Online interviews at Oxford and Cambridge: what to expect
Oxbridge interviews have undergone some changes in recent years. Since the Covid-19 pandemic, Oxford interviews have moved entirely online. 17 out of 31 Cambridge colleges will be holding online interviews, too, with some of the other colleges taking a hybrid format, depending on your country of residence and any extenuating circumstances. Only two Cambridge Colleges, Emmanuel and Kings, will require all candidates to attend in-person interviews. (More information on Cambridge interviews can be found here.)
But with all of these changes, many things remain the same. Admissions tutors are still looking for the same qualities in applicants: aptitude, teachability, and passion for your chosen subject. And interviews will still follow the same general format: approximately 30 minutes of academic discussion, where your interviewer may ask you about some pre-reading or stimulus material, your personal statement or written work, or your thoughts on a topic in your subject area.
Admissions tutors will want to see how you:
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Approach unfamiliar problems
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Apply your existing knowledge to new material
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Respond to their prompts and feedback
Above all, interviewers are looking for potential. It is not about having read all of the books in your subject area, or having perfectly polished answers – it is far more about how you think than what you know.
So: what’s changed?
With the exception of some Cambridge colleges, the majority of interviews are now held online. Oxford interviews typically take place on Teams, whereas Cambridge opts for Zoom or Whereby. The preparation process will therefore look a little different to the days of old, when all candidates would descend upon the cities of Oxford and Cambridge for in-person interviews…
How can I prepare for my online interview?
If your interviews are taking place online, it is important to perfect your online set-up ahead of time. This will help to minimise tech hiccups on the day itself.
Technical set up
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Test your tech: Make sure your webcam, microphone, and internet connection are reliable.
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Use the right device: A laptop or desktop is better than a phone or tablet.
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Check the platform: Oxford typically use Teams, and Cambridge uses Zoom or Whereby — practise with friends or family so you’re confident using features like screen-share.
Environment
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Choose a quiet, well-lit space: Natural light is best, but a lamp behind your camera works too.
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Minimise distractions: Silence notifications, let your household know your interview time, and keep your desk tidy.
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Eye contact: Try to look at the camera, not the screen — it helps you appear engaged and confident.
Beyond this… How can I prepare?
Review your Personal Statement and written work: Reread these carefully — tutors often ask about your arguments or how you might improve them.
Read beyond the syllabus: You don’t need to have read every book in the library, but exploring articles or books relevant to your subject can help you demonstrate genuine intellectual curiosity.
Practise problem solving: For Maths and Science subjects, practise thinking aloud while solving problems. For Humanities, practise analysing unfamiliar texts or sources on the spot.
What else can I do?
Mock interviews: Whether it’s a friend, teacher, or one of our expert Mock Interviewers, practicing will allow you to feel more comfortable and confident discussing your thinking. To explore our Interview Preparation packages, click here.
Record yourself: Reviewing your tone, pacing, and clarity can reveal easy ways to improve.
Practise thinking aloud: Tutors want to hear your reasoning process. Explain your thoughts step by step rather than jumping to an answer.
Stay calm under pressure: If you get stuck, take a breath and say what you do know — interviewers may guide you from there.
Preparing for an Oxford or Cambridge interview online is about showcasing how you think, not performing perfectly. With thoughtful preparation — both technical and academic — you can approach the interview as an opportunity to explore ideas with experts who love your subject as much as you do.
Good luck — and remember: the tutors are on your side.
