Getting into Oxbridge: 5 Tips for International Students

Oxford and Cambridge are two of the best universities in the world, frequently ranking in the top five. This isn’t the only thing that makes them special. Both are ‘collegiate’ universities, consisting of separate self-governing colleges, each with its own culture. What’s more, Oxbridge uses a supervision system (or tutorial, if you’re at Oxford). This means that, outside of lectures, teaching includes no more than two students, and can often be one on one.

If you’re dreaming of tall spires and candlelit halls, look no further than our tips for making a successful application to Oxbridge from abroad.

1) Focus on the grades

It might sound obvious, but at Oxford and Cambridge, academic performance is essential. For most courses, colleges expect at least an A*AA at A Level or a 7/6 at Higher Level of the IB. Despite this, many students make the mistake of trying too hard to appear ‘well-rounded’ and in doing so, stretch themselves too thin. Unlike other top universities, Oxbridge is less interested in what you’re doing outside of your studies. It's best to focus your application on what you find most interesting about your specific subject, with only a little space given to unrelated extra-curricular activities.

Of course, there’s nothing wrong with hobbies, but don’t take up the trombone just because you think it will bring you closer to your dream college.

2) Show Honest Interest

While getting excellent grades will get your foot in the door, it is important to show real interest in what you are applying to study. You’ll be studying this subject in detail for the next 3-6 years, so colleges want to know that you are dedicated and actually interested in learning everything about it. Keeping up to date on the developments in your chosen subject is always a good idea, as is reading widely outside of your studies.

In your personal statement, try to avoid meaningless phrases or clichés. Anyone can say that they have a passion for History or have always appreciated the logic of solving maths problems, but you need to back these claims up with honest evidence. Instead, describe what you’ve done and show how you’ve gone above and beyond. For example, if you’re an English applicant, sharing your thoughts on some extra reading you’ve done and mentioning the book club you set up at school is likely to be far more helpful than quoting Dickens. 

Academics will read hundreds of personal statements before and after they’ve read yours, so try to stand out and remain true to yourself.

3) Do Your Research (Selectively)

The Oxbridge application process is a little longer and more complicated than other UK universities. Most courses have applicants send in examples of written work, attend multiple in-person interviews and complete written tests. This, alongside the need to do a bit more extra reading, means that it’s best to get a head start and research early. Learn about every step of the process, as it can be difficult to handle, and know the course inside out. Have a note of which extra modules you’d like to take and don’t say that you’re not interested in Tragedy if it’s a required part of the course.

While research will give you an advantage, research with care. There is lots of information online on Oxbridge applications, and not all of it is true. The online Oxbridge interview includes lists of increasingly silly ‘interview questions’ like ‘what is the meaning of life’ and ‘do you believe in fairies at the end of the garden’. Most of the time, however, these ‘questions’ are either taken out of context or entirely made up. Focus your attention on statistics and trustworthy sources instead of these articles. For example, the Oxford and Cambridge websites are becoming more and more clear when it comes to their admissions process, so it’s worth exploring carefully.

4) Practise, Practise, Practise

Don’t forget the importance of practice! Being able to talk clearly about an academic discipline, and with obvious interest, is something you can learn to do. Lots of students are used to writing down ideas in essays, but getting used to thinking aloud is a great way to show interviewers that you are suited to the supervision/tutorial system. This applies to other parts of applying too: if you’ve done your research and know what kind of written tests you’ll need to sit, it’s a good idea to practise similar tests at home, even if official mock papers aren't available.

Most importantly, practice builds confidence. The feeling of being as prepared as possible will lighten the weight of the interview.

5) Score Highly on Your English Test

If English isn’t your first language, UK universities will give you an offer based on your results in an English language test. The minimum requirements can be found here (for Oxford), and here (Cambridge). Both require at least a 7.5 in the IELTS Academic, but some courses, such as Mathematics and Computer Science, are less picky about your English skills. Regardless, getting good marks is still essential to make the most of your time in the UK.

Applying to Oxbridge can be scary even without the added pressure of learning English. Twin has a long history of helping students excel in their IELTS and other English language tests, including extra help with UCAS applications.

If you’re hoping to study at a top UK university, why not consider taking our IELTs Preparation Course? Good luck!