Computer Science

Computer Science is the study of computer systems and networks.

Below you will find information about the specific degree courses offered by Oxford University and Cambridge University to study Computer Science, how to prepare, and how Oxbridge Interviews can help you with your application.

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Cambridge offers a degree course in straight Computer Science, and is ranked as the top university in the UK to study Computer Science according to the Complete University Guide.

The application process is highly competitive with 11 applications per place. To be offered a place, you generally need to get A*A*A at A Level (or equivalent) and to have studied Mathematics A-level.

Oxford is ranked second in the UK for studying Computer Science according to the Complete University Guide. They offer a three-year degree course or a four-year course with an integrated master’s degree.

Oxford also offer the following joint-honours courses: Computer Science and Mathematics, and Computer Science and Philosophy.

The application process is highly competitive with only 7% of applications successful. To be offered a place, you generally need to get A*AA at A Level (or equivalent) and to have studied Mathematics A-level.

To prepare for your Computer Science application, you must demonstrate your motivation for the subject and specific interests. You can do this by reading beyond your school curriculum. Our interviewers recommend:

'The New Turing Omnibus' by A.K. Dewdney
'How To Think Like a Mathematician' by K Houston

Practice interviews for Computer Science applications are critical. You wouldn’t sit an exam without doing a mock, so don’t place yourself in an interview without having experienced a practice interview first.

All applicants to Computer Science at Cambridge are required to take the Cambridge Test of Mathematics for University Admission (CTMUA).

All applicants to Computer Science and its joint courses at Oxford are required to take the Mathematics Admissions Test (MAT).

Learn more about the CTMUA

Learn more about the MAT