When it comes to the UK’s most prestigious universities, Oxford and Cambridge have been seen as the crème-de-la-crème of British education for centuries, garnering a reputation for excellence with a global reach and attracting the very best students and academics from around the world.
Steeped in rich history and renowned for their elite status, few can compete with these two institutions, which in the UK at least, are in a league of their own. But the burning question on everyone’s lips is, which of the two is better? Whether you’re trying to decide which to apply to or simply curious about which of them is excelling the most in 2024, then here, we take a closer look at how they compare to settle the debate once and for all.
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Reputation and academic excellence
Collectively known as “Oxbridge,” Oxford and Cambridge dominate global university rankings, with Oxford having been crowned as the ‘best university in the world’ in the prestigious Times Higher Education World University Rankings for numerous years running and recently being revealed to have retained its title for 2024.
In a sense, we could end the Oxford vs Cambridge debate right there, as Cambridge consistently ranks within the top five globally, often close behind its rival but has yet to claim the top spot. But, is it as simple as that? The truth is that which of the two is the ‘best’ really depends on what you value the most.
Academically, both universities excel, with their teaching and research standards difficult to match. Both are made up of colleges – Oxford more than 40, and Cambridge over 30 – and prospective students opt to apply to a specific one when applying to either university.
Oxford’s Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) course is said to be the best in the world and has won itself global recognition as a result, having produced numerous leaders in politics and public life over the years. But Cambridge pips it to the post when it comes to the Natural Sciences, with its courses in the field all highly esteemed. Allowing students to study a range of scientific subjects before choosing one to specialise in, it offers a well-rounded education whilst enabling them to build up significant expertise in their focus area of choice.
Ultimately though, both institutions offer courses spanning a wide range of disciplines that are perceived to be some of the finest in the world.
Admissions
As you’d expect, securing a place at Oxford or Cambridge is no small feat, as both are highly selective and competition is fierce. While many university simply require applicants to successfully complete an interview and request to review a portfolio, at Oxbridge, things are far more rigorous, and while Cambridge still tends to focus on interviews and academic records, entrance exams often a mandatory element of the admissions process at Oxford and relate to the specific course prospective students are applying for.
Despite being steeped in rich history and tradition, neither university is averse to evolution, and both have adapted their admissions processes over recent years to take a more holistic approach. Cambridge now draws on other data about applicants to help it narrow down its selection, like overall school performance and background, while Oxford has introduced the Oxford Thinking Skills Assessment, amongst other tests.
So is one of them easier to gain a place at than the other? In a word, no. Both are high-pressure processes that require dedication to the cause, so if you or a family member are looking to apply then it pays to be extremely well prepared for what’s to come. But given Oxford’s focus on entry exams, those who typically perform well under test conditions may find this route more suited to their strengths, while confident and dynamic applicants with a proven track record in their chosen subject may find the Cambridge admissions process aligns better.
Student life
Both Oxford and Cambridge have always placed a strong emphasis on creating a close-knit community, and their collegiate system has made it possible. Students live and study within their colleges, as well as sharing meals and socialising together, enabling for a supportive network of close friends that for some feels almost like family.
Given its proximity to London, it’s somewhat more cosmopolitan than Cambridge and offers a dynamic, fun and fast-paced lifestyle to balance out the intensive study required across the university’s courses, with a plethora of pubs, restaurants, cafes and shops to be found within the town itself as well as theatres and other cultural attractions.
On the flipside, Cambridge is a rather scenic setting away from the hustle and bustle, and many of the university’s colleges can be found in the Backs – a picturesque landscaped open area and gardens on the banks of the River Cam. But despite this serene setting – which is a huge draw for many – student life at Cambridge is still vibrant and fun.
The final verdict
So let’s settle this now. Which of the two is better?
Well, lists like the Times Higher Education World University Rankings don’t lie, and the fact that Oxford is still sitting pretty on the top spot speaks volumes. But choosing between the two isn’t just about official lists; it’s about which is best for the individual, and with each offering a raft of benefits, exceptional courses and expertise, and access to world-class research opportunities, if you’re seeking the very best education money can buy then you can’t go wrong with either.
