University of Oxford vs University of Cambridge
University of Oxford
Oxford, United Kingdom
University of Cambridge
Cambridge, United Kingdom
Head-to-Head Headliner Comparison
Scan the essential comparative metrics side-by-side to guide your final choice.
| Comparative Indicators | University of Oxford | University of Cambridge |
|---|---|---|
| QS World Rank (2025/2026) | #4 | #6 |
| THE World Rank (2025) | #1 | #5 |
| ARWU Shanghai Rank | #6 | #4 |
| US News Global Rank | #4 | #6 |
| Acceptance Rate | 17% | 18% |
| Annual Tuition (Intl) | £52,000 | £52,000 |
| Established Year | 1096 | 1209 |
| Total Students Count | 26,595 | 24,912 |
| Campus Safety Rating | 90 / 100 | 92 / 100 |
5-Year Ranking Trajectory
Compare dynamic overall prestige ranking shifts over the past 5 years (lower value = higher rank).
Executive AI Admissions Counselor Verdict
Global Prestige & Reputation Vibe
Oxford and Cambridge Engineering departments boast unparalleled global prestige and academic rigor. Oxford’s "Engineering Science" emphasizes an integrated, fundamental scientific approach. Cambridge’s "Engineering" offers a similarly robust, often broader, and applied curriculum. Cultural distinctions are minor, rooted in collegiate systems, not overall academic standing. Both consistently attract elite talent.
Elite Academic Strengths & Major Comparison
Tuition varies: Oxford's 4-year MEng is $44,210/yr vs. Cambridge's $35,000/yr. Oxford’s DPhil is $32,000/yr vs. Cambridge’s PhD at $38,000/yr. Both offer 1-year Master's. Cambridge also lists a 3-year BA in Engineering. Scholarship support is strong; Oxford's Clarendon/Rhodes offer full coverage, Cambridge provides substantial partial to full funding.
Campus Culture & Daily Student Vibe
Students prioritizing a unified, foundational engineering science curriculum with high potential for full external scholarships should choose Oxford. Those seeking a broader initial undergraduate path or lower MEng tuition should lean towards Cambridge, aligning with specific research interests.
Discipline Focus Showdown
Click on any subject in the QS Showdown table below to dynamically compare specific majors, annual tuition fees, and scholarship opportunities side-by-side.
University of Oxford Programs
University of Cambridge Programs
Exclusive Scholarships Face-off
Value: Full tuition and living costs
Value: Full tuition, living stipend, airfare
Value: Full tuition, living stipend, airfare
Value: Partial to full funding, often covering tuition fees and maintenance
Value: Up to £10,000 per year towards maintenance costs
Value: Various awards, typically £10,000 - £30,000 fee waiver
QS Subject Rankings Showdown
Head-to-head QS subject rankings. Click on any subject row to dynamically pull direct courses and scholarships in the Discipline Focus card above!
University of Oxford Exclusive Edge
University of Cambridge Exclusive Edge
Source: QS World University Rankings by Subject. Rankings reflect the best available year in our database.
Cost of Living Face-off
Detailed ballpark monthly student expenditure comparison based on city indices.
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