Admissions AdmissionsFilling in that form......
Queens' interviews candidates
for the subject they intend to read for Part I only, so even if
you think you will change to another subject after completing
your first, or second year, we will only interview you for the
subject you have applied to study for the first year. You can,
of course, indicate your plans to change on your blue Cambridge
application form, but this does not commit you (nor does it entitle
you) to change at a later stage. If you do obtain an offer of
a place it will be only for the subject you have been interviewed
for. The College places no priority on forms sent in early (except
for those needing early interviews - see below) the only advantage
is helping us get the administration rolling earlier.
When will you hear?
Queens' endeavours to interview
all suitable applicants to the College. The main block of interviews
takes place in the middle two weeks of December. Candidates should
check their availability at this time before applying. Interviews
are not arranged until after the application closing date - 15
October, and we may not be able to confirm dates of interview
until mid November. If you will not be available for interview
in December (for example post A-level candidates going overseas
for a year out) we will do our best to arrange an early interview.
Obviously such candidates should apply as early as possible and
indicate clearly on their blue forms that an early interview is
required.
Just what does go on?
Interview structure does vary
from College to College so, yes, your friend who is applying to
a different College may have been asked for an essay when you
haven't or for more (or fewer) interviews than you! Queens' interviews
are usually on a one-to-one or two-to-one basis. Interviews are
informal; we do not expect you to wear your Sunday best. We try
to make the interviews as relaxed as possible, so if you have
any questions or problems do let us know in advance and we will
do our best to help. Queens' does not set written tests for all
interviews but Philosophy and Computer Science do have tests on
the day of the interview and most science/mathematics interviews
will require some problem-solving on paper during the interview.
Some subjects (currently English, History and Archaeology &
Anthropology) will require essays before hand - but we will tell
you all about this when you receive your interview invitation.
All Medical and Veterinary applicants are required to take the
MVAT prior to interview - the main University Website will give
you full details of this. All in all our interviews are designed
to find out what you know, not what you don't. The interviewers
want to see how you think on your feet, and where your interests
and enthusiasms lie, especially in terms of commitment to the
course you are applying for.
Please contact the Admissions Office if you would like more details about interviews.