Oxford History and Politics interview 2026: dates, questions, format and success rate
Oxford interviews 36% of History and Politics applicants, online, and offers a place to 22% of those interviewed.
Figures from ox.ac.uk, checked 18 October 2026.
At a glance
- When: 7-11 Dec 2026 (Additional 14-17 Dec 2026)
- Format: Panel interview, Online (Two tutors)
- How many: 2 (one for each side of the course)
- Length: 30 min (or 2 x 15 min at some colleges)
- Who's interviewed: All shortlisted applicants (220 of 619 last cycle)
- Before it: TARA admissions test
How the Oxford History and Politics interview runs
- Before: TARA admissions test
- Interviews: 2 (one for each side of the course), 7-11 Dec 2026, online
- Each one: 30 min (or 2 x 15 min at some colleges), with Two tutors
- In the room: Short passage of historical writing to read just before the interview (some colleges)
- They assess: "Motivation, enthusiasm and academic potential in history", in the university's own words
Applied: 619. Interviewed: 220. Offered: 49 (2026 entry (2025-26 cycle)).
Questions asked
- Reported question: Would you consider studying just history?
Oxford History and Politics interview FAQ
When are Oxford History and Politics interviews in 2026?
7-11 Dec 2026.
Online or in person?
Online, as a panel interview.
How long is each interview?
30 min (or 2 x 15 min at some colleges). 2 (one for each side of the course).
What percentage of applicants are interviewed?
36%, and 22% of those interviewed got an offer.
Is there a test?
TARA admissions test.
Related
- Oxford History interview
- Oxford History (Ancient and Modern) interview
- Oxford History and Economics interview
- Oxford History and English interview
- Oxford History and Modern Languages interview