I got fully-funded PhD offers to both Oxford & Cambridge - here's my advice!
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Reply 20
7
Happy Friday, everyone!
Just want to highlight two free resources I've made for prospective postgraduate applicants to Oxford and Cambridge that I believe will be really helpful for your application process and that I wish had been around when I applied!
I used these exact tools for my successful fully-funded PhD applications to Oxford and Cambridge:
Schools & programmes application tracker spreadsheet: Keep track of all deadlines, letters of recommendation, academic and special requirements, costs, etc all in one place. Making this spreadsheet to keep track of the 15+ programmes I applied to was a MAJOR help and now I want you to have it! 😊
Application timeline checklist: I remember how confused and overwhelmed I was trying to keep track of everything that needed to be done for each application and figure out when each needed to get done with enough time to spare. This printable cheat sheet demystifies ALL the steps that need to be taken to submit your applications on time, plus exactly when to take each step. I've included checkboxes for each step so you can track your progress!
As always, ask any questions you have and I'll try my best to help answer. 🤗
Hope this helps you have a productive weekend working on your apps for your dream programmes!
xx Claire
Just want to highlight two free resources I've made for prospective postgraduate applicants to Oxford and Cambridge that I believe will be really helpful for your application process and that I wish had been around when I applied!
I used these exact tools for my successful fully-funded PhD applications to Oxford and Cambridge:
Schools & programmes application tracker spreadsheet: Keep track of all deadlines, letters of recommendation, academic and special requirements, costs, etc all in one place. Making this spreadsheet to keep track of the 15+ programmes I applied to was a MAJOR help and now I want you to have it! 😊
Application timeline checklist: I remember how confused and overwhelmed I was trying to keep track of everything that needed to be done for each application and figure out when each needed to get done with enough time to spare. This printable cheat sheet demystifies ALL the steps that need to be taken to submit your applications on time, plus exactly when to take each step. I've included checkboxes for each step so you can track your progress!
As always, ask any questions you have and I'll try my best to help answer. 🤗
Hope this helps you have a productive weekend working on your apps for your dream programmes!
xx Claire
Reply 21
7
Happy weekend! 😊
If you're visiting this thread, you're likely considering applying to Oxford or Cambridge for your postgrad studies! With so many programmes to choose from, the decision-making process can be overwhelming - I know it was for me, at least. So today I wanted to share some real, actionable advice for choosing the perfect programme for you that you won't easily find just from a Google search.
1. Dig Deep into Course Features
You may already have an idea about the programmes that align with your interests. However, it's crucial to look into the specific features and flexibility of these courses. While some have set coursework with little flexibility, others might allow you to choose some courses or even flexible research opportunities or rotations (like 1+3 or DTP programmes). Did you know some PhD courses also require coursework (like Oxford's DPhil in Particle Physics) in addition to the main research component? Knowing things like this will help you choose the best programme for you and keep you from any surprises! Course handbooks on the universities' websites often provide these details so definitely check those out first.
2. Look Beyond Famous Faculty
While big names can be attractive, some of the best mentors are often less-publicised professors. My supervisor, an associate professor at Oxford, has quickly risen the ranks to tenureship since I joined his group, but when I contacted him in 2020 he wasn't very well-known. Instead, I discovered him through academic databases and seeing who was actively publishing in my field of interest. As a result, I get WAY more personalised mentorship, guidance, and attention from him than friends of mine whose supervisors are heads of departments or divisions. I would take this any day over a big name and professors who frequently show up hours late to meetings or cancel them altogether (true story). The topic of your dissertation is less important than the experience and mentorship you get during your degree, which will set you up for better success not just during your degree, but afterward, too.
3. Connect with Current Students or Alumni
LinkedIn can be a useful resource for connecting with people who have firsthand experience with your prospective schools and departments. For example, by speaking with a postdoc in a lab I was interested in at Cambridge, I was able to get honest input from her about a bunch of red flags about a particular PI, which helped me steer clear of someone who wouldn't have been a good fit for my PhD. Send someone a direct message on LinkedIn and ask if you could chat briefly about their experience; many people are more than willing to help!
4. Investigate the Alumni Network
Many programmes highlight their alumni network, but it's worth your time to dig deeper. Also use LinkedIn to see where alumni are now and whether they are in roles or fields you aspire to. Do the results match your aspirations and what the school claims about its alumni?
5. Join Helpful Forums
The application process can feel isolating, especially for those applying from abroad like I did. Forums like this one are excellent for sharing experiences and gaining advice! So keep connecting with others, asking questions, and building community - it's really essential to get through this marathon. 😊
BONUS TIP: Keep Track of Your Research
Keeping track of all the requirements for each programme you find can be challenging. I've created a simple application tracker spreadsheet that helped me stay organised during my Oxbridge applications. It's free to use. If you're interested, just drop me a DM, and I'll be happy to share it with you!
Happy applying,
Claire
If you're visiting this thread, you're likely considering applying to Oxford or Cambridge for your postgrad studies! With so many programmes to choose from, the decision-making process can be overwhelming - I know it was for me, at least. So today I wanted to share some real, actionable advice for choosing the perfect programme for you that you won't easily find just from a Google search.
1. Dig Deep into Course Features
You may already have an idea about the programmes that align with your interests. However, it's crucial to look into the specific features and flexibility of these courses. While some have set coursework with little flexibility, others might allow you to choose some courses or even flexible research opportunities or rotations (like 1+3 or DTP programmes). Did you know some PhD courses also require coursework (like Oxford's DPhil in Particle Physics) in addition to the main research component? Knowing things like this will help you choose the best programme for you and keep you from any surprises! Course handbooks on the universities' websites often provide these details so definitely check those out first.
2. Look Beyond Famous Faculty
While big names can be attractive, some of the best mentors are often less-publicised professors. My supervisor, an associate professor at Oxford, has quickly risen the ranks to tenureship since I joined his group, but when I contacted him in 2020 he wasn't very well-known. Instead, I discovered him through academic databases and seeing who was actively publishing in my field of interest. As a result, I get WAY more personalised mentorship, guidance, and attention from him than friends of mine whose supervisors are heads of departments or divisions. I would take this any day over a big name and professors who frequently show up hours late to meetings or cancel them altogether (true story). The topic of your dissertation is less important than the experience and mentorship you get during your degree, which will set you up for better success not just during your degree, but afterward, too.
3. Connect with Current Students or Alumni
LinkedIn can be a useful resource for connecting with people who have firsthand experience with your prospective schools and departments. For example, by speaking with a postdoc in a lab I was interested in at Cambridge, I was able to get honest input from her about a bunch of red flags about a particular PI, which helped me steer clear of someone who wouldn't have been a good fit for my PhD. Send someone a direct message on LinkedIn and ask if you could chat briefly about their experience; many people are more than willing to help!
4. Investigate the Alumni Network
Many programmes highlight their alumni network, but it's worth your time to dig deeper. Also use LinkedIn to see where alumni are now and whether they are in roles or fields you aspire to. Do the results match your aspirations and what the school claims about its alumni?
5. Join Helpful Forums
The application process can feel isolating, especially for those applying from abroad like I did. Forums like this one are excellent for sharing experiences and gaining advice! So keep connecting with others, asking questions, and building community - it's really essential to get through this marathon. 😊
BONUS TIP: Keep Track of Your Research
Keeping track of all the requirements for each programme you find can be challenging. I've created a simple application tracker spreadsheet that helped me stay organised during my Oxbridge applications. It's free to use. If you're interested, just drop me a DM, and I'll be happy to share it with you!
Happy applying,
Claire
Reply 22
7
ON THE IMPORTANCE OF PASSION
Diving straight into the advice, today I want to talk about the importance of passion. For me, passion is one of the most important things. It makes all the difference in my experience. And I believe it's one of the #1 things admissions officers at Oxford and Cambridge are looking for that will help your application stand out.
I remember my first time applying to PhD programmes, my choices were all over the map. From behavioural science to the technology of listening devices, I was a bit lost. Clearly, these didn't have much to do with my prior real-world research experiences and otherwise, and didn't connect to the compelling story that got me interested in biological sciences in the first place - they were just kind of random topics that sounded interesting at the time. But when I finally honed in on what truly made me unique in 2020 during my second round of applications — my personal connection to the research I wanted to pursue — and embraced it was winding road to get where I was, it was a game-changer.
It's been clear to me since, both through the admissions process and now studying at Oxford itself, that Oxford and Cambridge aren't just looking for academic brilliance. They also want to see that you're deeply passionate about your field beyond the expected. So, how can you make your passion shine through in your application? Here are some quick tips:
1. Embrace Your Interests: Before you even start applying, don't shy away from experiences that may not seem directly related to your field of study. Trust me - following your passions can lead you to the right place. For example, I interned at the US Embassy in Berlin and ran a travel blog, and these experiences were valued by Oxbridge because they shaped who I am. I was even asked about my travel blog in a Cambridge PhD interview!
2. Start with 'Why': In your personal statement, delve into why you're passionate about your field. If a personal experience drove you to it, share that story. Just keep it concise yet compelling.
3. Connect the Dots: Make it clear how your passion led you to this specific programme and what you plan to do with this education. This is something you can discuss not just in your personal statement but also with potential supervisors and during interviews if appropriate.
4. Show, Don't Just Tell: Use concrete examples from your past to demonstrate your passion. Whether it's a blog you started, a paper you published, or a unique volunteer experience, let them know! For example, my first time applying, I didn't really have much to show for my interest in researching the brain basis for pleasure during music listening besides being a passionate musician myself - but I hadn't played my saxophone once all through University. 😅 In contrast, when I applied the second time and was interested in various topics throughout neurology and immunology, this matched not only with my personal connected to the research - my twin sister and her CIDP - but also the years of research experience I had gained in those exact disciplines.
Finally, it's worth noting that admissions officers have a sixth sense for spotting genuine passion. So, be yourself and let your natural curiosity and enthusiasm shine through. Don't try to fake it.
Feel free to DM me if you have any questions or want to chat more about the application process. Good luck to all of you!
xx Claire
Diving straight into the advice, today I want to talk about the importance of passion. For me, passion is one of the most important things. It makes all the difference in my experience. And I believe it's one of the #1 things admissions officers at Oxford and Cambridge are looking for that will help your application stand out.
I remember my first time applying to PhD programmes, my choices were all over the map. From behavioural science to the technology of listening devices, I was a bit lost. Clearly, these didn't have much to do with my prior real-world research experiences and otherwise, and didn't connect to the compelling story that got me interested in biological sciences in the first place - they were just kind of random topics that sounded interesting at the time. But when I finally honed in on what truly made me unique in 2020 during my second round of applications — my personal connection to the research I wanted to pursue — and embraced it was winding road to get where I was, it was a game-changer.
It's been clear to me since, both through the admissions process and now studying at Oxford itself, that Oxford and Cambridge aren't just looking for academic brilliance. They also want to see that you're deeply passionate about your field beyond the expected. So, how can you make your passion shine through in your application? Here are some quick tips:
1. Embrace Your Interests: Before you even start applying, don't shy away from experiences that may not seem directly related to your field of study. Trust me - following your passions can lead you to the right place. For example, I interned at the US Embassy in Berlin and ran a travel blog, and these experiences were valued by Oxbridge because they shaped who I am. I was even asked about my travel blog in a Cambridge PhD interview!
2. Start with 'Why': In your personal statement, delve into why you're passionate about your field. If a personal experience drove you to it, share that story. Just keep it concise yet compelling.
3. Connect the Dots: Make it clear how your passion led you to this specific programme and what you plan to do with this education. This is something you can discuss not just in your personal statement but also with potential supervisors and during interviews if appropriate.
4. Show, Don't Just Tell: Use concrete examples from your past to demonstrate your passion. Whether it's a blog you started, a paper you published, or a unique volunteer experience, let them know! For example, my first time applying, I didn't really have much to show for my interest in researching the brain basis for pleasure during music listening besides being a passionate musician myself - but I hadn't played my saxophone once all through University. 😅 In contrast, when I applied the second time and was interested in various topics throughout neurology and immunology, this matched not only with my personal connected to the research - my twin sister and her CIDP - but also the years of research experience I had gained in those exact disciplines.
Finally, it's worth noting that admissions officers have a sixth sense for spotting genuine passion. So, be yourself and let your natural curiosity and enthusiasm shine through. Don't try to fake it.
Feel free to DM me if you have any questions or want to chat more about the application process. Good luck to all of you!
xx Claire
Reply 23
7
AN IMPORTANT MINDSET TRAP NOT TO FALL INTO
Happy October, everyone! Application season is officially in full swing, I think we can say! 🥳
When I applied at Oxford and Cambridge, one thing I really took for granted until I was in the throes of it all was the importance of mindset. I think I'm going to talk about this a lot more on this discussion thread because there are actually so many aspects that I took for granted during my experience that I wish I had been better prepared for going into it since there are so many ups and downs through it all.
BUT, today I want to talk about a particular common mistake that could be holding you back that I think a lot of us suffer from: overthinking the competition.
The pitfalls of overthinking the competition:
Some quick tips for a better mindset that helped me:
Oxford and Cambridge value individuals who can contribute meaningfully to their field, not just those with top grades. So, focus on what makes you an exceptional candidate.
If you found this post helpful and want to explore the Oxbridge application process further, feel free to DM me. I'm happy to see how I can help!
xx Claire
Third-year DPhil student & Clarendon Scholar, Oxford
Winner of fully-funded PhDs at Oxford & Cambridge
Happy October, everyone! Application season is officially in full swing, I think we can say! 🥳
When I applied at Oxford and Cambridge, one thing I really took for granted until I was in the throes of it all was the importance of mindset. I think I'm going to talk about this a lot more on this discussion thread because there are actually so many aspects that I took for granted during my experience that I wish I had been better prepared for going into it since there are so many ups and downs through it all.
BUT, today I want to talk about a particular common mistake that could be holding you back that I think a lot of us suffer from: overthinking the competition.
The pitfalls of overthinking the competition:
•
Distraction: When you're busy comparing yourself to others, your own application suffers. Focus on showcasing your unique strengths and passions instead.
•
Mental Drain: Worrying about how you stack up against others is exhausting. Save your energy for important tasks like your research proposal or personal statement.
•
Lack of Control: Remember - you can't control other applicants, but you can control how well you present yourself in your application.
Some quick tips for a better mindset that helped me:
•
Self-focus: Make a list of your achievements and skills. Use this as your benchmark, not other applicants. I know this can be hard (I'm a twin, so if anyone knows what constant comparison feels like, it's me! 😅), but in the end, it's going to feel a lot better if you compete against yourself in your mind, not others.
•
Feedback is gold: Reach out to mentors or alumni for constructive feedback on your application. Their insights can be invaluable.
•
Celebrate the small wins: Personally, I don't think we do this enough in today's high-pressure academic environment. So did you finish your CV or get a great reference letter? Celebrate these milestones!
Oxford and Cambridge value individuals who can contribute meaningfully to their field, not just those with top grades. So, focus on what makes you an exceptional candidate.
If you found this post helpful and want to explore the Oxbridge application process further, feel free to DM me. I'm happy to see how I can help!
xx Claire
Third-year DPhil student & Clarendon Scholar, Oxford
Winner of fully-funded PhDs at Oxford & Cambridge
Reply 24
Wow, I'm moved by your story about your twin sister. I hope both of you get a healthy and successful life!
I'm also interested in doing Masters in Oxford and Cambridge on Computer Science but I have a lot of time as I'm in First Year doing bachelors degree, 18 y/o. I couldn’t get good grades because I moved to Uk from a different country and non English so it was very hard for me to understand how all education system worked, I have studied myself mostly. Here, Im doing Bachelors in Comp Sci, it maybe not as fancy as yours but good for me lol. I'm sure ill work hard enough to get a high first class degree in my bachelors degree. To prepare or my masters in Oxbridge as it is their minimum requirements. Also, I don’t understand what a dissertation is, would it be important to hone my skills and other things from now?
and what advice would you give me?
I'm also interested in doing Masters in Oxford and Cambridge on Computer Science but I have a lot of time as I'm in First Year doing bachelors degree, 18 y/o. I couldn’t get good grades because I moved to Uk from a different country and non English so it was very hard for me to understand how all education system worked, I have studied myself mostly. Here, Im doing Bachelors in Comp Sci, it maybe not as fancy as yours but good for me lol. I'm sure ill work hard enough to get a high first class degree in my bachelors degree. To prepare or my masters in Oxbridge as it is their minimum requirements. Also, I don’t understand what a dissertation is, would it be important to hone my skills and other things from now?
and what advice would you give me?
Reply 25
7
Original post
by Zephyr0221Wow, I'm moved by your story about your twin sister. I hope both of you get a healthy and successful life!
I'm also interested in doing Masters in Oxford and Cambridge on Computer Science but I have a lot of time as I'm in First Year doing bachelors degree, 18 y/o. I couldn’t get good grades because I moved to Uk from a different country and non English so it was very hard for me to understand how all education system worked, I have studied myself mostly. Here, Im doing Bachelors in Comp Sci, it maybe not as fancy as yours but good for me lol. I'm sure ill work hard enough to get a high first class degree in my bachelors degree. To prepare or my masters in Oxbridge as it is their minimum requirements. Also, I don’t understand what a dissertation is, would it be important to hone my skills and other things from now?
and what advice would you give me?
I'm also interested in doing Masters in Oxford and Cambridge on Computer Science but I have a lot of time as I'm in First Year doing bachelors degree, 18 y/o. I couldn’t get good grades because I moved to Uk from a different country and non English so it was very hard for me to understand how all education system worked, I have studied myself mostly. Here, Im doing Bachelors in Comp Sci, it maybe not as fancy as yours but good for me lol. I'm sure ill work hard enough to get a high first class degree in my bachelors degree. To prepare or my masters in Oxbridge as it is their minimum requirements. Also, I don’t understand what a dissertation is, would it be important to hone my skills and other things from now?
and what advice would you give me?
Hey there! First of all, thank you for your kind words about my sister and me. It's a journey, but we're both doing our best.
I'm thrilled to hear you're aiming for Oxford and Cambridge for your Masters in Computer Science! It's never too early to start preparing, especially when you're as motivated as you are. Moving to a new country and navigating a different education system is no small feat, so kudos to you for taking it all in stride. Your determination is clear, and that's something Oxbridge values.
As for your question about a dissertation, it's essentially a long essay or research project that you'll usually do in the final year of your degree. It's a chance to delve deep into a topic you're passionate about. And yes, it's definitely important. Not only does it show your ability to conduct in-depth research and contribute to your field, but it also gives you something substantial to talk about in your application and interviews.
Since you're in your first year, you have the luxury of time to prepare. Here are some quick tips:
- Focus on getting that high first-class degree, as you mentioned.
- Engage in extracurriculars related to your field. It'll make your application stand out.
- Start building relationships with your professors now. You'll need them for references later.
- If possible, get some research experience. It's a big plus (and for some degrees, an absolute necessity) for Oxbridge. I'm not so sure about this for a Comp Sci Masters so try to ask someone in your faculty or on this forum!
Best of luck on your journey!
Reply 26
7
READ THIS BEFORE CHOOSING/FINALISING POTENTIAL SUPERVISORS
Hey everyone! Today, I want to talk about something crucial and something I've been asked a lot about over on my Instagram: choosing the right supervisor for your grad school experience at Oxford or Cambridge.
Throughout undergrad and working full-time before my PhD, I seemed to have the worst luck of any of my academic peers - from PIs who barely knew I existed to micromanaging supervisors whose psychological abuse literally put me in the hospital, I really got to experience it all. 😅
I applied what I learned from having five TERRIBLE supervisors, both inside academia and out, to choosing supervisors at Oxford and Cambridge. Now, I've got the smartest, kindest, all-around best supervisor I could have ever asked for!
How did I finally find the right fit for my DPhil at Oxford? Here are some tips that worked for me:
1. Consider Less Publicised Profs
As I mentioned the other day, less publicised profs can be your best friend. My supervisor at Oxford has quickly risen the ranks but as an associate prof when I started with him, he had way more time to dedicate to mentoring me. I would choose this any day vs the head of a department who may be more famous, but you barely get to see and who constantly cancels meetings (true story).
2. Dive Deep into Departmental Websites
Beyond the standard profiles, some departments have hidden gems like recorded lectures or seminars. This can give you a real feel for a supervisor's current interests and teaching style.
3. Talk to Current Students and Postdocs
I spoke with a postdoc at Cambridge who gave me invaluable insights about her PI and helped me avoid some MAJOR red flags when I applied. The PI himself actually offered for me to talk to her and set this up, but you don't need to wait for that - you can also find postdocs listed on departmental websites under professors you're interested in working with and reach out on LinkedIn or directly via email, if their email is listed.
4. Check Publication Frequency
A supervisor who publishes regularly is a good sign, but remember, it's quality over quantity!
5. Explore Collaboration Networks
Tools like Google Scholar can show you who they frequently collaborate with. This can open doors to interdisciplinary work and wider academic networks.
6. Prioritise Communication Styles
It's essential that your supervisor's communication style aligns with yours. Do they prefer regular check-ins or a more hands-off approach? Knowing this can save future misunderstandings.
Don't underestimate how your relationship with your future supervisor will be one of the most influential during your time at Oxford or Cambridge. Invest the time to make an informed choice; it'll pay off in the long run!
Hey everyone! Today, I want to talk about something crucial and something I've been asked a lot about over on my Instagram: choosing the right supervisor for your grad school experience at Oxford or Cambridge.
Throughout undergrad and working full-time before my PhD, I seemed to have the worst luck of any of my academic peers - from PIs who barely knew I existed to micromanaging supervisors whose psychological abuse literally put me in the hospital, I really got to experience it all. 😅
I applied what I learned from having five TERRIBLE supervisors, both inside academia and out, to choosing supervisors at Oxford and Cambridge. Now, I've got the smartest, kindest, all-around best supervisor I could have ever asked for!
How did I finally find the right fit for my DPhil at Oxford? Here are some tips that worked for me:
1. Consider Less Publicised Profs
As I mentioned the other day, less publicised profs can be your best friend. My supervisor at Oxford has quickly risen the ranks but as an associate prof when I started with him, he had way more time to dedicate to mentoring me. I would choose this any day vs the head of a department who may be more famous, but you barely get to see and who constantly cancels meetings (true story).
2. Dive Deep into Departmental Websites
Beyond the standard profiles, some departments have hidden gems like recorded lectures or seminars. This can give you a real feel for a supervisor's current interests and teaching style.
3. Talk to Current Students and Postdocs
I spoke with a postdoc at Cambridge who gave me invaluable insights about her PI and helped me avoid some MAJOR red flags when I applied. The PI himself actually offered for me to talk to her and set this up, but you don't need to wait for that - you can also find postdocs listed on departmental websites under professors you're interested in working with and reach out on LinkedIn or directly via email, if their email is listed.
4. Check Publication Frequency
A supervisor who publishes regularly is a good sign, but remember, it's quality over quantity!
5. Explore Collaboration Networks
Tools like Google Scholar can show you who they frequently collaborate with. This can open doors to interdisciplinary work and wider academic networks.
6. Prioritise Communication Styles
It's essential that your supervisor's communication style aligns with yours. Do they prefer regular check-ins or a more hands-off approach? Knowing this can save future misunderstandings.
Don't underestimate how your relationship with your future supervisor will be one of the most influential during your time at Oxford or Cambridge. Invest the time to make an informed choice; it'll pay off in the long run!
Reply 27
Original post
by clairebergjoHey there! First of all, thank you for your kind words about my sister and me. It's a journey, but we're both doing our best.
I'm thrilled to hear you're aiming for Oxford and Cambridge for your Masters in Computer Science! It's never too early to start preparing, especially when you're as motivated as you are. Moving to a new country and navigating a different education system is no small feat, so kudos to you for taking it all in stride. Your determination is clear, and that's something Oxbridge values.
As for your question about a dissertation, it's essentially a long essay or research project that you'll usually do in the final year of your degree. It's a chance to delve deep into a topic you're passionate about. And yes, it's definitely important. Not only does it show your ability to conduct in-depth research and contribute to your field, but it also gives you something substantial to talk about in your application and interviews.
Since you're in your first year, you have the luxury of time to prepare. Here are some quick tips:
- Focus on getting that high first-class degree, as you mentioned.
- Engage in extracurriculars related to your field. It'll make your application stand out.
- Start building relationships with your professors now. You'll need them for references later.
- If possible, get some research experience. It's a big plus (and for some degrees, an absolute necessity) for Oxbridge. I'm not so sure about this for a Comp Sci Masters so try to ask someone in your faculty or on this forum!
Best of luck on your journey!
I'm thrilled to hear you're aiming for Oxford and Cambridge for your Masters in Computer Science! It's never too early to start preparing, especially when you're as motivated as you are. Moving to a new country and navigating a different education system is no small feat, so kudos to you for taking it all in stride. Your determination is clear, and that's something Oxbridge values.
As for your question about a dissertation, it's essentially a long essay or research project that you'll usually do in the final year of your degree. It's a chance to delve deep into a topic you're passionate about. And yes, it's definitely important. Not only does it show your ability to conduct in-depth research and contribute to your field, but it also gives you something substantial to talk about in your application and interviews.
Since you're in your first year, you have the luxury of time to prepare. Here are some quick tips:
- Focus on getting that high first-class degree, as you mentioned.
- Engage in extracurriculars related to your field. It'll make your application stand out.
- Start building relationships with your professors now. You'll need them for references later.
- If possible, get some research experience. It's a big plus (and for some degrees, an absolute necessity) for Oxbridge. I'm not so sure about this for a Comp Sci Masters so try to ask someone in your faculty or on this forum!
Best of luck on your journey!
Thank you very much will do!
I have always been good at research and writing up a document. Your tips are very appreciated. I’ll start now and will do research as well.
Reply 28
Hi Claire, thank you for your sharing. I am considering applying to the Clinical Neurosciences program at Cambridge this year. However, I'm confused about the research proposal requirements. It appears that the program doesn't mandate a research proposal, unless applying for certain scholarships. I'm wondering if you prepared a research proposal for this program? Also, is it necessary to have one ready for the interview stage?
Reply 29
Original post
by clairebergjoHappy weekend! 😊
If you're visiting this thread, you're likely considering applying to Oxford or Cambridge for your postgrad studies! With so many programmes to choose from, the decision-making process can be overwhelming - I know it was for me, at least. So today I wanted to share some real, actionable advice for choosing the perfect programme for you that you won't easily find just from a Google search.
1. Dig Deep into Course Features
You may already have an idea about the programmes that align with your interests. However, it's crucial to look into the specific features and flexibility of these courses. While some have set coursework with little flexibility, others might allow you to choose some courses or even flexible research opportunities or rotations (like 1+3 or DTP programmes). Did you know some PhD courses also require coursework (like Oxford's DPhil in Particle Physics) in addition to the main research component? Knowing things like this will help you choose the best programme for you and keep you from any surprises! Course handbooks on the universities' websites often provide these details so definitely check those out first.
2. Look Beyond Famous Faculty
While big names can be attractive, some of the best mentors are often less-publicised professors. My supervisor, an associate professor at Oxford, has quickly risen the ranks to tenureship since I joined his group, but when I contacted him in 2020 he wasn't very well-known. Instead, I discovered him through academic databases and seeing who was actively publishing in my field of interest. As a result, I get WAY more personalised mentorship, guidance, and attention from him than friends of mine whose supervisors are heads of departments or divisions. I would take this any day over a big name and professors who frequently show up hours late to meetings or cancel them altogether (true story). The topic of your dissertation is less important than the experience and mentorship you get during your degree, which will set you up for better success not just during your degree, but afterward, too.
3. Connect with Current Students or Alumni
LinkedIn can be a useful resource for connecting with people who have firsthand experience with your prospective schools and departments. For example, by speaking with a postdoc in a lab I was interested in at Cambridge, I was able to get honest input from her about a bunch of red flags about a particular PI, which helped me steer clear of someone who wouldn't have been a good fit for my PhD. Send someone a direct message on LinkedIn and ask if you could chat briefly about their experience; many people are more than willing to help!
4. Investigate the Alumni Network
Many programmes highlight their alumni network, but it's worth your time to dig deeper. Also use LinkedIn to see where alumni are now and whether they are in roles or fields you aspire to. Do the results match your aspirations and what the school claims about its alumni?
5. Join Helpful Forums
The application process can feel isolating, especially for those applying from abroad like I did. Forums like this one are excellent for sharing experiences and gaining advice! So keep connecting with others, asking questions, and building community - it's really essential to get through this marathon. 😊
BONUS TIP: Keep Track of Your Research
Keeping track of all the requirements for each programme you find can be challenging. I've created a simple application tracker spreadsheet that helped me stay organised during my Oxbridge applications. It's free to use. If you're interested, just drop me a DM, and I'll be happy to share it with you!
Happy applying,
Claire
If you're visiting this thread, you're likely considering applying to Oxford or Cambridge for your postgrad studies! With so many programmes to choose from, the decision-making process can be overwhelming - I know it was for me, at least. So today I wanted to share some real, actionable advice for choosing the perfect programme for you that you won't easily find just from a Google search.
1. Dig Deep into Course Features
You may already have an idea about the programmes that align with your interests. However, it's crucial to look into the specific features and flexibility of these courses. While some have set coursework with little flexibility, others might allow you to choose some courses or even flexible research opportunities or rotations (like 1+3 or DTP programmes). Did you know some PhD courses also require coursework (like Oxford's DPhil in Particle Physics) in addition to the main research component? Knowing things like this will help you choose the best programme for you and keep you from any surprises! Course handbooks on the universities' websites often provide these details so definitely check those out first.
2. Look Beyond Famous Faculty
While big names can be attractive, some of the best mentors are often less-publicised professors. My supervisor, an associate professor at Oxford, has quickly risen the ranks to tenureship since I joined his group, but when I contacted him in 2020 he wasn't very well-known. Instead, I discovered him through academic databases and seeing who was actively publishing in my field of interest. As a result, I get WAY more personalised mentorship, guidance, and attention from him than friends of mine whose supervisors are heads of departments or divisions. I would take this any day over a big name and professors who frequently show up hours late to meetings or cancel them altogether (true story). The topic of your dissertation is less important than the experience and mentorship you get during your degree, which will set you up for better success not just during your degree, but afterward, too.
3. Connect with Current Students or Alumni
LinkedIn can be a useful resource for connecting with people who have firsthand experience with your prospective schools and departments. For example, by speaking with a postdoc in a lab I was interested in at Cambridge, I was able to get honest input from her about a bunch of red flags about a particular PI, which helped me steer clear of someone who wouldn't have been a good fit for my PhD. Send someone a direct message on LinkedIn and ask if you could chat briefly about their experience; many people are more than willing to help!
4. Investigate the Alumni Network
Many programmes highlight their alumni network, but it's worth your time to dig deeper. Also use LinkedIn to see where alumni are now and whether they are in roles or fields you aspire to. Do the results match your aspirations and what the school claims about its alumni?
5. Join Helpful Forums
The application process can feel isolating, especially for those applying from abroad like I did. Forums like this one are excellent for sharing experiences and gaining advice! So keep connecting with others, asking questions, and building community - it's really essential to get through this marathon. 😊
BONUS TIP: Keep Track of Your Research
Keeping track of all the requirements for each programme you find can be challenging. I've created a simple application tracker spreadsheet that helped me stay organised during my Oxbridge applications. It's free to use. If you're interested, just drop me a DM, and I'll be happy to share it with you!
Happy applying,
Claire
Hi Claire, I've found your post very helpful. I am hoping to gain a funded Educational Psychology PhD place and upon looking for advice, I've come across your blog. I would be interested in the application tracker spreadsheet that you mentioned. Are you able to share more details please? Many thanks in advance and also thank you again for the info' you are sharing in your blog, it is encouraging and useful. All the best, Nora
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