Oxford and Leeds – these are two cities in England that have gained widespread popularity among international students for higher education. Students from throughout the world visit these two cities to gain world-class education. Some students may have a question in mind that which of these cities is better for them.
Both the cities have some specialties and you can choose the one which is suitable for you. Here you will read some about the cities which will help you in understanding this.
Oxford Has the Oldest University in England and Second-Oldest City in the World
If you are willing to study in the oldest University in England and the second-oldest city in the world then Oxford is the right destination for you. The University of Oxford is that university and was founded in the year 1096. It is only eight years behind the oldest university in the world, which is the University of Bologna in Italy which was established in the year 1088. In fact, the University of Oxford is the oldest university in the English-speaking world.
Due to the availability of more than 1000 years old university in the city, this city has a huge experience in education. Besides, it also has a huge experience in hosting international students. This is why there are some great arrangements in this city for overseas students.
You can get some wonderful properties for student accommodation Oxford. However, Leeds also competes with Oxford in providing excellent-quality accommodation to students.
Leeds Has More Options for Education Than Oxford
However, Oxford has the oldest University City in England but it is also true that Leeds has more options as compared to Oxford.
Apart from the University of Oxford, Oxford has only one more university which is Oxford Brookes University. Besides, Islamic Azad University also has a campus near Oxford. In addition, you find a further education college named Ruskin Bond College in Oxford, which is an affiliate of the University of Oxford.
On the other hand, Leeds has five universities and three other major educational institutes. The five universities in Leeds include the University of Leeds, Leeds Trinity University, Leeds Beckett University, the University of Law, and Leeds Arts University. The other major institutes in Leeds are Leeds Conservatoire, Northern School of Contemporary Dance, and University Centre Leeds (part of Leeds City College).
Oxford Has World’s Number One University
The University of Oxford was ranked the world’s number one university in September 2016 according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. So, Oxford is the city where you find the world’s number one university. Therefore, you will have to choose Oxford if you want to get admission in the number one university in the world.
Cost of Living in Oxford and Leeds
When we compare the cost of living in Oxford and Leeds, we find that some items and services are lower in Oxford and some others in Leeds. In an inexpensive restaurant, one person’s meal is available in Leeds at £15 and in Oxford at £13. Two people’s meals can be got in Leeds at £57.50 and in Oxford at £50. McMeal at McDonalds is available at £7 in both cities.
Regular milk (1 liter) can be acquired at £1.09 in Leeds and at £1.14 in Oxford. A loaf of fresh white bread is available at £1.14 in Leeds and at £1 in Oxford. You can buy 1 kg of rice at £1.49 in Leeds and £2.11 in Oxford. Local cheese is available at £6.17 in Leeds and £7.24 in Oxford.
Apples, bananas, and oranges (1 kg each) are available in Leeds at £2.82, £0.98, and £2.01 respectively. You can find them in Oxford at £2.43, £0.98, and £2.50 respectively. Tomatoes, potatoes, and onions (1 kg each) can be found at £2.18, £0.98, and £1.06 respectively in Leeds, and at £1.59, £0.90, and £0.90 respectively in Oxford. and student accommodation Leeds are starts from £149/week.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, both Oxford and Leeds are attractive options for international students seeking higher education in England, each offering unique advantages and specialties. Oxford stands out as the home of the oldest university in England and the second-oldest city in the world, the University of Oxford, which provides a rich educational history spanning over a millennium. This extensive experience in hosting international students has led to well-established arrangements for overseas students and excellent student accommodation options.
On the other hand, Leeds boasts a broader range of educational opportunities, with five universities and three other major educational institutes, providing a diverse academic environment. While Oxford has the distinction of being home to the world’s number one university according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, Leeds offers a more varied selection of institutions and courses.
When considering the cost of living in Oxford and Leeds both cities have their advantages and drawbacks, with some items and services being cheaper in one city compared to the other. It ultimately comes down to individual preferences and financial considerations.
In making a decision between Oxford and Leeds for higher education, students should carefully evaluate their academic goals, desired university ranking, course offerings, and personal lifestyle preferences. Whether you prioritize the historical prestige of Oxford or the array of educational options in Leeds, both cities have much to offer to international students looking for a world-class education in England.
