Do Oxford and Cambridge work together?
Asked by: Ms. Susana Beier PhD | Last update: October 4, 2025Score: 4.2/5 (30 votes)
Oxbridge co-operation Despite the impassioned rivalry between the two universities, there is also much cooperation when the need arises. Most Oxford colleges have a sister college in Cambridge.
Are Oxford and Cambridge connected?
The Universities of Oxford and Cambridge are distinct individual universities. However, they have a great deal in common, including their collegiate structure and personalised teaching methods.
Do Oxford and Cambridge have a rivalry?
Both Oxford University and Cambridge University are actually made up of loads of smaller colleges put together. In fact, each of these colleges is a rival to the next – so even within each city, there's enough rivalry going on to make some of the biggest sporting events look like playground scuffles!
Why can't you apply to both Oxford and Cambridge?
They only allow you to apply for one because if they allowed people to apply for both, each would get roughly twice as many applicants per year. This would overstrain the interview system. It would take too much in the way of unnecessary resources to allow people to apply for both.
What do Oxford students call Cambridge students?
Oxford students call Cambridge students 'Tabs', a derogatory term derived from 'Cantab' (the abbreviated Latin word for Cambridge) and varsity sports matches (those between Oxford and Cambridge) are always filled with emotion and pride, the most famous meet being the annual Oxford/Cambridge boat race on the Thames in ...
Applying to Oxford and Cambridge | Work to do over the summer for UCAS
Which is more prestigious, Cambridge or Oxford?
Oxford University is the leader and is also ranked first in English Language and Literature, Geography, History, and Modern Languages.
Why did Cambridge split from Oxford?
The university's founding followed the arrival of scholars who left the University of Oxford for Cambridge after a dispute with local townspeople. The two ancient English universities, although sometimes described as rivals, share many common features and are often jointly referred to as Oxbridge.
Is it easier to get into Oxford or Cambridge?
Both Oxford and Cambridge are highly competitive, and unfortunately, you can only apply to one per year. Based on acceptance rates and numbers, however, it is easier to get into Cambridge than Oxford. Both Harvard and Oxford are esteemed, top-ranked universities where students strive to get their degrees.
What is the Oxbridge rule?
“The Oxbridge rule is a self-imposed agreement between the two universities not to compete for students. It is not a legal requirement, and there is no penalty for breaking it. The rule is thought to have been in place for centuries, but its origins are uncertain.
Which is a nicer town, Oxford or Cambridge?
Though it's a close call, I'd give an edge to bustling Oxford — the more substantial town with plenty to see and do. Cambridge is a close second, with lovely gardens along the River Cam and a simpler, charming atmosphere.
What is the oldest university in the world?
The University of Bologna was founded by Italian jurist, Irnerius, in 1088. Located in Bologna, Italy, this institution holds the record for being the world's oldest university in terms of not having experienced even a brief suspension of its operations since its establishment.
What is the nickname for Oxford and Cambridge?
In addition to being a collective term, Oxbridge is often used as shorthand for characteristics the two institutions share: They are the two oldest universities in continuous operation in the UK.
Which is prettier, Cambridge or Oxford?
In terms of differences between the two locations, Cambridge is generally considered a little prettier, while Oxford has a bit more going on – but of course this will depend on who you ask.
What do Oxford students wear to class?
Sub fusc (from the Latin sub fuscus meaning very dark) should be worn beneath your academic gown and is also required when sitting examinations. Sub fusc and the wider academic dress code at Oxford is solemn and modest, in line with our ceremonies, and traditionally comprised of plain black dress.
Is Oxford or Harvard better?
Here is a comparison based on recent rankings. QS World University Rankings 2025: Oxford is ranked 3rd, while Harvard is ranked 4th. Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024: Oxford is ranked 1st, and Harvard is ranked 4th.
What is the US equivalent of Oxbridge?
Princeton, like [Harvard and Yale], confers some social distinction upon its graduates. In this respect Harvard, Yale, and Princeton are the Western Counterparts of Oxford and Cambridge, and are maintained largely for the sons of rich men.
Where do most Oxbridge rejects go?
What universities do Oxbridge rejects go to? The largest numbers go to all the other top universities in the UK. There are 20,000 UK applicants who are rejected by Oxford and Cambridge. The large majority of them have AAA or better at A level, and 5,500 of them have A*A*A or better.
Is it hard to get into Cambridge as an American?
Cambridge states that applicants must score highly in the ACT or SAT, however, it does not state a specific score. Your chosen course and college might state an expected score e.g. Christ's College ask for an ACT score of at least 32-33 and a SAT score of at least 730-750 (depending on the course applied for).
How many Americans get into Oxford?
Yes, getting into Oxford as an American can be challenging. The acceptance rate typically ranges between 13% and 17%, making it comparable to the most competitive universities worldwide, including Ivy League schools.
Which school is more prestigious, Oxford or Cambridge?
Oxford was second in the world when it comes to prestigious courses like Medicine, Law, Life Sciences, and History. It also outranked Cambridge in most of its appearances (Bridgestock, 2020). While it did not secure the top spot for any subject, Cambridge claimed a place within the top five in most of its appearances.
What do Oxford students call Cambridge?
Students from the other place call Cambridge students “tabs”. A “Cantabrigian” is the correct name for a Cambridge graduate (alumnus), just as an “Oxonian” is someone who studied at Oxford.
What is the race between Oxford and Cambridge?
The Boat Race is an annual set of rowing races between the Cambridge University Boat Club and the Oxford University Boat Club, traditionally rowed between open-weight eights on the River Thames in London, England. It is also known as the University Boat Race and the Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race.