The Oxbridge Economics Reading List

Economics is arguably the most competitive course at both Oxford and Cambridge, which are themselves, of course, among the most competitive universities in the UK (if not the world). But it's for good reason: Oxbridge Economics is unmatched when it comes to opening doors to finance, consulting, policy, academia, accounting – all prestigious, high-paying careers.

At Avalon Education, we’ve seen again and again that applicants who stand out are the ones who read widely and then wrestle with what they’ve read. (That’s where we come in, too.)

Here's a curated list to get you started – and if you're interested in hearing more from one of our expert Oxbridge Economics graduates, feel free to get in touch.

Reading to test your thinking

These are the three unmissable texts that are a great way into testing what you think you know about Economics.

Witty and genuinely enjoyable, these are the first step you'll want to take to transform your interest into knowledge.

Ha-Joon Chang – 23 Things They Don’t Tell You About Capitalism

A sharp challenge to economic orthodoxy. Quoting Chang shows you’re not afraid to test accepted wisdom, something Oxbridge tutors respect.

“There is no such thing as a free market.”

Tim Harford – The Undercover Economist

Why is coffee so expensive in train stations compared to the high street? Harford explains with wit and clarity, turning everyday annoyances into lessons in supply, demand, and hidden incentives.

“The most important thing to remember about economics is that every decision has a hidden cost.”

Diane Coyle – GDP: A Brief but Affectionate History

Coyle – a Cambridge economist – explores the number that shapes policy decisions worldwide. She shows why GDP matters, and why it often misleads.

“GDP is not and never was intended to be a measure of welfare.”

Immersing yourself outside of Oxbridge economics books

Not everyone can spend all day with their nose in a book. Here's a few of our recommended ways to get your head in the game and mix up your routine.

• Podcasts – We'd be remiss not to talk about Freakonomics Radio, BBC’s The Inquiry, and LSE Public Lectures. They’re an easy way to absorb insights while walking, commuting, or making tea.
  

• Analysing the news – Regularly follow The Economist or the Financial Times. Okay, this one is technically reading, but try taking it further and explain why events happened in economic terms. This turns everyday news into practice for applying theory.
  

• Reverse-engineer a business – Pick a company you use every day and map out its revenue streams, costs, and pricing decisions. Ask yourself why it makes certain choices and how market forces affect it. This turns economic theory into hands-on detective work and gives you great examples for interviews or personal statements.
  

• Play “what if?” with policy – Take a recent government policy or economic event and imagine an alternative scenario. What if taxes were higher? What if interest rates dropped faster? Try to predict the outcomes using economic reasoning. It’s like running a mini experiment in your head, showing you can think critically, not just memorise formulas. This one is super helpful practise for the type of skill an Oxbridge interview demands.

  
  

Start thinking like an economist

Oxford and Cambridge are looking for students who are curious, thoughtful, and capable of applying economic ideas to real problems. Grades are essential, almost a given in the Oxbridge process, but demonstrating genuine intellectual engagement sets you apart.

Avalon Education’s tutors can help you explore what you read and consume in depth, prepare for interviews, and build a personal statement that reflects your critical thinking skills.

Start exploring. Start questioning. Start thinking like an economist. And if you need us, you know where to find us.