Most departments will want to interview you if they are considering you for a place.
Some scholarships and studentships will also invite shortlisted candidates to interview.
Why we interview
Interviews help departments to:
- Learn more about you; your background, motivation, and potential
- Discuss your research proposal, including feasibility and resources required
- Evaluate whether you are a good fit for the course and department
- Give you the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about Cambridge
Interviews are just one part of the admissions process, and decisions are not based on your interview performance alone.
Interview format
There is no such thing as a “standard” interview at Cambridge. Interviews vary by course and department, including:
- Online or in-person format
- Length of interview
- Level of formality
- Number of interviewers
- Who will be at your interview (and whether your proposed supervisor is present)
Your department will provide full details before your interview.
If you have specific needs (eg accessibility requirements), please contact the department in advance so that adjustments can be made.
What to expect at the interview
Interviews are typically conversational and informal. Interviewers will not be trying to catch you out. They want to fill places with great students and genuinely want you to perform well.
You may be asked about:
- Your academic background, interests, and future plans
- Your research proposal in depth
- Challenges your project might face
Keep in mind:
- Academic questioning can be direct - this is normal
- Engage in discussion rather than trying to “defend” answers
- It’s okay to not know an answer - be honest and think it through out loud
- If you don’t understand a question, ask for clarification
- Focus on thoughtful discussion rather than perfection
You'll also have the chance to ask questions. Avoid asking questions just to impress and ask what you actually want to know.
Essentially, interviews are a chance for both you and the department to decide if the course is the right fit.
How to prepare
Preparation doesn’t mean rehearsing perfect answers. It means being ready to think, discuss, and engage.
- Revisit your application and proposal to make sure you remember what you wrote
- Ensure you know a few things about the department (and feel free to ask if there are things you want to know).
- Critically evaluate your proposal. Think about potential weaknesses, limitations, and challenges.
- Reflect on your training needs. Consider what skills or knowledge you would need to develop during your degree.
- Prepare your questions. Write down anything you genuinely want to know so you don’t forget.
Feedback after the interview
Departments are usually unable to provide individual feedback.
If you are not offered a place, it does not mean your application was weak. It likely reflects the strength of the overall applicant pool and the limited number of places available.
We're unable to offer places to everyone who is good enough to study here.
Final advice
- Remember, you were invited to interview because you show strong potential
- Treat the interview as a conversation, not a test
- Be curious, thoughtful, and honest in your responses
- Focus on engaging with ideas, not performing perfectly
Most importantly, relax and be yourself!
