An Oxford or Cambridge application doesn't work in quite the same way as applying to any other university. But just how different is it?
We've picked out five of the key things that make Oxbridge applications rather different from everywhere else.
1. You going to need some really good grades...and then some
The most obvious difference between admissions at Oxbridge and other universities is the emphasis on academics. Not all successful applicants to Oxford and Cambridge will have straight A*s under their belts, but let’s face it – a fair few do!
Even so, bagging yourself a bunch of A*s is no guarantee of a place. Each year, both Oxford and Cambridge receive around six times as many applications as they have available places.
With limited places available, successful applicants are likely to have shown academic achievements and a love for their subject that goes beyond the A-level curriculum.
Did you know...? For 2026 entry, Oxford's entry requirements range from AAA to A*A*A (depending on the subject). Most Cambridge undergraduate courses for 2026 have entry requirements of either A*AA or A*A*A.
2. Oxbridge assessments go beyond your grades and Ucas form
Universities will often use your predicted grades and information from your Ucas application (including your personal statement) to decide whether to offer you a place.
But, since most people apply to Oxford and Cambridge with top grades, both of these universities ask for a bit more information on top, to help them decide on offers.
Cambridge University
Most Cambridge applicants will be asked to take some kind of test as part of their application.
There's also another form to fill in. On top of the Ucas application you've already done, you'll also be asked to complete a My Cambridge Application (MyCApp) questionnaire.
What is a MyCApp?
This questionnaire asks for extra information in support of your application, including:
- education and qualification history
- personal details
- topics covered as part of your AS/A-level (or equivalent) courses
- registration numbers for admissions assessments (if applicable)
There's also space to write an additional personal statement, specific to your Cambridge application. This part is optional though, and Cambridge is clear that you won't disadvantage your application if you don't have anything more to add here.
You'll get an email from Cambridge shortly after you submit your Ucas application (within 48 hours) with information about completing the MyCApp.
For 2026 entry, the deadline for completing the MyCApp is 6pm on 22 October 2025. The Cambridge University website has more information on MyCApp.
Oxford University
Oxford doesn't have a questionnaire, but it does require applicants for most courses to take a test as part of the application process.
These tests generally take place in late October - the exact date will depend on the course you're applying for.
Did you know...? At both universities applicants to certain courses will need to submit examples of written coursework as part of their application.
3. Your personal statement is used a little differently
The personal statement is an important part of any university application – it’s a great opportunity to highlight your academic potential and demonstrate that you’ve read widely around your subject.
And it's still important to Oxbridge admissions tutors, but perhaps not quite so crucial. After all, they have all that additional information about you (like test scores, interview performance and submitted coursework) to help them make their decision.
Something to bear in mind when you are writing your personal statement: don't go overboard on the extra-curricular activities. In their support information for applicants, both Oxford and Cambridge are clear that they want personal statements that focus on your academic interests and achievements.
Did you know...? Your personal statement is likely to be used as a guide to what to ask you at interview, so make sure you’re able to talk confidently about anything you include.
4. Oxbridge interviews test your self-motivation and enthusiasm for the subject
A lot of the teaching at Oxford or Cambridge takes place in small classes ('tutorials' at Oxford and 'supervisions' at Cambridge).
The interview process is, in part, a practice for this kind of teaching. You'll have a conversation with a subject expert about your subject and your application and you'll be assessed on your ability to think independently and engage with new ideas.
You might also get some questions about your personal statement or your written work.
Interviews for both Oxford and Cambridge normally take place in December, with invitations to interview normally sent out in November or early December.
Did you know...? All Oxford interviews and most (but not all) Cambridge interviews for 2026 applicants will be held online.
5. You're applying to a college, too
Oxford and Cambridge are two of a handful of universities to have a collegiate structure (Durham and York are other examples). Your college is where you’ll live, socialise and do most of your studying.
The most important thing to know is that the college you apply for won’t affect your chance of getting a place.
Here's what to consider when you're trying to choose a college:
- check that it offers the course you want to study
- consider the size, how old or new it is and where it's based
- visit on an open day and simply go with your instinct
If you can’t decide, you can make an open application where the university will allocate you a college. Once allocated, your application is treated exactly like any other.
And finally...
Don’t forget that you can only apply to either Oxford or Cambridge – not both. Our guide on deciding between the two can help you start figuring out the best option for you.
