I am currently looking for PhDs to apply for in the sciences. Lots of funded PhDs in my research area are offered by Oxford and Cambridge, however I feel completely intimidated and inadequate to apply to these universities. However, I have heard that applying for PhDs is different to applying for undergraduate degrees so I am not sure whether I am being silly by being put off applying to Oxbridge PhD projects in fear of rejection?
I went to a pretty average (maybe below average) university for my undergraduate and master's degrees but I did get a first and distinction, respectively. In retrospect with my a-level grades I could have gotten into a much better ranked university than the one I went to but I think my lack of confidence prevented me from applying to any top universities. However I did well at my university and ranked top of my year during undergrad and my master's.
I think part of my apprehension is knowing that my former tutor and former supervisor will see where I apply to as they are my academic referees and I feel like they will laugh at the idea that I think I am good enough for Oxbridge? I don't know, it is silly I know. Plus I know I will be competing with candidates with degrees from the best universities in the world.
Please be honest. Do I stand a chance applying for Oxbridge PhDs?