Interviewing in: Physics
Background on subject
Physics is focused on the study of the universe, unravelling its complexity to discover how it works. Physics has applications in many technological advances, such as medical imaging, nanotechnology and quantum computing.
At Oxford, Physics is offered as a four-year MPhys course, or a three-year BA.
At Cambridge, Physics is not offered as a separate discipline but is incorporated into the Natural Sciences course. The course offers the chance for students to study a wide range of scientific disciplines before specialising.
The subject requirements for students are A-level Physics and A-level Maths.
For Oxford, students have to sit the Physics Aptitude Test (PAT).
For Cambridge, students have to sit the Natural Sciences Admissions Assessment.
Can I interview in this subject?
You do not have to have studied Physics at university to give a robust and rigorous practice interview in this subject.
Volunteers from the following subjects, or similar, will also be able to deliver Physics interviews:
Interview types
There are two different types of practice interviews in Physics, which you may be asked to deliver.
Interview on 'application material' - asking the students' questions about their personal statement, or an essay they will submit as part of their application
Interview on 'unseen material' - asking the students' questions on an article, study, or research paper they have not seen before, testing how they handle new material
SAMPLE Resources
Below you can access a folder of resources for conducting Physics interviews:
Interview on application material - you can see a sample personal statement, highlighted with examples of questions which could be asked
Interview on unseen material - you can see examples of articles which have previously been given to students, along with questions
These resources are intended for inspiration - to give you an idea of the level, length and themes of the material we use in our practice interviews. However, should you wish to use this material in the practice interviews you deliver, just let us know so we can make sure returning students haven't seen it before!
Meet one of our VOLUNTEER INTERVIEWERS: Katie
I graduated with an MA in Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry from Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford, and then completed a DPhil in Clinical Medicine at Green Templeton College, Oxford.
I've volunteered with OxFizz for the past 10 years, and was involved since the formation of Oxbridge Interviews.
I volunteer because I find it fascinating to meet and help develop the skills of so many young people with potential to go on to study at Oxbridge.
