What are the GCSE requirements for Cambridge University?

Out of curiosity, I was wondering what were the requirements for Cambridge were at GCSE Level. I personally know I’m not good enough to get in but was just wondering if it was even possible.

Is it consistent 7-9s across the board? I wanted to do a degree in medicine or biochemistry. When looking at my GCSEs would they only be interested in my science and possibly maths GCSEs grade or everything. Theoretically speaking (as this is EXTREMELY unlikely), if I was to do well in my science GCSE; achieving grade 9s in biology and chemistry, and a 8 in physics - would it matter about my other GCSEs, which I may have not performed as well at, as they do not relate to the degree, such as History. I just want to strongly emphasis that I’m not going to get those grades or do I think I’m good enough - I’m just wondering if it is even possible. Any feedback would be appreciated

OP

emphasise*

Its all contextual

Cambridge do not look at your GCSE numbers as much as Cambridge do. For Oxford, successful medicine candidates have an average of about 10 8's or 9's.

However the A level offer for Oxford medicine is A*AA, but for Cambridge it is A*A*A. Therefore you need to show some progression in your grades from GCSE to A level. If you went to state school, this would be taken into account by both universities. You do need to get good marks in the BMAT, though, to score an interview at either uni.

Original post by ABA62827

Out of curiosity, I was wondering what were the requirements for Cambridge were at GCSE Level. I personally know I’m not good enough to get in but was just wondering if it was even possible.

Is it consistent 7-9s across the board? I wanted to do a degree in medicine or biochemistry. When looking at my GCSEs would they only be interested in my science and possibly maths GCSEs grade or everything. Theoretically speaking (as this is EXTREMELY unlikely), if I was to do well in my science GCSE; achieving grade 9s in biology and chemistry, and a 8 in physics - would it matter about my other GCSEs, which I may have not performed as well at, as they do not relate to the degree, such as History. I just want to strongly emphasis that I’m not going to get those grades or do I think I’m good enough - I’m just wondering if it is even possible. Any feedback would be appreciated

OP

Ok thanks

The cambridge website claims the average applicant has around 5 a* but you will not be offered a place based on this. A levels are the real decider for exam results

Reply 6

Oxford Mum

21

That's right. they want you to show progression from your GCSEs to A level results. They are kind to late bloomers, but still expect good BMAT results for an interview, and will give you a high offer of A*A*A if you get that far.

Original post by buzzybuzzybea

The cambridge website claims the average applicant has around 5 a* but you will not be offered a place based on this. A levels are the real decider for exam results

Reply 7

ABA62827

OP

4

Original post by Oxford Mum

That's right. they want you to show progression from your GCSEs to A level results. They are kind to late bloomers, but still expect good BMAT results for an interview, and will give you a high offer of A*A*A if you get that far.

If I wanted to do a dentistry course, at Oxbridge, instead of medicine . What grades would you recommend I need at GCSE - I do 10 GCSE