Countdown to your Oxbridge interview: Some tips to keep you on top

Know how to use examples

One of the biggest mistakes interviewees make is giving fluffy, general answers without giving proof or examples to back up what they have said. As a general rule, steer clear of answers that someone with no detailed knowledge of the subject/concept could give. As an interviewee you need to demonstrate that you have understood the idea you are grappling with and your use of examples should demonstrate this.

Understand why you might need to use examples

An interviewee who uses examples helps interviewers to understand what they are interested in, and how they approach their chosen subject. If an applicant is forthcoming with examples (but not over the top), the interviewer does not have to work as hard. Further, if a student is generous with their ideas, it suggests they will be a keen contributor to academic discussions in the course of their studies, skills which might make them seem a favourable addition to a tutorial or class.

Build up a bank of examples, which you can confidently draw upon

This may seem obvious, but the majority of students still don’t do this!  You cannot predict what an interviewer will ask, but if you know what you think about certain topics, you will be much more confident when approaching the interview.

Understand what type of question you may be asked

Your answer will depend on which of the three main types of question is asked i.e. factual, opinion or linking.

A fact-based question

If it is a fact-based question, designed to test your memory, pause to allow your brain, which will already be moving quickly because of the adrenaline rush of the situation, to gather up the salient points. When you start speaking, slow down to give you more gravitas. The Admissions Tutors understand how important the interview is to you and know that students often rush. The more in control and demonstrably focused/interested you are in the ideas under discussion, the better you will do.

An opinion-based question

If it is an opinion based question (including ethics) your ‘answer’ will not be simply to reel off facts but to answer: ‘I think XYZ because REASON 1, REASON 2, REASON 3, although I appreciate ABC counterpoints’.

A linking question

The most searching question type is the ‘linking,’ for example ‘Tell me about a banana” OR “What did you see on your way here today that tells you about the state of the British economy?”

Many students make the common mistake of immediately jumping into too much detail. For example, I saw rubbish bins were full, I saw buses and a lot of people. They fall into the trap of telling a story. Instead, the best way to approach these types of questions is to think about the big picture. For example, what do I know are the big issues in the UK economy (weak pound, immigration, public deficit/austerity measures) and then demonstrate how those issues are manifested by things you saw.

Practice is the key to confidence. Interviewers have different styles and the more opportunities you take to practice your moves, the more confident you will become.