How to Apply to Oxford and Cambridge – 2025 Entry Guide

Your Ultimate One-Stop Guide on the Internet.

Applying to Oxford and Cambridge is a rigorous and detailed process, and it’s important to stay informed about key dates and requirements. Below is an overview of the Oxbridge admissions process for 2025 entry, including deadlines and what to expect at each stage.

Key Dates for 2025 Entry

UCAS Application Opens:

You can start working on your UCAS application as early as May 2024, but submissions open from 3 September 2024.

UCAS Application Deadline:

All applications for Oxford and Cambridge, including Medicine, Dentistry, and Veterinary courses, must be submitted by 6 PM UK time, 15 October 2024.

Admissions Tests Registration:

If your course requires an admissions test (such as the LNAT for Law or the BMAT for Medicine), registration begins on 15 August 2024. All tests must be registered by 4 October 2024, and many tests will take place between 21-31 October 2024.

Written Work Submission:

If your course requires the submission of written work, it must be sent to the relevant college by 10 November 2024.

Interviews:

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews in December 2024. Oxford typically conducts these online, while Cambridge may vary by college.

Decisions:

Final decisions will be sent to applicants by January 2025.

Admissions Tests

Most courses at Oxford and some at Cambridge require applicants to take subject-specific admissions tests. These tests are crucial as they are often used to shortlist applicants for interviews. Some examples include:

TSA: Thinking Skills Assessment (for courses like PPE at Oxford).

BMAT/UCAT: For Medicine and related courses.

LNAT: For Law applicants.

Make sure to register and prepare well for these tests as they play a significant role in the admissions process.

Personal Statement and Written Work

Your personal statement should focus on academic achievements and subject passion, as Oxbridge places more weight on intellectual engagement than extracurriculars. Some courses also require written work, which must be submitted after your UCAS application. This could be a recent essay from school, demonstrating your academic ability in a relevant subject.

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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.

  • 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.

  • International Students

    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.

  • 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.

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