
Forget initiations, these seven Oxbridge rules are enough to make you wanna drop out
1. No stepping on the grass
Think your uni’s weird? Oxford and Cambridge take eccentric to a whole new level. Between bizarre traditions, ancient rivalries, and dress codes straight out of a dark academia novel, Oxbridge students basically live in a parallel universe. Honesty, some of the wild things and rules that go on at Oxbridge would send any other student into orbit.
From rules about grass to gowns for literally everything, here are some of the wildest and most iconic things about life at Oxbridge.
1. No stepping on the grass
Not being able to step on the grass is a long-standing rule at both unis. Implemented mainly to maintain the aesthetic of the grass, a lot of Oxbridge colleges (though not all of them!) will not allow you to walk on the grass unless you’re a fellow or professor.
2. The college system
Although not exclusive to Oxbridge, with York, Lancaster, and Durham also adopting this system, the collegiate nature of Oxbridge confuses many from other unis. Every Oxbridge student is part of a college, with each college having its own traditions, campus, and unique architecture.
3. The Bodleian reader’s oath
Naturally, the Bodleian is full of flammable materials. Therefore, every reader at the Bodleian in Oxford must recite an oath that promises not to “bring into the Library or kindle therein any fire or flame.” Fair enough, really.
4. Ascension Day at Lincoln College
@minty.binti ivy beer & throwing pennies at kids… i love lincoln #oxford #oxforduniversity #lincolncollege
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Lincoln Ascension Day is a unique Oxford tradition where local children collect pennies thrown from a tower and Brasenose College (Lincoln’s rival) are invited to drink ivy ale. The ivy is included to stop Brasenose outstaying their welcome. Historically, the coins were hot. Probably a good thing they’re not now.ch
5. College proposals
Oh look! Another one Durham has copied exactly… Oxbridge colleges have college families, where second years student “adopt” first years. So, when you get to second year, you are expected to “marry” and “propose” to another student. Students make this as elaborate or as casual as they want. You could plan an elaborate ceremony or drunkenly elope in a smoking area outside the club. Romantic either way.
6. Celebrities everywhere
@lolaclarke17 my first week at the university of oxford !! 🌟🦇🎧 #oxford #uni #oxforduniversity #oxbridge #university
As well as hosting famous people at many of their events, it’s not unlikely that you’ll study alongside actual A listers. Imagine Emma Watson casually being in your lecture hall… Or Malala…
7. Academical dress for exams
@student.dine Replying to @rizouane some info about the sub fusc #oxforduniversity
At Oxford, even exams come with a dress code straight out of a period drama. Students have to sit their tests wearing sub fusc – a full set of traditional academic dress that includes a dark suit or skirt, white shirt, black shoes, a bow tie or ribbon, and a gown topped with a mortar board. Both unis enforce this dress code for all exams – and there’s even a set of traditions regarding the colour of carnations pinned to your clothes??