Test taken: BMAT

Number of interviews: 4

Skype interview: No

Interview spread: 2 hours apart, on 2 separate days

Length of interviews: 20 minutes each

Each interview was split into 2 separate 10 minute parts- one with each interviewer. The interviews were almost all science based- each "part" was based on a particular topic (e.g. "enzymes"). It would begin with fundamental A level knowledge, and then would be stretched beyond- often to a more obscure, real world application (but remember, no additional knowledge beyond A level content was required/expected: you just have to "apply" what you already know). If I didn't know an answer/was getting off track, the interviewers brought me back on topic with leading questions/statements. Some interviews involved data tables and graphs, etc., to interpret. One "part" posed a hypothetical ethical scenario to interpret, while another was based on my personal statement. I was really nervous going into my first interview. However, this interview was conducted by my current personal tutor who was really friendly and put me at ease. From this point onwards I was much more relaxed and took the approach of simply trying to enjoy the interviews as much as possible.

I did BMAT practice papers, as well as some TSA section 1 practice papers, since they are similar to BMAT section 1. I read through a CGP style BMAT guide (available online free). I read sample essay answers online and made essay plans for past papers.

I had heard that the Oxford interviews were largely science based, so I read through all the content we had covered so far in A level biology and chemistry. This was probably the most useful thing I did, as it is expected that you are familiar with the content you have been taught at school so far.

Given that my personal statement had a strong focus on immunology, I also read a book on it (Oxford's 'Very Short Introduction to Immunology') in case I was asked about a particular interest I had in the field of medicine.

I also had some practice interviews with my school and my friends: this helped me get used to speaking about my subject eloquently, and helped with my confidence in doing so. I also had a rough outline of how I'd answer questions like "Why medicine?" or "what I learnt from my work experience" although this was more useful for my non-Oxford interviews.

In hindsight, I am pleased with my interview preparation. I remember my tutor saying one of the biggest thing she looks for is how you present yourself (i.e. making eye contact, smiling, being friendly and speaking clearly) because these are important social skills for doctors to have. They already know you're clever from your results; while the interview also puts this to the test, it is also used to observe your personal skills.