<p>elzilla, in some ways the UK system is actually easier than the US system for US students (it is more cut-and-dried upfront) but don’t be fooled by the minimums. They <em>say</em> 3 5’s on APs, but all the US students that I know with Oxford offers have at least 6, and usually more. </p>
<p>Also, in some (but not all!) ways it can be less stressful for a North American candidate than a UK candidate, because many NA students already have enough AP / IB / SAT scores by autumn of final year to get an unconditional offer, whereas only UK students who have actually finished final years will be in that position. However, if you get a conditional offer it is harder, b/c all your friends will be done, and you will still have exams- and you have to get the required marks. I know an international applicant who had an offer for Physics at Cambridge last year; she met her conditions- which were tough- but fell 2 points short on their Physics Aptitude Test and lost her place (Cambridge gives their PAT at the end of final year, whereas Oxford uses it to make cuts before interviews/offers, which I think is kinder). </p>
<p>Although it is true that Cambridge interviews more people, you are more likely to get a place if you make it to interview at Oxford. In either place, you will want a little help- find somebody who knows with <em>relevant</em> experience to role play an interview. There is absolutely no comparison with US & UK interviews: in the US they are almost always alumnae interviews these days, and they are only given weight if they throw up something astonishing. At Oxbridge, the interviews are with the people who will be your tutors (professors)- the people with whom you will spend an hour/week alone (or with one, max 2, other students) in intense discussion. As noted above & elsewhere, what they are looking for is really good minds that they will enjoy teaching. Go to itunes and look for the Oxford application series (free)- very useful.</p>
<p>As for which of your ECs are best, this is a good summer project (also a good time to write your PS). You will want to pick the <em>exact</em> course you want- so read the description of the course at Oxford, Cambridge, wherever. Look at the courses you take, etc. Then line up the subject that you want to apply to with your academic and EC work and make your case: show why you want to study that subject intensively for the next 3 years. Use your ECs to show how your interest and understanding in the area have developed. </p>
<p>As for costs, depending on your financial circumstances, a UK uni could well be as affordable as a US uni. It is unlikely to be worse! </p>
<p>Spend on time on the student room site (lurk a bit to get the feel of it before you jump in)- you will learn everything you need to know, and you can get feedback on your PS from current students (free).</p>