The Mathematics Reading List That Gets You Into Oxbridge

Do more problem sheets. Do more problem sheets. Do more problem sheets. That's probably what you've heard a hundred times over when you're preparing for Oxford and Cambridge (or any highly respected) mathematics courses.

But what if that's not the whole truth?

Any Oxbridge maths tutor worth their salt will tell you that an offer letter is only partly based on grades – the interview plays a massive role, which probes your method of thinking.

To stand out, you need to show that you enjoy thinking mathematically. This Oxbridge mathematics reading list will encourage you to play with ideas, see connections, and find beauty in logic itself.

If you'd like an expert tutor to guide you through the process, get in touch with us – we'd love to hear from you. Enjoy!

Start with core Oxbridge mathematics reading

Where you'll want to begin to give yourself a solid foundation on the principles behind mathematics.

Hannah Fry – Hello World: Being Human in the Age of Algorithms

If you’ve ever wondered how maths makes decisions for us – from dating apps to criminal sentencing – Fry’s book is a must. She proves that being good at maths is as much about curiosity, and empathy, as calculation.

Keith Devlin – Introduction to Mathematical Thinking

If Oxbridge maths interviews had a handbook, this would be it (if you're waiting on an interview invite this month, write this one down). Devlin breaks down how to approach problems from first principles – an essential skill when faced with an unfamiliar question.

**Maryam Mirzakhani – Profiles and Lectures (Princeton, Quanta, Harvard)

You won’t find Mirzakhani’s work in paperback at Waterstones, but you should take the time to read her profiles and interviews. Her work on hyperbolic geometry and her uniquely creative mindset are the perfect inspiration for young mathematicians.

“The beauty of mathematics only shows itself to more patient followers.”— Maryam Mirzakhani

Courant & Robbins – What Is Mathematics?

A timeless classic that demystifies pure maths with warmth and precision. A perfect bridge between school-level solving and university-style thinking.

Timothy Gowers – The Princeton Companion to Mathematics

This is always on Oxford and Cambridge mathematics reading lists, because it's the mathematical equivalent of the Oxford English Dictionary: immense, exhaustive, but not exhausting.

Then explore applied mathematics texts

Bring it to life.

“Maths, like cooking, is about following rules – until you’re confident enough to break them.”– Eugenia Cheng

Cathy O’Neil – Weapons of Math Destruction

O’Neil explores how data and algorithms can unintentionally reinforce inequality, making it a vital read for anyone who wants to apply mathematics ethically and responsibly.

Eugenia Cheng – How to Bake π

There are plenty of books that promise to “make maths fun” (most fail). This one actually is quite fun, with Cheng using recipes and metaphors to give you a gentle introduction to category theory.

Eugenia Cheng – x + y: A Mathematician’s Manifesto for Rethinking Gender

Perhaps we're partial to Cheng. This one is half mathematical exploration, half social commentary, challenging the assumption that rationality is cold and detached, and making a case for compassion as an intellectual strength. A bold, thoughtful read.

You've earned it – go beyond the books

Start immersing yourself in the way mathematicians talk, reason, and play with ideas. Here's a few thoughts to get you started, but really this is where your interests can take the wheel.

• 3Blue1Brown: visualise complex maths through animations.

• Numberphile: great videos from acclaimed academics.

• Maths on the Move (Cambridge podcast): listen to modern mathematicians discuss their research and teaching.

Get in touch with us today

Reading widely and well helps you cultivate the kind of thinking that admissions tutors look for – genuine curiosity and wonderment around mathematics – but more importantly, it's the foundation of truly excellent mathematicians, beyond university admissions.

If you’re preparing for Oxbridge Mathematics – or just want to fall in love with the subject again – Avalon Education can help you get there. We focus on the real skills behind the admissions process, approaching it with humanity and passion.

Contact us today, and we can match you with one of our expert Oxbridge mathematics tutors today.