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Chances of getting into Oxbridge?

Im a year 12 student studying IBDP. have achieved 5 8s, 5 7s and a 5 in English language (I plan on resitting English Language this June, aiming for a 7+).

I am predicted 41 points for IBDP with 7s in physics and maths

I have done work experience at a start up and im looking into reading some engineering books, watching videos and listening to podcasts.

ECA wise I tutor science and maths for KS3 and GCSE students, I am also part of an engineering club at my 6th form. I'm taking part in a Cambridge run initiative in January that will earn me a certificate. (I do other things but that's just the more academic and engineering related thing

Am I a decent candidate? Do I even stand a chance of getting into Oxford or Cambridge?

Reply 1

they seem pretty decent ngl, people get into unis with the bare minimum and you have a lot going for you

Reply 2

Original post
by Anonymous
Im a year 12 student studying IBDP. have achieved 5 8s, 5 7s and a 5 in English language (I plan on resitting English Language this June, aiming for a 7+).
I am predicted 41 points for IBDP with 7s in physics and maths
I have done work experience at a start up and im looking into reading some engineering books, watching videos and listening to podcasts.
ECA wise I tutor science and maths for KS3 and GCSE students, I am also part of an engineering club at my 6th form. I'm taking part in a Cambridge run initiative in January that will earn me a certificate. (I do other things but that's just the more academic and engineering related thing
Am I a decent candidate? Do I even stand a chance of getting into Oxford or Cambridge?


I recently had my Oxford Law interview, and I’ll be honest—I don’t have a ton of extracurriculars compared to others. What I do have, however, is a well-structured personal statement. Mine included a mix of academics, extracurriculars, and a bit of a personal story, which helped make it stand out.

One key tip I’d give is to focus on crafting a strong, well-structured personal statement. Although UCAS is updating the format this year, the fundamentals of showcasing your passion, achievements, and suitability for the course will remain the same.

That said, it’s important to understand that Oxbridge typically doesn’t weigh your application elements equally. They’ll look at your predicted grades, your admissions test performance, and even your GCSEs relative to the average at your school. The personal statement is usually one of the last things they consider, so it shouldn’t be your sole focus.

If you’re applying for a course like Engineering, you need to prioritize excelling in your admissions test (like the ESAT). My advice is to start preparing early—getting a head start will give you a real advantage.

Reply 3

Original post
by Anonymous
Im a year 12 student studying IBDP. have achieved 5 8s, 5 7s and a 5 in English language (I plan on resitting English Language this June, aiming for a 7+).
I am predicted 41 points for IBDP with 7s in physics and maths
I have done work experience at a start up and im looking into reading some engineering books, watching videos and listening to podcasts.
ECA wise I tutor science and maths for KS3 and GCSE students, I am also part of an engineering club at my 6th form. I'm taking part in a Cambridge run initiative in January that will earn me a certificate. (I do other things but that's just the more academic and engineering related thing
Am I a decent candidate? Do I even stand a chance of getting into Oxford or Cambridge?

If you do well in the entrance exams and interviews you probably have a chance. Entrance exam is probably the most important aspect of your application, don't worry too much about extracurricular stuff but make sure you do your best preparation for the exam.

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