Why are Oxford & Cambridge so special?
- Senior School
“Oxbridge” refers to the universities of Oxford and Cambridge - two of the oldest and highest-ranked institutions in the world.
They are known for their challenging academic programmes and have famous alumni like Stephen Hawking, Oscar Wilde, Albert Einstein, and Hugh Grant to name but a few. They are often compared to the Ivy League in the US.
So, what makes these universities different?
High Academic Standards
Oxford and Cambridge look for the best students from anywhere in the world. To apply, you need top grades, to meet the early deadline (15th October), often take an admissions test or submit some written work, and attend an interview.
You must show real passion for your subject beyond the classroom, which is why activities like extra reading and research are important. You’ll need to think critically and discuss different viewpoints on a topic, weighing their pros and cons to form your own opinion.
Tutorials and Supervisions
One thing that makes Oxford and Cambridge special is their small group teaching. At Oxford, they’re called "tutorials," and at Cambridge, they’re called "supervisions." You usually have two of these sessions each week, in addition to regular classes.
In these sessions, you meet with your tutor or supervisor, either one-on-one or in a small group. It’s a great way to get help from experts, but it’s also intense - you’ll need to be well-prepared, as there’s no hiding in a small group!
Once accepted, the high standards continue; the workload is heavier than at most UK universities, and exams, not coursework, are the main focus.
World-Class Research and Academic Staff
Both Oxford and Cambridge are home to some of the world’s leading academics and researchers. Their staff includes experts who are at the cutting edge of their fields, many of whom are also active researchers. This means that students at Oxbridge are taught by those who are making new discoveries and pushing the boundaries of knowledge.
Students might have the chance to participate in research projects or benefit from the latest academic developments directly in their tutorials or lectures. This constant connection to top-level research gives Oxbridge students an incredible academic experience that is hard to find elsewhere.
The College System
Oxford and Cambridge are different because they are made up of colleges. Oxford has over 40, and Cambridge has more than 30. When you apply, you can choose a specific college or let the university assign one to you.
Colleges are where you live, study, and socialise. Each has its own library, bar, and sports facilities, so students often form close friendships within their college. But you’ll still meet people outside of your college through lectures, sports, and clubs.
Even if you apply to a certain college, the university might assign you to another if they think it’s a better fit for you. However, no matter which college you’re in, you’ll still graduate with a degree from Oxford or Cambridge.
Traditions and Social Life
There are plenty of ways to socialise at Oxford and Cambridge, but many events take place within the colleges. Both universities have a lot of history and traditions, including formal dinners where you wear gowns. Each college has its own special traditions, and there are also student groups that celebrate their own cultures throughout the year.
No Jobs During Term Time
Oxford and Cambridge students aren’t allowed to work part-time during the term because the workload is so heavy. But the good news is that the terms are shorter than at other universities, giving you time to work or do internships during the holidays. There’s also financial support available for students who need it.
How RST supports Oxbridge applications
At Rugby School Thailand, we provide full support for students aiming for Oxbridge and other top universities worldwide, always focusing on finding the best fit for each student.
We recognise that Oxbridge may not be the right path for everyone, and our approach is to guide students toward universities where they will thrive academically, socially, and personally. This focus on best fit helps students make informed choices, ensuring they find the university that aligns with their interests, strengths, and future goals.
Our academic preparation includes help from subject experts, pushing students to engage deeply with their subjects and develop the critical thinking skills needed for Oxbridge interviews and tests. Our “Ask Better Questions” approach is one example of this.
We offer many supra-curricular and extracurricular opportunities to boost students’ profiles, including the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), essay competitions, and leadership roles.
We also guide students through the entire application process, from personal statements to test preparation and mock interviews, making sure they feel confident.
Finally, we give students exposure to global universities through fairs, webinars, and subject-specific lectures, providing insights into what Oxbridge and other top institutions expect.
Our “Whole Person, The Whole Point” philosophy helps students become well-rounded individuals with curiosity, resilience, and a real passion for their subjects.
Article written by By Claire Cecil, Head of Higher Education and Careers