OFF TO THE OXBRIDGE INTERVIEW?

Having received the invite you were hoping for, do you feel more terrified than chuffed? If so, note that an Oxbridge interview (or three) is, above all, a reward for the good work you’ve done. After looking at your grades, UCAS statement, references and perhaps test results, admissions tutors already feel that you might be suited to one of their demanding courses. So, a 100 per cent perfect interview performance is slightly less crucial than students think. Do your best, but don't panic if you stumble over a question or two. You might still get in.

Also keep in mind that although an Oxbridge interview is more formal than a conversation, it is not a test of your social skills. Most questions are likely to draw on knowledge you have gained in class and from your own reading and research (hopefully mentioned in your statement). Others may require you to give your opinion, or to draw logical conclusions from material you are shown. You’ll find Twitter tips specific to your course @oxbridgentrance.

Some basic interview skills, too, will already have been implanted by your school: giving yourself time to think before you reply to a challenging question is one. Answering the question actually asked (rather than the one you would like it to have been) is another. If you can speak in a clear, audible voice instead of mumbling, that’s even better. For more detailed interview advice, read chapters 9-14 of OXBRIDGE ENTRANCE: THE REAL RULES.