GCSE Results

Having completed my GCSEs with grades of:
Maths: A*
Statistics: A*
Physics: A*
Chemistry: A*
Biology: A*
English language: A
English literature: A
Geography: A
History: A
Religious studies: A
German: B
I'm wondering whether these grades will count against me when If I apply to Cambridge to do engineering.
I have also already completed my Maths AS with an A grade, currently I am studying Maths A2 and further maths, physics and chemistry AS. I'm also wondering whether doing my Maths A level a year early so I have the completed A-Level when I apply will help at all?

Reply 1

kelefi

1) taking an a level earlier has no positive impact on your application
2) the grades you get at A2 will be the most important, then AS then GCSE
3) cambridge do sometimes have to look at GCSEs, purely because theres no other set way to rank applicants (As applicants often apply with grades which exceed A*AA)

your grades at GCSE shouldnt be a "disadvantage" provided your AS and A2 results are good :smile:

Reply 2

Doones

GCSEs are NOT used much for admissions to Engineering. Much more important are your AS/A2 choices and performance - which looks fine.

If you are on track for A*A*A at A2 then you should get an interview.

Reply 3

gabbersm

Original post by jneill

Thanks

Reply 4

gabbersm

Original post by kelefi

Thanks

Reply 5

Doones

Original post by kelefi

3) cambridge do sometimes have to look at GCSEs, purely because theres no other set way to rank applicants (As applicants often apply with grades which exceed A*AA)

your grades at GCSE shouldnt be a "disadvantage" provided your AS and A2 results are good :smile:

Just to be clear GCSEs are not used for ranking. In fact, "poor" GCSEs followed by "good" AS can be helpful as it shows an improving academic trajectory.

GCSEs are really only used as part of the overall context of the application. e.g. Goodish GCSEs from a "poor" school is also a good thing.

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