Students educated in Luxembourg are unusual in having language skills which allow those aiming for a bachelors or higher degree to study at a wide range of universities across Europe. Institutions where the language of instruction is French or German are most popular with students from Luxembourg but an increasing number are selecting courses taught in English, both at home and abroad. The number of students from Luxembourg heading to the United Kingdom has been growing since the 1990s in parallel with an appreciation of the advantages that a British university education offers and recognition of the quality of courses available. This is particularly the case for Oxford and Cambridge. These two universities both have a unique, personalised system of teaching undergraduates that attracts talented students from across Britain, Europe and the wider world. Entrance is by selection and competition for places is hard, but every year pupils from the lycées and the international schools in Luxembourg do win places.

The numbers from Luxembourg gaining admission to Oxford and Cambridge are small, and this may be partly because of some myths about elitism, high costs and exclusivity which may be dissuading highly capable students from even applying. More students from Luxembourg could gain places at Oxford and Cambridge if they were better informed about these universities and if those who wish to apply understand the requirements early enough and have sufficient time to prepare themselves for the admission process.

The Oxford University Society of Luxembourg and the Cambridge Society of Luxembourg have worked together with the British Embassy and CEDIES to organise an event to inform students who may not have considered Oxford or Cambridge, about the very real possibility of studying there. This event is for pupils from troisième up (10th Grade up in the International and European Baccalaureates) who want to know more about studying at Oxford or Cambridge. Teachers of pupils in these grades are also invited. It will take place on Thursday 19th April 2012 from 17:30 to 19:30, at the Forum, Geesseknäppchen, Luxembourg. Admission is free of charge and advance registration is not required.

The event will begin with short talks about studying in Britain, about life and work as an undergraduate at Oxford or Cambridge and about the admission procedures of the two Universities. The speakers will be the British Ambassador, HE Alice Walpole, the head of CEDIES, Dominique Faber, the Senior Tutor and Admissions Tutor at Brasenose College, Oxford, Dr Simon Smith, and an Affiliated Lecturer and Bye‐Fellow of Girton College, Cambridge, Dr Laurent Frideres.

The talks will be followed by a chance for pupils to talk informally to current students and past graduates from both universities, covering the different subjects that can be studied at Oxford and Cambridge. They will also be able to ask any questions about study methods, student life and future careers, and to learn about some of the extra-curricular activities that are such an important part of life at these Universities. In addition there will be a special separate workshop for teachers, focusing on entrance requirements and assistance they can provide for candidates. The two University Societies will each have a stand where pupils and teachers can obtain further information and some light refreshments will be provided. Information about costs of studying and living at the two universities and the finances available will also be given.

If you are a high scoring student coming up to your Bac and have not considered studying at Oxford or Cambridge, or if you are thinking about it and have questions, you will be very welcome to come along to the Forum to find out more.