Most interviews take place in the first three weeks of December (though some may be earlier) so please don’t make any unbreakable commitments for this period. The exact form and length of interviews varies between subjects, but typically you’ll have two interviews of 20–30 minutes each. All of your interviews will take place on the same day at specific times and Caius can provide accommodation for applicants travelling from further afield.
You’ve probably heard lots of stories about what goes on an interviews at Cambridge – rugby balls being thrown at you, strange experiments with furniture, mean and abusive dons trying to bring you to tears. Rest assured this is definitely not the case, especially at Caius! The interview is challenging, but the interviewers at Caius are very experienced and do their best to make the process as relaxed as possible – it’s more like a conversation about things that interest you than a gruelling interrogation.
Most of all it's a chance for you to shine – they are not looking to catch you out, but trying to figure out if you have a talent, passion and interest in your subject over and above the standard blurb in your personal statement. The interview is also a great way for you to find out more about the college and decide whether you would be happy here. Although your interview will be demanding and you will most probably be nervous the interviewers are aware of this and will be trying their best to make you feel comfortable.
Something else you wanted to know? Concerned over how to prepare for an interview? Ask a Student and we'll find someone at Caius studying your subject to fill you in!