Oxbridge University Interview Preparation in India & Dubai
Oxford and Cambridge don’t need you to have superhuman qualities to be accepted. It’s undeniably a tough process, but if you manage to get to the interview stage, all that’s left is to shine brilliantly and being authentic to yourself. How? Well, here are some top interview tips for how you can do your best in the days before and during your Oxbridge interview.
1. Begin preparing ahead of time
The more you learn about your subject, the better you’ll be at answering unexpected questions and demonstrating your enthusiasm and interest. But don’t leave it till the last minute if you need to compress a large textbook into a week’s time. This is a terrible concept.
Prepare the following items:
The core material for this can never be pre-defined, but it can be delivered in the following ways:
- Dealing with unseen subject specific material: years of experience that our counsellors’ possess, can help guide and assist students to handle a multiplicity of situations that may or may not occur.
- Structuring answers: You can count on us to help you compose the best possible answers that deliver assured results. The use of the right words at the right time can make a huge difference to your disposition.
- Subject specific examples: Our councillors’, have the in depth knowledge about the course lines are very specific in their guidance and are catered to your area of study.
- Responding to interviewer’s cues and tips: with years of experience on their hands, our counsellors will guide you through how to work with indicators that the interviewer might provide. This is helpful so you can navigate through dynamic situations you may be unfamiliar with.
- Verbal and nonverbal (body language communication): What to say. What not to say. If you’re not saying it out loud how can you communicate with your gestures, everything is minutely taken into consideration and worked upon to come as close to perfection as possible.
- Past questions: This helps you prepare for general questions that can be asked. Our team is up to date with every interview drive that happens and this provides to be extremely beneficial to students.
- Personal statement questions: For the majority of students, this is the most difficult aspect of the application process. We meet with our students to explore ideas for their personal statements (or college essays), and we like diving into the minds of our students and assisting them in determining the ideal way to express their narrative. We’re constantly blown away by their varied experiences and how people approach life differently based on their hobbies or background.
- Demonstrating confidence, teachability and reflection: We make sure that you’re not just prepared academically for the interview but develop your personality holistically.
- Talking about yourself, interests and achievements: We help students present themselves with confidence and without any hesitations, giving them the confidence to speak their minds in situations they may not be the most comfortable with.
2. Re-read your personal statement
Your personal statement is the only portion of your application where you can truly demonstrate your enthusiasm for your chosen field. Re-reading it can help you focus on why you want to study your topic – and why you are the ideal candidate for the job. During the Oxbridge interview, you’ll also be asked to discuss everything you discussed in your statement, so be prepared.
3. Whenever possible, ask questions
Obviously, don’t merely ask questions for the purpose of asking them — this may quickly become irritating! However, asking well-chosen questions demonstrates critical thinking and a desire to learn. Which instructor wouldn’t be pleased with that?
Present yourself as an open-minded and rational learner who is curious and inquisitive. During your Oxbridge interview, don’t be hesitant to challenge the question’s validity or to take a step back and consider aloud. Tutors are more interested in your capacity to learn than you showing off, what you already know. Developing the practise of questioning many aspects of your topic is also a beneficial approach for learning, regardless of where you attend university or continue your studies.
4. Don’t be worried or stressed
It’s pointless to spend time or energy thinking about the outcome — it’s easier said than done… One perk is that Oxford and Cambridge have a ‘pooling system,’ which ensures that the finest candidates are admitted, whether to their first-choice college or to a different one. Worrying is completely useless. You’ll become disoriented and unable to concentrate as a result of it.
5. Do not be fooled by urban legends
Yes, some Oxbridge professors are ‘eccentric,’ but you’re unlikely to be confronted with anything out of the ordinary. While hearing about other people’s experiences might be beneficial, keep in mind that each interview is unique, based on the subject and tutor. So, even if your friend’s sister’s cousin’s brother was asked a strange question about aliens conquering the planet during his psychological interview, you’re unlikely to get the same question.
6. Make sure you’ve got your head in the right place
You’ve submitted your application to Oxford or Cambridge. You already know they’re the greatest institutions in the UK and among the top 10 universities in the globe. There must be something inside of you that convinces you that this is a possibility for you.
Many students apply to Oxbridge with a sour taste in their mouth. They applied because their school forced them to or because their parents pushed them to. They do not feel, however, that they are not intelligent, affluent, or wealthy enough to be offered a seat or to fit in. If you let yourself believe these things, you’re placing yourself at a disadvantage right away, and that’s not okay.
You must offer yourself the best possible opportunity of being admitted. That has nothing to do with arrogance or a sense of entitlement. It’s all about boosting your inner self-confidence so you can perform at your best.
7. Have a nutritious breakfast
Before your Oxbridge interview, it’s critical to eat something nutritious and full. This is not the time to go on fad diets or binges. You will most likely become tired if you consume too many carbs. Make sure you receive enough protein and fibre in your diet to be full and alert during the interview.
Makes Us
What Makes Us Different
- Our tutors are all current students or graduates at Oxford or Cambridge University.
- With our Oxbridge test expert, students go through multiple mock Admission Tests.
- Our experts also investigate the previous year’s exam papers annually.
- Teaching how to approach questions and write model answers.
- Familiarizing students with the style of Admissions Test Questions.
- Ensuring that candidates answer in accordance with the mark scheme specification.
- We provide services for students all over the world including India and UAE.
CONCLUDING THOUGHTS:
Have a thorough understanding of your subject. A large portion of the interview may be devoted to expanding on what you already know and challenging you to go deeper into your present expertise. If you want to have a good chance of building on your subject, you’ll need to know everything there is to know about it. Be yourself, relax, and try to think of it as a conversation about something you’re passionate about rather than an exam. Be open to the possibility of changing your viewpoint. Tutors may play devil’s advocate with you to test how quickly you pick up new knowledge and whether you can use it to build new conclusions.
If you disagree with them, don’t back down; instead, attempt to respect their ideas and confess it if you change your opinion. Be ready to answer some unusual queries. While this isn’t always the case, they are curious about how you think. As a result, don’t anticipate a correct response to every question they pose. Lastly, strange questions are frequently posed to elicit your true feelings and test how you reason, so don’t be put off by them; instead, think about them and respond as you see appropriate.
Oxford and Cambridge collectively known as Oxbridge are two of the most prestigious universities in the world. With centuries of academic excellence, they attract thousands of the brightest students every year. But with such a competitive environment, how can you make your application shine?
That’s where OxBridge Consulting comes in. At Rostrum Education, we provide end-to-end support through our tailored Oxbridge Application Service. From course selection and personal statement guidance to entrance exam training and mock interviews, we ensure you’re fully prepared to meet—and exceed—the rigorous demands of the Oxbridge Admissions process.
Our results speak for themselves: with expert mentors who are Oxbridge alumni, we’ve helped hundreds of students receive offers from their dream colleges.
What Does the Oxbridge Application Process Look Like?
The Oxbridge application process is unlike any other UK university application. It requires early preparation, careful planning, and a high level of academic insight. Here’s a breakdown:
- Application Deadline: All Oxbridge applications must be submitted through UCAS by October 15, much earlier than the standard deadline.
- Course Selection: Oxbridge doesn’t allow joint applications—you can only apply to either Oxford or Cambridge, not both. Choosing the right course is crucial.
- College Choice: You can select a college or submit an open application, but understanding college culture, specialization, and acceptance rates helps in making a strategic decision.
- Personal Statement: A heavily academic statement focused on your intellectual interest in the subject.
- Admissions Tests: Depending on the course, you may have to sit for the TSA, LNAT, BMAT, MAT, or others. These are designed to test thinking ability and problem-solving.
- Written Work: Certain courses (like History or English) may require pre-submitted essays.
- Interviews: If shortlisted, you’ll be invited for a subject-focused academic interview conducted by college tutors or fellows.
Each of these steps is critical. With guidance from Rostrum’s Oxbridge Application Service, we ensure no detail is overlooked and that you’re confident at every stage of the journey.
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1. What’s the Secret to Writing a Winning Oxbridge Personal Statement?
Unlike other UK universities, Oxbridge places an overwhelming emphasis on your academic potential. That’s why your personal statement must focus predominantly on your intellectual engagement with the subject.
Through our OxBridge Consulting service, we help you:
- Choose the most relevant academic experiences, from books read to research projects.
- Reflect on your supercurriculars (subject-related enrichment) to show depth.
- Avoid cliché narratives and keep the tone analytical and concise.
- Demonstrate academic curiosity, independent thinking, and subject mastery.
- Structure your statement logically to build a compelling argument for admission.
Our team of Oxbridge mentors provides multiple rounds of edits and feedback so your final statement is sharp, persuasive, and true to your academic voice.
2. Preparing for Oxbridge Entrance Exams
Most applicants underestimate the importance of Oxbridge entrance tests, but these exams often determine whether you’re shortlisted for an interview.
With our Oxbridge Application Service, we help you prepare for:
- TSA (Thinking Skills Assessment) – used for PPE, E&M, Human Sciences, and others.
- MAT (Mathematics Admissions Test) – required for Mathematics at Oxford.
- LNAT (Law National Aptitude Test) – needed for Law at Oxford.
- ENGAA, NSAA, PAT, etc.
Our entrance exam preparation includes:
- Timed mock tests based on past papers
- Topic-wise breakdown and strategy sessions
- Personalized feedback to identify weak areas
- Regular progress tracking to measure improvement
This level of preparation gives you the confidence and competence to succeed.
3. How to Succeed in the Oxbridge Interview Process?
The Oxbridge interview is a deep academic conversation meant to test your thought process, not just your knowledge. It’s often the deciding factor in the Oxbridge Admissions process.
What to expect:
- Unfamiliar Problems: Tutors will present problems or questions you haven’t encountered before.
- Academic Dialogue: Think of it like a mini supervision/tutorial session.
- Thinking Aloud: They want to hear how you process information and approach complexity.
- Clarification and Challenge: Be prepared to be asked follow-up questions on your responses.
Our OxBridge Consulting team provides comprehensive interview preparation that includes:
- Mock interviews with Oxbridge alumni in your subject
- Realistic scenarios with feedback on content, structure, and delivery
- Training on how to stay calm under pressure and think clearly
- Techniques to handle unexpected or abstract questions with poise
With us, you’ll enter the interview room with confidence and clarity.
4. Why Do You Need an Oxbridge Admission Consultant to Maximize Your Chances?
Applying to Oxbridge is not just about having high grades—it’s about understanding what Oxbridge looks for in a candidate and presenting yourself accordingly. Here’s why professional Oxbridge Consulting can make a difference:
- Strategic Planning: We help you choose the right course, college, and academic narrative.
- Profile Evaluation: We assess your strengths and identify areas for growth.
- Time Management: With such a tight timeline, we help you stay on track at each stage.
- Expert Insight: You benefit from real Oxbridge experiences from mentors who’ve been through it.
- All-in-One Guidance: From statement writing to interview prep and entrance test strategy.
Students often have the potential but lack the structure and insight to navigate the Oxbridge application process. That’s where our Oxbridge Application Service gives you a competitive advantage.
5. How can Rostrum Edu help you to get into Oxford & Cambridge University
Rostrum Education’s Oxbridge Application Service is comprehensive, personalized, and results-driven. We’ve built a reputation for excellence in Oxbridge Consulting through a proven framework:
- One-on-One Mentorship: You’ll be matched with an Oxbridge graduate who understands the nuances of your subject and college.
- Supercurricular Development: We guide you in building a portfolio that shows depth and genuine academic interest.
- Test Prep: Whether it’s TSA, LNAT, or MAT, we offer customized training plans and practice resources.
- Mock Interviews: Practice makes perfect—especially with feedback from actual Oxbridge alumni.
- Application Management: We help organize documents, deadlines, and decision-making at every stage.
With offices in London, Delhi, Dubai, and Hong Kong and students placed in Oxford, Cambridge, and top Russell Group universities we’re committed to your success.
6. Meet Our Oxbridge Counselors
Our team of Oxbridge Consulting experts consists of former Oxford and Cambridge students, supervisors, and interviewers. They’ve not only walked the path but have helped others walk it successfully.
What makes our counselors different:
- Deep subject knowledge and firsthand admissions experience
- Personalized mentoring based on your strengths and goals
- Transparent, honest feedback to help you grow
- A passion for education and student success
Whether you’re applying for Law, PPE, Natural Sciences, Economics, or Engineering, we have the expertise to support your application.
Meet your oxbridge Mentor
Gwyn Day
A Member of Mensa (with an IQ in the top 0.05%), a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and former banking Head Trader, Gwyn has been involved in the financial and education markets for over 30 years. A specialist in Neurolinguistics for the last 20 years he has been coaching high potential students into top global universities (Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial and LSE, Ivy League, M7 plus Canadian and European schools) He works with undergraduates and postgraduate students to obtain internships and Full Time Graduate positions with the world’s top financial institutions, law firms, consultancies, and global corporates
Working with Ratish was an absolute game changer in my college application process. From the moment I met him, I could tell that he truly cared about helping me achieve my dreams and goals. He was incredibly knowledgeable about the college admissions process and was able to provide me with invaluable guidance and support every step of the way along with me gaining many useful skills for my future career. Thanks to his expertise and guidance, I was able to gain admission to my dream college due to his constant support and follow ups throughout my application and college selection journey.
The team at Rostrum was extremely helpful through this admissions cycle. Martin, Ratish, and Sanjog were very thorough in editing my essays, both supplemental and the Common Application essay as well as preparing me for the US interviews and in the profile building process. Gwyn was very supportive in helping me develop my super-curricular activities, writing the SOP, and polishing my interview skills, and helped me navigate the entire process seamlessly, resulting in offers from my top choices in both the US and the UK.
US universities require 4 years of UG, but the expertise of Rostrum helped shortlisted universities where I could apply with 3 year degree undergrad degree. From timely follow ups, to working on applications of 10 universities, my counsellor helped me craft more than 10 university specific essays. The great attention to minute detail was something which truly made the process exciting. Dea and Ratish were available round the clock to address to queries ( some extremely stupid ones too). When I look back 10 years down the lane, Rostrum’s mentorship will be my life’s happiest roller coaster memory.
One thing which really eased my work was working with Rostrum. I didn’t have to worry about my applications, writing essays, college research, and making a list of profile building activities. That really eased my work and I could focus on my academics and other extracurricular activities.
My UK mentor Khalid really helped me constantly refine my personal statement, and I also got a few inputs from Gwyn. All of these really helped me showcase my diverse extracurricular activities because I had a bunch of them that tied in with my major as well as show my passion for the field, which I think really made me stand out as someone who’s very genuinely interested in studying biomedical sciences. Rostrum knows what universities are looking for and in that sense they helped me decide what to show in my application.
Rostrum has really helped with preparing me for the interview process through technical mock interviews with Gwyn. I was able to develop my confidence and speaking abilities in order to convey my points more clearly. I’m grateful for their support throughout the whole application journey.
The whole team at Rostrum helped me prepare the best application possible. Shivangi and Ratish especially were so encouraging and guided me throughout the whole process. The whole team was always there whenever I had a question. I’m really grateful for all the support and effort!
From day one, Rostrum guided me through my application to Cambridge and helped me gain more insight into what makes a 'standout' Oxbridge application. Working with Rostrum was such an amazing experience and helped me get into my dream school!
College selection and the process can be a daunting task. Rostrum made this very comprehensive and comfortable. Setting goals, breaking down requisite action and thereafter it’s follow up, all seamlessly coordinated by Sanjog. His ability to be direct, connect and stay calm encouraged our son, Riyaan.
My counsellor at Rostrum guided me through each step of the application process from making a college list, setting deadlines for myself, writing my essays to finally sending the applications out. The entire team at Rostrum has been so supportive over the past few months and has responded promptly each time I had a question or a doubt.
My experience with Rostrum has been a wonderful journey. I would like to thank the entire Rostrum team for the support they have given. Special thanks to Shivangi and Ratish for their constant guidance and assistance throughout the application procedure. It wouldn’t have been possible without them. From short listing colleges to editing SOPs several times, they have been there for me. Big thanks to the entire team for catering to all my needs, for making me believe in my self and my potentials. I’m soo grateful to have joined Rostrum, they have truly helped me to achieve my dreams.
Rostrum Education has been extremely helpful, patient and considerate throughout my application process. I owe my gratitude to my mentor Maknoon as he was always ready to address any query I had, no matter how small. Gwyn Day was an essential part of my UK applications as he helped me choose universities, courses and also in perfecting my SOP, I am thankful to him and the entire team at Rostrum Education for everything.
Rostrum has been a huge help over the past year, Ratish and the team has helped and supported in each and every step of the journey. With their guidance and expertise they tailor fit you for the universities. never expected i’d get into such great universities. all thanks to them!
Yes. Oxbridge Admissions are among the toughest in the world. With limited seats, even straight-A students are often rejected. Your application needs to reflect intellectual strength, originality, and readiness for rigorous academic training.
Yes. Oxbridge Admissions are among the toughest in the world. With limited seats, even straight-A students are often rejected. Your application needs to reflect intellectual strength, originality, and readiness for rigorous academic training.
OxBridge Consulting is a professional service that supports students through the Oxbridge application process. It covers course and college selection, academic profile building, test prep, personal statement support, and interview preparation.
A consultant helps you plan early, think strategically, and present your strengths clearly. Rostrum’s Oxbridge Application Service has helped students gain admission to a variety of courses by refining their applications, boosting their confidence, and offering insider knowledge that few others can provide.
