Oxford and Cambridge are two of the most competitive, prestigious, and historic universities in the world. However, if you’re applying to study at undergraduate level, you cannot apply to both. So, how do you choose whether to apply to Oxford or Cambridge?
1. Different courses
Firstly, and most basically, Oxford and Cambridge offer slightly different courses. For example, if you have your sights set on PPE (Philosophy, Politics and Economics), Oxford is the only one of the two to offer it. Cambridge, on the other hand, offers HSPS (Human, Social and Political Sciences), a comparable course, however not the same by any means.
2. Different subject strengths
Similarly, Oxford and Cambridge do have reputations for being slightly stronger at different subjects. Cambridge has a greater reputation for sciences, whereas Oxford is known to be stronger at humanities and social sciences. However, both have great reputations across the board, so don’t think you can’t study sciences at Oxford!
3. Different town culture
Oxford is a slightly larger city, with a livelier nightlife scene. Cambridge, on the other hand, still has nightlife, but is known to be slightly quieter, with fewer nightly clubbing options.
4. Different examination structure
Cambridge examines their students every year, and their final mark is a composite of their scores at the end of each year. On the other hand, Oxford, for all non-STEM or Law courses, places the emphasis on the exams at the end of third year, and so your score in those exams represent your final grade in its entirety.
5. Different geography
Cambridge is in East Anglia, and so is a flatter city, surrounded by fenland. Oxford, on the other hand, is close to the Cotswolds, and is more hilly, surrounded by villages.
Similarities
Although we have focused on the differences between the two institutions, it is important also to bear in mind their similarities. Both universities are highly academic for all subjects, and compete with each other both academically and in sports, most notably rugby and rowing. They are in fairly small cities, and are more or less equally far from London. They have similarly long histories, and attract similar types of people.
All of this is to say, while there are key differences that can help you decide which to apply to, they are more alike than they are different! As such, you will likely have a great time at either. Nevertheless, if your preferred course is available at both, we recommend you plan to visit both institutions to help you make your decision.
댓글