Does the college offer the subject you want to study? 

It may come as a surprise, but not every college teaches every course. Many of the big colleges do, but some colleges prefer to be more particular in what they provide. You can easily find out which subjects are taught at which colleges by navigating the university or faculty website.

Do alumni networks and alumni benefits matter to you?

This final question may seem a little strange to be asking before you have even applied to a college, let alone been accepted to one. Nevertheless, if you do attend an Oxbridge college, you will become a member for life. As such, you will spend far more time as an alumnus than as a student. So, too, your college’s networks may be very important during the first few steps of your career. For these reasons its worth having a quick look at a college’s alumni page to see what they offer after graduation.

Does location matter to you?

Oxbridge colleges are spread throughout their respective cities. Generally speaking, newer colleges are located further away from the city centres, whereas older colleges are more centralised. The city centres are very charming, but they can also be incredibly crowded (and not just with tourists). It is also worth thinking about proximity to your department and whether you want a long or short journey to lectures.

Do you want a small, medium, or large college?

College size can vary greatly. Some are only a few hundred students, whereas others can be over a thousand. That means your year group can range from less than one hundred people to more than three times that. Small colleges are often noted for their warmth and close-knit nature, whereas large colleges can offer more variety and choice. Neither is better, but it is good to know what you want.

How important are aesthetics?

Some colleges do have genuine ‘Brideshead’ or ‘Harry Potter’ vibes (not least because the movies were filmed there), while other colleges can look less quintessentially Oxbridge. If you’re not bothered by red brick or Cotswold stone, then consider applying to a modern college. If looks matter, consider your options wisely, as some of the prettiest colleges are also the most oversubscribed.

Which facilities matter to you?

Dining rooms, libraries, chapels, common rooms, and bars are standard facilities at most colleges, but some have specific facilities that may or may not be interest to you. This is especially true if you are sporty, as some colleges have extensive and conveniently located pitches, gyms, and boat houses. This can also be applicable for music, as some colleges have extensive facilities for practice and performance.

Do you want college accommodation for all three years?

Not every college has enough housing to offer accommodation students for all three years of their degree. While first years are generally provided with on-site rooms, students sometimes have to live further afield in their second and third year in order to remain in college-owned rooms. It is also worth noting that costs and quality can vary between colleges, as do dining arrangements and kitchen facilities.

Do you have a preference regarding gender balance?

While many colleges are evenly split between genders, some colleges do have more of one gender than another. Likewise, Cambridge has several women only colleges.

Do you have a preference regarding state and public-school balance?

Some colleges are more interested in admitting state school applicants than those from public schools. If you have a preference in either direction, have a look at the admissions statistics for your college.

How can Think Tutors help?

At Think Tutors, with the assistance of the highly qualified tutors that we can offer, your child will reach success. A number of our tutors and mentors are vastly experienced within Oxbridge entrance and have worked with multiple students to gain entry into their chosen college. If you are interested in finding a tutor to ensure that your child feels confident in selecting their chosen college and experiencing success in entry, please do get in touch.