Oxford and Cambridge, collectively known as Oxbridge, represents the pinnacle of academic achievement and opportunity. At Gabbitas, we understand the complexities of the Oxbridge application process and are here to guide you every step of the way. Our team of experienced consultants and tutors, many of whom Oxbridge graduates, is dedicated to helping students and families navigate this challenging journey, offering personalised support to secure a place at your dream university or college. In this guide we are focusing on Oxbridge 2025 Entry.  

 

What to expect when applying to Oxbridge?  

 

The Application Process: Step-by-Step 

 1. Course Selection  

The first crucial decision is selecting the right course. Oxbridge offers a vast range of subjects, so it’s essential to choose a course that aligns with your passions and career goals.  

The initial consultation is an opportunity for both parents and students to get familiar with the intricacies of higher education. Our consultants will look into the candidate’s educational background, abilities and level to determine the candidate’s academic profile and narrow down potential courses, based on their potential and preferences.  

 

Start your Oxbridge journey today.  

Book your initial consultation with us.   

 

 2. Academic Excellence

Academic performance is a significant factor in the Oxbridge admissions process. Oxbridge looks for evidence of academic potential and a genuine passion for your chosen subject. Engage deeply with your subject matter beyond the school curriculum through independent study, reading, and relevant extracurricular activities to the course you are applying for. 

 

 3. Winning Personal Statement

Your personal statement is your chance to shine. It should reflect your enthusiasm for your chosen course, highlight your academic achievements, and demonstrate your readiness for the rigors of Oxbridge education. Be honest, reflective, and specific about your experiences and aspirations. 

 

For more tips, consult our UCAS Personal Statements Guide.  

 

 4. Admission Tests 

Many courses at Oxbridge require applicants to sit for admission tests. These tests are designed to assess your aptitude for the course and your critical thinking skills. Our expert tutoring team provides targeted preparation and effective study techniques, ensuring that students are well-equipped and confident with exam format and material.  

 

5. The Interview

The Oxbridge interview is often the most daunting part of the application process. It is an opportunity for the admissions to see how you think and engage with new ideas. Our team can help develop your public speaking skills by giving you essential tips, practice questions and confidence to excel.  

 

Consult our Oxbridge Interview Questions Guide.  

Credit: University of Cambridge

 

How can Gabbitas support?  

 

University Placements Support:  

Our experienced consultants provide in-depth evaluation, strategy and next steps to achieve results. From choosing the right course and college to fine-tuning your personal statement, we ensure every aspect of your application is polished to perfection. With over 150 years of experience, Gabbitas offers clients the ultimate immersive experience – what it feels like to gain access to premier British education and most importantly – what it feels like to be an Oxbridge student.  

  

“I appreciated very much your precious work and your professional approach. Therefore, next academic year I will continue to recommend your name as an advisor to several people who also would wish to apply in Great Britain through UCAS.”  

University Placements Testimonial  

 

“Got into my dream university, thank you for your assistance throughout the process. It has been an honour working with you. May our paths cross again in the future.”  

University Placements Testimonial  

   

Contact our consultants to enquire Oxbridge Support.  

Consultations are available both in person and online.  

 

Gabbitas Tutoring: Oxbridge Preparation  

Gabbitas has a range of specialist tutors who can assist Oxbridge candidates with their application, interview, exam preparation and academic mentorship. The tuition is based on the candidate’s strengths, areas of improvement, ambitions and application criteria of the chosen programme.   

Our tutors are highly qualified and experienced in their fields. Many of them are Oxbridge graduates who understand the rigorous academic standards and can provide the guidance necessary to support students for Oxbridge and other top universities and degree courses, such as Medicine and Law.  

Explore some of our Oxbridge Tutors:  

“Thomas Scott (Tom) has been a pleasure to work with over the last two years. He has proven to be, in my experience, top percentile across teaching skills, knowledge of subject, professionalism, and reliability. He is also very engaging and personable. Tom has also shown flexibility in working with a range of pupils via his occasional tutelage of Arjuna in a number of subjects. I would not hesitate to recommend Tom as a tutor across GCSE, school entry exams, A-Levels, IB, University (and Oxbridge) entry and some undergrad materials drawing on his experience in PPE.”

Tutoring Testimonial

 

“Our son’s dream of studying PPE at Oxford felt like a long shot, but thanks to Femi’s exceptional tutoring, it became a reality. Femi’s in-depth preparation for the Thinking Skills Assessment was instrumental, providing our son with the strategies and confidence to excel. Beyond that, Femi’s guidance during the interview process was invaluable—instilling the skills needed to present his ideas clearly and thoughtfully. We’re thrilled to share that our son secured his place at Oxford, and we have Femi to thank for helping him achieve this incredible milestone.”

 Tutoring Testimonial

 

“Julia taught my child how to think and approach English comprehension and writing differently. The impact was transformational and my child went from an average performer to producing some excellent work, pushing past the levels for the entrance exams.”

Tutoring Testimonial

Request a Tutor

Have more questions about Oxbridge Tuition?

Contact our Tutoring team at enquiries@gabbitas.com or at +44 (0) 2030267443.

 

Ongoing Support and Advice:

Our support doesn’t end once the application is submitted. We assist students in preparing for possible additional assessments and provide advice on what to do if they receive multiple offers. Our team is always happy to answer any questions you might have regards your application, academic concerns or career aspiration.

For more information on our Oxbridge preparation services, visit our website or contact us directly and start your university journey today.

Front Image Credit: University of Oxford  

 

 

Your UCAS personal statement is a vital component of your university application. The personal statement is representative of you – your ambitions, your aspirations, your interests – everything that separates you from the thousands of other applicants.

Writing a concise, eloquent and stand-out UCAS personal statement can be daunting. Your use of language and knowledge are put to the test. Gabbitas provides bespoke guidance, ensuring you demonstrate your academic prowess and genuine passion for your chosen field of study. In this article, we are going to walk you through the process required to write a winning personal statement.

 

What to Include:

1. Passion for the Subject: Clearly articulate your passion for your chosen subject, using particular features of your chosen subject that got you ‘hooked’.

• What books have you read? Is there an inspirational figure in your field?
• What life experiences have intrinsically linked you to this subject?
• What first got you fascinated?

2. Showcase Your Achievements: Include those moments you should be proud of. Highlight your biggest academic achievements, instances where you’ve gone above and beyond, and any additional qualifications and courses you’ve done.

• How do these make you come across as a strong candidate?
• How do they relate to you field of study?

3. Extracurricular Impact: The activities and interests you have outside of the classroom have shaped you and will continue to play an instrumental role in your further and higher education. Discuss your participation in sports, clubs, volunteering and other extracurricular activities. Be sure to emphasise any leadership, teamwork, or instances that demonstrate your skills and depth of interest beyond the classroom.

4. Future Aspirations: Outline your future goals and explain how the course you’re applying for aligns with these aspirations. Showcase your understanding of the field and your commitment to furthering your knowledge.

5. Use of Language: Looking through your personal statement, ensure your vocabulary is varied, developed and mature, and that subject specific words are correctly used. Punctuation and use of paragraphs can make a personal statement flow seamlessly, highlighting vital points, making it an easy read for an admissions officer. The register of the personal statement is also crucial.

• How does it sound to a new reader?
• Is it approachable and professional? Does it express you?

 

When is all this happening?

UCAS 2025 Application Submission Deadlines

3 September 2024: UCAS Undergraduate Deadline

2 October 2024: Deadline for conservatoire/music applications

15 October 2024: Oxbridge, medicine, dentistry, and veterinary science deadline

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Credit: Cambridge University

 

How can we help?

We provide personalised guidance to help students clearly articulate their motivations and craft compelling personal statements that stand out.

Our services include:

• • • Subject specialist support from Oxbridge and Russel graduates
  • • Strategic planning
  • • Interview practice with subject experts
  • • Admissions tests preparation
    • Help with selection of target courses/universities

 

Please contact us for a complimentary telephone discussion about your application.

Front Image Credit: Oxford University

As we approach the A-levels Results Day on the 17th August 2023 and potentially the Clearing process, Gabbitas consultants wanted to provide you with some important tips to help your children prepare for their phone calls with universities.  

For Clearing, check which universities are open and the courses with availability at https://www.ucas.com/clearing-launch 

 

The following steps will ensure a smooth and successful Results Day experience:

 

1.Prepare a long list that includes the university name, phone number, course code and title. Leave space to note down any important details during the call. This will help you stay organised and avoid confusion.

 

2. Research each university and the course. Familiarise yourself with key information, such as their offerings and reputation. Utilise university websites, league tables, and platforms like Unibuddy or similar https://www.ucas.com/chat-to-students to gather insights from current students.

 

3. Before making any calls, have the following items ready in front of you:

• Your UCAS Personal ID number 
• Your Clearing number 
• Your grades/UCAS Tariff points 
• Bullet points outlining why you want a place on the course and your relevant achievements (based on your Personal statement) 
• Choose a quiet location with a good phone signal to ensure clear communication during your calls. It is crucial that both parties can hear each other clearly. 

 

While it may be tempting to have someone else make the calls on your behalf, it is essential that you speak directly to the university. Remember that the university staff are there to assist you, and there is no need to worry or be intimidated. 
 

4. Be positive, enthusiastic, and polite. Make a strong impression by showing your passion and enthusiasm for the course. Clearly articulate why you want a place at the university. Even if you feel stressed, maintain a polite and calm demeanour to increase your chances of success.

 

5. Please note that some universities will ask you to send further information or proof of your grades via email after the call to complete additional checks before confirming whether you can apply or not.  

 

If your child did not achieve their offer grades, the first thing they need to do is still contact their firm/insurance choice universities to enquire if they can still be considered. Sometimes universities may still consider a candidate who did not meet their predicted grades. 

 

6. Do not hesitate to reconsider universities that you previously declined. If you had a positive experience during a campus visit or felt it was a good fit for you, there is nothing wrong with exploring those options again. 

 

7. While it may be a busy period, ensure you make an informed decision. Do not rush into choices out of desperation. Take the time to select a university and course that genuinely aligns with your aspirations and interests.  

 

You can only apply for one university and a course via UCAS for Clearing. Therefore, it is important to weigh up your options and research the shortlist of preferred universities (based on phone call feedback) before you decide which to apply for. 

 

If speaking on the phone is challenging for you, remember that universities often offer various communication channels. Utilise emails, live chat functions or reach out through social media platforms to connect with admissions teams.

 

 

If you need additional support and advice, we are here for you. 

This guide on how to prepare for GCSE exams has been developed in collaboration with our team of expert tutors, mentors and consultants, where we lay out the best revision methods and learning styles – with tangible examples.

 

When should I start revising?  

Revision should be a part of a student’s daily routine at school. Revising throughout the year will help students stay on top of their school and revision work, whilst also providing enough time to consolidate their understanding of the syllabus. Digesting content will be easier when revision is broken up, into small sections.  

Consistently revising will also train students to develop their own learning styles and manage their time more effectively.

A student’s revision schedule should start as early as possible. April and Easter break will also play a big part in the run up to the final exams. Whilst students should rest, they should also take this time to rectify any revision they have missed.

Getting this sorted early on, will relieve cramming later.  It is also the time to understand how comfortable a student is with past papers, the syllabus and get to grips with their time management for the summer term.   

Tutors and mentors should set up their own mock exams with students, tailored to their areas of weakness, giving them constructive feedback and pointing out areas to improve. This will make the final exams seem more familiar and less overwhelming. Contact our tutors for a bespoke revision plan.  

Tutors and mentors are also a great way to develop metacognitive learning processes that stretch far beyond their ability of helping with a particular exam or syllabus; mentorship for study skills is a way to advance how students understand their own learning processes, their revision techniques, and contextualising their learning. Learn more on metacognition here.  

 

Best methods and learning practices  

Knowing how to revise is equally as important as knowing what to revise. Students are encouraged to identify the revision methods that are the most effective for their personal learning style. This will make revising content-heavy material much easier to deal with.  

For example, visual learners will differ from tactile and auditory learners in that they process and remember information differently. Visual learners depend more on visual cues when learning, whereas tactile learners are contingent with a ‘hand-on’ approach to studying. Auditory learners focus more on voice, sound and hearing to effectively take in information.  

People learn through all these different ways, but many of us have preferences in how we learn, fostered by past experiences, our balance between thinking practically and theoretically, and the complexities of one’s cognition.  

Regardless, being open to different techniques and revision methods will help a student discover methods that resonate with them. Encouraging them to be conscious of their learning practices will save them invaluable time to the run up to their exams.  

 

Visual Learning  

Visual learners make up 65% of the population. Visual information takes on many formats, such as images, diagrams, flowcharts, graphs, cartoons, colours, PowerPoint presentations, films, artwork, games.

More recently, AI and Augmented Reality has also been seen to enact on visual learning processes, given the highly immersive visual experience created within these paradigms.  

The Journal of Education and Practice published a paper on the role of visual learning in improving students’ high-order thinking skills. The paper analysed how visual learning helps students improve their problem thinking skills through a high-order thinking framework.

Essentially, the paper concluded that students were able to increase their problem solving and collaborative skills through visual cues and representations.  

These buzzwords and theorised ideas are a good starting point to get students to think about their learning practices in a theoretical way. But how do they translate in the real world? How do students know which visual cue or medium best suits them?  

Practising revision with different visual representations and media might be the easiest way to understand how information is better processed. Overtime, students will naturally gravitate towards their preferred learning method, and will surpass their need to consciously think about their metacognitive processes.  

The following is a list of useful visual learning methods and techniques to help students get started:  

1. Emphasise notes by underlining and highlighting using different colours.
2. Create mind maps, flowcharts, and infographics when constructing arguments or exploring complex topics.  
3. Use flashcards when memorising facts and statistics.  
4. Utilise the use of images and diagrams in curriculum books and articles.
5. Find relevant videos on the subject.  

 

Tactile Learning  

Whereas visual learning is highly location specific, tactile learning uses movement, spatial parameters and a sensory approach processing information.

Tactile learners have a ‘hands-on’ approach to their learning processes. This means that they work best when they experience and practice first-hand with information or material.  

Passive learning has no place in the tactile learner. They are active participants of all their information processes.  This means moving around, actively using their hands during revision etc.  

A study which compared the learning style of different students found that students that relied more on one style of learning were outperformed by students that developed a combination of learning practices.  

Yet it is important to understand with which learning style students can get the most out of their revision. The following list include some methods and practices for tactile learners: 

1. The use of movement or movement patterns when revising  – Chewing gum, walking around the room, fidgeting.
2. Matching physical movement with certain answers or moving revision notes into patterns can work well.  
3. Explore other mediums which require active participants: such as attending live performances of the syllabus & books or incorporate games and props.
4. Physically creating notes, art or shapes to represent ideas for revision. Reading on a screen simply won’t cut it.  

  

Auditory Learning  

Auditory learners incorporate speaking, listening and verbal forms of communication to process information. These types of learners are able to recollect spoken information at a higher rate than tactile and visual learns. They are also subject to increased scoring in verbal exams and have a skill for speaking.  

Auditory learners prefer learning that incorporates a high level of discussion and requires active forms of listening. A study by the Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences found that student’s ‘skills, attitudes and predispositions to Auditory Learning Style are significative and determinative factors for learning effectively’.

Essentially, this means that students in their survey confirmed that learning through sonically emphasised communication has a significant impact in their studies and schoolwork.  

The following is a list of real-term methods in enacting upon an auditory learning practice: 

1. Play background music when revising, linking certain music with certain information.  
2. Participate in group discussions and debates. Talk through an answer or question with a peer or tutor. 
3. Watch videos on the subject. 
4. Read aloud. 
5. Memorise through mnemonical practice (using songs, rhythm, acronyms)
6. Listen to lectures, talks and podcasts on the required topic.  

 

Learn your learning style  

Students might find that one learning style will benefit them more than another, or that certain parts of each will resonate with them. Whatever the style and methods chosen for revision, that feels right, students often struggle to know if their revision is effective.  

This consciousness in learning style and techniques will help students far past their GCSE exams, and past their university graduation – into their career and everyday adult life.  

Academic mentors and tutors and a great way to aid in the development of  student’s learning styles by accurately assessing their learning.

Gabbitas mentors and tutors have a high degree of subject, pedagogical and metacognitive knowledge, a combination that can help students through their revision and exams – whether that is to prepare for GCSE exams, A-Level or Higher Education.  

To contact our mentors and tutors here. Alternatively, email info@gabbitas.com,  or call [].

Summer school is a great way to build interpersonal social practices and advance academically in various topics. In addition, getting a student out of their comfort zone in the world of education can be a great way to encourage confidence and the exploration of new subjects and areas of life that they might not have previously been exposed to. Learn more about the vast benefits of Summer Schools here.

 

What are the best tips for choosing a summer school?

When choosing a Summer School, picking a subject, course age group and location are three key things to consider. Our Director of UK Operations at Gabbitas, Natallia Patsaluyonak, notes 5 key things that should be taken into account when choosing a Summer school:

 

1. Picking a subject

Decide why the student is considering Summer School; do they want to make more friends? Are they interested in exploring different countries and cultures? To learn about a specific topic or to practice their language learning skills? These questions are vital in choosing the right subject, school, and type of programme most suited to their needs. 

Other than choosing a subject or topic to study, it is also essential to consider the programme type. For example, is the student interested in broadening their academic ability overall, or are they interested in choosing a course that gives them comprehensive knowledge on a specific topic? If studying a language course, identify whether they are a beginner, conversational or fluent.  

When it comes to subjects, the list is endless: Digital Animation, Coding, Humanities, Future Medicine, Cultural Studies, International Business Law, Entrepreneurship, International Relations, Mind and Body Yoga, Intensive English, Engineering, Fine Art, and so many more. 

To the same degree, the interest of the student’s chosen subject also needs pairing with the institution and tutors’ approach/ teaching style. Compatibility between the course syllabus and the teaching style will ensure that the student is fully engaged, interested and, most importantly, has an excellent learning experience.

 

2. Course Age Groups

Summer schools can start as early as six years old and up until eighteen. There are also courses for over eighteen-year-olds, generally found at universities.  

Summer schools divide their courses based on age, similar to traditional schools, for the same reasons. Ensuring the syllabus, teaching methods and level of academic knowledge are compatible with the student’s attained academic ability will help gain the best educational experience. Age-specific group courses also help students fully immerse in the classroom, as students usually prefer to be included in a similar group in life stage and academic ability.    

 

3. Research the location

Going to summer school in a desired location, such as Oxford, Milan, or Shanghai, can be the deciding factor in choosing the right program based on the student’s desires. Yet the place might also be the most difficult decision you or the student will have to make, due to distance, and for what many students maybe their first time travelling alone. With that in mind, it is vital to research the grounds of the school where they will be staying, as this is an integral part of the course’s overall experience.  

In addition, consider the students’ use of English – does the USA or the United Kingdom suit them more? If the student wishes to study in the country in the future, Summer School will often be their first impression. Oxford is a historic city, steeped in academic excellence. London is a vibrant, cosmopolitan metropolis, with a vast variety of academic institutions. A company to consider that runs summer schools in well renowned institutions in these locations is Oxford Summer Courses.

 

4. Accommodation

On-site residential accommodation will help with a student’s immersion into the course, not just in terms of staying within the school grounds, but often as a way to build closer relationships and social interactions with peers. Students will typically be offered catered accommodation, included in rate, whilst older students can be given the option of self-catered. Depending on the level of independence they desire, these options are essential to consider in ensuring students have a good experience. 

 

5. Research the teaching staff

Looking up the tutor, teacher, lecturers or specialists delivering the courses should also be a factor to consider. To get the most out of Summer Schools, check for esteemed guests, academic qualifications, and the Summer School’s approach to teaching. Knowing all these might be the difference between a good and a great course. 

If you are studying a language, you must check for tutor qualifications to ensure accredited educators teach the course with recognised qualifications for language teaching. Make sure you read through all the course material on the relevant website and email ahead to ask the administration team for any further clarifications or questions. They would be happy to help.

 

A bonus tip below is:

 

6. Contact a Consultant

The decision-making process can be confusing and arduous, given the sheer number of courses and everything else that must be considered. Consultants are a great way to narrow down information and options by working specifically with the needs and desires of students – making sure they apply to the best possible schools.

If you are still unsure about Summer Schools or do not know where to start, contact one of our expert consultants with years of experience in independent education by emailing info@gabbitas.com or alternatively call +44 203 026 7443.

By the 2022 January deadline, just over 43% of all 18-year-olds in the UK had applied to UCAS. With not only the number of university applications increasing yearly, but also the competition, students are having to go to greater lengths to demonstrate their passion and relevant experience for their chosen subject, as well as to showcase other skills which will make them an asset to their university community.

In this article we share our advice on how school leavers can make their application stand out from the crowd and maximise their chance of success.

 

Super-curricular activities

Top predicted/achieved grades in your chosen subject(s) are undoubtedly a strong basis for any application, but admissions teams will be looking for a deeper understanding as well as an interest that extends beyond the classroom. They want students who will be engaged in their university seminars and tutorials, so applicants should try to find effective ways to convey their eagerness to learn and motivation to succeed within their chosen academic field. This is where students should consider undertaking super-curricular activities to bolster their personal statement.

Although they sound similar, super-curricular activities differ from extra-curricular in that super- are related to and help take your studies further. For example, medicine hopefuls could take part in voluntary clinical work, or enter competitions where elements of the research involved is not covered as part of their school’s syllabus. Reading a challenging book on a related topic can also go a long way.

Several summer schools are now offering courses that help students prepare for their university studies, so keep an eye out for these. Check out our recent article on the benefits of summer schools, as well as some great examples of ones taking place this year.

To summarise, examples of super-curricular activities include:

• Voluntary work related to the field of study
• Shadowing a professional, e.g., an architect
• Essay competitions
• Online courses, e.g., coding courses for those wishing to study Computer Science
• Additional reading on the subject
• Trips to places of interest, like museums and art galleries
• Starting a blog related to the subject
• Summer schools, e.g., the Introduction to Law course at Charterhouse

 

Extra-curricular activities

By participating in extra-curricular activities, students will gain sought after transferrable skills that they can apply in both their academic studies and wider university life. Make sure to include any long-term commitment in your personal statement, as they can serve as a testament to perseverance and determination, both of which are invaluable skills in higher education.

Being part of a team, whether it be a drama group, orchestra, or sports team convey good communication, leadership and collaboration. Although university work is often carried out individually, many faculties also set graded group projects, therefore these three characteristics are held in high regard by admissions teams.

 

In-depth research on the course

Remember that you should always focus on the specifics of the course and discuss which elements you are looking forward to studying the most. Simply stating that you wish to study Spanish because you like the language is not enough to impress admissions teams.

If students are unsure which course they would like to apply for, they should consider speaking to an education consultant who will be able to advise based on the student’s current subjects and academic goals, as well as provide support with drafting the personal statement.

 

Interview practice

The UCAS application is only the first hurdle for many courses. Due to the volume of applications, heavily subscribed courses including engineering, medicine, law, dentistry, music, and veterinary science usually require students to attend interviews.

Questions tend to revolve around competence for the course and why the student has applied. Although it can be difficult to prepare answers for unknown questions, interviewees should certainly schedule some mock interviews to ensure that they are familiar with the process and to prepare them for the style of questions that they could be asked.

In comparison, Oxbridge interviews are renowned for often being highly theoretical and different to the typical university interview. In this instance, one of the best ways to prepare would be to arrange an interview session with an ex-Oxbridge student, so they can offer tips for success based on their own experience and that of their peers.

Many Gabbitas tutors have years of experience in supporting students with their Oxbridge interviews. To find out more, head to our tutoring page or email the team at tutoring@gabbitas.com.

 

Additional test preparation

To help filter applications further, some courses have an added extra step requiring applicants to sit an additional test. Examples of these include the MAT and STEP (maths), ENGAA (engineering), LNAT (law), BMAT (medicine), and Oxbridge’s critical thinking tests. A strong score in these can add real value to an application so students are heavily encouraged to prepare beforehand.

Whilst the content of the questions is often difficult to predict, the style of questioning is similar each time. Spending a few hours with an admissions expert to practice these is recommended to achieve as high a score as possible.

 

Whilst there is certainly a lot to consider, the process need not be daunting. Applicants should instead view their university application and the preparation involved as a chance to challenge themselves and discover more about their passion. If any problems or doubts arise along the way, there are always experts to assist.

 

Get in touch

If you would like to find out about how Gabbitas can help you with your UCAS application, or to discuss anything mentioned in the article, please get in touch today by emailing info@gabbitas.com or call +44 203 026 7443.