What are Oxbridge looking for in a candidate?

Oxbridge is looking for candidates who demonstrate academic excellence, passion for their chosen subject, and critical thinking skills.

Oxford and Cambridge, collectively known as Oxbridge, are two of the most prestigious universities in the world. They seek students who not only excel academically but also have a genuine interest and passion for their chosen subject. This passion should be evident in the way you talk about your subject, your extracurricular activities, and your personal statement. They want to see that you've gone beyond the school curriculum and explored your subject in depth on your own.

Critical thinking is another key quality Oxbridge admissions tutors look for. They want students who can think independently, analyse complex concepts, and articulate their thoughts clearly and logically. This is particularly important because the teaching style at Oxbridge is heavily based on one-to-one or small group tutorials, where you'll be expected to discuss and debate academic topics with your tutors.

In addition to these academic qualities, Oxbridge also values students who can contribute to the university community in other ways. This could be through sports, music, drama, volunteering, or other extracurricular activities. They're looking for well-rounded individuals who can balance their academic commitments with other interests.

Finally, Oxbridge wants students who are resilient and can handle the pressure of studying at a top university. The workload at Oxbridge can be intense, and they want to ensure that you have the determination and perseverance to succeed.

Remember, every candidate is unique and there's no 'perfect' Oxbridge applicant. It's about demonstrating your individual strengths and how you can contribute to the Oxbridge community.