Applying to Oxford and Cambridge: Debunking the Biggest Oxbridge Myths

Oxford and Cambridge top the Times Higher Education’s World University Rankings. 

So, it’s no surprise that they’re dream destinations for many aspiring students, with thousands of students competing for places every year.  

Steeped in history and with an alumni of world leaders, prime ministers, and royals, they’re regarded as the crème de la crème of higher education. However, there is a lot more to these two seats of learning than tradition and elitism.   

If you’re wondering how to get into Oxbridge, or you’ve dismissed the idea of applying because you feel they’re not the kind of universities that would accept someone like you, read on.

How to Apply to Oxford or Cambridge via UCAS

Most readers already know about personal statements and application deadlines, but there’s more to the UCAS form process that can unlock your chances of a successful application to the University of Oxford or Cambridge.

• Your UCAS reference is key. Make sure your academic referee knows you’re applying to Oxbridge so they can tailor your reference to what admissions tutors look for.
• Super-curricular activities matter more than generic extra-curriculars. Admissions tutors at both universities expect evidence of rigorous engagement with your subject — think reading beyond the syllabus, relevant projects, competitions, or research.
• Some courses require written work samples alongside your UCAS form — most often for humanities or social science subjects. Choose strong, recent school essays to showcase your analysis and writing skills.
• Remember, you can only apply to Oxford or Cambridge in the same cycle, not both — so plan carefully and focus your UCAS form, personal statement, and supporting documents on your chosen university.

Let’s get stuck into the myths:

Here are the six most common Oxbridge myths debunked:  

1. Oxbridge is not for poorer students  

One of the most prevalent myths about Oxbridge is that it’s only for students who are financially well-off.  

Thankfully, we’ve moved on since the days of Brideshead Revisited, and both universities have excellent outreach programmes to state schools. They offer generous financial support and several bursaries and scholarships to students from a range of educational backgrounds and experiences.   

For example, Oxford’s Crankstart Scholarships offers bursary support (plus career mentoring and access to funded internships) for students whose household income is £27,500 a year or less.   

While the proportion of BAME (Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic) students is still comparatively low, numbers are increasing, and there several programmes and scholarships offered to students. The grime star Stormzy pays for two students a year to go to Cambridge!   

2. You need the best A-Level grades to get in  

Oxbridge does indeed want the brightest students, so standards are high, and grades are important. The requirements are a minimum of AAA for both universities, and most successful students will have achieved these.   

However, they’re also looking for the intellectually curious students who have a passion for their subject and demonstrate a strong willingness to learn.   

In a bid to attract well-rounded characters, applicants to Cambridge are asked to submit a Supplementary Application Questionnaire, and both universities have subject-specific tests. Some courses may also demand coursework, a portfolio, or an audition.   

Then, of course, there is the interview. So, if you falter on your A-Levels but impress elsewhere, you could still be in with a chance. They also accept retakes, so if you fail once, there’s no harm in applying to Oxbridge again in the future.  

3. You need to choose a college  

Both universities operate on a collegiate system. Some are single-sex; others are mixed; some only accept mature students; others are for all ages; some are based in the city centre; others are further out; some accept students of specific subjects; some are in traditional, aesthetically pleasing buildings, and some are not.   

If, after researching websites and prospectuses, you have no idea which college is best for you, don’t worry. You can opt for an ‘open application’ and be allocated a college randomly.  

4. There’s no point reapplying if you fail to win a place  

It can be tough to learn that after all your hard work applying to Oxbridge, having achieved good A Levels, sat admission tests and attended interviews, you’ve not been offered a place.   

With Oxbridge applications increasing by around 10% each year, competition is fierce and unfortunately, not everyone will make it.  

However, you can use this enforced gap year to build relevant experience that will strengthen your position for reapplication next year. It could be getting work experience in the subject of your choice, reading widely around your subject or taking a gap year in the country that speaks the language you hope to study.   

This way, you might find that the door that was once closed to you reopens the following year.   

5. Oxbridge graduates get the best jobs  

Yes and no. According to the Times Higher Education, Cambridge and Oxford are ranked first and second in Britain for graduate employability. However, globally (as of 2021) they’re beaten by Harvard in the US with Cambridge ranking fourth and Oxford eight.   

When it comes to salaries, graduates from London-based Imperial College and King’s College boast a higher salary in the first year after graduation than Oxford or Cambridge. So, whereas a degree from Oxbridge can stand you in good stead for a high-profile position, it certainly doesn’t guarantee one.  

6. You can apply to both Oxford and Cambridge in the same year

This is a common assumption, but it isn’t true — at least not for undergraduates.

Through the UCAS system, students are only allowed to apply to either Oxford or Cambridge in the same admissions cycle. This rule helps simplify the process for universities that already receive thousands of highly competitive applications each year.

That’s why choosing between the two should be a thoughtful decision. Look closely at the course structures, teaching styles, and the overall feel of each city. Both universities also have unique application processes, from personal statements and written admissions tests to college-specific forms like Cambridge’s My Cambridge Application.

Before you submit your UCAS application (the deadline is 15 October), make sure you’ve considered which university, and course, is the right fit for you. There’s no opportunity to apply to both in the same year.

Looking for support with your Oxbridge application?  

Here at William Clarence, we’ve supported hundreds of students applying to Oxbridge over the years, with many successfully acquiring a place on their desired course.

Our consultants are all Oxbridge graduates themselves and can answer all your questions on how to get into Oxbridge, choosing between Oxford and Cambridge, advising on course and college selection, interview preparation, and entrance exam requirements to help maximise your chances of receiving an offer from your choice of university.

Whether you're hoping to study at Oxford or Cambridge, we guide you through every step of the process — from crafting a standout UCAS form and personal statement to preparing for admissions tests and impressing your admissions tutor at interview. Whether your dream is to study at the University of Oxford or simply want the best chance of getting into a top UK uni, we’re here to help you apply with confidence.

For more information on our Oxbridge applications service, visit our dedicated page or get in touch to speak with one of our experienced consultants today.