Competitiveness of my Biology Application to Oxford

Hey! I’m not sure if you’ve heard back now but I had pretty much the same stats as you (without any extenuating circumstances) and applied for bio this year at St John’s.
I unfortunately didn’t get an interview but I heard of others with similar stats getting one so I think it’s more down to the nature of your personal statement, and the way you’ve progressed from GCSEs. Best of luck if you haven’t heard back yet, and for your other uni choices 💗

thank you xx I didn’t get an interview either unfortunately so I’m just waiting to hear back from my other choices now

Aw I’m sorry!! Me and u are in the same boat as loads of other people so I hope you aren’t too disappointed, it’s an achievement to even be able to apply
Where else have you applied??

Hi all,
I was hoping to get some opinions on how competitive my application to study Biology at Oxford might be, and how likely it is that I’ll be shortlisted for an interview.
I’ve applied for 2026 entry to Magdalen College with predicted grades of A*s in Biology and Economics, and an A in Chemistry.
At GCSE, I achieved 9s in English Literature, English Language, and Music; 8s in Biology, Maths, Physics, and Geography; 7s in Chemistry and Chinese; and a 6 in History. I completely understand that these aren’t the typical GCSE grades of an Oxford applicant. However, I was only diagnosed with ADHD late last year, meaning I sat my GCSEs while undiagnosed - something I believe significantly affected my performance at the time.
Since then, I’ve started medication and have managed to turn my studies around, which I think is reflected in my predicted grades. I would also like to mention that my grandmother sadly passed away the day before the exams which were used to decide my application grades. Both my ADHD diagnosis and these extenuating circumstances have been referenced by my school in my application to provide context for my results.
I understand that Oxford tends to place more weight on GCSEs than predicated grades, as they are better reflection of a candidates academic potential and because private schools (like mine) are more inclined to boost their students grades. While I completely agree with this approach, I was wondering to what extent allowances might be made for my GCSE performance given my circumstances?
From my perspective, I know I’ve made significant academic progress and would be capable of studying at Oxford. However, I also recognise that, on paper, my profile may not immediately stand out in comparison with other applicants.
I’ve spent a lot of time writing my personal statement ensuring it's well-aligned with what Oxford looks for in Biology applicants. I’m particularly eager for the opportunity to interview as I love talking to people who share a passion for biology. I would genuinely be excited to have a conversation with academics working at the forefront of their fields. While I feel I could present myself as a good candidate in an interview, the problem is getting there...
Lastly, I would like to mention that I completely understand getting into or being rejected from Oxford is no where near the end of the world. I would be super lucky and excited to be offered a place in any of my other choices, I would just like to have a realistic view of my application.
Ultimately, I’d really appreciate hearing your thoughts on how likely you think it is that I’ll be shortlisted for interview? and potentially what my chances of being offered a place are!
Thank you very much for taking the time to read this - and apologies for the long post!