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Journalism of Courage
— Aastha Kumar
Dusty pages, ancient relics, and the study of lived experiences — History as a discipline explores a wide range of questions, from the impact of different cultures on the modern world to how a single revolution can alter global trade patterns. For students looking to major in History, the UK remains a top destination, thanks to its rich historical landscape, access to libraries with rare manuscripts, and esteemed professors.
According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, Oxford University ranks third globally, while Cambridge University holds the fifth position. Combined, these institutions have produced 193 Nobel Laureates, further cementing their status as academic powerhouses.
While both Oxford and Cambridge provide a classic English campus experience, they differ slightly. Oxford, 58 miles from London, is lively and well-connected, offering more social opportunities.
Cambridge is smaller and quieter, appealing to those seeking a peaceful setting. Both cities are about an hour from London, giving students access to professional networks, historical sites, and a focused academic atmosphere.
UK universities require applicants to demonstrate a strong academic background. Students must apply through UCAS by October 15 if they wish to apply to either Oxford or Cambridge. The application should include a personal statement, letter of recommendation, and transcripts of school grades, collectively communicating the applicant’s enthusiasm for their chosen course.
Interviews, as well as academic written work, are part of the application process, helping tutors evaluate the student’s intellectual curiosity, flexible approach to engaging with unfamiliar concepts or arguments, and enthusiasm for history.
Oxford’s minimum entry criteria for History is 90 per cent for scholars studying under the CBSE or ICSE Board. Students are also required to take the History Admissions Test (HAT) and submit one written work to gain admission to Oxford. There is no subject prerequisite; however, studying history in high school is recommended.
Cambridge, on the other hand, does not have an admissions test but requires two written works to be submitted. History applicants must have studied history at the high school level and have minimum scores of 90 per cent or higher in five or more relevant subjects. Additionally, CBSE students are expected to supplement this with advanced placement tests to build a competitive profile.
Oxford offers the Reach Oxford Scholarship to Indian students. This scholarship is available to candidates who have already received an offer of admission and demonstrate financial need, along with a social commitment to their academic growth.
The Cambridge Trust Fund offers financial aid to international students, allocated to those who show significant academic achievement and financial need.
Oxford offers a broad History programme covering large regions over different periods of time. It provides a distinctive education by developing awareness of the political, cultural, social, and economic structures within past societies and how they interrelate. Designed by leading historians, the curriculum provides insights into a wide geographical and chronological range. A distinctive feature is the small-group tutorials (2-4 students), fostering independent research through personalized, interdisciplinary sessions.
Taking various approaches to historical concepts, the course extends valuable skills by emphasising critical thinking and analytical skills. Exploring political, social, cultural, and economic structures enables students to critically evaluate diverse sources and construct well-supported arguments.
Cambridge offers specialised course content and is known for its comprehensive approach to a broad spectrum of historical topics. It emphasises thematic studies through unique specialisations such as economic and social history, exploring varied source materials such as Hollywood movies, Middle Eastern newspapers, and medieval plague records.
It boasts one of the largest and most renowned history departments in the world. History students at Cambridge develop effective communication skills, think broadly, analyse complex issues, and present arguments compellingly, giving them an edge in the professional world of journalism, finance, research, political consultancy, and more.
