I'm worried about what to wear for my Cambridge interview. Do I need to go full formal, or is business casual okay? I want to look professional but also be comfortable during the process.
While there is no strict dress code for interviews at Cambridge University, presentation is an integral aspect of making a good first impression. However, keep in mind that academic interviews are focused on assessing your intellectual curiosity, thinking skills, and passion for your chosen subject, not your style.
Generally, you'd want to lean towards smart casual or business casual attire. This provides a nice balance between demonstrating seriousness about the opportunity (which full formal attire might suggest) and maintaining comfort (which casual might ensure). For instance, you might consider wearing nice trousers or a skirt with a button-down shirt or blouse, perhaps with a blazer or cardigan if you like.
Remember to consider practical matters like weather and heating inside the buildings, you'll want to ensure that you're comfortable for the duration of the interview. You need to be able to concentrate on the conversation, rather than being distracted by being too hot or cold.
Regardless of what you decide to wear, the most crucial aspect is that you feel confident and comfortable. Your outfit should be a reflection of your professionalism, but it should not distract you from the essential elements of your interview.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.