Oxford Music interview 2026: dates, questions, format and success rate
Oxford interviews 86% of Music applicants, online, and offers a place to 57% of those interviewed.
Figures from ox.ac.uk, checked 18 October 2026.
At a glance
- When: 7-9 Dec 2026 (Additional 14 Dec 2026)
- Format: Panel interview, Online (Oxford academic tutors)
- How many: At least 2 (two different colleges)
- Who's interviewed: All shortlisted applicants (168 of 196 last cycle)
- Before it: No admissions test
How the Oxford Music interview runs
- Before: No admissions test
- Interviews: At least 2 (two different colleges), 7-9 Dec 2026, online
- Each one: With Oxford academic tutors
- They assess: "Potential to engage with the course, an ability to think critically about music, and a keen interest in learning more about this subject", in the university's own words
Applied: 196. Interviewed: 168. Offered: 95 (2025-26 cycle (2026 entry)).
Questions asked
- Official sample question: If you could invent a new musical instrument, what kind of sound would it make?
- Official sample question: What are the different ways in which you listen to music? How does that change the way in which you think about what you're listening to?
- Reported by 2 sources: How did Wagner's operas influence the history of Western music?
Every question reported for this course is open with a free account.
Oxford Music interview FAQ
When are Oxford Music interviews in 2026?
7-9 Dec 2026.
Online or in person?
Online, as a panel interview.
What percentage of applicants are interviewed?
86%, and 57% of those interviewed got an offer.
Is there a test?
No admissions test.
Related
- Oxford Fine Art interview
- Oxford Foundation Year (Humanities) interview
- Cambridge Architecture interview
- Cambridge Design interview
- Cambridge Education interview