Ancient university

Among British universities, an ancient university is one founded before the 19th century in Britain.

The ancient universities in the United Kingdom are, in order of formation:

• University of Oxford -- founded 1249
• University of Cambridge -- founded 1284
• University of St Andrews -- founded 1411
• University of Glasgow -- founded 1451
• University of Aberdeen -- founded 1494
• University of Edinburgh -- founded 1583

"Oxbridge" is a portmanteau name for the universities of Oxford and Cambridge, the two oldest in England.

Ancient universities exist elsewhere in the world. For these see also:

• Medieval university