Oxford Engineering Science interview 2026: dates, questions, format and success rate
Oxford interviews 34% of Engineering Science applicants, online, and offers a place to 48% of those interviewed.
Figures from ox.ac.uk, checked 18 October 2026.
At a glance
- When: 14-17 Dec 2026
- Format: Panel interview, Online (Oxford academic tutors)
- How many: 2
- Length: About 30-45 min (first interview)
- Who's interviewed: All shortlisted applicants (444 of 1,294 last cycle)
- Before it: ESAT admissions test
How the Oxford Engineering Science interview runs
- Before: ESAT admissions test
- Interviews: 2, 14-17 Dec 2026, online
- Each one: About 30-45 min (first interview), with Oxford academic tutors
- In the room: Maths and physics questions on school topics
- They assess: "Understanding, developing and explaining new ideas (not a test of knowledge)", in the university's own words
Applied: 1,294. Interviewed: 444. Offered: 214 (2026 entry (2025-26 cycle)).
Questions asked
- Official sample question: How would you design a gravity dam for holding back water?
- Official sample question: Place a 30cm ruler on top of one finger from each hand so that you have one finger at each end of the ruler, and the ruler is resting on your fingertips. What happens when you bring your fingers together?
- Reported by 2 sources: How does earthquake proofing work?
Every question reported for this course is open with a free account.
Oxford Engineering Science interview FAQ
When are Oxford Engineering Science interviews in 2026?
14-17 Dec 2026.
Online or in person?
Online, as a panel interview.
How long is each interview?
About 30-45 min (first interview). 2.
What percentage of applicants are interviewed?
34%, and 48% of those interviewed got an offer.
Is there a test?
ESAT admissions test.
Related
- Oxford Earth Sciences (Geology) interview
- Oxford Foundation Year (Chemistry, Engineering and Materials Science) interview
- Oxford Materials Science interview
- Oxford Physics interview
- Oxford Physics and Philosophy interview