How does Oxbridge evaluate international qualifications?

Oxbridge evaluates international qualifications based on their equivalency to UK qualifications.

Oxbridge, a term that collectively refers to the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge, is renowned for its rigorous academic standards. When it comes to international qualifications, these universities assess them by comparing them to the UK's qualifications, such as A-Levels and GCSEs.

The universities have a comprehensive understanding of many international qualifications, including the International Baccalaureate, European Baccalaureate, and various national education systems like the American High School Diploma or the Indian School Certificate. They use this knowledge to determine if an applicant's qualifications meet the necessary academic standards and subject-specific requirements for their chosen course.

For example, if you're applying for a science course, Oxbridge will look at your grades in relevant subjects like Physics, Chemistry, or Biology. They'll then compare these to the grades typically required for A-Level students applying for the same course.

It's important to note that Oxbridge doesn't just look at grades. They also consider the breadth and depth of your study. For instance, the International Baccalaureate's emphasis on a broad range of subjects, including a second language, can be advantageous for certain courses.

If your qualifications aren't well-known in the UK, you may need to provide more information about them. This could include syllabus details or an explanation of the grading system. In some cases, Oxbridge may ask for an official statement of comparability from UK ENIC, the UK's national agency responsible for recognising international qualifications and skills.

Remember, every application to Oxbridge is considered individually, and meeting the academic requirements is just one part of the process. They also look at your personal statement, reference letters, admission test results, and performance at interview when making their decision.