Archaeology and Anthropology interviews
Thank you for applying to Oxford to study Archaeology and Anthropology.
At Hertford, Archaeology and Anthropology interviews typically last 20 minutes. We will start with some broad questions about the degree as a whole and may discuss some of the interesting points you made in your personal statement. Then we’ll move onto questions designed to explore some of the different aspects of the degree: these will be based around unseen images or text that we will share during the interview. At the end of the interview there will be an opportunity for you to ask any questions you might have for us.
We want to stress that the interview isn’t a quiz designed to test your knowledge: we are not looking for ‘the right answer’. Rather, we want to engage with you in a conversation. It is about getting an insight into how you think rather than what you know. So, if at any point you don’t understand the terms being used, or feel you need any other information, please say so: this is not a mark of failure. We understand that you will not necessarily be familiar with Archaeology or Anthropology and will not all come from the same academic backgrounds.
Candidates will have their interview on Monday 11 December and at a second college on Monday 11 December or Tuesday 12 December. These additional interviews are a key part of the overall process, and in no sense secondary. After your two initial interviews, there is the possibility of being called for a further interview: decisions regarding third college interviews will be communicated to applicants by 10am on Wednesday 13 December and additional interviews will take place on Thursday 14 December. These help us to coordinate our decisions across all of the University’s colleges to ensure all applicants have a fair chance of success. Please don’t be tempted to read any special significance into whether or not you are asked for a third interview: it is a normal part of the admissions process.
You will need a device with access to Microsoft Teams, a microphone and webcam to take part in the interviews. Take a look at our Online Interviews Technology page to find out more and watch an introductory video. If you have any questions or concerns about the technology set-up, you should email undergraduate.admissions@hertford.ox.ac.uk and we’ll do our best to help.