Applying to Oxbridge as an International Student

Your Ultimate One-Stop Guide on the Internet.

Need Help Applying? Click here.

Oxford and Cambridge are two of the most prestigious universities in the world, attracting top students from all over the globe. As an international applicant, you will follow the same admissions process as UK applicants, but there are a few additional considerations that you need to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and competitive application.

Tips for International Students applying to Oxbridge

1. The Application Process

International students must apply through the UCAS system, just like domestic students. The deadline for submitting your UCAS application for 2025 entry is 15 October 2024, and you can only apply to either Oxford or Cambridge, not both. Here’s what you need to do:

• Choose Your Course: Research carefully, as you’ll need to decide on your course of study before applying. Oxford and Cambridge require applicants to specialize from the start, unlike many other countries where you can switch majors later on .

• Select a College: Both universities operate on a collegiate system, so you’ll either select a specific college or submit an open application, allowing the university to assign you to a college .

2. Meeting the Academic Requirements

Oxford and Cambridge have high academic standards. They accept many international qualifications, but requirements vary by country. Here are some general expectations:

• A-Level Students: Most applicants are required to achieve between AAA and AAA depending on the course.

• International Baccalaureate (IB): A typical offer is 39-42 points, with scores of 776 at Higher Level .

You’ll need to check whether your specific qualifications are accepted and ensure that you are on track to meet the required grades. You can find detailed information about international qualifications on both the Oxford and Cambridge websites .

3. English Language Requirements

If English is not your first language, you will need to prove your proficiency by taking an English language test. Both Oxford and Cambridge accept:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 7.5.

• TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 110 .

Some courses may have higher requirements, so it’s important to check the specific requirements for your chosen course .

4. Additional Admissions Steps

In addition to your UCAS application, international applicants may need to complete admissions tests specific to their course:

• UCAT for Medicine applicants.

• LNAT for Law applicants.

• TSA for courses like Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) .

You’ll need to register for these tests separately, often by early October, so be sure to plan ahead .

5. Visas and Funding

As an international student, you’ll likely need a student visa to study in the UK. It’s important to begin this process as soon as you receive an offer. Additionally, consider the costs of studying at Oxford or Cambridge, which include tuition fees and living expenses. Both universities offer a range of scholarships and bursaries for international students, and you can find detailed information on their websites .

6. Preparing for Interviews

Many international students will be invited for interviews, either in person or online, depending on their location. Oxford and Cambridge interviews are designed to assess your academic potential and critical thinking abilities, so practice is essential. Mock interviews, reading extensively around your subject, and discussing challenging concepts with teachers or tutors can help you prepare .

By following these steps and staying organized, you can increase your chances of securing a place at Oxford or Cambridge as an international student. Need help preparing? Our team at The Oxbridge School offers tailored support for international applicants, including interview coaching and personal statement reviews.

Costs for International Students

When considering studying at Oxford or Cambridge, it’s important to account for both tuition fees and living costs. These costs vary depending on your nationality (Home or Overseas) and the specific course you choose.

1. Tuition Fees for Undergraduates

Oxford:

Home students: The tuition fee is capped at £9,250 per year for 2025 entry. UK students are eligible for government loans to cover these fees.

Overseas students: Tuition fees range between £35,260 and £59,260 per year depending on the course. For example, Medicine students pay significantly higher fees due to clinical training .

Cambridge:

Home students: Similar to Oxford, tuition fees are set at £9,250 for Home students starting in 2025.

Overseas students: Fees vary by course, typically ranging from £24,507 to £63,990 per year. Courses such as Medicine and Veterinary Medicine tend to be at the higher end of the scale .

2. Tuition Fees for Postgraduates

For postgraduate study, tuition fees vary significantly depending on the subject and the student’s fee status:

Oxford: Overseas students may pay between £26,450 and £52,560 for postgraduate courses. Clinical programs like Medicine are typically more expensive .

Cambridge: Postgraduate fees also vary widely. For example, overseas fees for popular courses like the MBA or certain research programs can range from £30,000 to over £60,000 .

3. Living Costs

In addition to tuition, you’ll need to budget for living costs:

Oxford: Living costs are estimated between £1,425 and £2,035 per month. This includes accommodation, food, study materials, and social activities. Over a nine-month academic year, this amounts to approximately £12,825 to £18,315 .

Cambridge: Estimated living costs for international students are about £14,880 per year, depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices .

4. Scholarships and Financial Support

Both universities offer limited scholarships for overseas students. At Oxford, you can explore available scholarships using the Fees, Funding, and Scholarship Search Tool, while Cambridge provides several financial support options for eligible students .

Before applying, be sure to check the specific fees for your course and explore any available scholarships or financial support options.

All you need to know to Apply to Oxbridge.

Interview Preparation

Interviews at Oxford and Cambridge are one of the most crucial stages of the admissions process. These interviews are designed to assess your academic potential, critical thinking, and how you approach complex problems. While they can seem daunting, the right preparation will help you showcase your abilities effectively.

Interview Guide
Personal Statement Guide

Writing a personal statement for Oxford and Cambridge is one of the most important steps in your application process. Unlike other universities, Oxbridge places significant emphasis on academic achievements and your passion for the subject you’re applying for. Here are some expert tips to ensure your personal statement captures the attention of admissions tutors.

Personal Statement Guide
Applying to Medicine

Applying for Medicine at Oxford or Cambridge is one of the most competitive university applications in the world. Both institutions have updated their admissions process, and as of 2025 entry, the UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) is now required for Medicine applicants. This guide covers all the essential steps, from academic requirements to interview tips, ensuring you’re fully prepared to succeed in your application.

Medicine Guide