How to Write a Reference Letter for Oxbridge

If you’re a teacher preparing to write a reference for a student applying to Oxbridge, you might be wondering how best to approach this task. We get it: writing a reference for Oxford or Cambridge can feel like a significant responsibility. And that’s why we’re here to help. With the right guidance, you will learn how to highlight your student’s strengths and passion – the key? To focus on specific qualities that make them an ideal candidate for Oxbridge, supported by clear and evidence-based examples.

Read on to find out what are the main qualities Oxbridge admissions tutors look for, along with tips for identifying and describing them in the most effective and compelling way in your reference.

Writing a Reference Letter for Oxbridge

Intellectual Curiosity

Something an Oxbridge student must possess is a genuine curiosity, particularly within their chosen subject. Demonstrating intellectual curiosity can include asking thought-provoking questions in class; participating in extra-curricular groups or activities that delve deeper into academic subjects, bringing new insights or information to class discussions.

For subject-specific curiosity, look for evidence that the student has engaged with their discipline beyond the classroom. This could include reading widely, completing independent research, or pursuing relevant extracurricular activities. For subjects not offered at school, such as Law or Medicine, mention any relevant work experience or preparatory research they have undertaken to understand the demands of the course.

Analytical Ability and Intellectual Flexibility

Oxbridge thrives on rigorous academic discussion and debate, so your student’s ability to analyse and adapt their thinking is essential. Examples might include; demonstrating analytical thinking during class discussions or written assignments; adapting their ideas when presented with new evidence or perspectives; justifying their points of view with well-reasoned arguments.

Highlight instances where the student has exhibited intellectual flexibility—for example, when they revised a stance or solved a problem after considering alternative perspectives.

Quick Learning Ability

Oxbridge’s fast-paced environment demands students who can grasp new concepts quickly. To illustrate this, consider instances where the student has rapidly mastered complex ideas; evidence of consistent high achievement in challenging academic situations; accelerated progression in their academic career compared to peers.

Concrete examples are key here. If the student’s quick learning ability has been evident in a particular project, class, or exam, mention it explicitly.

Excelling Within Context

Context matters, particularly for Oxbridge references. Admissions tutors value understanding how a student has performed relative to their peers and circumstances. Useful points to include are an overview of your school’s academic environment (e.g., selective or non-selective, large or small class sizes); the student’s ranking within their cohort (e.g., “Top 5 out of 30 students”); any personal or external factors that might have influenced the student’s academic performance, such as disruptions in schooling or challenging personal circumstances.

Providing this context allows admissions tutors to appreciate your student’s achievements and resilience.

Final Tips for Writing an Effective Reference

Be Specific

Avoid vague statements like “The student is hardworking.” Instead, provide examples that show how they’ve demonstrated this quality.

Use Evidence

Support your claims with clear examples from the student’s academic career or extracurricular activities.

Be Honest

Highlight the student’s strengths, but don’t shy away from addressing areas where they have shown growth or resilience. Honesty lends credibility to your reference.

Tailor to the Subject

If the student is applying for a specific course, ensure your reference reflects their suitability for that discipline.

By following these guidelines, you can craft a compelling, evidence-based reference that helps your student shine in the highly competitive Oxbridge admissions process.