a close-knit community that helps students settle into university life.
Oxbridge Application Process
Admission to Oxbridge is highly competitive. Applications must be submitted by October each year,much earlier than the standard UK university deadlines in January or June.
Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, relevant experience, extracurricular involvement, and ambition. Typical conditional offers range from A*A*A to AAA, depending on the course. In addition, candidates must successfully complete an interview.
Oxford and Cambridge each have their own evaluation systems, including the Supplementary Application Questionnaire (SAQ) and subject-specific entry tests.
Study at Oxbridge
Contact StudyIn today for a free consultation and to begin your application to study at an Oxbridge university. With our dedicated Oxbridge Service, our expert team can guide you through the application process. Receive tailored interview preparation from Oxbridge graduates and take the next step towards achieving your academic goals.