<p>I am currently in college, but recently I have become very interested in applying to both Cambridge University and Oxford University. I have been combing their sites and have found a lot of useful information (and I think I might actually be beginning to understand it!) However I thought I would post on here and ask if anyone has any helpful information for me!</p>
<p>I was not a stellar student in high school, but that really had nothing to do with my level of intelligence. As far as I can tell they really don't care about your high school grades at all. I would be applying for their English Department. I am currently taking college classes, which from what I gather would be the equivalent of A levels, but I am not really clear on that either. For instance would a college level English Literature course mean anything to them? I know I have the passion and I know I could be really impressive in an interview. Which I gather is extremely important to both Universities. So basically some information from anybody who knows about the application process, if there is some sort of age limitation for undergraduate studies, how to prepare myself to be a competitive choice, etc.. would be much appreciated!!</p>
<p>British universities do not consider extracurricular activities. This is is the same for Cambridge and Oxford. Please note the following:</p>
<ul>
<li>it is exceptionally rare for a US high school student to be admitted</li>
<li>you can apply to Cambridge OR Oxford, but not both</li>
<li>Cambridge and Oxford will only care about your AP scores in relevant subjects (which they specify)</li>
<li>Your interests, aspirations etc are only a factor once you have met the AP standard</li>
</ul>
<p>Please also note that unless you have lived in the EU for several years before applying, you will be treated as an “overseas” student. Your fees will be much higher and, generally speaking, no financial aid is available.</p>
<p>^ that. It’s all about the scores - nothing else really mattered. From what I recall two years ago, if you received a high level certification in something they acknowledged, you could enter it in, so not just AP stuff (like ABRSM at grade 6(?) or above, or some national/internationally recognized things)</p>
<p>You would have to apply through what is called UCAS. The essay itself is significantly different from what you would do for US colleges. Like the instructions were “enter your personal statement” or something. Though you can combine all those essays to make a coherent UCAS statement - I did it the other way around, so I broke my UCAS statement up for my UC and common app essays</p>
<p>It’s not as difficult as you might think; I am an American student who was successfully admitted to Oxbridge last year, simply with strong AP and ACT scores.
I applied with 8 scores, and they stipulated that I receive a 5 on 3 more exams my senior year before they would confirm my offer. You will apply in October to interview in December receive a “conditional” acceptance in January, before they finally confirm your place in August if you have met the score barriers they set. It might be different for you, given that you’re already in college, but that’s the way the general system works. Some degrees will want score results in specific fields, while others don’t care as long as they are something generally related to your chosen subject. I saw online once that Oxbridge generally wants >6 AP tests to consider an applicant from the US qualified. Again, could be different coming from your situation.
The cost is higher, but even with living costs it will be less than a private US school without financial aid, and the degree is only 3 years, not 4, which is a huge savings
Applying as a transfer student might be difficult; I might recommend applying as a first-year undergraduate, which if you’re only a freshmen in college would still mean you’d graduate in 4 years total, and use your college experience as a way to argue your academic qualifications
The interview is extremely important, and I’d recommend flying out to England for it. It will make a much better impression than arranging to have a Skype interview or some other equivalent. Passion and potential for the subject is what they’re looking for, far more than current knowledge</p>
<p>Finally, just find a college you’re interested in at your chosen school (rumson’s right; you can only apply to one) and send the admissions office an email! In my experience, they’re really helpful and more than willing to explain what they want to see to consider you a qualified applicant.</p>
<p>I could go on, but if you want more information PM me and I’d be more than glad to help!</p>