By Tilly Rose
The questions you sent in on Instagram answered!
Is there a dress code?
No! Wear whatever you are comfortable in. If that's a suit or a pair of jeans, it's really up to you. I opted for a skirt and blazer in one set of interviews and jeans for another one. The tutors are interested in how your mind works, not what you are wearing.
Do they analyse your current grades too?
Yes, the interview is just one part of a whole process. Your current grades, predicted grades, personal statement, references, entrance exams, work submission and interviews provide a full picture. So the interviews aren't your only chance to impress!
How much spare time is there in between interviews?
This will depend on whether you are pooled to a different college e.g. a different college to the one you initially interviewed at, also asks to interview you. You could just have two interviews or I know people who have had over 6. Most interviews are only around 20 minutes long, so generally you will have time in between to chill, read over notes or partake in activities arranged by the student helpers at the college you are staying at.
Should I ask a question at the end?
This is really up to you. If you have something you'd like to know about, then of course but you're not being tested on the question you pose, so don't feel you have to.
Do the tutors tend to focus the interview on their areas of interest?
In my experience and speaking to other students, this is all about YOU. The tutors may have expert areas but will be knowledgeable on a the broader subject. They are likely to discuss areas you've told them interest you in your personal statement or be guided by areas you pick up in the unseen material. Just because the tutor interviewing you may specialise in Chaucer, they won't expect you to be specialist in this. You can't possibly be expected to know everything!
How do you sleep the night before?
This can be hard - the interviews can feel nerve wracking and I can't take that away but what I would say try to tell yourself, you have been invited to interview for a reason. The tutors aren't trying to trick you; they want to get to know you, your understanding of your subject and see your potential. So the night before, I read over my notes, then distracted myself by chatting to other applicants in the JCR (Junior Common Room) and then got an early night. I'd advise doing whatever you feel will help you relax!
Wishing you all the best of luck!