Oxford Classics and Asian and Middle Eastern Studies interview 2026: dates, questions, format and success rate

Oxford interviews 72% of Classics and Asian and Middle Eastern Studies applicants, online, and offers a place to 39% of those interviewed.

Figures from ox.ac.uk, checked 18 October 2026.

At a glance

When: 7-10 Dec 2026 (Additional 10-16 Dec 2026)
Format: Panel interview, Online (Tutors of the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies and of the college)
How many: Faculty interview plus college interview(s)
Who's interviewed: All shortlisted applicants (18 of 25 last cycle)
Before it: No admissions test

Before: No admissions test
Interviews: Faculty interview plus college interview(s), 7-10 Dec 2026, online
Each one: With Tutors of the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies and of the college
In the room: Latin/Greek sentences to translate (if studied)
They assess: "Classics: analytical and reasoning ability, communication, aptitude for tutorial teaching", in the university's own words

Applied: 25. Interviewed: 18. Offered: 7 (2025-26 cycle (2026 entry)).

Official sample question: Give me a brief case study of an area of Middle Eastern politics that has interested you?
Official sample question: How many cultures are grouped together under the label 'China'?
Official sample question: What do you think the differences are between modern and ancient democracy and why?

Every question reported for this course is open with a free account.

7-10 Dec 2026.

Online, as a panel interview.

72%, and 39% of those interviewed got an offer.

No admissions test.