[Anneihtseme]

Hi, I just graduated from high school a month ago. In past few months, I took 4 A level subjects: A2 Business, A2 Physics, A2 Maths and AS Economics. The reason I only do AS Economics because my school didn't offer A2. I did apply via UCAS in the beginning of the year but I've turned down my offers and decided to take a gap year because I want to change my course.
I currently want to study Economics in university, and the courses that I want to apply generally require AAA. I want to apply for Oxford, Economics and Management. However, I'm afraid would miss one grade which means one grade would not be A. Therefore I'm planning to retake if my grades aren't great (or not competitive enough). Also I want to take A2 Economics to be a competitive candidate for Oxford. I will self-study at home.
However, I have some questions:
1. Will retaking in winter instead of summer give me an advantage in reapplying for universities?
2. How do I prepare for Oxford application, like useful books to read for my gap year? What things should I do for my gap year to make it worth/useful for the application
Other advice will all be appreciated.
p.s: I'm an international student
thanks

[Keify]

1. No, not really. It might show that you've taken a more rigorous approach to your retakes and are a serious student, but no. I don't want to freak you out, but I'd suggest you ensure that you are making your choices as rigorous as possible, as spending a whole year one ONE retake would be very lame, and would make your grade less credible because you've spent the same amount of time as a student who has done 4 A levels, to get one A level.
2. Rigorous gap year. Make sure it's relevant to E&M- demonstrate your passion! I would suggest doing an extra AS and A2, probably starting a business and reading lots of books/developing a personal inquiry into the subject- what interests you.

I think you need to look at E&M and seriously investigate an area/areas which really interest you. THAT is the best preparation you can do at this stage.
I hope you get 3As the first time around! Then you can devote your gap year to your subject.

Good luck!