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University of Oxford vs. University of Cambridge: Comparing Scholarships for International Students

For international students with dreams of studying at the pinnacle of academic excellence, Oxford and Cambridge—collectively known as Oxbridge—stand as iconic destinations. Both universities are world-renowned for their centuries-old traditions, rigorous academics, and influential alumni. However, one of the most important considerations for international applicants is funding. Scholarships often determine whether students can pursue this dream.

In this blog, we’ll delve deep into how Oxford and Cambridge compare when it comes to scholarships for international students—highlighting eligibility, scope, competitiveness, and application processes.

Scholarship Landscape: An Overview

University of Oxford

Oxford offers a wide array of scholarships through the university, colleges, and external partners. These range from need-based to merit-based awards and often cover tuition, living expenses, and travel.

Major Scholarship Highlights:

  • Rhodes Scholarships – Perhaps the most prestigious, awarded to students from select countries. Fully funded.

  • Clarendon Fund Scholarships – Offered to outstanding graduate applicants worldwide. Covers tuition and living expenses.

  • Reach Oxford Scholarships – For students from low-income countries. Covers course fees, living costs, and return flights.

  • Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships – For future leaders from emerging economies, focused on development and leadership.

  • Simon and June Li Undergraduate Scholarships – Based on academic merit and financial need.

University of Cambridge

Cambridge too boasts a strong scholarship portfolio across undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Like Oxford, scholarships are managed by the central university, individual colleges, and external sponsors.

Major Scholarship Highlights:

  • Gates Cambridge Scholarships – Fully funded scholarships for outstanding applicants from outside the UK for postgraduate study.

  • Cambridge International Scholarships – For PhD applicants showing the highest academic merit.

  • Cambridge Trust Scholarships – Offers over 500 scholarships for international students annually.

  • Harding Distinguished Postgraduate Scholarships – For PhD students demonstrating exceptional potential.

  • College-based awards – Each Cambridge college may have its own bursaries or grants.

Oxford vs. Cambridge: Scholarships Comparison Table

Criteria University of Oxford University of Cambridge
Flagship International Scholarship Rhodes, Clarendon Gates Cambridge
Undergraduate Scholarships Reach Oxford, Simon & June Li Limited, mostly Cambridge Trust and College-specific
Postgraduate Scholarships Clarendon, Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Gates Cambridge, Cambridge Trust, Harding
Funding Coverage Tuition, living costs, flights (for some) Tuition, living costs, full funding for Gates
Eligibility Based on merit, need, nationality Primarily merit-based, selective for countries
Scholarship Count Over 1,000+ annually Over 500+ annually (Cambridge Trust)
Competitiveness Extremely high Extremely high
Language Requirement IELTS/TOEFL; some waivers IELTS/TOEFL; some waivers
Application Route Varies: direct, automatic, nomination Varies: direct, automatic, nomination

How to Increase Your Chances of Winning an Oxbridge Scholarship

  1. Start Early – Many deadlines fall before general application dates.

  2. Craft a Strong Personal Statement – Show purpose, leadership, and long-term goals.

  3. Secure Strong References – Academic and character recommendations matter greatly.

  4. Demonstrate Impact – Especially for Gates and Rhodes, show how you plan to give back.

  5. Highlight Academic Excellence – These scholarships expect top-tier grades and achievements.

  6. Check College-Specific Funds – Both universities offer additional funding via colleges.

  7. Fulfil Language and Eligibility Requirements – Prepare for IELTS/TOEFL and review nationality restrictions.

Additional Scholarships Available at Both Universities

  • Commonwealth Scholarships

  • Chevening Scholarships

  • Marshall Scholarships (For U.S. applicants)

  • Fulbright Postgraduate Awards

  • Joint Japan/World Bank Scholarships

These are often tenable at both Oxford and Cambridge and are excellent alternatives for non-Oxbridge-funded awards.

Conclusion: Oxford or Cambridge – Which Is Better for Scholarships?

There is no clear “winner” in the Oxbridge scholarship race—both Oxford and Cambridge offer exceptional opportunities for international students. Oxford may have a slight edge in undergraduate scholarship diversity, while Cambridge shines with the Gates Cambridge Scholarship at the postgraduate level.

The right choice depends on:

  • Your field of study

  • Your level (UG or PG)

  • Your nationality

  • Your long-term goals

Regardless of where you apply, securing an Oxbridge scholarship is competitive but incredibly rewarding—offering not just funding, but a transformative academic experience.

Ready to apply?

Stay informed on scholarship deadlines, and don’t forget to check both the University website and college-specific pages for hidden funding gems!