Oxford University is an institution that has housed great minds for over nine centuries. From varying subjects to the arts and sciences and beyond, Oxford University and its alumni are highly regarded and universally respected. This is because of the rigorous and high standards to be accepted as a student.
So you may be wondering how you can be one of the future alumni, well in this article, we will be sharing how to prepare for Oxford Medicine Interview. Luckily for you, the team at The Future Medic have all the answers and experience you could possibly need.
This article will include what you should wear, some personal tips, as well as important information so you know what Oxford require, and when they are open for application.
The Benefits of studying medicine
Regardless of the institution, you end up at, studying medicine is an extremely rewarding and respected course that has many benefits for the student and their future prospects. Here are a few things you can gain as a student of medicine:
- A deep understanding of the human body, its anatomy and much more. Understanding human anatomy, the body’s weaknesses and strengths and processes can help empower students and practitioners alike to make scientific breakthroughs
- Build skills such as confidence, empathy, communication, and leadership, delegation to name a few.
- Fast track to becoming a doctor
- Become a medical specialist, you may find your preferred area of practice as a paediatric, or a plastic surgeon for example.
There are many more benefits to studying medicine, but did you know that having a degree in medicine can also open various opportunities such as:
- Work as a doctor in the Armed Forces
- Open your own private medical practice
- Become a medical manager
- Work in medical communications
- Become a higher education lecturer
- Join a public health team to keep the general population healthy and safe
- Become a research scientist
- Work in pharmaceutical sales
- Work as a forensic medical examiner
- Work as a medical writer or health journalist
- Work for a medical charity
- Work in sports and exercise medicine
- Work in medical relief work, to help people in emergencies and after natural disasters
- Become a medical advisor on television or for media outlets
- Become a medical-legal advisor
- Become a politician
So now we know some of the benefits that can be rewarded with a medical degree, and some of the avenues it can open for you, let’s understand how the UK’s most prestigious University accepts new applicants.
What are the academic requirements?
In accordance with the University of Oxford’s high standards, these are the following minimum requirements to be able to even get to the interview phase.
- A-Levels: A*AA in three A-levels (excluding Critical Thinking, Thinking Skills and General Studies) taken in the same academic year. Candidates are required to achieve at least a grade A in both Chemistry and at least one of Biology, Physics, Mathematics or Further Mathematics. We expect you to have taken and passed any practical component in your chosen science subjects.
- Advanced Highers: AA (taken in the same academic year, in Chemistry, and one from Biology, Physics or Mathematics) plus Highers: AAAAA (taken in the same academic year).
- IB: 39 (including core points) with 766 at HL. Candidates are required to take Chemistry and at least one of Biology, Physics or Mathematics to a Higher Level.
Applicants for Medicine must apply by the 30th of September, with an admissions test being taken on the 18th of October (as of 2022). The test is known as a Biomedical Admissions Test (BMAT) as part of their application process. Separate registration for this test is required and it is the responsibility of the candidate to ensure that they are registered.
After this, the interview will take place, and successful candidates must then meet Oxford’s requirements for health and fitness to practise.
To read the full list of requirements for an Oxford Medicine Interview, click here.
You may be wondering if it’s worth studying medicine if the standards are so high, our blog can offer you some valuable insight as to why medicine could be the right profession for you.
Maybe you want to look at other options other than Oxford? We also have a blog on the 8 best medical universities in the UK.
Now that you know the basics of the submission and application process, let’s discuss the interview.
When are Oxford Medicine Interviews?
For applicants shortlisted for entry in 2023, interviews will take place on the 12th & 13th of December 2022. You can view the full list of interviews for various subjects here.
Now you may be wondering, what can I expect from the interview process? How will I know what to do? Luckily, The Future Medic has you covered.
We offer a range of packages in order to get you to the standard that Oxford requires. Do you struggle in interview scenarios? We offer interview coaching services with the option to choose the duration of your coaching, and the option of being coached by a medical education specialist doctor/ interview panellist, or our lead tutor, Dr Valeed Ghafoor.
The benefit of our coaching services are as followed:
- An increase in self-confidence
- A 97% average success rate with our previous users
- Guidance from a fully qualified UK doctor
- Help from a specialist in medical education
- 100,000 hours of UCAT tutoring experience
We also offer the opportunity to join our Medical School Interview Course. A full day of a live online webinar, will help you understand what to expect and the things you need to know before having your interview. A comprehensive course designed for those who want the best possible chance to succeed. Our online webinar offers insights for preparation you may not find anywhere else.
How to Prepare for Oxford Medicine Interview
What to wear to a university medicine interview
As unfair as it may seem, first impressions can sometimes be the sole reason for how some interactions play out in your everyday life. However, when it comes to an interview for Oxford university, the best first impression works to your advantage.
Considering the prestige, history, and worldwide respect garnered by the reputation of Oxford, it can be fair to say that dressing to make a good impression during your interview will only help your chances of being successful. But why is that?
- Dressing informally could signal that you aren’t taking the interview seriously, or that you don’t have an understanding of the respect commanded by the success of Oxford University. (we understand people have a range of styles). Generally, we dress for the occasion, you wouldn’t go to the gym and exercise in a 3-piece suit, the same principle applies when being interviewed by one of the most renowned institutions in education. Dress as smart as you can.
- As somebody who may become a medical practitioner as a result of their medical degree, it is good practice to maintain a professional appearance, as having that in the field would make your patients naturally feel less nervous. So it’s helpful to develop this habit of cleanliness and professional appearance beforehand.
- Dressing for the occasion subconsciously lets your interviewer know that you understand the seriousness of the occasion.
A general outline for an outfit would be as follows:
- Neutral colours, nothing too vibrant or distracting
- Clothes are fitted, not purposely loose or tight
- No accessories unless they are religious dressings or for religious purposes
- No trainers. Smart shoes are the best option
- No overt designer branded jackets or clothing
- No clothing that signifies a distinct political leaning
- Keep it simple but smart, you aren’t going to be on a runway.
We also understand that everyone has a different budget for their wardrobe and different circumstances. We aren’t saying you should get a tailored suit specifically for the interview, but if possible you should try to avoid wearing clothes that are visibly old and worn or do not fit you anymore.
Boost your chances to study medicine today
Our team at The Future Medic understand the responsibility to provide our country with the next generation of bright minds who will innovate, revolutionise and excel in the study of medicine, that is why we have made it our mission to supply you with all the knowledge, skills and resources you could possibly need to enter this competitive yet rewarding field of expertise.
We hope in this article we have helped you understand how to prepare for Oxford Medicine interview. For a full list of our services be sure to visit our website. Our blog page contains many topics that pertain to studying medicine too. You may learn something new by taking a read.
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