Predicted grades

so having AAA and applying to A*A*A isn't too big of a jump?

There's no guarantee you'll get an offer, but if you don't apply you definitely won't get an offer, so it's worth a shot - just make sure you put down some safer options as well

Which degree and which uni? If it's a popular course and your predictions are two grades below then you risk instant rejection.

so having AAA and applying to A*A*A isn't too big of a jump?

It's chemical engineering for imperial...😭 now that I'm saying it out loud it does seem silly tbh

One grade below is often fine, (although you need to take into account the popularity of the uni and general competitiveness of the subject). 2 is definitely a stretch and I would not normally recommend applying unless it is a uni that you are very keen on and are comfortable with it being high risk.

Although as me and PQ are fond of saying, if you get 5 offers then you probably didn't aim high enough.

When unis express their offers as A*AA-A*A*A they often mean that the lower requirement is for contextual eligible applicants. The majority of successful ones receive the higher grade offer. If you use their contextual checking tool/info then you may find that the lower requirement would apply to you.

I'd avoid Imperial anyway ... it's not a great place for student support. Two grades below is likely to be a rejection from there.