Yeah I think for neuroscience UCL is more competitive than Oxbridge for sure. Yeah I agree with that-but oh well is worth the try.
I applied to few US programs : Harvard (didn't get the email today so probably a reject), CSHL, Columbia and Stanford- so I guess there is still time to hear back from these 3.
what about you?
As a UK student not sure I agree with Oxbridge/UCL being easier to get into. Indeed UCL is one of the best neuroscience centres in the world and has amazing PhD programs - but most of them only offer around 5 places per year- so the competition is intense. But it never hurts to try- I believe some Oxford and UCL programs are still accepting applications until early January.
Goodluck:)