alevelmathsng.uk

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Interview Tips (7/7/2015; 2 pages) (1) Personal Statement (these points are generally relevant to the interview itself as well) Begin by explaining why you have applied for the course. - show that you have done some research into it - say why certain aspects of the course appeal to you - say what you hope to gain from doing the course; including career aspirations Dont just list what you have done: explain what you have gained from the experience (eg increased understanding; involvement with other people; position of responsibility; learning to persevere) Avoid negative statements (eg criticism of School, courses you dont want to do), or comparisons with other universities. Also avoid humour. (2) Admissions Criteria Nowadays Admissions Tutors have to be able to justify their decisions, and will typically use the following criteria (taken from the Oxford Maths course):

(i) a capacity to absorb and use new ideas

(ii) the ability to think and work independently

(iii) perseverance and enthusiasm

(3) Types of interview questions There will probably be a fair number of questions of an academic nature, designed to test your ability and knowledge of the subject (and interest in it). These could be based on a test taken at the time of the interview.

alevelmathsng.uk

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As far as mathematical questions are concerned, it is quite usual to be given hints (to help you make progress), and the interviewers are interested in how you are able to take advantage of these hints (as per 2(i)). You might possibly be asked HR-style questions such as what are your strengths and weaknesses, or describe an experience that you found challenging (and how you coped with it); so its probably advisable to have considered your responses to these sorts of questions. (4) Responding to questions The interviewers will probably prefer candidates who can talk without too much prompting. Have plenty of examples that you can draw on. Make sure you arent side-stepping the interviewers question. Dont talk for too long. Ideally the atmosphere will become one of a two-way discussion. (5) Preparation Tutors are generally keen to see evidence of wider reading (you could be asked what books you have read recently ie relating to the course). This can of course provide material for discussion. You could be asked to discuss a topical issue relating to your subject.