Apply to Oxford or Cambridge for Law? The LNAT & The Big Decision

Oxford or Cambridge for Law? Why You Can’t Apply to Both and How to Choose

It’s one of the most common questions aspiring law students ask: “Can I apply for an undergraduate law degree at both Oxford and Cambridge in the same year?” The answer is a simple, but firm, no.

This long-standing rule, unique to ‘Oxbridge’, forces applicants to make a significant choice early in their UCAS journey. For law applicants, this decision is even more layered, with factors like the LNAT, course structure, and college choice playing a crucial role.

At LawMint.uk, we specialise in helping students conquer the LNAT. We’re here to break down this crucial application rule and guide you in making the best possible choice for your future legal career.

The Golden Rule: One Choice Through UCAS

When you complete your UCAS application, the system will prevent you from listing both the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge among your five choices.

This isn’t a glitch; it’s a formal agreement between the two universities.

This rule is a unique feature of the Oxbridge application process. For all other UK universities, you can apply to multiple institutions through UCAS, up to a total of five choices.

Why does this rule exist?

The official reasons

• Managing Application Volume: Both universities receive an overwhelming number of applications from top-tier students globally. The restriction helps manage the immense administrative task of their famously rigorous selection process.
• In-depth, Personalised Assessment: The Oxbridge admissions process goes far beyond grades. It involves admissions tests like the LNAT, detailed analysis of written work, and, most famously, the interview stage. Prohibiting dual applications allows tutors the time to give each candidate’s file the deep consideration it deserves.
• Encouraging a Considered Decision: The rule forces you to do your homework. Instead of applying to both as a default, you must research their law courses, teaching styles, and campus life to decide which one truly aligns with your ambitions and personality.

The Logistics of Offers: Preventing Vacant Seats

Beyond managing the application workload, there’s a crucial logistical reason for the rule that directly impacts the universities themselves: managing offer acceptances and avoiding vacant seats.

Think about it this way:

Guaranteed Offer Overlap: As the most sought-after universities, it’s logical that the same group of top-tier applicants would receive offers from both Oxford and Cambridge.

The “No Clearing” Policy: Unlike almost all other UK universities, Oxford and Cambridge do not participate in the standard UCAS Clearing process to fill last-minute course vacancies. Their admissions process is meticulously designed to fill every single place during the main application round.

The Risk of Empty Places: If they allowed dual applications, both universities would make offers to a similar pool of candidates. They would then have to wait for those students to choose one, inevitably leaving the other with a significant, unpredictable number of declined offers. Without a Clearing system to fall back on, this would lead to vacant seats.

A vacant seat at Oxbridge isn’t just an empty chair; it’s a disruption to their entire educational model, which is built on precisely numbered colleges and small-group tutorial/supervision sessions.

Therefore, the rule is also a critical tool for yield management. It ensures that when an offer is made, there is a higher probability of it being accepted, protecting the unique structure and integrity of their world-class teaching environments.

Course Structure and Focus

While both offer world-class law degrees, their focus and structure have subtle differences.

Oxford’s BA in Jurisprudence: This course is deeply theoretical and academic, focusing on the philosophy, history, and principles of law. It’s often seen as a more “pure” law degree. You can also apply for the four-year course, Law with Law Studies in Europe.

Cambridge’s BA (Hons) in Law: Cambridge offers a similarly rigorous course but is often noted for its slightly more practical approach, covering a wide range of legal topics from the outset.

The LNAT: A Key Differentiator

The National Admissions Test for Law (LNAT) is a critical component of your application, but its use differs slightly.

University of Oxford: LNAT is mandatory for all standard law applicants (Course M100). Your LNAT score is a vital part of the shortlisting process for interviews. A high score is non-negotiable to be competitive.

University of Cambridge: Most, but not all, Cambridge colleges require applicants to take the LNAT. It’s essential to check the specific requirements of the college you plan to apply to. Even if not mandatory, a strong LNAT score can significantly bolster your application.

The takeaway? Acing the LNAT is crucial for an Oxbridge application. Don’t leave it to chance.

Ready to Master the LNAT?

Your Oxbridge ambition deserves the best preparation.

LawMint.uk offers a comprehensive suite of realistic LNAT practice tests, detailed performance analytics, and expert-written guides to help you achieve a top score.

Make Your Decision with Confidence

Choosing between Oxford and Cambridge is a significant first step in your legal career. By understanding the application rules, researching the courses, and preparing diligently for the LNAT, you can make your choice with confidence.

Whichever path you choose, a stellar LNAT performance is your key to unlocking the door to an interview. Let LawMint.uk be your trusted partner in that journey. Our practice tests are designed to mirror the real exam, giving you the skills and confidence to excel when it matters most.