If you’re applying for engineering at Cambridge or Oxford in 2025, understanding the Oxbridge Engineering interview format is vital. Oxford holds all interviews online, whereas Cambridge offers a hybrid system where each college decides its own approach. Grasping these differences early is crucial. Being well-informed from the start helps you focus on the correct interview format. With the right Oxbridge interview support, you can better prepare for each stage and build the confidence you need before the big day. This article contains resources to help you build confidence before the big day.
Cambridge Engineering Interview 2025: Hybrid by College
Cambridge’s official guidance states that interviews may be conducted online or in person, depending on the College evaluating your application (University of Cambridge, 2024). Candidates usually cannot choose the interview mode except in rare cases.
For instance, King’s College, Cambridge, holds all interviews face-to-face regardless of applicants’ location (King’s College, 2025). Other colleges blend formats; UK candidates often attend on-campus sessions, while international applicants join online sessions.
Most candidates will have to appear for one or two interviews lasting between 35 and 50 minutes in total. Some students may have additional sessions, depending on their college or subject. The process prioritises logical reasoning and critical thinking above rote recall (University of Cambridge, 2024).
Oxford Engineering Interview 2025: Fully Online
Oxford confirms that for the 2025 cycle, Engineering Science interviews will be exclusively online (University of Oxford, 2024). Expect two focused sessions, each lasting approximately 30 minutes, centred on problem-solving and analytical thinking rather than memory-based questions.
For in-depth strategies, sample questions, and expert insights, read our detailed guide on Oxford Engineering Science: Tips & Questions for Interview
Oxford uses a Tier system to determine the required technology. Engineering typically falls under Tier 2 or 3, requiring video interviews supplemented by virtual whiteboards, such as Miro, making pen-and-paper sketches crucial.
Applicants must thoroughly test their webcam, microphone, internet connection, and software well in advance of interview week to avoid disruptions.
Cambridge vs Oxford: 2025 Interview Format at a Glance
| University | 2024 Interview Mode | 2025 Format | Notes |
| Cambridge | Hybrid (online + on-campus) | Hybrid (varies by college) | Confirm your college’s policy. |
| Oxford | Predominantly online | Fully online | Ensure tech readiness & whiteboard access. |
Typical Engineering Interview Content
- Personal motivation and engagement: Prepare to discuss why engineering captivates you, including any independent projects or extracurricular interests you’ve pursued. Your answers help interviewers gauge authentic passion and curiosity.
- Problem-solving inquiries: Cambridge interviewers may invite you to work through problems by writing out your steps or explaining your approach aloud (University of Cambridge, 2024), which showcases your approach to complex challenges.
- Technical understanding: Oxford’s engineering interview may pose questions, such as designing a vertical-faced gravity dam, to probe your grasp of applied mechanics and forces (University of Oxford Engineering, 2024). Remember, interviewers care more about how you reason than the final answer (University of Oxford, 2024).
How to Prepare: Step-by-Step Guide
Prepare by mastering your subject deeply, practising clear, step-by-step reasoning aloud, knowing your personal statement inside out, and approaching every question with calm curiosity and confidence.
Clarify Your Interview Format Promptly
Confirm Oxford interviews are online. For Cambridge, watch for college announcements regarding online or in-person formats to tailor your plans accordingly.
Technology And Logistics Preparation
For online formats, ensure your computer or tablet supports video conferencing and virtual whiteboards. Test your webcam, microphone, and internet connection multiple times before the interview to ensure they work correctly. Remove distractions and select a quiet, well-lit space.
If attending in person, arrange your travel and accommodation early. Familiarise yourself with the campus layout, interview location, and any college health and safety rules.
Practice Articulating Your Thought Process
Oxbridge interviews place heavy emphasis on your reasoning. Practice solving engineering problems aloud with a peer or tutor, explaining your logic and corrections step by step. This process mirrors Cambridge supervisions, where learning through discussion is a central focus.
Use Mock Interview Sessions
Engage in several practice interviews to simulate the real experience. Use whiteboards in digital interviews and ask realistic questions that target problem-solving and academic thinking. Mock interviews expose nerves, improve answer structure, and boost verbal clarity. With the help of Oxbridge interview support, you can access expert-led mock sessions that mirror the actual interview format
Reflect Sincerely On Your Motivation And Experiences
Be ready to articulate genuine reasons for wanting to study engineering at Oxbridge. Highlight unique aspects of the course and your personal projects or pursuits that demonstrate intellectual curiosity. Interviewers appreciate authenticity and thoughtful self-awareness.
Plan for Contingencies
Even if scheduled in person at Cambridge, be prepared to switch to an online format. Keep relevant digital tools ready and verify internet access as a backup.
Balance Preparation With Wellbeing
Maintain a balanced routine of schoolwork, practice, and rest. Overloading in the days leading up to your interview can lead to burnout. Staying calm, confident, and well-rested can significantly enhance performance on the day.
Expert Insights & Authentic Student Reflections
Dr Mark Andrews, Cambridge Engineering Admissions Tutor, explains:
“Interviewers are not looking for the ‘right’ memory-based answer but want to understand your thinking processes and how you engage with new problems” (University of Cambridge, 2024).
A Cambridge offer-holder shares:
“I found the interview challenging but felt supported because I was allowed to think out loud, and tutors guided me through problems rather than expecting instant answers. That made it feel like a genuine academic discussion.”
Similarly, an Oxford applicant notes:
“The online format was initially intimidating, but practising with virtual whiteboards helped. I made sure to show every step of my reasoning — it wasn’t about being perfect but being clear and thoughtful.”
Essential Interview Tips for Engineers
- Speak clearly and methodically: Walk interviewers through your logic. Silence to think is fine before answering.
- Verbalise uncertainties: If stuck, articulate what you know, identify unknowns, and propose ways to tackle them.
- Embrace challenges calmly: You may face questions beyond your syllabus — this is to test adaptable thinking, not to trip you up.
- Prepare visual explanations: Diagrams and sketches convey complex concepts better than words alone in engineering discussions.
- Be yourself: Interviewers want to see your genuine enthusiasm and intellectual curiosity.
Ready to Excel?
Preparation builds confidence. Our expert coaching offers personalised mocks, feedback, and guidance to help you excel in all Oxbridge interviews. Don’t wait — secure your spot today and take control of your preparation journey.
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FAQs
Are the 2025 Cambridge Engineering interviews online or in person?
Cambridge interviews will be held either online or on campus, depending on the college’s policy (University of Cambridge, 2024).
Do Oxford interviews differ from Cambridge in format?
Yes. Oxford’s 2025 engineering interviews are entirely online, whereas Cambridge offers a hybrid approach (University of Oxford, 2024).
How can I prepare effectively for an online Oxbridge Engineering interview?
Test your technology early, practice speaking your reasoning aloud, and review relevant engineering concepts intensively.
What technology will I need for a virtual Oxbridge interview?
Oxford commonly uses Microsoft Teams and Miro. Cambridge online interviews require a stable internet connection, a webcam, a microphone, and pen and paper.
Can international candidates request on-campus interviews at the University of Cambridge?
The answer depends on your college. Some invite only UK-based applicants on campus, others support online participation for overseas candidates.
