It’s challenging enough to prepare for an interview, but it’s even more difficult to prepare for some of the hardest Oxbridge interview questions.
The pressure you feel to provide accurate answers is understandable given the great demand from Oxbridge universities. Let us assist you as we address one of the trickiest and most common interview questions.The easiest questions in Oxford and Cambridge interviews are frequently the most straightforward. Particularly, one query sticks out among the others:
Why are you applying to Oxbridge?
Even though it can seem like the most obvious topic for an Oxbridge interview, it is one that is frequently asked, so you should definitely give it some thought before the interview. Here are a few things to think about while preparing for this answer.
Demonstrate Academic Rigour
This idea is extremely relevant to highlighting your own abilities and talents since it gives you the ability to interact with the interviewer on a personal level. Describe some instances where you are:
- Hard-working?
- Diligent?
- Curious?
- Do you want to talk to leading scholars about intellectual subjects?
- Would you like the chance to work with some of the top professionals in the industry?
Not that you should repeat every buzzword, but you should be aware that Oxford and Cambridge are renowned for producing scholarly papers of the highest calibre. They will scrutinise certain qualities in their applicants.
They search for individuals who are eager to learn and take their academic commitments extremely seriously. They search for individuals who are eager to learn and who will take their academic commitments extremely seriously. Try to come up with instances that highlight your abilities in order to personalise your response to this Oxbridge Interview question! To make them sound more natural during the actual interview, write these down, format them as bullet points, and practise saying them to others.
Discuss the system of supervision and tutorials
The tutorial system is unquestionably a distinctive aspect of an Oxbridge education, even if it may be highly demanding. However, it can also be incredibly rewarding.
- Do you enjoy learning in a situation where you receive individual feedback on a product you’ve produced?
- Can you meet deadlines while working under pressure?
- Do you want the challenge of presenting your work to a renowned scholar and a member of your peer group?
Don’t worry if you feel insecure about this last point; we know it’s a daunting idea (especially if you may feel unqualified for Oxbridge)! As long as you comprehend the advantages of doing this exercise and understand how it will benefit your development, you will be fine in the interview.
The goal is to demonstrate that you are able to work and are willing to work in the Oxbridge setting. They’re looking for students who will fit in. The hardest Oxbridge interview questions can be overcome by simply being yourself and giving it your all.
Remember that the purpose of the interview is to evaluate how you perform in this environment. So make an effort to unwind. Show them that you’ve given it some thought and that you’re eager to experience the renowned tutorial system that Oxbridge is known for.
Acknowledge The Collegiate System
One of Oxford and Cambridge’s most distinguishing characteristics and a major draw for students who desire to attend either university is their collegiate structure. But once more, consider why the collegiate system is appropriate for you.
- Do you appreciate the concept of having your institution serve as both your intellectual and social foundation since it will make you feel more at home there?
- Are you eager to take full advantage of the resources and assistance your college has to offer so you can concentrate on studying and growth?
- Have you explored the benefits and drawbacks of the system with current and former Oxbridge students?
Remember that you don’t have to make only complimentary remarks about the Oxbridge system in your interview. Being practical and thoughtful will help you, too.
If you do have specific worries about the collegiate system or any other aspect of the Oxbridge setup, it will boost your application and demonstrate your sincerity if you can demonstrate that you have thought about how you can handle the problem.
Looking to strengthen your performance in Oxbridge interviews?
We have the appropriate interview support for you, whether you are applying to study maths, history, or medicine. In order to give you the best chance of success at Oxbridge, our mentors efficiently prepare you with one-on-one instruction, intensive courses, thorough materials, and enrichment supervision. Schedule a free consultation today to learn more about our Oxbridge Interview Programs, enrol, and increase your chances of success.
Author
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Yatharth is the co-founder of Rostrum education. He pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Mathematics and Statistics from London School of Economics and Political Science. He has worked with leading educational consultancies in the UK to tutor students and assist them in university admissions.
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