Everything you need to know about applying to Oxbridge

15th January 2024 by Anita Naik

Are you thinking of applying to Oxbridge next year? If so, here's everything you need to know about when to use pre-admission tests and the interview process.

Oxbridge refers to the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge, which receive approximately 40,000 applications yearly for undergraduate and postgraduate positions. With stringent entry requirements and a rigorous selection process, applying can feel daunting as applicants must submit a personal statement and references, sit for an admissions test, and attend an interview.

As challenging as this sounds, Oxbridge isn't a closed shop. The universities actively welcome applications from students from diverse backgrounds, so if you're considering applying, don't let the application process dissuade you. Here's what you need to know.

Understand the application process and timeline

Before you do anything, understanding how UCAS applications work for Oxbridge is essential. Oxford and Cambridge universities have a mid-October 2024 deadline (for entry in 2025) three months before the deadline for other universities (January 31st 2025).

If you want to apply, you need to start preparing for your Oxbridge application as soon as possible with the help of your school and teachers. Other than this earlier deadline, the application goes through the UCAS Hub as it does for other universities you apply for.

Understand that these are collegiate universities

A collegiate university means that Oxford and Cambridge comprise of a number of individual colleges. The colleges are distinct entities, so choose the college you wish to apply to by looking closely at what each of their courses offers and finding one that leans more toward your interests.

Know the requirements for your course

Oxbridge is known for its rigorous academic standards. Hence, a solid academic record is crucial, but some courses require admissions tests or written work as part of the application process, so be sure to understand what's needed from you. Research the specific expectations for your chosen subject and tailor your application accordingly. Remember, it's essential to check the requirements and guidelines provided by the individual colleges and departments at Oxford and Cambridge, as there are variations in the application processes.

Personal Statement

While all students applying to university need to write a compelling personal statement, make sure that it highlights your passion for the subject over your extracurricular achievements. For Oxford or Cambridge, your passion for the subject and academic achievements should fill most of the statement to demonstrate why you are well-suited for the course and how you can contribute to the academic community. Highlight relevant extracurricular activities that demonstrate your skills, interests, and dedication.

Cambridge has an extra form

For those applying to Cambridge, you will also need to fill out My Cambridge Application (MyCApp), the deadline for which is usually the end of October. This aims to ensure that Cambridge University has everything it needs from applicants, including details not covered in the UCAS application, such as topics covered in your AS/A-level courses.

Be prepared for the admissions tests

Depending on the course you are interested in, there's likely to be a pre-interview test designed to find the best applicants. For instance, if you are applying for Mathematics at Oxford, you must take the Maths Admissions Test, and Cambridge requires you to take the Sixth Term Examination Paper (Step), also used by Warwick University and Imperial College, London.

Other pre-interview course tests may include: Law National Aptitude (Lnat)Classics Admissions Test (Cat)English Literature Test (Elat)Mathematics Admissions Test (Mat)Modern Languages Admissions Test (Mlat)Physics Aptitude Test (Pat)Philosophy Test (PHIL).

Be interview ready

If shortlisted, you will have an interview. Oxbridge colleges are looking for passion and ability, meaning students who stand out with a real enthusiasm for their chosen subject. To help yourself practice answering questions related to your subject and be ready to discuss your thought process and problem-solving skills with a range of people. Ask your teachers and school for help with this, as it's crucial to your success, and consider the help of a tutor who knows how the process works.

Utilise your teachers and school for help

Utilise your school and teachers. Ask teachers to provide strong and supportive references. These references should emphasise your academic abilities and potential. Your school should also be able to provide resources, practice materials, and guidance on how to excel in the pre-admission tests. As well as offering challenging coursework to help you develop strong analytical and critical thinking skills.