All candidates must follow the application procedure as shown in how to apply. The information below gives specific details for students applying for this course.
Written work
You do not need to submit any written work when you apply for this course.
Written test
All candidates must take the Mathematics Admissions Test (MAT), normally at their own school or college on 6 November 2013. Candidates must make sure they are available to take the test at this time. Separate registration for this test is required and the final deadline for entries is 15 October 2013. It is the responsibility of the candidate to ensure that they are registered for this test. See www.matoxford.org.uk for further details.
Applicants will be shortlisted for interview, to a ratio of around three applicants per place, on the basis of the test score and UCAS application. Further details can be found on the department’s website: www.maths.ox.ac.uk.
What are tutors looking for?
We will be looking for the potential to succeed on the course. A good mathematician is naturally inquisitive and will generally take advantage of any opportunity to further their mathematical knowledge. Whilst AEA and STEP papers are in no sense part of our entry requirements, we encourage applicants to take these papers, or similar extension material and papers, if they are available.
If shortlisted for interview, then these will be predominantly academic. You may be asked to look at problems of a type that you have never seen before. Don’t worry; we will help you! We want to see if you can respond to suggestions as to how to tackle new things, rather than find out simply what you have been taught. Ultimately, we are most interested in a candidate’s potential to think imaginatively, deeply and in a structured manner about the patterns of mathematics.
Selection criteria
Candidates may wish to refer to the selection criteria for Mathematics.
