In both primary and secondary research, Robert has approached this issue with characteristic care and sensitivity, engaging with the writings of a number of inter-disciplinary academic authorities, including economist Gary Becker and criminologist Edwin Sutherland.’Ģ. 'Robert’s Modern Studies dissertation this year, titled ‘Prisons are universities of crime.’, is exploring the seemingly paradoxical consequences of the British penal system for young offenders and wider society. Your student may also be working with academic literature as part of Advanced Higher coursework which, as evidence of academic engagement, is worth detailing in your reference.

Helpful recommendations are available on the Oxford and King’s College, Cambridge websites. However, exposure to the breadth of the subject through introductory books and subsequent personal reflection is essential. Neither university expects applicants to have any technical fluency at the point of applying (that is, after all, the whole point of going to university). Then find out what they have read or are reading outside the classroom to further their interest. Ask them first about any personal motivations behind choosing this course and any areas they are particularly interested in. Displaying an interest in the course at university level is the more challenging, abstract task. You want to be sure of (1) their academic potential for this course and (2) their interest at university level for this course.Īcademic potential is the obvious stuff: relevant SQA grades, test scores, subject-specific competitions they have placed in or won. Once you have a good idea of the admissions process, sit down with your student to find out their motivations for applying to this specific course at Oxford or Cambridge. Naturally, the beginnings of these skills are one part of what look they look for in applicants. The course page on the university website ( Oxford, Cambridge) will give a flavour of the skills the degree develops. Research the course your student has chosen, then discuss their decision with themįor any Oxbridge reference the best way to begin is by researching the demands of your student’s chosen course.

Writing a UCAS reference for Oxbridge: advice for teachers in Scotlandġ.

Example of ucas reference