A praelector is a traditional role at the

University of Cambridge , mottoeng = Literal: From here, light and sacred draughts. Non literal: From this place, we gain enlightenment and precious knowledge. , established = , other_name = The Chancellor, Masters and Schola ...

and the

University of Oxford , mottoeng = The Lord is my light , established = , endowment = £6.1 billion (including colleges) (2019) , budget = £2.145 billion (2019–20) , chancellor ...

. The role differs somewhat between the two ancient universities.

University of Cambridge

At Cambridge, a praelector is the

fellow A fellow is a concept whose exact meaning depends on context. In learned or professional societies, it refers to a privileged member who is specially elected in recognition of their work and achievements. Within the context of higher education ...

of a

college A college (Latin: ''collegium'') is an educational institution or a constituent part of one. A college may be a degree-awarding tertiary educational institution, a part of a collegiate or federal university, an institution offering ...

who formally presents students during their

matriculation Matriculation is the formal process of entering a university, or of becoming eligible to enter by fulfilling certain academic requirements such as a matriculation examination. Australia In Australia, the term "matriculation" is seldom used now ...

and the graduation ceremony at Cambridge, especially during the

Congregation A congregation is a large gathering of people, often for the purpose of worship. Congregation may also refer to: *Church (congregation), a Christian organization meeting in a particular place for worship *Congregation (Roman Curia), an administra ...

of the

Regent House The Regent House is the governing body of the University of Cambridge. It consists of most academic and academic-related staff of the University's colleges and departments. It currently has more than 3,000 members. Meetings of the Regent House ...

when degrees are conferred. The praelector is also vicariously responsible for a student's actions and can be punished for those actions.

University of Oxford

At Oxford, a praelector may be a fellow of the college, but may also be a college tutor who is responsible for running an honours school in the absence of a fellow. A praelector may also hold a college fellowship.

External links

Praelector information
at Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge Terminology of the University of Cambridge Terminology of the University of Oxford Titles {{UOxford-stub