Oxford and Cambridge

Picture of Christ's college at the Univeristy of Cambridge
Oxford and Cambridge, often called "Oxbridge", are rather special universities with a unique application process. Are they a good fit for you? Let's find out

Oxford and Cambridge: Not Just the Best, But Also the Different

When international students apply to Oxford and Cambridge, they often say they want to attend because they are the best universities in the world. However, there is more to these institutions than just their high rankings. They also have a unique teaching style that is not for everyone.

The key to understanding Oxford and Cambridge is to realize that they are focused on intensive student-professor interaction. This is in contrast to many other universities, where students may only have a few opportunities to interact with their professors. At Oxford and Cambridge, students typically have small-scale classes, called tutorials or supervisions, with just one or two other students. This allows for in-depth discussion and questioning, which can be both challenging and rewarding.

Of course, not all students are comfortable with this level of interaction. Some students may prefer the anonymity of large lectures, where they can blend in and avoid being called on. Others may not be confident enough to challenge their professors or raise their own topics for discussion.

This is why both Oxford and Cambridge select students through interviews. The interviews are not just a way to assess academic knowledge. They are also a way to see how students think and how they communicate their ideas. Students who are successful in these interviews are able to think on their feet and articulate their thoughts clearly.

In short, Oxford and Cambridge are not just the best universities in the world. They are also the different universities. If you are considering applying to one of these institutions, it is important to understand their teaching style and to make sure that it is a good fit for you.

Here are some additional points that I would like to add to the article:

  • The tutorial system at Oxford and Cambridge is designed to foster independent thinking and critical analysis.
  • Students who attend these universities are expected to be self-motivated and to take responsibility for their own learning.
  • The tutorial system can be demanding, but it can also be very rewarding.
  • Students who succeed at Oxford and Cambridge are able to think for themselves and to communicate their ideas effectively.

If you are looking for more information on applying to university in the UK, check out our Complete Guide to Studying in the UK.

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