Welcome to

Project Connect

Project Connect supports sixth form students from lower socio-economic backgrounds by helping them prepare for their Oxbridge interviews.
We connect students with mentors currently studying at their desired university. Through one-to-one support, mock interviews, and personalised feedback, students gain real preparation for their interview and build the skills and confidence they need to succeed. Meanwhile, Connect Mentors gain valuable experience and develop their own skills, enhancing their applications for summer internships, pupillages, and graduate roles.By matching students with mentors who have successfully navigated the same process, we aim to make access to Oxford and Cambridge fairer and more attainable — ensuring that background never limits ambition.

What we Offer Students

At Project Connect, we are committed to helping you succeed.
When you join, you will be matched with a current student at your desired university — either Oxford or Cambridge.Through the programme, you will receive:

  • 1) Two mock interviews tailored to your chosen subject

  • 2) Detailed written feedback to help you identify strengths and areas for improvement, all in time for your real interviews.

  • 3) Opportunities to ask questions about university life, colleges, the application process, and your subject of interest.

Our aim is to help you enter your interviews feeling confident, informed, and prepared — giving you the best possible chance to succeed.

Why Become a Mentor?

At Project Connect, our mentors play a vital role in supporting the next generation of university students — and we support you too.When you become a mentor, you will receive:

  • 1) Guidance and preparation materials to help you deliver effective mock interviews and feedback.

  • 2) A low time commitment — designed to fit around your university schedule.

  • 3) Valuable experience to boost your CV and strengthen your applications for spring weeks, vacation schemes, summer internships, and graduate roles.

  • 4) Talking points for interviews — showcasing leadership, mentoring, and social responsibility.

Beyond developing your own skills and experience, you'll also be making a real contribution to social mobility at Oxford and Cambridge — helping talented students from all backgrounds to thrive.

What Is Involved?

At Project Connect, we aim to pair you with a mentor who is studying your chosen subject at your desired university. You will take part in two mock interviews — one in October and one in November — giving you the chance to implement feedback and strengthen your performance ahead of the real thing.Through these sessions, you will learn how to express your ideas clearly, understand what interviewers are looking for, and develop the confidence to tackle both subject-specific and general questions. Your mentor will provide detailed feedback after each interview, helping you identify your strengths and areas for improvement.Along the way, you’ll also have the opportunity to ask about life at university, the different colleges, and the experience of studying your subject — ensuring that you feel prepared not just for your interview, but for the journey beyond.

Key Dates

At Project Connect, we structure our timeline to develop your skills linearly as you approach your Oxbridge interview to ensure you perform at your very best. If your application is successful here's what to expect:

• Mentee Application Deadline - 27th of September• September - Early October
Students and mentors are matched.
Guidance materials are sent out to help both sides prepare.

• Mid to Late October
First mock interview takes place.
Students receive detailed feedback to guide their development and prepare for second mock interview

• Early to Mid November
Time to implement feedback and continue practicing.
Second mock interview takes place

Who is eligible to apply for mentorship?+

Students attending non-fee-paying schools, those who receive free school meals, or students whose parents did not attend university are eligible.

Are there any fees?+

No, the entire programme is completely free of charge.

Can I choose my mentor?+

Mentees cannot directly choose their mentor, but you will be paired with a student at your chosen university, and we do our best to match you with someone studying your desired subject.

What commitment is expected from students?+

We ask that students attend both of their mock interviews on time. If something unexpected comes up, we'll do our best to help, but last-minute cancellations might not be able to be rearranged.

Contact Us!

Got a question about eligibility, the programme, or anything else?
We’re here to help! Feel free to send us a message — we aim to respond within 48 hours.

Sign up for Updates

Not ready to apply just yet, but still interested?
Sign up for updates — we'll keep you in the loop with important dates, deadlines, and programme news.