26th September 2014 1:00
By Blue Tutors
This September a new cohort of Oxbridge hopefuls will be preparing their applications. Oxbridge applications often require a significant amount of extra material in addition to the standard application materials required when applying to university through the university and college admissions service (UCAS). As well as completing necessary forms and personal statement, students have to write a separate application for Oxford and Cambridge, including a further personal statement and a statement on why they are applying to their chosen college. Additionally, students often have to sit exams, complete essays and attend several interviews. Preparing for these can be a stressful process, especially when students are unfamiliar with what is required. Many students hire private tutors to help them through the process, and usually choose recent Oxford or Cambridge graduates who are familiar with the application procedures.
If students do not attend a school which is familiar and able to help with Oxbridge application requirements, hiring a tutor at least in the run up to the application is a very good idea. The problem for many students embarking on an Oxbridge application is that they are simply not aware of what is required. Tutors who have been through the process can explain the process, and help students prepare. Both universities maintain that extra preparation and study is not required, but this often blindsides students who are not aware of basic preparations that need to be made. Students are not expected to learn lots of extra material, but they are expected to be able to talk about their subjects and think laterally. For students who are not usually required to do this, it takes practice. Tutors can stage mock interviews, and generally get students used to talking about their subjects confidently.
More basically, schools are often not prepared to give students the help they need with writing personal statements for Oxbridge. Here, glowing reports of having achieved top grades and participated in extracurricular activities are not enough on their own. Oxbridge educated tutors understand how to construct personal statements that will stand out, and give students the skills they need to communicate their interest in their subjects. The same goes for practice entrance essays; tutors can advise students on how to make their work stand out, and move beyond standard A level answers. Whilst students do not need to learn many new things, understanding the application process and getting used to it is essential. Tutors can be a great source of help and support during students’ Oxbridge applications.