Oxford Classics interview 2026: dates, questions, format and success rate
Oxford interviews 91% of Classics applicants, online, and offers a place to 50% of those interviewed.
Figures from ox.ac.uk, checked 18 October 2026.
At a glance
- When: 7-10 Dec 2026 (Additional 14-16 Dec 2026)
- Format: Panel interview, Online (Oxford academic tutors)
- How many: At least 1
- Who's interviewed: All shortlisted applicants (220 of 242 last cycle)
- Before it: No admissions test (linguistic ability and potential assessed at interview)
How the Oxford Classics interview runs
- Before: No admissions test (linguistic ability and potential assessed at interview)
- Interviews: At least 1, 7-10 Dec 2026, online
- Each one: With Oxford academic tutors
- In the room: Latin/Greek sentences to translate (if studied)
- They assess: "Analytical and reasoning ability, communication, aptitude for tutorial teaching", in the university's own words
Applied: 242. Interviewed: 220. Offered: 109 (2025-26 cycle (2026 entry)).
Questions asked
- Official sample question: What do you think the differences are between modern and ancient democracy and why?
- Official sample question: How civilised was the Roman world?
- Official sample question: Why would a book of today be called a classic?
Every question reported for this course is open with a free account.
Oxford Classics interview FAQ
When are Oxford Classics interviews in 2026?
7-10 Dec 2026.
Online or in person?
Online, as a panel interview.
What percentage of applicants are interviewed?
91%, and 50% of those interviewed got an offer.
Is there a test?
No admissions test (linguistic ability and potential assessed at interview).
Related
- Oxford Asian and Middle Eastern Studies interview
- Oxford Classical Archaeology and Ancient History interview
- Oxford Classics and Asian and Middle Eastern Studies interview
- Oxford Classics and English interview
- Oxford Classics and Modern Languages interview