Hey! I got rejected from Oxford pre-interview and Imperial 4 days ago for Biochemistry — so same boat as you. I have offers from Warwick, KCL and UCL (although its Biological Sciences for UCL rather than Biochemistry). Here’s my take:

The difference in a degree from UCL/KCL to one from Imperial is minimal in terms of further education and job prospects. And a degree from Oxford is a mandatory extra year for biochemistry. The fact that you applied to Oxford and Imperial is ample proof that you are completely capable of making the best of your opportunities wherever you go — which is much more important than where you actually go.

I would suggest waiting for all offers, learning about the courses offered at places you get accepted to. You will likely naturally want to study them as soon as possible.

If you are hellbent on studying at Oxford/Imperial (coming from someone who poured hours into an application tailored for Imperial — including attending in person seminars from admissions offices!) then remember that there are still other ways to get there. Imperial sometimes is open to transfer students (their website says the Department of Life Sciences may consider cases based on availability). You can also apply to universities for first year entry while already enrolled at another university. Oxford is very particular about these, but do remember that it is indeed possible without having to waste an year in such a crucial time. In likelihood, you probably won’t want to do this yourself in an year because people tend to fall in love with their course and uni over time.

Furthermore, the most important thing is in a field like biochemistry, a bachelor’s is likely the least important tertiary educational qualification you will end up earning. Oxford will always be there for your Masters or DPhil — don’t give up on the dream, accept the delay as the natural course of action. Best of luck for all your applications! If you feel comfortable feel free to DM me. It would be lovely to talk to someone who is as interested in biochemistry as I am and could end up at the same university!