For Oxford Saïd hopefuls, the application topics for the 2022-2023 admissions cycle are out. Oxford offers a streamlined application, which presents the hurdle of using the space effectively to pitch your story. So, ahead of tackling the application, be sure to do a significant amount of research into the programme (i.e., its structure, courses, network, clubs, career outcomes, etc.) to insure that you’re able to make a strong pitch in the application.
Also, keep an eye on Oxford’s deadlines.
ESSAYS
Tell us something that is not covered in your application which you would like the Admissions Committee to know about you. (Maximum 250 words)
In order to answer this question, you first need to take the time to understand your profile in relation to Oxford. What are your strengths and weaknesses? How sensible are your career goals? What experiences do you have that are formative and/or unique? These are just a few of the questions you need to consider as you pursue identifying the best subject to write about. It’s even possible to discuss your future career plans, if you believe it to be sensible to expand on them. Creating a list of possible topics and comparing it with the other content you’ll be including in the rest of the application, including the reference letters, might be a strong way to identify the best point of attack.
Once you’ve zeroed in on a subject, you’ll need to find a way to both communicate it concisely and engagingly. If possible, try to include a narration that brings it to life, either through examples or details.
Oxford 1+1 MBA Essay: Explain why you see this as particularly beneficial for you and how it fits with your career and personal development aims. (Maximum 250 words)
Dual-degree programmes have various uses but are usually only applicable to a narrow band of individuals. In this question, Oxford wants to be sure that you understand how to use its 1+1 programme effectively. So, to do so, you’ll need to identify how the job market, relative to your particular career goals, will perceive the dual-degree you’re aiming for and how the programme will make you a more impactful leader in that space.
After you’ve found the reasoning that makes the most persuasive argument, you’ll need to draft out your content in such a way that the connections between the university’s offerings and your goals are readily apparent to the admissions committee. Make it plain that this dual-degree programme is the ideal pathway towards your future success.
Re-applicant Essay: What improvements have you made in your candidacy since you last applied to the Oxford MBA? (Maximum 250 words)
When you’re a re-applicant, you face the difficult task of not just competing with others that are applying to the school but also with your former self. So, it’s necessary for you to prove to the admissions committee that your candidacy has experienced some evolution. For instance, you could mention a higher GMAT/GRE score, a job promotion or attractive job change, new extracurricular experiences that highlight positive strengths, or a sensible reorientation in your post-MBA goals.
You can certainly talk about multiple areas of improvement in this essay, but do try to set a clear and direct tone to the content.
ONLINE ASSESSMENT
To virtually meet you, get a sense of your personality and see how you think on your feet, you will need to complete an online assessment as part of your application:
- Two motivation-based questions – all candidates will answer the same questions
- One competency-based questions – this will be randomised
- Written response – this will be randomised and light-hearted to show us how you can think on your feet!
The motivation-based questions give you the opportunity to demonstrate your motivations for undertaking an MBA and why the Oxford MBA is the right programme for you.
The competency-based question lets you demonstrate the skills and qualities we look for, such as decision-making, problem-solving, influence, leadership and strong communication skills.
The online assessment is a great place for you to show how you could fit into Oxford’s culture. To prepare for it, you can practice former questions, making sure to outline some key points that you could potentially mention in your responses that correspond to your history, goals and Saïd’s programme. However, you need to make sure not to over practice, as the admissions committee is looking for individuals who can express themselves extemporaneously.
In terms of the mise-en-scène, just be sure to dress professionally and be seated in a well-lit and respectable spot; there’s no need to treat this as a film shoot—unless, perhaps, if you work in the film industry.
If you’d like to develop a winning application to Oxford Saïd, connect with our Oxford Experts today. Otherwise, you can find more technical information on the application on the official site.
