I want to get into either Cambridge University or London School of Economics-

[Dr drop dead]

any tips? Ok so what exactly do top flight universities like these look for. What happens at the interviews, what do I need to know etc.

Also, is it true that they give you tests at the interviews such as choosing which seat you wish to sit in or weird things like that?

[old know all]

I suggest you decide first what you want to do with the rest of your life and which course would be the most useful. Then see which Uni offers it and apply. Choosing the building with the prettiest ivy isn't going to help very much.

[tibbles94]

The wierd questions are all pretty much legend...I don't think anyone has ACTUALLY been asked "describe a banana" in their cambridge interview...However, on very competitive courses they hold 'aptitude tests' I'm not really sure what's involved in this, but they just want to pick out the best from the already incredibly good! Nevertheless, they're likely to quiz you on the reasons for wanting to study at the uni, how much of an interest you take in your subject outside of the classroom with extensive work experience and reading knowledge in the appropriate field. They'll generally just want to know if you're a hard worker and most of all if you're teachable. Normally cambridge interviews are several days long and you get to meet like minded people who are applying to the same college so it's supposed to be quite fun in that respect! I'm not sure about LSE though!

[tibbles94]

The wierd questions are all pretty much legend...I don't think anyone has ACTUALLY been asked "describe a banana" in their cambridge interview...However, on very competitive courses they hold 'aptitude tests' I'm not really sure what's involved in this, but they just want to pick out the best from the already incredibly good! Nevertheless, they're likely to quiz you on the reasons for wanting to study at the uni, how much of an interest you take in your subject outside of the classroom with extensive work experience and reading knowledge in the appropriate field. They'll generally just want to know if you're a hard worker and most of all if you're teachable. Normally cambridge interviews are several days long and you get to meet like minded people who are applying to the same college so it's supposed to be quite fun in that respect! I'm not sure about LSE though!