Oxford History Students and Applicants
Scroll to see replies
Original post by shoshin
But I still believe that it is worth pushing for every mark in the HAT because it may mean, put (far too) simplistically, that the higher the HAT score, the more likely the offer is there to lose at interview rather than the other way round.
btw, have you read about the change to the HAT next time? They are reducing the essay question (1c) from 40 marks to 30, and increasing question 2 from 30 marks to 40. Interesting!
btw, have you read about the change to the HAT next time? They are reducing the essay question (1c) from 40 marks to 30, and increasing question 2 from 30 marks to 40. Interesting!
Ahh that's very interesting. HAT's certainly somewhere I can hope to strengthen my application; I'll get cracking on those past papers in a couple of weeks, I suppose! Also thinking of doing an EPQ through my local college, which will keep the writing/ research skills ticking along. What do you think?
Original post by samloveshistory
Ahh that's very interesting. HAT's certainly somewhere I can hope to strengthen my application; I'll get cracking on those past papers in a couple of weeks, I suppose! Also thinking of doing an EPQ through my local college, which will keep the writing/ research skills ticking along. What do you think?
It's difficult to advise anything other than just look forward to Durham tbh because if you start there you will prob'ly love it and even if you don't then you will nevertheless be keeping up with your essay writing in the period leading up to HAT and interviews. You're thinking of giving up your Durham place?
Original post by shoshin
You're thinking of giving up your Durham place?
After consideration, yeah. I couldn't do the whole go-to-Durham-and-apply-while-there thing because
a) I can't financially support a 2nd 1st year
b) I would miss out on the benefits of a real Gap Year
c) I think its slightly naughty and unfair on Durham
d) With Freshers/Uni work/Uni life, I wouldn't be able to focus sufficiently on interview preparation
e) If I was to reapply whilst there, I wouldn't engage as wholeheartedly with everything going on, meaning
f) I might have ended up both rejected from Oxford and miserable at Durham
More of a risk, perhaps, but I think its the right option.
Hi,
I am going into Upper sixth and need help finalising my A2 subject choices. I studied History, English Lit, Religious Studies and Sociology at AS level and got 4 A's. I don't want to keep all four on however, and am thinking about dropping English Lit. But, I am worried that Oxford won't accept Sociology as a 3rd A Level, only as a fourth. So, is it wise for me to drop English Lit, and will Oxford accept me with History, Religious Studies and Sociology at A2????
I am going into Upper sixth and need help finalising my A2 subject choices. I studied History, English Lit, Religious Studies and Sociology at AS level and got 4 A's. I don't want to keep all four on however, and am thinking about dropping English Lit. But, I am worried that Oxford won't accept Sociology as a 3rd A Level, only as a fourth. So, is it wise for me to drop English Lit, and will Oxford accept me with History, Religious Studies and Sociology at A2????
I'd seriously drop sociology. It is frowned upon by top universities, especially oxbridge.
However, if you feel like you'll perform much better at A2 in sociology and you'll enjoy the year more. then drop english lit.
Another thing to take into consideration is that english lit is regarded as a highly valuable subject to take at A-level. It complements history really well because of the analytic and essay writing skills you obtain from taking that course.
However, if you feel like you'll perform much better at A2 in sociology and you'll enjoy the year more. then drop english lit.
Another thing to take into consideration is that english lit is regarded as a highly valuable subject to take at A-level. It complements history really well because of the analytic and essay writing skills you obtain from taking that course.
Well, I have my heart set on a History degree at Oxford, and feel that admissions wont really mind what other two A levels i do, as long as they are essay based.
I was told, that Oxbridge don't care if you have one subject less suited to the course you want to study( in this case sociology) as long as the other two are closely related. Besides, surely my performance in the Oxford HAT will be most significant in applying for history
I was told, that Oxbridge don't care if you have one subject less suited to the course you want to study( in this case sociology) as long as the other two are closely related. Besides, surely my performance in the Oxford HAT will be most significant in applying for history
(edited 11 years ago)
At Oxford, 'providing that any specific subject requirements have been met, all A-levels are approved for admissions purposes, with the exception of General Studies.'
http://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate_courses/courses/courses_and_entrance_requirements/
For History at Oxford there are no mandatory A level subjects, not even History (although it is highly recommended).
http://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate_courses/courses/courses_and_entrance_requirements/table.html
HAT performance is easily the most significant factor in interview selection and remains an important consideration in the final decision.
I wondered whether you had weighed up the pros and cons of keeping your fourth A Level going? It's not needed of course, but if you ended up with A*A*B you miss your offer, whereas AAAB and you're in, whichever subject comes up short.
http://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate_courses/courses/courses_and_entrance_requirements/
For History at Oxford there are no mandatory A level subjects, not even History (although it is highly recommended).
http://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate_courses/courses/courses_and_entrance_requirements/table.html
HAT performance is easily the most significant factor in interview selection and remains an important consideration in the final decision.
I wondered whether you had weighed up the pros and cons of keeping your fourth A Level going? It's not needed of course, but if you ended up with A*A*B you miss your offer, whereas AAAB and you're in, whichever subject comes up short.
Thanks for the replies
Since English is my lowest A at AS, i feel that keeping it on will only disrupt my chances of achieving As in the other 3, as the workload is greater, especially considering how tough English A2 is. My scores in the other 3 are high, so surely dropping a subject is the best way to consolidate AAA
Since English is my lowest A at AS, i feel that keeping it on will only disrupt my chances of achieving As in the other 3, as the workload is greater, especially considering how tough English A2 is. My scores in the other 3 are high, so surely dropping a subject is the best way to consolidate AAA
Original post by FearghalGrace94
Hi,
I am going into Upper sixth and need help finalising my A2 subject choices. I studied History, English Lit, Religious Studies and Sociology at AS level and got 4 A's. I don't want to keep all four on however, and am thinking about dropping English Lit. But, I am worried that Oxford won't accept Sociology as a 3rd A Level, only as a fourth. So, is it wise for me to drop English Lit, and will Oxford accept me with History, Religious Studies and Sociology at A2????
I am going into Upper sixth and need help finalising my A2 subject choices. I studied History, English Lit, Religious Studies and Sociology at AS level and got 4 A's. I don't want to keep all four on however, and am thinking about dropping English Lit. But, I am worried that Oxford won't accept Sociology as a 3rd A Level, only as a fourth. So, is it wise for me to drop English Lit, and will Oxford accept me with History, Religious Studies and Sociology at A2????
You've chosen good subjects. The inevitable snobbery-laden tossers that stalk these Oxbridge threads will doubtless slate Sociology, and unnecessarily at that; I took Sociology to A-level in 2008 (and gained a very high grade A) and I'm now at Oxford, albeit the Department for Continuing Education. Again, a minority throw volleys of snobbery against me seeing as I'm currently a non-matriculated student that chose to take a 'less rigorous' subject at A-level, but you still have to be extremely able, and show real promise in your academic work, to get into the Foundation Certificate in History that I start in early October (Noughth Week of Michaelmas Term). Taking Sociology was not a hindrance to me in any way whatsoever; indeed, given that for my AS-level subjects I took 2 arts and 2 social sciences (History, English Literature, Politics, Sociology) the admissions tutors at Continuing Education remarked at my interview that I seemed to have an 'admirable balance' of subjects.
(I'm aware that I may just sound like someone with a chip on their shoulder in the above paragraph; that's not the aim of my contribution. Rather, I want to offer reassurance that taking progressive subjects at A-level, in combination with traditional 'meaty' academic subjects, need not be a barrier to Oxford or Cambridge.)
(edited 11 years ago)
Yes, Sociology, much like History, in fact, requires students to have very keen minds; you need to be adept at memorising subject-specific knowledge, and a lot of it at that. In Sociology's case, it's the case studies and citing other thinkers' work which is so crucial. This is much the same as what you'll be doing at undergraduate level in History or, come to think of it, any Arts subject that requires reflection and the augmentation of different theses and arguments in essays. Doing this well is what Oxford is looking for; consistently doing it well is a very tricky skill to master.
Original post by FearghalGrace94
Well, I have my heart set on a History degree at Oxford, and feel that admissions wont really mind what other two A levels i do, as long as they are essay based.
I was told, that Oxbridge don't care if you have one subject less suited to the course you want to study( in this case sociology) as long as the other two are closely related. Besides, surely my performance in the Oxford HAT will be most significant in applying for history
I was told, that Oxbridge don't care if you have one subject less suited to the course you want to study( in this case sociology) as long as the other two are closely related. Besides, surely my performance in the Oxford HAT will be most significant in applying for history
what was the point in this thread then?Did anyone go to the open day on Friday?
I'm a little worried about the History essay I have to write. The website says "This should be a marked essay of A2 level, or equivalent, written in your own time as part of your normal school/college work."
Does this mean I have to write it within the syllabus I'm studying or can it be about a topic I want it to be? Does it have to already be marked by my teacher? (On the basis of the first question, what if my teacher knows nothing about my topic?)
Thanks
Does this mean I have to write it within the syllabus I'm studying or can it be about a topic I want it to be? Does it have to already be marked by my teacher? (On the basis of the first question, what if my teacher knows nothing about my topic?)
Thanks
Original post by SaysWho?
I'm a little worried about the History essay I have to write. The website says "This should be a marked essay of A2 level, or equivalent, written in your own time as part of your normal school/college work."
Does this mean I have to write it within the syllabus I'm studying or can it be about a topic I want it to be? Does it have to already be marked by my teacher? (On the basis of the first question, what if my teacher knows nothing about my topic?)
Does this mean I have to write it within the syllabus I'm studying or can it be about a topic I want it to be? Does it have to already be marked by my teacher? (On the basis of the first question, what if my teacher knows nothing about my topic?)
It doesn't have to be within the syllabus; you could write one about any topic and then ask a teacher to mark it. Teachers should be able to comment on the merits of an essay whether or not they are experts in the field. However, personally I wouldn't advise setting out to write a piece specifically to impress. The danger is that you will tend to start second guessing what the admissions tutors are looking for, rather than writing in a style that is comfortable for you. Remember that the essay is quite likely to form the basis for a question or two at interview. You may then regret choosing that obscure topic, and using those unfathomably long words whose meaning you have all but forgotten three months later!
I would just use a fairly recent essay which got good marks and/or positive comments. If you're struggling to choose between two or more of similar quality, go for the unusual or original one.
Best of luck
Original post by shoshin
It doesn't have to be within the syllabus; you could write one about any topic and then ask a teacher to mark it. Teachers should be able to comment on the merits of an essay whether or not they are experts in the field. However, personally I wouldn't advise setting out to write a piece specifically to impress. The danger is that you will tend to start second guessing what the admissions tutors are looking for, rather than writing in a style that is comfortable for you.
I would just use a fairly recent essay which got good marks and/or positive comments. If you're struggling to choose between two or more of similar quality, go for the unusual or original one.
I would just use a fairly recent essay which got good marks and/or positive comments. If you're struggling to choose between two or more of similar quality, go for the unusual or original one.
Thankyou! I was considering writing about something I'm very interested in because I actually haven't written this kind of essay in class, so haven't got anything like this to submit. I have to start new.
Hi,
I'm in Upper Sixth, I'm studying History, Psychology and Biology, and I want to do History at Oxford.
At GCSE I got 5 A*s 6 A's and 2 B's, at AS I got an A in History (100% in one exam and 90% in the other) a high B in Psychology and a B in Biology. I'm predicted A*AB with the A* in History, A in Psychology and B in Biology, however, I am fairly confident I can get that Biology to an A. Because they wont predict me higher I'm obviously not applying to Oxford this year but I'm just wondering what you think my chances are of getting an offer if I come out with A*AA next year, take a gap year and then apply again next September so I have the actual marks not just the predicted grades?
I'm in Upper Sixth, I'm studying History, Psychology and Biology, and I want to do History at Oxford.
At GCSE I got 5 A*s 6 A's and 2 B's, at AS I got an A in History (100% in one exam and 90% in the other) a high B in Psychology and a B in Biology. I'm predicted A*AB with the A* in History, A in Psychology and B in Biology, however, I am fairly confident I can get that Biology to an A. Because they wont predict me higher I'm obviously not applying to Oxford this year but I'm just wondering what you think my chances are of getting an offer if I come out with A*AA next year, take a gap year and then apply again next September so I have the actual marks not just the predicted grades?
Original post by laurakwxo
Hi,
I'm in Upper Sixth, I'm studying History, Psychology and Biology, and I want to do History at Oxford.
At GCSE I got 5 A*s 6 A's and 2 B's, at AS I got an A in History (100% in one exam and 90% in the other) a high B in Psychology and a B in Biology. I'm predicted A*AB with the A* in History, A in Psychology and B in Biology, however, I am fairly confident I can get that Biology to an A. Because they wont predict me higher I'm obviously not applying to Oxford this year but I'm just wondering what you think my chances are of getting an offer if I come out with A*AA next year, take a gap year and then apply again next September so I have the actual marks not just the predicted grades?
I'm in Upper Sixth, I'm studying History, Psychology and Biology, and I want to do History at Oxford.
At GCSE I got 5 A*s 6 A's and 2 B's, at AS I got an A in History (100% in one exam and 90% in the other) a high B in Psychology and a B in Biology. I'm predicted A*AB with the A* in History, A in Psychology and B in Biology, however, I am fairly confident I can get that Biology to an A. Because they wont predict me higher I'm obviously not applying to Oxford this year but I'm just wondering what you think my chances are of getting an offer if I come out with A*AA next year, take a gap year and then apply again next September so I have the actual marks not just the predicted grades?
Having the grades already in the bag may be a plus, but it's prob'ly a relatively small one. The offer is 'only' AAA and there will be no shortage of candidates for whom the risk of missed predicted grades will not be a significant concern for the tutors.
You will certainly have a solid academic base for your application, but the importance of the History Aptitude Test (not to mention the interview) means that it's not really possible to rate your chances, other than to say that in general it's between one-in-four and one-in-five (closer to one-in-three once you make it to interview).
Good luck
Original post by shoshin
Yes, a friend at my college. Her example is one of the reasons why I'm a bit of a HAT bore, because this is the area she worked on for the second application (she also applied to a different college).
Yes, a friend at my college. Her example is one of the reasons why I'm a bit of a HAT bore, because this is the area she worked on for the second application (she also applied to a different college).
As a HAT bore who was obviously very good at it
what would you recommend as preparation apart from doing the past papers available on the website?Original post by TheRedQueen
As a HAT bore who was obviously very good at it what would you recommend as preparation apart from doing the past papers available on the website?
what would you recommend as preparation apart from doing the past papers available on the website?Well, here are my thoughts fwiw, but everyone tackles it their own way so I shan't be upset if you completely ignore it
Work out in advance the amount of time you will actually have for each of the four answers, once planning time is excluded, and keep an eye on this during the test. The danger is that you'll get all wrapped up in the essay and leave too little time to do a good job of q2.
Stick like glue to the instructions; one sentence, fifteen lines max, or whatever. If question 1a says 'according to the first paragraph', for example, the author might easily have reversed her/his argument in subsequent paragraphs, which you will have probably read and digested so may be worryingly tempted to include.
Regarding the essay, the biggest fear would be not being able to think up any historical example that fits the question, so it's a good idea to have an emergency topic up your sleeve that is not necessarily the one you will use but which can be applied to a wide variety of scenarios if needed. Test this 'emergency kit' by looking at all the past papers and imagining, if push came to shove, whether you could write something on it for more or less every question.
Regarding question 2, if there is a possible gender angle, try to pick up on it, remembering that 'masculinities' are worth noting as well as feminist perspectives. Also, try to include some detail that demonstrates that you have read the thing to bits. I mean, during our post-HAT TSR discussion, some people were saying 'what did you make of the canoe; did you think that it indicated that the tribe would have had relatively sophisticated trade relations with neighbouring villages along navigable routes?' and others were like 'what canoe?'
Good luck
Quick Reply
Related discussions
- History & Politics at Oxbridge
- Does Oxford PPE require A level history
- Applying to history and economics at oxford
- For modern history, is Oxford or Cambridge better?
- Oxford - how to sway the odds in your favour?
- Ancient History, Classics, and Archaeology Applicants 2022
- Applying to course at Oxford which recommends A-Level maths?
- American With Too Many Qualifications ( AS-Levels and AP)
- UCAS Clearing 2023 FAQ and Help Megathread
- Got a Ucas or results related question? Ask a Clearing and Applications Advisor here
- Economics and History at Oxford or Politics and History/Economics at Cambridge?
- Can I still go to Oxbridge?
- Official History (and joint options) applications thread 2022
- Oxford Interviews 2024 History of Art
- history and economics at oxford?
- HSPS at Cambridge: What are the chances of making it?
- a level prediction
- Can I do year 14 and still apply to Oxford?
- History Course at Cambridge vs at Oxford
- Applying to a PhD with an ok-ish GPA
Trending
- University of Oxford 2024 Undergraduate Applicants Official Thread
- I don’t think I should have been accepted to oxford
- Oxford Law Interview Invitees Thread
- oxford english interviews
- Does Oxford prefer A-Level Law?
- Oxford with bad english lit grade
- How bad is it to get 65?
- Oxford Law with French Law Interview SOS!!
- Oxford Biology 2024 Applicants
- Oxford Step-Up Program
- Physics for Oxford Chemistry?
- Canadian Intl. Student Help
- 2023 Cambridge Assessment Admissions Testing tests and posting rules
- Personal statement
- TSA tutor
- how much do oxford and cambridge consider GCSEs?
- Oxford - how important are the entry requirements?
- Is a post-A level application for Oxford a good idea?
- Biomedical Science BMs Oxford
- Oxbridge application
Latest
- Barclays Graduate Scheme 2024
- Woodhouse College Interviews?
- FTI Consulting 2024 Grad Schemes
- binge eating
- Why does eating out always make me feel ill ?
- BP graduate scheme 2024
- Year 12 the start of everything..... LOL
- If I got average mark in my second yr could I still get a first class
- Anyone experienced willing to critique my GCSE Q5 of English Language Paper 1?
- Computer Science at Warwick
- Monarchists vs Republicans
- Help w uni courses and weird a level predictions
- Official Optometry Applicants thread 2024
- Girls Vs. Boys (Part 45)
- Christmas Countdown
- Failed resit for one module in my final year
- Human Sciences Oxford applicants 2023-2024
- Official University of Warwick Offer Holders Thread for 2024 entry
- New Thread Experience Feedback - Official Thread
- [Official thread] Durham University 2024 Applicants
- 2024 Entry University Offers Thread
- Edgehill midwifery interview 29th nov, the wait is already killing me!
- Official Cambridge Postgraduate Applicants 2024 Thread
- King’s College London (KCL) 2024 Postgrad
- Official Warwick Applicants Thread 2024 Entry
- How do you practice programming java for beginners?
- The Russell Group hurt/heal game (Part 5)
- BMAT 2024 Entry Discussions Megathread
- ATAS (Academic, Technology, Approval Scheme) Certificate 2023/2024
- Cardiff University 2024 Applicant Thread
- DWP Work Coach October 2023
- Tesco induction clothes/uniform?
- Can I approach someone to know about the pending status of my application?
- Doubt 🤔 💭
- Failed yr 11 mocks
- Official: University of Nottingham A100 2024 Entry Applicant thread
- Oxford Interviews 2024
- Considering taking a gap year and applying to oxford
- CBSE to A-Level Equivalence
- Applying directly to the University *not through UCAS*