QS Top Universities:
The Path to Excellence
Discover the secrets behind the world's most prestigious universities and unlock the keys to successful application and admission strategies.
QS Top Six Universities 2025
Best All Round
Harvard University
Harvard is a leading research institution known for its academic excellence and its global influence.
University of Cambridge
With a rich history and a focus on academic rigor, Cambridge is a world-renowned center of learning.
University of Oxford
One of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, Oxford offers a wide range of academic programs.
The Tech Guys
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Known for its emphasis on science and technology, MIT consistently ranks among the top universities worldwide.
Imperial College London
Renowned for its research and innovation, Imperial College London focuses on science, engineering, medicine, and business.
Stanford University
Known for its entrepreneurial spirit and innovative research, Stanford University is a leading global institution.
Tale of Three Universities

1

University of Oxford (1096)
Established in 1096, the University of Oxford is one of the oldest universities in the world. It developed a collegiate system and has been home to many influential thinkers, including Stephen Hawking and J.R.R. Tolkien.

2

University of Cambridge (1209)
Founded in 1209 by scholars fleeing Oxford, the University of Cambridge quickly became a renowned center of learning. It also has a collegiate system and has been home to luminaries like Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin.

3

Harvard University (1636)
Founded in 1636 by John Harvard, an alumnus of the University of Cambridge, Harvard University is the oldest higher education institution in the U.S. and has produced numerous U.S. presidents and Nobel laureates.
John Harvard Statue vs. Man Mo Temple
The John Harvard Statue is a bronze statue of John Harvard, the founder of Harvard University. It is located in front of Harvard University's Memorial Church. While Chinese people may go to temples to pray for wisdom, students come to greet the John Harvard Statue for the same purpose.
The Man Mo Temple is a Taoist temple in Hong Kong. Built in the 19th century, it is dedicated to the deities Man Cheong and Mo Tai. The temple is a popular tourist destination, known for its elaborate architecture. In Chinese culture, people visit temples to worship gods and pray for wisdom and intelligence.
Unlock the Secrets of Oxford, Cambridge and Harvard's Transformative Education
Collegiate System
The Oxbridge collegiate system consists of individual colleges at the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge, fostering unique communities and support structures for students. This system promotes close-knit academic environments, with Oxford having 39 colleges and Cambridge 31 colleges.
Oxbridge Tutorial System
The Oxbridge tutorial system, established in the 1800s at Oxford and Cambridge, involves weekly teaching sessions for undergraduate students led by college fellows or advanced students, typically in groups of one to three. These sessions are referred to as "tutorials" at Oxford and "supervisions" at Cambridge, and the system continues to be practiced today.
Academic Dress
Oxford and Cambridge celebrate both matriculation and graduation as significant milestones in a student's academic journey. Upon completing their first public examination, students are classified into two categories: commoners, who represent the broader student body, and scholars, who are recognized for their academic excellence.
Harvard House System
The Harvard House system is a distinctive residential education model for undergraduates, comprising 12 Houses that house 350 to 500 students each. Each House is overseen by a faculty member and supported by scholars and graduate students, fostering a close-knit community along the Charles River and in the Radcliffe Quadrangle.
The Boat Race
The Oxford-Cambridge rowing rivalry, known as the Boat Race, is a historic event first held in 1829, featuring annual competitions between the men's and women's crews from both universities on the River Thames in London. This prestigious race showcases not only athletic excellence but also embodies the long-standing rivalry between the institutions.
Harvard-Yale Regatta
Similarly, the Harvard-Yale Regatta, one of the oldest intercollegiate sporting events in the United States since 1852, takes place on the Thames River in Connecticut, pitting the varsity crews of Harvard and Yale against each other in a spirited 4-mile race. Both events foster school spirit and community, drawing large crowds and significant media attention each year.
Harvard and MIT: A Powerful Proximity
The City of Cambridge, located just two T-line stations apart, is home to two of the world’s most prestigious universities—Harvard and MIT. This close proximity (25-minute walk) enables students and faculty to collaborate seamlessly, fostering a vibrant intellectual ecosystem.
The campuses of these iconic institutions are only miles apart, creating exceptional opportunities for the exchange of ideas and resources. This symbiotic relationship has significantly enhanced the ongoing excellence and global impact of both Harvard and MIT.
In addition to their academic achievements, Harvard and MIT have partnered on several joint ventures, including edX, a leading provider of massive open online courses, and the Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology program, which drives innovation in medicine. Notably, the Harvard-MIT Biomedical Engineering Center, also known as the Edelman Lab, serves as a collaborative research environment with teams of clinicians, engineers, and scientists from academia and industry working together to develop translatable solutions to clinically relevant problems.
The Harvard Data Science Review further exemplifies the collaboration between these institutions, showcasing interdisciplinary research in data science.
Timeline for Top University Applications

1

Two Years Before
Focus on mid-term and final year results for the second last year before university entry.

2

Easter
Take the IELTS exam and engage in community service work.

3

Summer Before
Revise and prepare for the university entrance exams.

4

September
Prepare university applications, including predicted grades and academic references.

5

October
Take the university entrance tests, with deadlines for Oxbridge and Medicine on October 15.

6

November
Selected students are invited for interviews, and the application deadline for elite US universities is November 1.

7

December
Interviews are conducted, and offers are usually made in January.

8

March-June
HKDSE exams will be conducted in March and April. AP and IB exams will be from April to May. GCE exams will be from May to June.

9

July-August
Examination boards release final exam results, which must be reported to the universities.
Historic Oxford vs Welcoming Cambridge
Oxford
  • Tradition and History: Oxford has a rich history dating back to the 12th century, and this is reflected in its architecture and customs. Many traditions, such as formal hall dinners and May Day celebrations, are integral to student life.
  • Tutorial System: The tutorial system emphasizes personalized learning, with students often engaging in intense discussions with tutors, fostering deep intellectual engagement.
  • Diversity and Inclusivity: While historically elite, Oxford has become increasingly diverse, with efforts to support underrepresented groups.
Cambridge
  • Academic Excellence: Like Oxford, Cambridge is steeped in tradition and is renowned for its academic rigor. The collegiate system promotes a close-knit community.
  • Innovative Research: Cambridge has a strong emphasis on research and innovation, particularly in science and technology, contributing significantly to advancements in various fields.
  • Student Life: Students participate in a range of extracurricular activities, including arts, sports, and student-led societies, enhancing the overall experience.
Oxbridge Undergraduate Admission

1

UCAS Applications
Oxbridge applicants must choose a specific college by Oct 15, and they can apply to a maximum of five universities, but only one of either Oxford or Cambridge.

2

English Language Tests
International students typically need to complete an English language proficiency test, such as IELTS or TOEFL. HKDSE English is generally accepted.

3

Grade Requirements
High academic standards are critical, with specific requirements varying by country and program. Most internationally recognized curricula are acceptable.

4

Admissions Tests
Most applicants must take subject-specific admissions tests, which assess both knowledge and critical thinking skills. These tests are scheduled in October, and preparation is essential.

5

Interviews
All applicants undergo interviews, which are crucial for admission. Mock interviews and preparation are recommended, and interviews are predominantly conducted online for international students.

6

Final Steps
Offers are released in early January via UCAS, and once accepted, students must complete a financial declaration and follow standard procedures for attending university in the UK.
Harvard Leadership vs Stanford Entrepreneurship
Harvard
  • Prestige and Influence: Harvard is often seen as the epitome of elite education, attracting a diverse global student body. Its influence extends into politics, business, and culture.
  • Interdisciplinary Focus: The culture encourages interdisciplinary studies, allowing students to explore various fields and collaborate across disciplines.
  • Networking Opportunities: The extensive alumni network provides valuable connections and career opportunities for students.
Stanford
  • Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Located in Silicon Valley, Stanford has a strong culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, encouraging students to pursue startups and technological advancements.
  • Collaborative Environment: There’s a strong emphasis on collaboration across disciplines, fostering a sense of community among students and faculty.
  • Outdoor Lifestyle: With its beautiful campus and favorable climate, Stanford promotes an active lifestyle, with many students engaging in outdoor activities.
Ivy League Undergraduate Admission
Application Form
Submit your application through the Common Application or the Coalition Application.
Supplement Questions
Answer five short answer questions, each with a 150-word limit.
School Reports
Your counselor will submit your secondary school report, transcripts, and a recommendation.
Midyear School Report
This report shows your performance during the early part of your senior year.
Recommendations
Submit two recommendations from teachers who taught you in different subjects.
Test Scores
Submit your SAT or ACT scores, with alternative options accepted in special cases.
Final School Report
Submit your final school report after your final grades are in.
Holistic Review
Admissions consider academics, extracurriculars, and personal qualities.
MIT Cutting-Edge Tech vs. Imperial Industry Ties
MIT
  • Technical and Scientific Focus: MIT is known for its rigorous emphasis on science and technology, attracting students passionate about engineering, computer science, and mathematics.
  • Hands-On Learning: The culture encourages hands-on learning and research, with many students involved in labs and projects that have real-world applications.
  • Intellectual Curiosity: A strong emphasis on problem-solving and innovation drives the student body, fostering a culture of creativity and critical thinking.
Imperial
  • STEM Focus: Imperial is renowned for its strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and medicine (STEM). This specialization attracts students who are passionate about these fields.
  • Startup Culture: Imperial encourages entrepreneurial initiatives, with resources like the Imperial Enterprise Lab that support students in launching startups and developing innovative projects. Imperial boasts a diverse and multicultural community.
  • Collaboration with Industry: The college has strong links with industry, providing students with internships and networking opportunities that enhance their practical experience and employability.
Admission Rates at Top Universities
The chart displays the admission rates for several top universities in 2024. Harvard and MIT have the most selective admission processes, with rates below 5%, while Oxford and Cambridge have significantly higher admission rates over 15%.
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