I have had a long collaboration with Oxbridge Colleges, and know what academics are looking for in their interviews. Rather than a grilling on detailed subject knowledge, interviews are simply a conversation with a leading academic in a field which you want to study further. No one is out to catch you out, rather interviewers are simply trying to engage in a conversation to determine who would be the most interesting student to have on their course. Academics want to learn how a student thinks and to see if they can stretch and extend your knowledge helping you think on your feet and maybe reach some interesting conclusions together.

My favourite moment is from a student who following an Oxbridge interview, said to the interviewer “That was so much fun. Thank you”. She gained her place, showing interviews are an academic discussion with a leader in their chosen field. There are simply tips however which can help, and I am keen to offer both a 1-1 practice interview as well as feedback and top tips.

"Liz made the process of applying through UCAS much simpler. Initially, I was overwhelmed and confused about how best to show off my passion for my subject and appeal to universities. However, with her instruction, I got offers from all five of my university options, including Oxford. She also helped me prepare for my Oxford interview and helped me get into the right headspace to best show my knowledge and skills."

Recent Science Graduate (who subsequently turned down an offer from Oxford in favour of a London University)