Interviews
You're not alone if the thought of the Oxford interview makes you go wobbly at the knees. Admittedly it's hard not to be taken in by the elaborate tales we've all heard: the stories of tutors offering interviewees a restorative glass of port, pretending to go to sleep, or mocking an interviewee for their accent. But the boring fact that lies behind the sensational stories is that, as a world-class university, Oxford simply cannot afford to turn people away for not wearing the right tie or drinking their port incorrectly. Here at St Anne's the interview process is designed to select the best people for the places. We welcome people from all walks, regardless of background. International and gap year students should also not be discouraged from applying here.
The interview process varies greatly from subject to subject. You may be asked to provide some written work prior to the interview. You may also be required to sit a short test or exam before your interview, but this varies from subject to subject as well. See here. Your interview itself may consist of a one-to-one discussion with a tutor, or you may face a panel of tutors (though usually no more than three). You may be given a problem to think through, or a text to comment on. Following your scheduled interviews, you may be asked to attend further interviews, perhaps at other colleges or at St Anne's again. Whether you are given more interviews, (or even less interviews) or been told you can go home earlier / later than everyone else, it really doesn't matter and doesn't mean anything so don't read too much into it!
The first tip is to remember that tutors are not monsters! Relax and be yourself; if you're invited to an interview the tutors have been impressed by your personal statement and want to get to know you, as well as put you through your academic paces. It's not an interrogation nor are the tutors interested in catching you out; they just want to hear what you have to say about a subject you're interested in. Try to engage with them and look upon these interviews as a way to suss out the tutors and college itself, and don't be afraid to ask any questions. You are certain to meet other interviewees who've done loads of preparation, but it's unlikely to be of much use: the interviews are designed to assess your potential, not test your memory.
In common with any interview, the Oxford interview can be a stressful experience. Both the college and the JCR (a bunch of students) are there to make your stay as relaxing as possible. It's also designed to give you a taster of what life would be like here. You stay in college rooms (at least one night for most subjects, free of charge) and sample the delights of the canteen. The JCR organises social events in the evening and looks out for you during the day, with endless streams of free tea and coffee and biscuits, and (because it's that time of year) mince pies too! A student helper will take you to the room or college of your interview when required, so there's no worry of getting lost! Of course, the interview period is a great way to get to know other interviewees who are in exactly the same position as you are.
If we can offer any advice above all, be yourself and relax. You don't have to know all the answers. After all, finding them out is what your degree is for!