Oxbridge Maths: Is a Tutor Necessary?

[Adrian202]

Hello everyone!

My daughter is planning to apply to Cambridge for Mathematics for the 2026 entry, and as a parent, I want to make sure she has the best possible support during this process. We've been researching different resources and came across several tutoring services that offer help with personal statements, STEP preparation, and interview practice.

For example, we found these websites:

Company 1

Company 2

Company 2

Has anyone here (students or parents) had experience with tutors or mentors like these for Cambridge Maths applications? Did you find them genuinely helpful for STEP and interviews, or is self-preparation with past papers and school support sufficient?

I'd really appreciate hearing about your experiences and whether this kind of investment is worthwhile! Many thanks in advance!

[sunbob]

Are they entering the test in 2026 and going to university in 2027?

[Adrian202]

She'll be interviewing in December, take STEP in June 2026, and start university September 2026. 

[DownToTheSeaAgain]

Are you aware of what the school provides for early entry students?  Particularly in terms of application and interview support?

My child’s school (Charter N) provided this for early entry students. Some of it was in tandem with JAGS or Alleyns I think. They weren’t able to support the STEP revision though so we got a tutor to help with this.