U OF OXFORD INTERVIEW WORKSHOP

NOTES BY ECG @ HCI

Why do they interview ? Interviews are a useful way to gauge an

individual’s academic potential and academic ability

They receive on average 6 applicants for every available place.

The interview is academic in focus. Not social, not judging candidates on

how they dress etc.

Do the candidates know what they are signing up for at Oxford?

Do they look like they are motivated to pursue the particular course that

Oxford is offering? Are they truly keen to study this course or just keen

because it is a famous university?

Can they help solve problems and think critically?

Remember that students are the most important part of the interview.

Students must think for themselves. What often happens is, students start

telling what other people say about the problem. Instead of telling what

they think about it personally.

Sometimes at the start of the interview they might discuss the personal

statement. If you made any “personal statements” like “this is what I

thought about this book” or “this is my comment”. the interview might pick

up on this and discuss further. Not done to test your reading but to hear
your opinion.

The interview mimics the teaching style in Oxford. For example, some

interviews require students to analyse text or graphic/solve a problem. The

interviewer and student then discusses this.

Created 12 Dec 2021

Secret of the interview ? It mimics the way they teach at Oxford. The

interview is trying to recreate this process so the interviewer can get a

sense of how well suited the student is for this method of teaching.

The most common mistake the speaker experienced in the past is when

students do not share their own views. E.g. What do you think about the

graph? Even if your thoughts are potentially half formed that need some

support, that’s fine. They are not expecting students to be perfect.

Otherwise, there will be no point in educating you. They want the

willingness to speak for themselves.

Looking flexibility of thought, application of knowledge to

for

unfamiliar situations, motivation, clarify and critical thinking,

engagement.

Motivation : Can I see this student waking up early in the morning on a wet,

cold, damp English winter day and trudging to lecture? Do they truly care
about this subject ?

Not looking for prepared speeches.

Take time before answering

DO
Ask for clarification

Start with what you know

Think out loud

Listen carefully

DON'T
Panic

Speechify

Worry if you're cut off

Judge yourself

Visit their interview resource page.