Oxbridge

This is a brief explanation of the process you will go through if you decide to apply to either Oxford or Cambridge universities.

A Year in the Life of an Oxbridge Applicant

March – Year 12

You will have the opportunity to attend an initial ‘prestigious university’ talk at Cardinal Newman and your parents will be invited to a special parent’s version of the same talk. We will explain the year ahead and the process for anyone considering applying to Oxbridge.

After the talk it is advisable that you do some further research into different universities and in particular look into the application process for Oxford or Cambridge as well as looking into the courses which you may wish to study. Your personal tutor will guide you through this stage and approaching your subject tutors is an ideal way of getting advice on the courses you are hoping to do at university.

March/July – Year 12

From the beginning of the application process in March to the end of college in July is a really busy time. There will be lots of different events for you to attend which will help you get started with your application.

Listed below are a few that you can attend:

• Oxbridge action planning workshop at college, to set targets for the year ahead
• Trip to Oxford with other potential Oxbridge applicants from Newman
• Trip to Cambridge with other potential Cambridge applicants from Newman
• College arranged for you to meet the admissions tutors from Oxford and Cambridge
• Personal Statement and applications workshops at college
• One to one consultation with external Oxbridge application experts
• Lots of meetings with your designated senior tutor, as well as with heads of faculties at Newman.

July/August – Year 12/13

As well as enjoying the summer break, you need to be working hard to finalise your personal statement ready for your return to college, as well as reading more about your chosen degree subject.

In mid-August exam results are available; its time to pick up those important AS level results from college.

September – Year 13

After returning to Cardinal Newman, you will have numerous meetings with external consultants as well as your personal tutor, senior tutor and subject teachers to finalise your application before the deadline on the 28th September.

The 28th September is the final date for you to hand in your application.

November – Year 13

Around this time you will be invited into your chosen university for an interview. Hopefully all the advice and guidance you would have received at college and the mock interviews you will have taken part in will have you well prepared for what is to come.

December – Year 13

Around this time of year you will receive a phone call/letter from either Oxford or Cambridge informing you if your application has been successful or not.