Oxford Physics and Philosophy interview 2026: dates, questions, format and success rate

Oxford interviews 22% of Physics and Philosophy applicants, online, and offers a place to 34% of those interviewed.

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

At a glance

When: 9-15 Dec 2026
Format: Panel interview, Online (Oxford academic tutors)
How many: Physics: normally 2 at the first college (sometimes 1 long or 3 short)
Length: 25-30 min each (Balliol College)
Who's interviewed: All shortlisted applicants (38 of 171 last cycle)
Before it: ESAT admissions test

Before: ESAT admissions test
Interviews: Physics: normally 2 at the first college (sometimes 1 long or 3 short), 9-15 Dec 2026, online
Each one: 25-30 min each (Balliol College), with Oxford academic tutors
In the room: Mainly maths and physics questions
They assess: "Independent thinking, following and constructing arguments, thinking on novel topics", in the university's own words

Applied: 171. Interviewed: 38. Offered: 13 (2025-26 cycle (2026 entry)).

Official sample question: A ball, initially at rest, is pushed upwards by a constant force for a certain amount of time. Sketch the velocity of the ball as a function of time, from start to when it hits the ground.
Reported by 3 sources: Why is the sky blue?
Reported by 3 sources: How high can you go up a mountain on just a Mars bar?

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

9-15 Dec 2026.

Online, as a panel interview.

25-30 min each (Balliol College). Physics: normally 2 at the first college (sometimes 1 long or 3 short).

22%, and 34% of those interviewed got an offer.

ESAT admissions test.