Mastering the Oxford and Cambridge Interview: What You Need to Know

The Oxford and Cambridge interview is a unique part of the admissions process. It's not just a formality; it's a way for the universities to assess how well you think on your feet, solve problems, and engage with new ideas. The interview is designed to be a rigorous but supportive intellectual experience, testing your academic abilities and how you approach complex concepts.

Here’s how to prepare for the Oxford and Cambridge interview and examples of questions you might encounter.

1. Understand the Format

Both Oxford and Cambridge interviews are designed to be academic discussions rather than traditional job interviews. They often involve problem-solving or discussions based on academic materials you’ve studied in your application. Interviews typically last between 20-40 minutes and may include one-on-one or panel discussions.

Tip: Don’t expect to be asked standard questions about your hobbies or general interests. The focus will be on your subject and your ability to think critically.

2. Prepare for Academic Discussions

Oxford and Cambridge tutors are keen to understand how you think, so be prepared to engage in academic discussions and debates. You may be asked to analyse a piece of text, solve a problem, or explore a concept in depth.

Tip: Think of the interview as an extension of the tutorial system. Tutors want to see how you respond to new material or concepts, so practice explaining your thought process clearly.

3. Expect Challenging and Open-Ended Questions

The questions asked in Oxbridge interviews can be intellectually demanding and may seem abstract or complex. Don’t panic if you don’t know the answer right away—what matters is how you approach the question and your ability to reason through your response.

Here are some sample questions:

• For a Law applicant: “What makes an action morally wrong? Could something be legal but immoral?”

• For a Philosophy applicant: “Can a computer ever truly understand language the way humans do?”

• For a History applicant: “How would you interpret the impact of the Industrial Revolution on social structures in Britain?”

• For a Maths applicant: “What is the difference between a proof and an argument?”

• For an Engineering applicant: “If you could redesign a common household object, what would it be and why?”

Tip: Don’t worry if you don’t have a “perfect” answer. The goal is to show how you think, reason, and engage with new ideas. If you're stuck, it’s okay to talk through your thought process.

4. Practice Problem-Solving on the Spot

In some subjects, the interview may include practical problem-solving tasks. For example, a Science applicant might be asked to interpret data or solve a mathematical equation during the interview. Tutors want to see how you tackle problems under pressure.

Tip: Practice solving problems or analysing data as if you're in the interview. This will help you stay calm and think more clearly when it’s your turn.

5. Demonstrate Your Curiosity

Oxford and Cambridge value students who are intellectually curious and willing to explore new ideas. During the interview, you may be asked questions that seem to push your knowledge further than what you’ve studied. This is an opportunity to show that you are eager to learn and open-minded.

Tip: If you don’t know the answer, try to build upon the knowledge you do have. Ask insightful questions or provide alternative explanations based on your understanding.

6. Stay Calm and Confident

It’s easy to feel nervous during such an important interview, but staying calm and collected is essential. Tutors are not trying to trip you up; they simply want to see how you handle academic challenges and how you think critically.

Tip: Take a deep breath before answering, and don’t be afraid to pause and think through your response.

7. Be Yourself

Lastly, the interview is an opportunity for the tutors to get to know you as a person. While they are assessing your academic potential, they also want to see if you’re a good fit for their rigorous and intellectually stimulating environment. Be genuine, show your passion, and express your thoughts clearly.

Tip: Don’t try to present a version of yourself that you think they want to see. Just be yourself and focus on sharing your true intellectual curiosity.

The Oxford and Cambridge interview can be challenging, but with preparation and the right mindset, you can perform at your best. Remember that the interview is not just about getting the “right” answer, but about demonstrating your critical thinking skills and enthusiasm for your subject. Best of luck in your preparation—and remember, the process is a chance to engage with brilliant minds and learn along the way.