I put this in the "Am I good enough for Cambridge" grades thread, but I wanted to get a couple more answers, so I hope it's not too much of a pain.
Here is what I put:
I have a couple of B's and C's at GCSE (more than I have A*'s), but I do have extenuating circumstances and I am talented at the subject I am wanting to apply for. (My mum wants me to go to Cambridge if there is a chance, and not pass up the opportunity).
Are my grades good enough for Cambridge, History (Or maybe English Literature - I am adoring it as well at AS Level, but most likely History)?
GCSES: A*A*A*BBBCC
(100% at GCSE History, almost 100% in both English's) (C's in Math and Chemistry, B's in Media, Biology and Physics)
Extenuating circumstances - I have a medical problem so I missed the majority of KS3 (Years 7-9) and a lot of Year 10 as I couldn't walk, therefore I probably could've done better, but I spent the majority of my time at school trying to catch up. Also, I had a bereavement as my Grandad died in the March before my GCSES. (Earlier this year).
I went to a non-selective comprehensive/academy/it changed its name a multitude of times whilst I attended, school if that means anything. I think it had a 70% pass rate this year; which I suppose is pretty good.
I would like to apply for History, I am currently doing AS-Levels.
Taken AS-Levels:
History
English Literature
English Language
and
Biology
Other information: I wrote an A-Level Standard History essay at the age of 12 on the Roman Empire, so I'm talented in the subject, which is why I believe I may have a chance? But I don't have the desired 4-8 A*'s. I do have extenuating circumstances, and I am going to try really hard to get A*A*A at the end of A2. (If anyone has any tips, they'd be appreciated). I also have a sort-of apprenticeship and possible publishing deal with the Walt Disney History Institute in the United States.
So is it worth applying to Cambridge with less than stellar GCSES, could high AS Levels make up for it? I'm working extremely hard, so if per chance i get high AS Levels then I would like to apply.