My interview was with the HSPS Director of Studies and another Professor from the college. I arrived at the college and signed in at reception before being directed to my interview room. I arrived just before my interview slot, but I know others who had to wait waited in the bar/cafe. My interview was around 20 minutes overall, with questions and a few ‘tests’

The interviewers were interested to know about my future, including what I found interesting and what I might like to do after my degree. They asked me some questions about my personal statement, particularly with regards to ‘experiences’ (i.e. any work experience) and relevant books.

Then they gave me a text passage and asked me to read it through, return it to them, and sum up what I had read. Then they asked some ‘big questions’ based around the text. One of my interviewers was a bit cold, but on the whole ignoring some of her reactions, it was ok. I just remembered to breathe and recall that sometimes interviewers are trying to put you off!

Read books related to my subject interests (got these off reading lists from Cambridge via Google), had a mock interview with a Cambridge student

Just remember to breathe. The interviewers want to see passion and want to push your limits, but they’re also people that recognise that you are just a young student. They will keep probing until they think they’ve pushed you enough, and it’s just important to keep calm whilst they do that and not worry that you’ve done something wrong.