Every day, students from all over the world submit countless applications to two of the most esteemed Universities in the world: Oxford and Harvard. Nevertheless, admittance is granted to a chosen few. Feeling lost when deciding on a college? This blog will pit Harvard University against Oxford University and explain the key differences between the two. Is Harvard more prestigious than Oxford? Should I go to Oxford or Harvard? It would be wise to familiarize ourselves with these Universities before we plunge into the conflict.
Oxford University
The institution of Oxford is often recognized as the oldest institution in the English-speaking world, with evidence of teaching reaching back to 1096. With a current rating of #2 in Times Higher Education 2023 and #5 in the QS World University Rankings, it continues to uphold its reputation as one among the world’s top universities. Located in Oxford, England, this dispersed institution of higher learning offers 5,500 courses in the arts, sciences, humanities, and medicine through its thirty-plus semi-autonomous colleges.
With approximately 23,000 students enrolled in 11 academic divisions and prestigious graduate programs in law, business, and politics, the university offers undergraduates a wide range of degrees, from linguistics to biological sciences. Opportunities to become a part of a tight-knit college community and lively local culture abound outside of the classroom at Oxford, thanks to the city’s rich history and busy central position. Oxford continues its tradition of leadership and research with a student body that includes three prime ministers of the United Kingdom and twenty Nobel laureates.
Harvard University
Among the most esteemed educational institutions in the world, Harvard University has stood the test of time since its founding in 1636. Harvard University, with its 12 schools offering degrees in fields ranging from engineering to the arts and humanities, maintains its reputation as an outstanding educational institution, placing it third among national universities in 2023, second in the world according to the Times Higher Education Rankings 2022, and first in the QS World University Rankings.
Located on a 5,000+ acre campus with libraries, labs, and centers of discovery, this research university offers over 46,000 courses per year to over 23,000 students. Undergraduates can choose from renowned concentrations, and graduate students can pursue fields in business, law, medicine, education, the arts, and more. The campus also features a 6:1 student-faculty ratio, which helps to ensure quality teaching.
Education: Oxford vs Harvard
It is reasonable to evaluate the two schools according to their educational offerings, as that is the primary reason you are applying to them. The two educational behemoths will be evaluated according to the standards they set for their pupils. Although both are well regarded, there are some key differences, such as the courses offered, the number of colleges, and more. In comparison to Oxford University’s 39 colleges covering a wide range of specializations, Harvard University’s undergraduates have access to nearly 3,700 courses throughout 50 disciplines among eleven schools and several affiliated institutions.
The vast majority of the courses are up there among the greatest in the world. As an example, the Economics and Business Department of Harvard University was ranked fifth in the world by The US News Report. Alternatively, the Economics and Business Department of Oxford University comes in at number 10. On the other hand, when it comes to the Arts and Humanities, Oxford is at the top in the globe, with Harvard just behind at number two. Those thinking about a career in medicine will be pleased to hear that Harvard is ranked first for clinical medicine and Oxford is ranked eighth.
Undergraduates at Harvard can choose from 3,700 courses in more than 50 disciplines. Conversely, undergraduates at Oxford University can choose from 48 distinct majors. On the other hand, the acceptance rates at Oxford and Harvard aredifferent.
Rankings: Oxford vs Harvard
It is reasonable to evaluate the two schools according to their educational offerings, as that is the primary reason you are applying to them. The two educational behemoths will be evaluated according to the standards they set for their pupils. Although both are well regarded, there are some key differences, such as the courses offered, the number of colleges, and more. In comparison to Oxford University’s 39 colleges covering a wide range of specializations, Harvard University’s undergraduates have access to nearly 3,700 courses throughout 50 disciplines among eleven schools and several affiliated institutions.
The vast majority of the courses are up there among the greatest in the world. As an example, the Economics and Business Department of Harvard University was ranked fifth in the world by The US News Report. Alternatively, the Economics and Business Department of Oxford University comes in at number 10. On the other hand, when it comes to the Arts and Humanities, Oxford is at the top in the globe, with Harvard just behind at number two. Those thinking about a career in medicine will be pleased to hear that Harvard is ranked first for clinical medicine and Oxford is ranked eighth.
Undergraduates at Harvard can choose from 3,700 courses in more than 50 disciplines. Conversely, undergraduates at Oxford University can choose from 48 distinct majors. On the other hand, the acceptance rates at Oxford and Harvard aredifferent.
Oxford vs Harvard: Acceptance Rate
Any student serious about excelling in their studies would do well to attend one of the two. How challenging is the entrance? In 2023, only 4% of applicants were accepted to Harvard. A score between 1480 and 1580 on the SAT is enough to get admission to Harvard for half of the candidates. Oxford, in contrast, has an attractive admission rate of around 17.5%. Nonetheless, 9% is the admittance rate at Oxford and Harvard for international students. When pitted against Harvard, Oxford’s incredible admission rate gives it the victory.
Admission requirements for Harvard University
Taking the SAT seriously is all that’s required of US citizens. Furthermore, students who excel in areas outside of academics, participate in extracurricular activities, and work on community initiatives tend to be preferred applicants to Harvard University. But for overseas students, nothing is more important than a high score on an English proficiency exam. We accept a minimum of 7.5 on the IELTS, a minimum of 109 on the TOEFL, and a minimum of 7.5 on the PTE. The GMAT, ACT, or SAT is required of all students. The transcripts and other required paperwork must also be in order. Making a strong case for your goals and qualifications is the next step.
Admission requirements for Oxford University
Applying to Oxford University? You should be aware that their admissions standards aren’t complicated at all. It is essential that you complete your A-levels or exams equal to those in the UK. You are strongly encouraged to engage in extracurricular activities and community service, just like at Harvard. The Advanced Levels (A-levels) or their foreign equivalents are suitable for overseas students. To put it in perspective, A-levels are typically the pinnacle of academic achievement. All required transcripts and paperwork should be in order, and in addition to your A-levels, you should have completed any English proficiency exams such as the IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.
