The Interview
Timetable
The main block of interviews takes place in the middle two weeks of December. Candidates should check their availability at this time before applying. Interviews are not arranged until after the application closing date - 15 October, and we may not be able to confirm dates of interview until mid November. If you will not be available for interview in December (for example post A-level candidates going overseas for a year out) we will do our best to arrange an early interview. Obviously such candidates should apply as early as possible and indicate clearly on their applications that an early interview is required
Just what does go on?
Queens' interviews are usually on a one-to-one or two-to-one basis. Interviews are informal; we do not expect you to wear your Sunday best. We try to make the interviews as relaxed as possible, so if you have any questions or problems do let us know in advance and we will do our best to help. All in all our interviews are designed to find out what you know, not what you don't. The interviewers want to see how you think on your feet, and where your interests and enthusiasms lie, especially in terms of commitment to the course you are applying for. If you would like to see how Cambridge interviews work, click here to see the university's video about them.
What do I need to provide?
Queens' does not set written tests for all interviews but English, Law, Philosophy and Modern Languages do set written tests and Computer Science, Economics, Engineering and Natural Sciences will expect you to take the TSA (Thinking Skills Assessment). The TSA is either taken 'on line' or written. You can find more information about the TSA here. Engineering, Mathematics, Physical Natural Sciences and Computer Science interviews will require some problem-solving on paper during the interview. Some subjects (currently Classics, English, History, MML, Archaeology & Anthropology, PPS and Theology) will require essays before hand - but we will tell you all about this when you receive your interview invitation. Additionally some subjects require a pre-interview text reading (currently Geography, History, English and MML). All Medical and Veterinary applicants are required to take the BMAT prior to interview - the main University Website will give you full details of this.