hey , thanks for this video , it's really helped me consider my future , i am currently studying my GCSEs , and i wish to study physics, maths, further maths and chemistry for A levels. Like you , i wish to study physics at a university level.
@swiv2d One of the success stories on the access website is of a guy who went to Oxford, and at my college a tutor told me that people have gone to places like Cambridge, Durham and SOAS after doing access to humanities. However I reckon that cases like that must be extremely rare for access course students, probably like one mature student every two years or something. The types of degrees that you might be able to get in to might be non-traditional humanities based I think.
@123Luke456 oxford is the only university that has archaelogical science as a course. It sucks. If I were a celebrity or part of a rich family or sucked some dicked maybe I'd have a chance.
heyy please just ignore my first question in the previous comments. i planned on asking that ques before i started playing this video and then just commented before erasing the first question. Sorry :)
@PagliRajkonna STEP is taken before you apply, though I'm afraid I don't know all of that much about it. I think I'm right in saying that you take it in the summer of year 12. Your best bet is asking your maths teacher, as I really don't want to tell you the wrong information!
Thanks a lot for making this video. It was very informative :)
I'm currently studying AS levels and trying to get all A's. I want to apply to Cambridge to study Maths.
2 ques - a) do my GCSE results have a lot of importance? my gcse were average. not extremely awesome or anything. If i have a lot of volunteering experience in science/maths related events/organisations and have all A's in my AS, would it be enough to please them? Or is GCSE results are vital? .. cont into 2nd comment
Hi, I live in America and I don't understand the requirements you are talking about in this video. Do you know what they look for, for american students?
@techloverboii1015 You can find the international requirements on the Oxford uni website. If you google 'oxford international qualifications' and click the first link there's a table on that page.
How old were you when you discovered a true passion for physics/maths and how old were you when you decided you wanted to become a physicist? Also when you did decide, if you were at a young age, how did you act upon it? One last thing- what exactly are you planning to do in the future for work; are you going to get a Ph.D?
@lilpwincess98 I decided I really like physics at the start of my GCSEs (I basically realised that all the cool bits of science were labelled 'physics') but I've never had a passion for maths. At all. It's only now that I'm starting to really like and appreciate it.
So I guess once I knew I loved physics I knew I needed to beast my GCSEs and A levels and apply to the best place where I could do a physics degree. So far so good! The next stage is hopefully a PhD in atmospheric physics...
I'm in year 11 about to do my GCSE's and I am wondering just how much co-curricular activities help when applying. For example what kind of impact would being a black belt have?
Some people tell me that Oxbridge predominantly focus on academic achievements and capability, but some say that achievement in non academic fields help as well. Also, I plan on doing Maths, chemistry, economics and biology. To what extent would Maths and economics complement my application to read medicine
@TheMrBobotron Extra-curricular activities show that you're not a robot, but other than that I don't think they really play any role in selection criteria (unless you're a rowing blue). You will probably have more fun once you're here though, compared to someone who doesn't, say, have a black belt.
For medicine maths would definitely be a help, while I doubt economics will have much of an influence. The most important thing you can do now is get your work experience together. Hope this helps :)
Thank you so much! Your video really helped. I have so many questions, ok, so I got AAABBBBB in GCEs O level, dose GCE matter or not? I moved two schools in that year is it worth mentioning in the application? Sorry for bugging you so much I have a lot of Qs :)
@alienme944 wow, sorry I've taken so long to reply - I've been busy building a youtube channel for my college. O level marks don't count for all of that much, but you would need to make sure that you do really well at A level to offset those O level marks (they are still good, but probably a bit lower than the average applicant). If you moved schools several times then that's something your teachers should definitely include on your reference, as Oxford do take things like that into account
Hey I wanted to ask that I am doing an internship with an NGO, would that help me in my application and my AS sub are physics, chemistry, maths p1 and m1 and I will also do A level in these three the thing is that I have English literature too, would these two help me: my internship and eng lit. if I apply for engineering, people say lit. has double credit?
If I have to apply for engineering how important is chemistry and further maths in A levels :)
@alienme944 Internships will certainly help your application (even if only to give you something to talk about in interview), though I don't think Eng. Lit. gives you double credit. Tbh I doubt it would affect your application all of that much.
As for chemistry and further maths I would say that they are very favourably looked upon, and in particular further maths would be an advantage (but not a crippling disadvantage if you don't have it)
I am so jealous, I live in the delusion by lying myself that Cambridge,Oxford and Harvard are over rated universities, I am living in this state of mind because I am not able to study there, although I am aware of the fact that studying in one of the three universities I mentioned above are goals for all students in the world.
I am currently studying in the Serbia, in Serbian language.. but studying in English, somewhere in America or England would be an extremely useful and good.
@HB3l1 There's nothing to stop you applying! There are plenty of international students here, and I can guarantee that you wouldn't be the first person from Serbia to study here :)
@SimonOxfPhys Actually there is, first of all , money, I am not poor neither I am an extremely rich to pursue studying in the Oxford. I heard that payments are 30.000euros per year, and even higher, add on this extra goods( place for living,food,clothes,etc..). By the way , I am able to continue my studies in AMERICAN HERITAGE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA(any thoughts)?. I know this one cannot be compared to the oxford but it is still better than the university I am studying in.
@HB3l1 hi, very sorry I've taken so long to get back to you. I can't claim to have heard of the university of southern california, so you would need to look up where it sits on league tables etc. Do remember that there is a lot of financial support for students in Oxford - in fact you could argue that it is the most affordable uni in the country (for uk students at least) - so don't write it off just yet
i am currently doing AS in Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematic. I had 5A* 5A 2B C (in english Lang) I really want to do medicine. do you thing that there might be a chance for me in Cambridge???
@mediamaster08 You're certainly doing the right A levels and while your GCSEs aren't stellar they aren't disastrous either. If you get loads of experience together and build a strong application then I can't see any reason why you would struggle more than anyone else :)
Though you'd be better off applying to Oxford... :p
@SimonOxfPhys Aren't stellar? You fucking faggot, those are some good damn results. The majority of students only manage to get one A*. So, just because you are a posh private schooled twat don't try and pretend that those are not good grades because not everyone is as privileged as yourself.
1) 2Bs and a C at GCSE will be worse than many applicants who apply from all backgrounds. Those 5A*s are still very good. 2) I didn't go to a private school, I went to a state comp in Bristol that sends one or maybe two people a year to Oxbridge. 3) I wasn't privileged, I was hard working. My family certainly isn't rich or influential and of which no one as been to uni. I'm as amazed as anyone else that I got into Oxford.
@SimonOxfPhys alright i understand that my results are not that steller as you say,, but what if say I worked majorly hard in mean like my life depended on it,, well i guess it sort of does, I get 4*s at Alevel... then are my chances greater? i know especially for medicine its going to be a knockoff they might also look at my GCSEs?
@mediamaster08 Sorry I've taken so long to reply - life has been very busy! Of course, if you get 4A*s at A level then your chances of success will be greater. Remember that GCSEs aren't everything, and that loads of people get into Oxford with similar results to yours. The important results are your A levels, as well as your interview performance. I put up my results in the middle of my Oxford FAQs video, though I'm not necessarily indicative of the 'average' student here
@SimonOxfPhys simon to sorry to keep troubling you, about how many A*s at GCSE are we talking about, can you tell me what you had at GCSE and Allevel so that I can have an indication of what we should be looking at? only becuase if i think then i don't have a chance then i moght not apply overall, it would just be a waste of application. Thanks much appriciated, and please respond to my other comment.
Also, if English is the only thing i've got a C in at GCSE, would that also limit my chance of getting in? the rest of my GCSe's are A's. It's just the english.
@LidaAsh A C at GCSE isn't ideal but provided that's the only one you got (and you're not applying for something like English) then it won't be a problem.
Would that pull my grade down? I'm just so worried, i've worked so hard, studied so well and it's worrying me to the point where i become mentally sick. Thanks again.
I'm just worried about the chances of me getting in as i've heard from others that the applicants are all private students, having studied at private schools. i'm worried as i'm not attending a private school, I've heard that 95% of the grad/postgraduates all attended private schools. That's not the only concern, i've also heard that they'll compare your results with your schools overall result, if you know what i mean - my school's overall grades aren't fantastic. I'm talking E's.
@LidaAsh Hi, really sorry I've taken so long to reply but life is very hectic right now.
Coming from a non-private school places you at no disadvantage whatsoever - I came from a completely normal state school and didn't suffer for it at all. And if your results are significantly better than your school's average then that can only be a good thing (for you, I mean) as it shows that you are exceptional given your circumstances and clearly work hard. It certainly won't put you at a disadvantage.
Hi Simon I really appreciate your videos it has been a real help. Is there anyway I can email you my question as i am not too comfortable to post it here on youtube.I hope you don't mind leaving your email address and I am sorry if i sound rude.Thanks
AAAABBBBB at GCSE. Thanks for reassuring me about that, I feel that I can actually talk about it and mention how depression affected my grades. It was my main concern. I'm considering taking an extra GCSE in Psychology or something perhaps to prove I can work independently or something. Looking to apply for English, so info specific to that would be wonderful. We had an Oxbridge talk and the tutorials seem like something I'd be into, so an elaboration from a student would be nice. Thanks.
What if i was able to retake 5 gcse ,how do you think they would regard this? I am able to do so , would it would make me look a more favourable candidate
@moonisgod you can certainly try! By personal philosophy is that you have nothing to lose by applying. If you can get good results on retakes then you may still be able to get in.
@moonisgod with those kind of GCSEs I'm afraid you'd have about a snowball's chance in hell - while GCSEs don't count that much, those kind of results would raise a red flag. Sorry!
@TheFloogledude In year 8 the best thing that you can do is to think about what subjects you really enjoy and which you really don't - then think about whether you'd like to pursue those certain subjects at university. You also should think about how to make those subjects you don't enjoy more bearable - this is a very important skill in learning, and is something that will also improve your exam results!
Beyond that, start to think about which GCSEs you might like to take.
@TheFloogledude Don't panic! There's still loads of time before you have to start thinking about important decisions, so make the most of enjoying what you learn in school :)
@xBeautyFromHellx Definitely. St Peter's is known as the friendly college, and the atmosphere here is very welcoming and friendly. I had made several new friends within the first day - it's impossible not to!
Also on a university wide scale I've made friends with people I sit next to in lectures, and who I do labs with. It's your friends that make the experience so unique :)
Hiya, i'm in year 10 and have looked round oxford and cambridge, after seeing a friend go off to cambridge and be successful has inspired me, how can i prepare myself so that i'm ready when it comes to applying for either oxford or cambridge? Cheers :-)
Hi , I'm thinking of applying to Oxford, I'm predicted Level 7's in all my higher s maths chemistry and physics at IB ( Equivalent to 3 A* at A level ) and I took my Maths GCSE 5 years early and got an A.
The only PROBLEM is that I also took My two maths A levels early and only achieved a B in Core and A in Further maths out of an A* . Will this stop me from getting in?
I also play lots of sport and read a bit . Will that help?
@Butdidudie Very sorry I took so long to get back to you. It rather depends on what you are applying for - if you were applying for maths then your maths a level results might be a problem, though the fact that you took them early is obviously impressive. Also, are you applying based on your IB results (i.e. will they make you an offer based on your IB)? In that case then I think your A-levels aren't so important - they in fact show that you really love to study maths in your own free time.
What did you do/What do you suggest doing for physics work experience? I'm experiencing it very hard to find relevant work experience which is relevant so I'm generally just going to lots of lectures at the moment.
@D3V17Z I know exactly what you mean - it is difficult to find stuff that seems directly relevant. Just this summer I did 2 months work at an engineering company called Renishaw (look them up, they're well good) which greatly strengthened my skills in the lab and my confidence in work in Optics. I'd recommend doing the same, as the work is interesting, looks good on the CV and the pay was very good.
@D3V17Z Beyond that though I would look at hi-tech companies near you to try and find something that sounds interesting to you. Also maybe some programming work? Provided you know a language.
In terms of shadowing a technician here that sounds like it would be very relevant - definitely apply for that and see what happens. At any rate I would recommend trying to get some experience working in the lab.
@SimonOxfPhys Ive applied to oxford for physics and have been preparing for the PAT for the last few weeks and im pretty confident about that so i went on to see your videos about the interview etc. and i was just wondering as to if the tutors actually help u thru the interview or if your expected to do it all by urself??
@69alaniz The tutors will help you along as much as you need - no one gets through the interview without being assisted in some way by the tutors, as ultimately the questions are rather tough! Don't worry if you didn't get the solution by yourself first time around because I didn't for a lot of them. Basically they will guide you until you find the answer, but obviously the less guidance you need the better.
How important is our predicted grades when applying to university? My predicted grades are A,A,B,C and the universities im thinking of applying to have entry requirements of 3A's or 2A's and a B? would i be able to get in? or should i lower my standards?
@SuperSpoonman1 Hmm. Tough one. I think that you nothing to lose by allocating one of your 5 places to an AAA institution, but maybe keep the rest as AAB or ABB. My standard philosophy is that if people don't apply then they have a 0% chance of getting in, but obviously here the choices you make are tactical too.
It also depends on whether you think you can get grades higher than AABC, although remember universities will make their offers based on your predicted grades.
@xBeautyFromHellx You know it's quite a funny question. I was always told when I was applying that the hardest thing was just getting in, but now I've got here I can assure you that staying on the course (at least for Physics) is way, way harder! Not to say that getting in is easy, but this is the hardest thing I've ever done. And completely worth it - I love my course.
N.B. I think it does vary from course to course, at least in terms of the base level of work required...
Hello there, I am thinking of going to Oxford to do Medicine. I am currently get A*s in Maths and Science ( Double Awards). Sadly, my English isn't how i want it, I'm getting C's and B's. In addition, I'm getting A/B in ICT, A in PE, B in RE, B in french and finally a B in Food Tech. Could I still go to Oxford even though my English isn't that high?
In A-Level, I am wishing to take Maths + Futher Maths, Biology and Chemistry. Is this all okay to enter Medicine at Oxford?
@TheHabbo210 In terms of your GCSEs, I would recommend getting that English grade up as in such a competitive subject as Medicine, that could easily prove to be a deciding factor against other applicants. Remember that Medicine involves writing an awful lot of essays, so good English skills are important.
As for your A levels, there's a link in my more recent video to an Oxford page answering this question, but in short they look good to me!
@SimonOxfPhys I must say thank you for your answer. So I need to get my English up to standard, I am good at it, but they say that you are either good at two and not the other. What I mean by this, is by that I am amazing at Science and Maths, but not as good in English. Is there a spectific requirment for GCSE English at Oxford?
It is a very, very competitive area. They're so many students' get A's and A*s. However, I don't see the point of getting a A or a A* in English...
@TheHabbo210 I don't know if there is a specific requirement, but for everything but the hardcore sciences I would imagine a C would be the absolute lowest, but pretty much everyone else who applies will have an A or an A*, especially for Medicine.
At that kind of level, the only point of getting an A or an A* is so that you don't look worse than everyone else!
I am currently thinking of applying to Oxford when I go to university. My current predicted grades are mostly A's and I have a grade C in mathematics two years early. I am studying... 1) Separate Sciences ( 1 GCSE in Chemistry, Biology and Physics) 2) GCSE Spanish 3) BTEC ICT 4) GCSE Drama 5) GCSE Media Studies 6) GCSE History 7) GCSE Religious Studies 8)GCSE English Language 9) GCSE English Literature Do you think I stand a Viable Chance of getting into Oxford University?
@RabidSimsFan Well, it rather depends on what you're applying for! As I say in my more recent video there are a couple of criteria that I apply for everyone who asks this question. I think if you can get several A* in those GCSEs then that's a good base to apply from, combined with good A level results obviously. Mostly A grades would be slightly below the standard that they expect from applicants.
i live in NZ and we only do 5 IG subjects then 4 AS/A2 subjects, is that in any way going to hinder my chances of getting in as it seems like a lot of students are sitting many more subjects???
@MakeMiLaff If everyone else from NZ is only doing 5 IG subjects then I should think the admissions tutors were used to it! If you're concerned, you could always try doing an IG in your own spare time (something that I did with a GCSE), though as I say if everyone from NZ is in the same boat then I don't imagine it would be too much of a problem. One of the greatest physicists of all time was a kiwi, so it didn't stop him!
@95SIKH If you're getting Cs and that's the top end of your achievement then I think Oxford will look into them, normally they expect people to be getting Bs as a minimum. Sorry:(
Very good video, but the pace of your speech kind of fast^^ and also you seem to be very dedicated student of the major you're in!! I also wish you Good luck on your academic missions!! :)
@Q8Marine24 Sorry, what's IG? I see you're from Kuwait so it's a qualification I've never heard of before :/ you might want to look at the Oxford website: / admissions/ undergraduate_courses/ international_students/ international_ qualifications /index
@Q8Marine24 I answer this one in my new video - basically they will look at your GCSEs/iGCSEs, but they don't count anywhere near as much as your A levels. If they are unusually bad then it will raise a red flag, but otherwise it's not too much of a problem.
Absolutely brilliant, sir. I've already been to "uni", but I so wish someone had broken down this unnecessarily mysterious process in my time as you have here.
Omg, they are going to interview me O.o I am so excited and scared ;( I bet I won't be able to speak a word when they start asking questions, and I am from Germany O__O
@TheHpTVShow Congratulations on getting the interview! Just stay calm and give yourself space and time to think, and you'll be fine. Being relaxed is the most important thing.
And if it helps, imagine the interviewers in their underwear :P (not something I can claim to have done, but a piece of advice that I was given!)
@izy585 Experience is everything. Make sure you can get as much experience as you can in places like hospitals, clinics, old folks' homes etc.. Beyond that make sure that you have a strong interest in the theoretical underpinnings/science of medicine, as the oxbridge courses are more theory based. And the ubiquitous strong passion for your subject is essential, natch :)
As a fourth-year Oxford chemistry student, I agree with the point at about 2:25. Absolutely loving your subject is essential – if you aren't completely sure that it's what you want to do for the next few years, then it will be a miserable ride. And make sure you have an interest outside your subject too, because sometimes things get a little intense and you need to clear your head.
@km11293 I got around 70 I think (can't really remember). I got a pack from Jesus College after all of my interviews that gave me my PAT scores and interview marks out of 10 (which I am definitely NOT giving out as they're a tad embarrassing). I don't know how many colleges do that kind of scheme though. I'd imagine that if you asked the physics department they probably be happy to tell you :)
I am a 10th grader considering Cambridge for a major in philosophy. However I did not do very well as a 9th grader, I actually didn't intend to go to college until 6 or 7 months ago when I found philosophy. Would I be given a chance to explain myself to the school?
@BeGladItsAlmostOver If you're applying to Cambridge then you'll be doing so via UCAS so you will submit a personal statement (see their website) to accompany your application, that explains things like reasons for applying. So in there you'd be able to emphatically state that you only got really interested in Philosophy in 10th grade, and from then on just know you wanted to go to Cambridge. Or something like that.
Thank you. I was expecting you so much^^. Now I see what I have to do. it would be very kind of you if you can find out whether they look at Further Maths or not. To be honest I didn't know anybody who already got in Economic or can really help me out with this.
I will apply Economics at Oxford but not sure about what to prepare, what do they really expect from me to perform during the interview? In Oxford website of Economics course they stated clearly that they will see how smart i am and how interested I am in the subject? Is that true? And also how they will look at my scores, can u tell me exactly how it works. Is that necessary to take Further Maths because I am doing Maths, Physics and Accounting and will start A2 this September?
@lamtuquyenha the purpose of the interview is to determine how suitable you are for the course. A big part of that is how 'smart' you are, but a very large part is also how passionate you are about the subject. That determines how far you can stick with the course when it gets tough.
I would recommend that you take Further Maths if possible, but I don't believe it's a requirement. See ww.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate_courses/courses/courses_and_entrance_requirements/table.html :)
I was expecting you so much^^. Now I know what to do. It would be very kind of you if you can find out whether they will look at Further Maths or not. To be honest I don't know anybody who already got in or really can help me out with this.
Thank you very much for help. Will be looking to hear from you.
I know it has been a long since u posted this video. I really need someone to give me some advices about applying Oxford because actually none of people I know can really help me. If you can still help, this is my email haletunglam@yahoo.com. Or if I can have any methods to contact u please let me know. Will lookforward to hearing from you
Wonderful video. That's nice someone decided to give a hand to people feeling like applying for a uni. I've got a few more questions though and would wanna know a bit more. If u could send me ur email, I would email u asking about things I'm interested in.
I achieved straight ones in all eight of my standard grades, which is the top marks possible, four A's and one B in my highers and two A's and one B in my advanced highers. I am good enough to get excepted to study at Oxford or Cambridge.
@piano1996No1 As long as you're getting close to the maximum grades possible then I think you have a pretty good shot! Take a look at the university page on admissions, and your department's page as well, if you want a look at typical offers and expectations
Hey Simon, I was just wondering if you know anything about the American School system so you could help me do what I can to apply. (Maybe) I already sent you a message, but I'm not sure. Could you help me out? I'm very anxious to study in the UK, specifically in Oxbridge and I hope I can get in, so I'm preparing early (I'm in tenth grade :) )
I am grateful for your time Simon to answering our questions and uploading this most-appreciated video. I have two queries around this matter, which are:
-How do you know that they didn't look at your GCSEs when, as far as I know, you have to provide it with your application ??
-Secondly, you have mentioned that you have acheived 8A* and 2 merits, therefore it might have seemed to you that GCSEs weren't taken into account ! So how did you know since your grades are excellent ?!
@saifwhab You do provide your GCSE results with your application, but from talking to the tutors that did my interviews it would appear that they don't really take them into consideration. They will only pick you up on them if they are unusually bad. The Oxford Physics website says that 'it is not unusual for candidates to be accepted with fewer than 4 A* grades, or to be rejected with more than 9 A* grades'. So you do have to do reasonably well, but not stellarly as some people seem to think!
I study in India under the cbse edu system which oxford unfortunately considers as 'not sufficient to make an application' and have therefore decided to a year of university study from another institution........
is this 'gap year' going to hamper my chances of getting into oxford?? or rather make my application competitive enough??
@adh123min The typical line that Oxford takes is that a gap year won't harm your application as long as what you do during that time is related to your subject. If you are going to spend a year getting another qualification in your field then I think that can only bolster your application. Obviously it shows that you have the drive to go to a good university and that you want to do your subject.
@TheJonVlogger Well, in terms of extra-curricular activities you'll only have to talk about them in your personal statement and not really in interview (this would probably vary a bit subject to subject). So 'proof' is not really required. That said, grades are more impressive as they give a form of external verification - someone can play at home to a low level for the same length of time that it takes for someone to do several grades. It still makes you a more rounded character to them though!
@SimonOxfPhys Thanks for quick reply, I have another question now :P Looking further down in the comments, I see you mention that the workload is around 50 hours a week. I want to do physics and philiosophy, does this mean I effectivily have 100 hours a week of work..?
@TheJonVlogger Ha! Fortunately not. In Physics and Philosophy you will miss some aspects of the Physics course (in the first year, electromagnetism and circuits I think) in which you will do Philosophy stuff. The workload is a bit heavier for those doing Phys&Phil but not that much more!
@MrJubbadahut At GCSE I got A* in Double English, Double Science, Maths, French, History, Geography and Philosophy and Belief. I also got a double Merit in my CIDA double ICT.
At A level I got A in A2 Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Geography (no A* available) and got A* in my Extended Project in yr 12 and a Pass in my Open University module on planets in yr 13.
I chose Oxford because by most league tables it is the best university to study a Physics degree at, and because I like the place!
@HeartShapeGlasses007 I don't know much about the anthropology department at Oxford other than I know it's good! A friend of mine is an Arch & Anth student - if you like I could ask her?
What are you views on Oxford Brookes? Oxford uni doesn't do the course I want to study, I was wondering if people who is a student at Oxford look down on 'Brookes' students?
You said that the first 8 weeks was one of your worst experiences, Why?
@annaliseREB I think a lot of Oxford students tend to look down on Brookes students, but then again I think those are the kind of people who look down on everyone! To be quite honest if someone looks down on you because of where you're studying then that's not a friend you're much worse off losing.
In terms of my first Michaelmas it was a mix of being away from home, working really hard on stuff I find really difficult and not having many friends that made me hate it. It's much better now!
@alsy23 Of course they still would! I only mentioned Bach because it was the first thing that came into my head (been playing a lot of Bach on my sax recently). Personally I'd have to say that my favourite music is Queen or Guns n Roses or Iron Maiden or Green Day.
I was wondering how much emphasis Oxbridge puts on extra-curricular activities? ...Because my school is slightly crazy about these and i was wondering whether I really needed to get involved in everything to seem attractive to Oxbridge?
@yisforyash I think that they certainly do put emphasis on people doing extracurricular activities as they show you have good time management and independent skills. However, the first and foremost thing has to be academic results and potential - I would say that extending your subject beyond the A level syllabus and therefore showing academic gumption is more important that sports or music. That said, I would recommend doing at least one thing that you can talk about in your personal statement!
what work experience did you do? there's not much that specifically relates to physics :/
AngelDani23 1 week ago
hey , thanks for this video , it's really helped me consider my future , i am currently studying my GCSEs , and i wish to study physics, maths, further maths and chemistry for A levels. Like you , i wish to study physics at a university level.
Imagoldzimbabwebaby 3 weeks ago
is it possible for an adult to get into oxford with an access course.
swiv2d 3 weeks ago
Comment removed
123Luke456 2 weeks ago
This has been flagged as spam show
@swiv2d One of the success stories on the access website is of a guy who went to Oxford, and at my college a tutor told me that people have gone to places like Cambridge, Durham and SOAS after doing access to humanities. However I reckon that cases like that must be extremely rare for access course students, probably like one mature student every two years or something. The types of degrees that you might be able to get in to might be non-traditional humanities based I think.
123Luke456 2 weeks ago
@123Luke456 oxford is the only university that has archaelogical science as a course. It sucks. If I were a celebrity or part of a rich family or sucked some dicked maybe I'd have a chance.
swiv2d 2 weeks ago
@swiv2d oh dear
123Luke456 2 weeks ago
@swiv2d If you've found the website (google Oxford mature students) then I'm afraid you know as much as I do!
SimonOxfPhys 1 week ago
heyy please just ignore my first question in the previous comments. i planned on asking that ques before i started playing this video and then just commented before erasing the first question. Sorry :)
PagliRajkonna 3 weeks ago
(..cont. from previous comment) I read in an article that you need at least 6 A*s to have a decent chance in Cambridge? :(
b) for Maths, students are required to take the STEP test. When is this test? After their AS-level when they apply? Or after their A-levels?
Thank you :)
PagliRajkonna 3 weeks ago
@PagliRajkonna STEP is taken before you apply, though I'm afraid I don't know all of that much about it. I think I'm right in saying that you take it in the summer of year 12. Your best bet is asking your maths teacher, as I really don't want to tell you the wrong information!
SimonOxfPhys 3 weeks ago
Hello :)
Thanks a lot for making this video. It was very informative :)
I'm currently studying AS levels and trying to get all A's. I want to apply to Cambridge to study Maths.
2 ques - a) do my GCSE results have a lot of importance? my gcse were average. not extremely awesome or anything. If i have a lot of volunteering experience in science/maths related events/organisations and have all A's in my AS, would it be enough to please them? Or is GCSE results are vital? .. cont into 2nd comment
PagliRajkonna 3 weeks ago
Hi, I live in America and I don't understand the requirements you are talking about in this video. Do you know what they look for, for american students?
techloverboii1015 1 month ago
@techloverboii1015 You can find the international requirements on the Oxford uni website. If you google 'oxford international qualifications' and click the first link there's a table on that page.
SimonOxfPhys 3 weeks ago
How old were you when you discovered a true passion for physics/maths and how old were you when you decided you wanted to become a physicist? Also when you did decide, if you were at a young age, how did you act upon it? One last thing- what exactly are you planning to do in the future for work; are you going to get a Ph.D?
lilpwincess98 1 month ago
@lilpwincess98 I decided I really like physics at the start of my GCSEs (I basically realised that all the cool bits of science were labelled 'physics') but I've never had a passion for maths. At all. It's only now that I'm starting to really like and appreciate it.
So I guess once I knew I loved physics I knew I needed to beast my GCSEs and A levels and apply to the best place where I could do a physics degree. So far so good! The next stage is hopefully a PhD in atmospheric physics...
SimonOxfPhys 3 weeks ago
@SimonOxfPhys I see... Atmospheric Physics... interesting choice!
lilpwincess98 1 week ago
Hey there :)
I'm in year 11 about to do my GCSE's and I am wondering just how much co-curricular activities help when applying. For example what kind of impact would being a black belt have?
Some people tell me that Oxbridge predominantly focus on academic achievements and capability, but some say that achievement in non academic fields help as well. Also, I plan on doing Maths, chemistry, economics and biology. To what extent would Maths and economics complement my application to read medicine
TheMrBobotron 1 month ago
@TheMrBobotron Extra-curricular activities show that you're not a robot, but other than that I don't think they really play any role in selection criteria (unless you're a rowing blue). You will probably have more fun once you're here though, compared to someone who doesn't, say, have a black belt.
For medicine maths would definitely be a help, while I doubt economics will have much of an influence. The most important thing you can do now is get your work experience together. Hope this helps :)
SimonOxfPhys 3 weeks ago
Thank you so much! Your video really helped. I have so many questions, ok, so I got AAABBBBB in GCEs O level, dose GCE matter or not? I moved two schools in that year is it worth mentioning in the application? Sorry for bugging you so much I have a lot of Qs :)
alienme944 1 month ago
@alienme944 wow, sorry I've taken so long to reply - I've been busy building a youtube channel for my college. O level marks don't count for all of that much, but you would need to make sure that you do really well at A level to offset those O level marks (they are still good, but probably a bit lower than the average applicant). If you moved schools several times then that's something your teachers should definitely include on your reference, as Oxford do take things like that into account
SimonOxfPhys 3 weeks ago
Hey I wanted to ask that I am doing an internship with an NGO, would that help me in my application and my AS sub are physics, chemistry, maths p1 and m1 and I will also do A level in these three the thing is that I have English literature too, would these two help me: my internship and eng lit. if I apply for engineering, people say lit. has double credit?
If I have to apply for engineering how important is chemistry and further maths in A levels :)
alienme944 1 month ago
@alienme944 Internships will certainly help your application (even if only to give you something to talk about in interview), though I don't think Eng. Lit. gives you double credit. Tbh I doubt it would affect your application all of that much.
As for chemistry and further maths I would say that they are very favourably looked upon, and in particular further maths would be an advantage (but not a crippling disadvantage if you don't have it)
SimonOxfPhys 1 month ago
I am so jealous, I live in the delusion by lying myself that Cambridge,Oxford and Harvard are over rated universities, I am living in this state of mind because I am not able to study there, although I am aware of the fact that studying in one of the three universities I mentioned above are goals for all students in the world.
I am currently studying in the Serbia, in Serbian language.. but studying in English, somewhere in America or England would be an extremely useful and good.
HB3l1 1 month ago
@HB3l1 There's nothing to stop you applying! There are plenty of international students here, and I can guarantee that you wouldn't be the first person from Serbia to study here :)
SimonOxfPhys 1 month ago
@SimonOxfPhys Actually there is, first of all , money, I am not poor neither I am an extremely rich to pursue studying in the Oxford. I heard that payments are 30.000euros per year, and even higher, add on this extra goods( place for living,food,clothes,etc..). By the way , I am able to continue my studies in AMERICAN HERITAGE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA(any thoughts)?. I know this one cannot be compared to the oxford but it is still better than the university I am studying in.
HB3l1 1 month ago
@HB3l1 hi, very sorry I've taken so long to get back to you. I can't claim to have heard of the university of southern california, so you would need to look up where it sits on league tables etc. Do remember that there is a lot of financial support for students in Oxford - in fact you could argue that it is the most affordable uni in the country (for uk students at least) - so don't write it off just yet
SimonOxfPhys 3 weeks ago
Well now I'm screwed.
tredup96 1 month ago
i am currently doing AS in Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematic. I had 5A* 5A 2B C (in english Lang) I really want to do medicine. do you thing that there might be a chance for me in Cambridge???
mediamaster08 1 month ago
@mediamaster08 You're certainly doing the right A levels and while your GCSEs aren't stellar they aren't disastrous either. If you get loads of experience together and build a strong application then I can't see any reason why you would struggle more than anyone else :)
Though you'd be better off applying to Oxford... :p
SimonOxfPhys 1 month ago
@SimonOxfPhys Aren't stellar? You fucking faggot, those are some good damn results. The majority of students only manage to get one A*. So, just because you are a posh private schooled twat don't try and pretend that those are not good grades because not everyone is as privileged as yourself.
conspiracies1 1 month ago
@conspiracies1 OK, some things.
1) 2Bs and a C at GCSE will be worse than many applicants who apply from all backgrounds. Those 5A*s are still very good. 2) I didn't go to a private school, I went to a state comp in Bristol that sends one or maybe two people a year to Oxbridge. 3) I wasn't privileged, I was hard working. My family certainly isn't rich or influential and of which no one as been to uni. I'm as amazed as anyone else that I got into Oxford.
SimonOxfPhys 1 month ago
@SimonOxfPhys Fair enough, apologies from my part.
conspiracies1 1 month ago
@SimonOxfPhys alright i understand that my results are not that steller as you say,, but what if say I worked majorly hard in mean like my life depended on it,, well i guess it sort of does, I get 4*s at Alevel... then are my chances greater? i know especially for medicine its going to be a knockoff they might also look at my GCSEs?
mediamaster08 1 month ago
@mediamaster08 Sorry I've taken so long to reply - life has been very busy! Of course, if you get 4A*s at A level then your chances of success will be greater. Remember that GCSEs aren't everything, and that loads of people get into Oxford with similar results to yours. The important results are your A levels, as well as your interview performance. I put up my results in the middle of my Oxford FAQs video, though I'm not necessarily indicative of the 'average' student here
SimonOxfPhys 3 weeks ago
@SimonOxfPhys simon to sorry to keep troubling you, about how many A*s at GCSE are we talking about, can you tell me what you had at GCSE and Allevel so that I can have an indication of what we should be looking at? only becuase if i think then i don't have a chance then i moght not apply overall, it would just be a waste of application. Thanks much appriciated, and please respond to my other comment.
mediamaster08 1 month ago
What's this? A white middle class man at Oxford? Impossible!
smokeeeeeeeee 1 month ago 11
@smokeeeeeeeee What's this? A troll? On YouTube? Impossible!
SimonOxfPhys 1 month ago
@SimonOxfPhys what is your email address?
jjtroopss 1 month ago
@jjtroopss I try to keep all communication on youtube - feel free to send me a message
SimonOxfPhys 1 month ago
Also, if English is the only thing i've got a C in at GCSE, would that also limit my chance of getting in? the rest of my GCSe's are A's. It's just the english.
LidaAsh 1 month ago
@LidaAsh A C at GCSE isn't ideal but provided that's the only one you got (and you're not applying for something like English) then it won't be a problem.
Relax, you're doing just fine :)
SimonOxfPhys 1 month ago
Would that pull my grade down? I'm just so worried, i've worked so hard, studied so well and it's worrying me to the point where i become mentally sick. Thanks again.
LidaAsh 1 month ago
Hello again,
I'm just worried about the chances of me getting in as i've heard from others that the applicants are all private students, having studied at private schools. i'm worried as i'm not attending a private school, I've heard that 95% of the grad/postgraduates all attended private schools. That's not the only concern, i've also heard that they'll compare your results with your schools overall result, if you know what i mean - my school's overall grades aren't fantastic. I'm talking E's.
LidaAsh 1 month ago
@LidaAsh Hi, really sorry I've taken so long to reply but life is very hectic right now.
Coming from a non-private school places you at no disadvantage whatsoever - I came from a completely normal state school and didn't suffer for it at all. And if your results are significantly better than your school's average then that can only be a good thing (for you, I mean) as it shows that you are exceptional given your circumstances and clearly work hard. It certainly won't put you at a disadvantage.
SimonOxfPhys 1 month ago
@SimonOxfPhys thank you so much for your advice, it helped me stop worrying. =)
LidaAsh 1 month ago
This is hugely helpfull!! Most people just waffle in their videos, but this is real practical advice! Thanks
trigerhiger 2 months ago
Hi Simon I really appreciate your videos it has been a real help. Is there anyway I can email you my question as i am not too comfortable to post it here on youtube.I hope you don't mind leaving your email address and I am sorry if i sound rude.Thanks
rexonboy 2 months ago
@rexonboy Feel free to send me a private message on youtube, either with your email or with your question (or both!) :)
SimonOxfPhys 1 month ago
but i went for cambridge... oh well :D
Namami88 2 months ago
you're cuutee <3
Namami88 2 months ago
@SimonOxfPhys THANK YOU SO MUCH i will keep watching your vidios and maby soon i will join you at Oxford!
TheFloogledude 2 months ago
AAAABBBBB at GCSE. Thanks for reassuring me about that, I feel that I can actually talk about it and mention how depression affected my grades. It was my main concern. I'm considering taking an extra GCSE in Psychology or something perhaps to prove I can work independently or something. Looking to apply for English, so info specific to that would be wonderful. We had an Oxbridge talk and the tutorials seem like something I'd be into, so an elaboration from a student would be nice. Thanks.
TehFryingIrishman 2 months ago
Ok I will look at gcse re takes over the Christmas break.
moonisgod 2 months ago
What if i was able to retake 5 gcse ,how do you think they would regard this? I am able to do so , would it would make me look a more favourable candidate
moonisgod 2 months ago
@moonisgod you can certainly try! By personal philosophy is that you have nothing to lose by applying. If you can get good results on retakes then you may still be able to get in.
SimonOxfPhys 2 months ago
Any point applying with 7 cs and 3 ds at gcse, however I'm getting straight As at as
moonisgod 2 months ago
@moonisgod with those kind of GCSEs I'm afraid you'd have about a snowball's chance in hell - while GCSEs don't count that much, those kind of results would raise a red flag. Sorry!
SimonOxfPhys 2 months ago
Do you have to be like...really smart to enter oxford?Because you said that everybody has an A or something.
franscesa 2 months ago
@franscesa
Self-explanatory.
Zeykieee 2 months ago
SimonOxfPhys: im year 8 and want to get to oxford or cambridge what can i do while im at this age thanks
TheFloogledude 3 months ago
@TheFloogledude In year 8 the best thing that you can do is to think about what subjects you really enjoy and which you really don't - then think about whether you'd like to pursue those certain subjects at university. You also should think about how to make those subjects you don't enjoy more bearable - this is a very important skill in learning, and is something that will also improve your exam results!
Beyond that, start to think about which GCSEs you might like to take.
SimonOxfPhys 3 months ago
@SimonOxfPhys THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR HELP!
TheFloogledude 2 months ago
@TheFloogledude Don't panic! There's still loads of time before you have to start thinking about important decisions, so make the most of enjoying what you learn in school :)
SimonOxfPhys 3 months ago 6
@SimonOxfPhys Thank you . soo much for advice
TheFloogledude 2 months ago
Do you easily make friend at Oxbridge?
xBeautyFromHellx 3 months ago
@xBeautyFromHellx Definitely. St Peter's is known as the friendly college, and the atmosphere here is very welcoming and friendly. I had made several new friends within the first day - it's impossible not to!
Also on a university wide scale I've made friends with people I sit next to in lectures, and who I do labs with. It's your friends that make the experience so unique :)
SimonOxfPhys 3 months ago
Thank you for this very enlightening video. I was wondering, do they allow you to have pets in your dorms at Oxford?
bekrissi 3 months ago
@bekrissi I'm afraid not no! Though a lot of colleges have college pets, and we at St. Peter's have squirrels!
SimonOxfPhys 3 months ago
Hiya, i'm in year 10 and have looked round oxford and cambridge, after seeing a friend go off to cambridge and be successful has inspired me, how can i prepare myself so that i'm ready when it comes to applying for either oxford or cambridge? Cheers :-)
hoob30 3 months ago
Lol, how sad am I, I'm in year 10 and i really wanna go to oxbridge XD So Im finding out!
soapybubblestar26 3 months ago
@soapybubblestar26 same :)
GeorgiaLG98 3 months ago
@soapybubblestar26 Not sad! Getting clued in early shows that you know what you want, which is important.
SimonOxfPhys 3 months ago
Comment removed
Butdidudie 3 months ago in playlist More videos from SimonOxfPhys
PLEASE HELP ME:
Hi , I'm thinking of applying to Oxford, I'm predicted Level 7's in all my higher s maths chemistry and physics at IB ( Equivalent to 3 A* at A level ) and I took my Maths GCSE 5 years early and got an A.
The only PROBLEM is that I also took My two maths A levels early and only achieved a B in Core and A in Further maths out of an A* . Will this stop me from getting in?
I also play lots of sport and read a bit . Will that help?
PS. I thought your video was great SimonoxfPhys.
Butdidudie 3 months ago
@Butdidudie Very sorry I took so long to get back to you. It rather depends on what you are applying for - if you were applying for maths then your maths a level results might be a problem, though the fact that you took them early is obviously impressive. Also, are you applying based on your IB results (i.e. will they make you an offer based on your IB)? In that case then I think your A-levels aren't so important - they in fact show that you really love to study maths in your own free time.
SimonOxfPhys 3 months ago
What did you do/What do you suggest doing for physics work experience? I'm experiencing it very hard to find relevant work experience which is relevant so I'm generally just going to lots of lectures at the moment.
D3V17Z 3 months ago
@D3V17Z I know exactly what you mean - it is difficult to find stuff that seems directly relevant. Just this summer I did 2 months work at an engineering company called Renishaw (look them up, they're well good) which greatly strengthened my skills in the lab and my confidence in work in Optics. I'd recommend doing the same, as the work is interesting, looks good on the CV and the pay was very good.
SimonOxfPhys 3 months ago
@D3V17Z Beyond that though I would look at hi-tech companies near you to try and find something that sounds interesting to you. Also maybe some programming work? Provided you know a language.
In terms of shadowing a technician here that sounds like it would be very relevant - definitely apply for that and see what happens. At any rate I would recommend trying to get some experience working in the lab.
Hope this helps, and good luck! :)
SimonOxfPhys 3 months ago
Thanks alot really helpful
taddy671 4 months ago
@SimonOxfPhys Ive applied to oxford for physics and have been preparing for the PAT for the last few weeks and im pretty confident about that so i went on to see your videos about the interview etc. and i was just wondering as to if the tutors actually help u thru the interview or if your expected to do it all by urself??
69alaniz 4 months ago
@69alaniz The tutors will help you along as much as you need - no one gets through the interview without being assisted in some way by the tutors, as ultimately the questions are rather tough! Don't worry if you didn't get the solution by yourself first time around because I didn't for a lot of them. Basically they will guide you until you find the answer, but obviously the less guidance you need the better.
SimonOxfPhys 4 months ago
Comment removed
69alaniz 4 months ago
How important is our predicted grades when applying to university? My predicted grades are A,A,B,C and the universities im thinking of applying to have entry requirements of 3A's or 2A's and a B? would i be able to get in? or should i lower my standards?
SuperSpoonman1 4 months ago
@SuperSpoonman1 Hmm. Tough one. I think that you nothing to lose by allocating one of your 5 places to an AAA institution, but maybe keep the rest as AAB or ABB. My standard philosophy is that if people don't apply then they have a 0% chance of getting in, but obviously here the choices you make are tactical too.
It also depends on whether you think you can get grades higher than AABC, although remember universities will make their offers based on your predicted grades.
SimonOxfPhys 4 months ago
Hey! What's the hardest thing?Getting into Oxford or the workload that studying at Oxford requires?
xBeautyFromHellx 4 months ago
@xBeautyFromHellx You know it's quite a funny question. I was always told when I was applying that the hardest thing was just getting in, but now I've got here I can assure you that staying on the course (at least for Physics) is way, way harder! Not to say that getting in is easy, but this is the hardest thing I've ever done. And completely worth it - I love my course.
N.B. I think it does vary from course to course, at least in terms of the base level of work required...
SimonOxfPhys 4 months ago
Hello there, I am thinking of going to Oxford to do Medicine. I am currently get A*s in Maths and Science ( Double Awards). Sadly, my English isn't how i want it, I'm getting C's and B's. In addition, I'm getting A/B in ICT, A in PE, B in RE, B in french and finally a B in Food Tech. Could I still go to Oxford even though my English isn't that high?
In A-Level, I am wishing to take Maths + Futher Maths, Biology and Chemistry. Is this all okay to enter Medicine at Oxford?
TheHabbo210 4 months ago
@TheHabbo210 I need the advice urgently...
TheHabbo210 4 months ago
@TheHabbo210 In terms of your GCSEs, I would recommend getting that English grade up as in such a competitive subject as Medicine, that could easily prove to be a deciding factor against other applicants. Remember that Medicine involves writing an awful lot of essays, so good English skills are important.
As for your A levels, there's a link in my more recent video to an Oxford page answering this question, but in short they look good to me!
SimonOxfPhys 4 months ago
@SimonOxfPhys I must say thank you for your answer. So I need to get my English up to standard, I am good at it, but they say that you are either good at two and not the other. What I mean by this, is by that I am amazing at Science and Maths, but not as good in English. Is there a spectific requirment for GCSE English at Oxford?
It is a very, very competitive area. They're so many students' get A's and A*s. However, I don't see the point of getting a A or a A* in English...
TheHabbo210 4 months ago
@TheHabbo210 I don't know if there is a specific requirement, but for everything but the hardcore sciences I would imagine a C would be the absolute lowest, but pretty much everyone else who applies will have an A or an A*, especially for Medicine.
At that kind of level, the only point of getting an A or an A* is so that you don't look worse than everyone else!
SimonOxfPhys 4 months ago
RabidSimsFan 4 months ago
@RabidSimsFan Well, it rather depends on what you're applying for! As I say in my more recent video there are a couple of criteria that I apply for everyone who asks this question. I think if you can get several A* in those GCSEs then that's a good base to apply from, combined with good A level results obviously. Mostly A grades would be slightly below the standard that they expect from applicants.
SimonOxfPhys 4 months ago
i live in NZ and we only do 5 IG subjects then 4 AS/A2 subjects, is that in any way going to hinder my chances of getting in as it seems like a lot of students are sitting many more subjects???
MakeMiLaff 4 months ago
@MakeMiLaff If everyone else from NZ is only doing 5 IG subjects then I should think the admissions tutors were used to it! If you're concerned, you could always try doing an IG in your own spare time (something that I did with a GCSE), though as I say if everyone from NZ is in the same boat then I don't imagine it would be too much of a problem. One of the greatest physicists of all time was a kiwi, so it didn't stop him!
Congratulations on the rugby, btw.
SimonOxfPhys 4 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
but i got an A in ict and a B in german do you think they will take me
95SIKH 4 months ago
I am still in high school n doing well in 7 subjects I am getting c's in those subjects will oxford look into them
95SIKH 4 months ago
@95SIKH If you're getting Cs and that's the top end of your achievement then I think Oxford will look into them, normally they expect people to be getting Bs as a minimum. Sorry:(
SimonOxfPhys 4 months ago
Very good video, but the pace of your speech kind of fast^^ and also you seem to be very dedicated student of the major you're in!! I also wish you Good luck on your academic missions!! :)
Zulayla
zulayla23 4 months ago
So they wont look at my ig's results?
Q8Marine24 4 months ago
@Q8Marine24 Sorry, what's IG? I see you're from Kuwait so it's a qualification I've never heard of before :/ you might want to look at the Oxford website: / admissions/ undergraduate_courses/ international_students/ international_ qualifications /index
SimonOxfPhys 4 months ago
@SimonOxfPhys i meant igcse :p
Q8Marine24 4 months ago
@Q8Marine24 I answer this one in my new video - basically they will look at your GCSEs/iGCSEs, but they don't count anywhere near as much as your A levels. If they are unusually bad then it will raise a red flag, but otherwise it's not too much of a problem.
SimonOxfPhys 4 months ago
@SimonOxfPhys ok thanks! :))
Q8Marine24 4 months ago
@SimonOxfPhys your cat or college cat?
tumtumtreee 5 months ago
@tumtumtreee my cat! This was filmed in my room at home.
SimonOxfPhys 5 months ago
Absolutely brilliant, sir. I've already been to "uni", but I so wish someone had broken down this unnecessarily mysterious process in my time as you have here.
CuddlyBadger 5 months ago
Omg, they are going to interview me O.o I am so excited and scared ;( I bet I won't be able to speak a word when they start asking questions, and I am from Germany O__O
TheHpTVShow 5 months ago
@TheHpTVShow Congratulations on getting the interview! Just stay calm and give yourself space and time to think, and you'll be fine. Being relaxed is the most important thing.
And if it helps, imagine the interviewers in their underwear :P (not something I can claim to have done, but a piece of advice that I was given!)
SimonOxfPhys 5 months ago
@SimonOxfPhys Thank You very much :'> I hope I'll get in :b
TheHpTVShow 5 months ago
thanks , any advice for applying to medicine ?
izy585 5 months ago
@izy585 Experience is everything. Make sure you can get as much experience as you can in places like hospitals, clinics, old folks' homes etc.. Beyond that make sure that you have a strong interest in the theoretical underpinnings/science of medicine, as the oxbridge courses are more theory based. And the ubiquitous strong passion for your subject is essential, natch :)
SimonOxfPhys 5 months ago
@SimonOxfPhys thanks for your advice but I decided against applying for Oxford or Cambridge :p
actually thought under my circumstances trinity would be a better option ,
thanks and good luck in your college life
fun I presume?
:)
izy585 5 months ago
Thank you !
sumfo 5 months ago
As a fourth-year Oxford chemistry student, I agree with the point at about 2:25. Absolutely loving your subject is essential – if you aren't completely sure that it's what you want to do for the next few years, then it will be a miserable ride. And make sure you have an interest outside your subject too, because sometimes things get a little intense and you need to clear your head.
Brammers451 5 months ago 4
thankyou for this! x
PandaScribbles 5 months ago
Thank you very much
Jovidon1 5 months ago
Great video, and you're absolutely adorable
chaarbie 5 months ago
A quick question, did you ever find out your PAT score? And can you find out, if not?
km11293 6 months ago
@km11293 I got around 70 I think (can't really remember). I got a pack from Jesus College after all of my interviews that gave me my PAT scores and interview marks out of 10 (which I am definitely NOT giving out as they're a tad embarrassing). I don't know how many colleges do that kind of scheme though. I'd imagine that if you asked the physics department they probably be happy to tell you :)
SimonOxfPhys 5 months ago
I am a 10th grader considering Cambridge for a major in philosophy. However I did not do very well as a 9th grader, I actually didn't intend to go to college until 6 or 7 months ago when I found philosophy. Would I be given a chance to explain myself to the school?
BeGladItsAlmostOver 6 months ago
@BeGladItsAlmostOver If you're applying to Cambridge then you'll be doing so via UCAS so you will submit a personal statement (see their website) to accompany your application, that explains things like reasons for applying. So in there you'd be able to emphatically state that you only got really interested in Philosophy in 10th grade, and from then on just know you wanted to go to Cambridge. Or something like that.
SimonOxfPhys 6 months ago
I got 8A*s and 5As in my gcse results today, so I'm on my way!
mermaidellz 6 months ago 3
Oh Simon.
Thank you. I was expecting you so much^^. Now I see what I have to do. it would be very kind of you if you can find out whether they look at Further Maths or not. To be honest I didn't know anybody who already got in Economic or can really help me out with this.
Thank you once again very much for your help
lamtuquyenha 6 months ago
Simon
I will apply Economics at Oxford but not sure about what to prepare, what do they really expect from me to perform during the interview? In Oxford website of Economics course they stated clearly that they will see how smart i am and how interested I am in the subject? Is that true? And also how they will look at my scores, can u tell me exactly how it works. Is that necessary to take Further Maths because I am doing Maths, Physics and Accounting and will start A2 this September?
lamtuquyenha 7 months ago
@lamtuquyenha the purpose of the interview is to determine how suitable you are for the course. A big part of that is how 'smart' you are, but a very large part is also how passionate you are about the subject. That determines how far you can stick with the course when it gets tough.
I would recommend that you take Further Maths if possible, but I don't believe it's a requirement. See ww.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate_courses/courses/courses_and_entrance_requirements/table.html :)
SimonOxfPhys 6 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
@SimonOxfPhys
Oh Simon
I was expecting you so much^^. Now I know what to do. It would be very kind of you if you can find out whether they will look at Further Maths or not. To be honest I don't know anybody who already got in or really can help me out with this.
Thank you very much for help. Will be looking to hear from you.
lamtuquyenha 6 months ago
Hello Simon
I know it has been a long since u posted this video. I really need someone to give me some advices about applying Oxford because actually none of people I know can really help me. If you can still help, this is my email haletunglam@yahoo.com. Or if I can have any methods to contact u please let me know. Will lookforward to hearing from you
lamtuquyenha 7 months ago
Loved the video! I found it really useful.
Shaia 7 months ago
@asphalteaters At AS I had Maths: 87%; Further Maths: 99%; Geography: 90%; Physics: 92%.
SimonOxfPhys 8 months ago
@SimonOxfPhys
Wow! Further maths 99%! That's amazing :o. ^-^
Zeykieee 8 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
My email is elvisk123@gmail.com. Cheers.
Damienek47 8 months ago
Wonderful video. That's nice someone decided to give a hand to people feeling like applying for a uni. I've got a few more questions though and would wanna know a bit more. If u could send me ur email, I would email u asking about things I'm interested in.
Damienek47 8 months ago
:) hehe .. I loved how you said, "one of my friends got a B at GCSE, not really straight As"...
MaraimH 8 months ago
I achieved straight ones in all eight of my standard grades, which is the top marks possible, four A's and one B in my highers and two A's and one B in my advanced highers. I am good enough to get excepted to study at Oxford or Cambridge.
piano1996No1 8 months ago
@piano1996No1 As long as you're getting close to the maximum grades possible then I think you have a pretty good shot! Take a look at the university page on admissions, and your department's page as well, if you want a look at typical offers and expectations
SimonOxfPhys 8 months ago
@piano1996No1 you will undoubtedly be excepted :0)
IlRezzonico 6 months ago
I Got In!
ImCazperr 9 months ago 10
@ImCazperr Yay! :)
SimonOxfPhys 9 months ago
@ImCazperr CONGRATULATIONS!!!!
sticky4891 4 months ago
Hey Simon, I was just wondering if you know anything about the American School system so you could help me do what I can to apply. (Maybe) I already sent you a message, but I'm not sure. Could you help me out? I'm very anxious to study in the UK, specifically in Oxbridge and I hope I can get in, so I'm preparing early (I'm in tenth grade :) )
animefan815 9 months ago
I am grateful for your time Simon to answering our questions and uploading this most-appreciated video. I have two queries around this matter, which are:
-How do you know that they didn't look at your GCSEs when, as far as I know, you have to provide it with your application ??
-Secondly, you have mentioned that you have acheived 8A* and 2 merits, therefore it might have seemed to you that GCSEs weren't taken into account ! So how did you know since your grades are excellent ?!
Thank you,
saifwhab 9 months ago
@saifwhab You do provide your GCSE results with your application, but from talking to the tutors that did my interviews it would appear that they don't really take them into consideration. They will only pick you up on them if they are unusually bad. The Oxford Physics website says that 'it is not unusual for candidates to be accepted with fewer than 4 A* grades, or to be rejected with more than 9 A* grades'. So you do have to do reasonably well, but not stellarly as some people seem to think!
SimonOxfPhys 9 months ago
Hi Simon
I'm currently studying GCSE's, and predicted 5 A's and 4 B's , is this good enough?
Also, send me a message and I'll tell you more.
AS MUCH FEEDBACK NEEDED.
MOHDOGAR 9 months ago
Hi Simon,
Great Video!
I study in India under the cbse edu system which oxford unfortunately considers as 'not sufficient to make an application' and have therefore decided to a year of university study from another institution........
is this 'gap year' going to hamper my chances of getting into oxford?? or rather make my application competitive enough??
thanx!!
adh123min 10 months ago
@adh123min The typical line that Oxford takes is that a gap year won't harm your application as long as what you do during that time is related to your subject. If you are going to spend a year getting another qualification in your field then I think that can only bolster your application. Obviously it shows that you have the drive to go to a good university and that you want to do your subject.
SimonOxfPhys 10 months ago
Wooo for Simon!
MrJubbadahut 10 months ago
Hi Simon, thanks very much for this useful video!
I do have a question though; In terms of extra curricular activities, is any form of proof appreciated or required?
For example, I play the guitar, but strictly as a hobby and I teach myself. How would this compare to say a few grades on an instrument?
Thanks :)
TheJonVlogger 10 months ago
@TheJonVlogger Well, in terms of extra-curricular activities you'll only have to talk about them in your personal statement and not really in interview (this would probably vary a bit subject to subject). So 'proof' is not really required. That said, grades are more impressive as they give a form of external verification - someone can play at home to a low level for the same length of time that it takes for someone to do several grades. It still makes you a more rounded character to them though!
SimonOxfPhys 10 months ago
@SimonOxfPhys Thanks for quick reply, I have another question now :P Looking further down in the comments, I see you mention that the workload is around 50 hours a week. I want to do physics and philiosophy, does this mean I effectivily have 100 hours a week of work..?
TheJonVlogger 10 months ago
@TheJonVlogger Ha! Fortunately not. In Physics and Philosophy you will miss some aspects of the Physics course (in the first year, electromagnetism and circuits I think) in which you will do Philosophy stuff. The workload is a bit heavier for those doing Phys&Phil but not that much more!
SimonOxfPhys 10 months ago
what kind of grades did you get (GCSE and A Levels/ Or equivalent please) and also why did you choose Oxford over Cambridge or any other university?
MrJubbadahut 10 months ago
@MrJubbadahut At GCSE I got A* in Double English, Double Science, Maths, French, History, Geography and Philosophy and Belief. I also got a double Merit in my CIDA double ICT.
At A level I got A in A2 Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Geography (no A* available) and got A* in my Extended Project in yr 12 and a Pass in my Open University module on planets in yr 13.
I chose Oxford because by most league tables it is the best university to study a Physics degree at, and because I like the place!
SimonOxfPhys 10 months ago
Hi, I was wondering, do you know how difficult it is to get into the anthropology department in either college?
HeartShapeGlasses007 11 months ago
@HeartShapeGlasses007 I don't know much about the anthropology department at Oxford other than I know it's good! A friend of mine is an Arch & Anth student - if you like I could ask her?
SimonOxfPhys 10 months ago
@SimonOxfPhys If it wouldn't be too much trouble, I would much appreciate it if you did.
HeartShapeGlasses007 10 months ago
@HeartShapeGlasses007 I've asked her and got half an essay in return so far - when I get the rest I'll message it to you!
SimonOxfPhys 10 months ago
this is so nicee of you to make such a helpful video, thaanks, not needing it just yettt, about to do my IGCSES, buttuum thaaaaaanks! hehee :)
jasche123 11 months ago
What are you views on Oxford Brookes? Oxford uni doesn't do the course I want to study, I was wondering if people who is a student at Oxford look down on 'Brookes' students?
You said that the first 8 weeks was one of your worst experiences, Why?
Thankyou : )
annaliseREB 11 months ago
@annaliseREB I think a lot of Oxford students tend to look down on Brookes students, but then again I think those are the kind of people who look down on everyone! To be quite honest if someone looks down on you because of where you're studying then that's not a friend you're much worse off losing.
In terms of my first Michaelmas it was a mix of being away from home, working really hard on stuff I find really difficult and not having many friends that made me hate it. It's much better now!
SimonOxfPhys 11 months ago
Will they accept you if you say that your favourite music is blink 182, greenday or sum 41?
alsy23 11 months ago
@alsy23 Of course they still would! I only mentioned Bach because it was the first thing that came into my head (been playing a lot of Bach on my sax recently). Personally I'd have to say that my favourite music is Queen or Guns n Roses or Iron Maiden or Green Day.
SimonOxfPhys 11 months ago
Hey Simon,
Really helpful video by the way.
I was wondering how much emphasis Oxbridge puts on extra-curricular activities? ...Because my school is slightly crazy about these and i was wondering whether I really needed to get involved in everything to seem attractive to Oxbridge?
Thanks
yisforyash 1 year ago
@yisforyash I think that they certainly do put emphasis on people doing extracurricular activities as they show you have good time management and independent skills. However, the first and foremost thing has to be academic results and potential - I would say that extending your subject beyond the A level syllabus and therefore showing academic gumption is more important that sports or music. That said, I would recommend doing at least one thing that you can talk about in your personal statement!
SimonOxfPhys 11 months ago