The Oxbridge application timeline

Applying to Oxford or Cambridge runs on an earlier timetable than most university applications. Knowing what happens when helps students plan ahead and avoid a last-minute rush. This guide gives a general overview. Always check the official Oxford and Cambridge admissions websites for the exact dates for your year of entry.

Years 7 to 9: building curiosity

There are no applications to make yet, but this is a valuable time to:

• Read widely, beyond what is set in class
• Explore different subjects to discover what you genuinely enjoy
• Build good study habits and confidence in speaking about your ideas

Years 10 and 11: laying the foundations

• Work hard in your GCSEs. Both universities look at your academic record as a whole.
• Start thinking about which subjects you enjoy most, and which A-levels (or equivalent) keep your options open for the courses you are interested in.
• Look out for university open days, taster events and access programmes.

Year 12: exploring and deciding

• Autumn to spring: research courses in depth, look at course content, entry requirements and whether an admissions test is required.
• Summer term: attend open days if you can. Oxford and Cambridge usually hold theirs in late June or early July, and some colleges open again in September.
• Summer holidays: draft your personal statement and continue super-curricular reading related to your chosen subject.

Year 13: applying

• Early autumn: finalise your personal statement and register for any admissions tests your course requires. Test registration often closes in September, before the UCAS deadline, so check early.
• Mid-October: the UCAS deadline for Oxford and Cambridge applications is 15 October (6pm UK time), much earlier than for most other universities.
• October: sit any required admissions tests. Cambridge applicants also complete an additional online form, My Cambridge Application, shortly after applying.
• November: you may be asked to submit written work, depending on the course.
• December: shortlisted applicants are invited to interview. Interviews usually take place in early to mid December, and many are held online.
• January: decisions are released. Oxford usually announces in mid-January and Cambridge towards the end of January.

A few things to remember

• You usually cannot apply to both Oxford and Cambridge in the same year, so choosing between them is part of the process.
• Dates and admissions tests change from year to year, so check the official websites each year.
• Starting early makes each stage feel far less daunting.

If you would like help planning your own timeline, send Shajara Pathways an enquiry and we will be in touch.