The oxbridge admissions interview is a defining moment in the university application process. Oxford and Cambridge interviews are famously challenging, designed to assess not only your academic ability but also your problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and passion for your chosen subject. If you’ve been invited to an Oxbridge interview, congratulations — you’ve already impressed the admissions tutors with your application. Now, it’s time to prepare to show them why you deserve a place.
Here’s what you can expect from the Oxbridge interview and how to prepare effectively to maximize your chances of success.
What to Expect in an Oxbridge Interview
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Academic Focus
Oxbridge interviews are primarily academic discussions about your chosen subject. Interviewers want to see how you think, how you approach problems, and how you engage with new ideas. Expect questions that test your ability to apply your knowledge rather than just recall facts.
For example, if you’re applying for Medicine, you might be asked to analyze a clinical scenario or think through a biological problem. If you’re applying for History, you might be asked to interpret a primary source or discuss historical interpretations.
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Challenging and Open-Ended Questions
Interviews are designed to be intellectually stimulating and sometimes deliberately difficult. Interviewers may ask open-ended or hypothetical questions to see how you reason under pressure and develop your ideas.
You won’t be expected to have perfect answers, but you should be able to think aloud, justify your reasoning, and consider alternative perspectives.
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Multiple Interviewers
Usually, there will be two or more interviewers who are experts in your subject. They might take turns asking questions, and you may be interviewed more than once on the same day. Each interview will typically last 20-30 minutes.
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Discussion-Based Format
Rather than a formal Q&A, the interview is more like an academic conversation. The interviewers may present you with problems, texts, or data and ask you to analyze or discuss them interactively.
How to Prepare for Your Oxbridge Interview
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Know Your Personal Statement Inside Out
Interviewers will often ask about something you mentioned in your personal statement. Be prepared to discuss your interests, extra reading, or relevant experiences in detail. They may probe your understanding of specific books, ideas, or projects you referenced.
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Practice Thinking Aloud
Since the interview assesses your thought process, it’s important to practice explaining your reasoning clearly and logically. Work through practice problems or questions out loud, either alone or with a teacher, tutor, or friend. This will help you become comfortable articulating your ideas spontaneously.
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Revise Key Concepts, but Don’t Just Memorize
Refresh your understanding of key topics related to your course but avoid rote learning. Focus on developing a deep understanding so you can apply your knowledge flexibly during the interview.
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Engage with Wider Reading and Current Developments
Oxbridge tutors appreciate candidates who show genuine intellectual curiosity. Read widely around your subject, including recent developments, debates, or controversies. Being able to discuss these thoughtfully will demonstrate your enthusiasm and awareness.
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Practice Common Interview Questions
While each interview is unique, some common types of questions include:
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Problem-solving or analytical questions related to your subject
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Questions about your motivation for studying the course
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Discussions about your personal statement or academic interests
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Hypothetical or ethical dilemmas (particularly for Medicine, Law, or Philosophy)
Practice answering these with someone who can give feedback.
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Develop Your Critical Thinking
Try analyzing texts, data, or problems from multiple angles. Practice questioning assumptions and considering alternative viewpoints. Oxbridge interviewers value independent thinkers who can engage in academic debate.
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Stay Calm and Positive
Interviews can be intimidating, but remember the interviewers want to see your potential. It’s okay to ask for clarification if you don’t understand a question and to take a moment to think before answering. Maintaining a calm and positive attitude will help you perform at your best.
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Prepare Logistically
Make sure you know the interview format (in-person or online), the time, and what to bring. For online interviews, test your technology in advance to avoid technical issues.
During the Interview: Tips to Remember
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Listen carefully and engage actively with the questions
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Think aloud and share your reasoning, even if you’re unsure of the answer
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Don’t be afraid to admit if you don’t know something, but show willingness to think it through
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Be polite, confident, and curious — treat the interview as a two-way conversation
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Show enthusiasm for your subject and the opportunity to study at Oxbridge