Oxford vs. Cambridge — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Fiza Rafique — Updated on March 11, 2024
Oxford focuses on a tutorial system with personalized teaching, whereas Cambridge is known for its strong emphasis on mathematics and sciences.
Difference Between Oxford and Cambridge
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Oxford University, located in Oxford, England, is renowned for its tutorial system, which offers personalized teaching and mentoring to students. This approach fosters a deep understanding of subjects through one-on-one or small group discussions. On the other hand, the University of Cambridge, situated in Cambridge, England, places a strong emphasis on mathematics and the sciences. Cambridge's unique 'Tripos' system allows students to explore a broad range of subjects in their initial years before specializing.
Both institutions share a collegiate system, which means they are made up of individual colleges that provide residential, social, and welfare facilities. However, each college at Oxford and Cambridge has its own distinct character and traditions, influencing the student experience.
In terms of admissions, both universities are highly competitive, but they have different interview processes and entry requirements tailored to their respective teaching styles and academic focuses. Oxford often emphasizes the tutorial system in its admissions process, while Cambridge focuses on applicants' potential for success in its specialized courses.
Regarding global rankings, both Oxford and Cambridge frequently appear at the top, but their positions can vary depending on the criteria used, such as research output, academic reputation, and student-to-faculty ratio. These rankings reflect the universities' excellence in education, research, and global influence.
Comparison Chart
Teaching Style
Tutorial system with personalized attention.
Emphasis on mathematics and sciences with the 'Tripos' system.
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Renowned For
Humanities and social sciences, particularly PPE.
Mathematics and scientific contributions.
Collegiate System
Individual colleges with unique characters and traditions.
Individual colleges with unique characters and traditions.
Admissions Process
Emphasizes tutorial system and personal interviews.
Focuses on specialized courses and potential for success.
Global Rankings
Frequently ranks at the top for humanities and social sciences.
Often tops in mathematics and sciences.
Compare with Definitions
Oxford
Comprises numerous colleges that offer a close-knit community environment.
Each college at Oxford has its own traditions, contributing to a diverse student experience.
Cambridge
Allows students to explore various subjects before specializing.
Cambridge's Tripos system provides a broad foundation in the initial years of study.
Oxford
A distinctive educational approach where students receive personalized instruction.
At Oxford, the tutorial system encourages in-depth discussions between students and tutors.
Cambridge
Known for outstanding contributions and achievements.
Cambridge has a storied history in mathematics, home to many Fields Medalists.
Oxford
A prestigious and interdisciplinary course in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics.
The PPE program at Oxford attracts students interested in leadership and governance roles.
Cambridge
Comprises numerous colleges that enhance the learning environment.
Cambridge colleges offer supportive communities, enriching the academic journey.
Oxford
Renowned for strong programs in these fields.
Oxford's humanities and social sciences faculties are among the best in the world.
Cambridge
A history of groundbreaking research and discoveries.
Cambridge scientists have been at the forefront of numerous scientific breakthroughs.
Oxford
A long history of producing world leaders, scholars, and innovators.
Numerous Nobel laureates and global leaders have been part of the Oxford community.
Cambridge
Consistently ranks highly for its research output and academic programs.
Cambridge is regularly featured among the top universities in global rankings.
Oxford
Oxford () is a city in England. It is the county town and only city of Oxfordshire.
Cambridge
Cambridge ( KAYM-brij) is a university city and the county town of Cambridgeshire, England, on the River Cam approximately 55 miles (89 km) north of London. At the United Kingdom Census 2011, the population of the Cambridge built-up area (which is larger than the remit of Cambridge City Council) was 158,434 including 29,327 students.
Oxford
A sturdy, low shoe that laces over the instep.
Cambridge
A university in England
Oxford
A cotton cloth of a tight basket weave, used primarily for shirts.
Cambridge
A city in Massachusetts just north of Boston; site of Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Oxford
Alternative case form of Oxford(cloth)
Cambridge
A city in eastern England on the River Cam; site of Cambridge University
Oxford
Alternative case form of Oxford(shoe)
Oxford
Of or pertaining to the city or university of Oxford, England.
Oxford
A city in southern England northwest of London; site of Oxford University
Oxford
A university town in northern Mississippi; home of William Faulkner
Oxford
A university in England
Oxford
A low shoe laced over the instep
Common Curiosities
Are both universities equally difficult to get into?
Both are highly competitive, but their admissions processes and criteria differ based on their teaching styles and academic focuses.
What is the main difference between Oxford and Cambridge's teaching styles?
Oxford uses a tutorial system focusing on personalized instruction, while Cambridge emphasizes mathematics and sciences with the 'Tripos' system.
How do the collegiate systems of Oxford and Cambridge differ?
Both have a collegiate system, but each college within the universities has its own unique character and traditions.
Which university is better for humanities?
Oxford is particularly renowned for its humanities and social sciences programs.
How does the tutorial system at Oxford work?
It involves personalized teaching in one-on-one or small group settings, allowing for in-depth subject exploration.
Which university has more Nobel laureates?
Both universities have produced numerous Nobel laureates, but the exact numbers can vary by field and year.
Can students at Oxford and Cambridge choose their college?
Applicants can express a college preference, but admissions decisions are made both at the college and university level.
What kind of scientific contributions is Cambridge known for?
Cambridge has a rich history of scientific breakthroughs, including contributions to physics, biology, and mathematics.
Which university has a stronger focus on mathematics and sciences?
Cambridge is known for its emphasis on mathematics and scientific research.
Do Oxford and Cambridge have similar global rankings?
Both consistently rank at the top, but their positions can vary depending on the ranking criteria.
What is the 'Tripos' system at Cambridge?
It's a flexible course structure that allows students to study a broad range of subjects before specializing.
What is PPE at Oxford?
It's a combined study of Philosophy, Politics, and Economics, known for its rigorous and comprehensive curriculum.
How do Oxford and Cambridge support student welfare?
Both provide extensive welfare services through their colleges, including counseling, financial aid, and career advice.
Which university is older, Oxford or Cambridge?
Oxford is older, with teaching existing in some form since 1096, making it the oldest university in the English-speaking world.
Do Oxford and Cambridge participate in sports competitions against each other?
Yes, the most famous being the annual Boat Race, a rowing competition between the two universities.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
