Computer Science Uni Choices

Hi,

I'm currently taking Maths, FM, Geography and CS and am predicted 4A*, my GCSE are ok (7s, three 8s and one 9). I'm nervous that my application isn't strong enough for a top Uni (Imperial, Oxbridge) because I'm doing Geography. Is their any point in applying or am I better of applying for comparatively easier unis. Thoughts?

(edited 5 months ago)

Reply 1

mesub

Clearing and Applications Advisor, Universities Forum Helper

Original post by amarooDan

Hi,
I'm currently taking Maths, FM, Geography and CS and am predicted 4A*, my GCSE are ok (7s, three 8s and one 9). I'm nervous that my application isn't strong enough for a top Uni (Imperial, Oxbridge) because I'm doing Geography. Is their any point in applying or am I better of applying for comparatively easier unis. Thoughts?

The two key ones at Oxbridge/Imp level is Maths and FM which you have. CS is a bonus. I see no reason why (assuming other parts of your application are good), you cannot make a competitve application to those universities.

Reply 2

totallyfine

Yes, they will really look at your top three grades and as long as these are the further maths, maths and CS then you will be fine. However, be very realistic that these institutions are highly competitive and hard to get offers even if you meet the requirements (its a bit of a lottery) so do make sure your remaining 3 applications go to Unis that are just as good but less coimpetitive.

Reply 3

user488949439

Original post by amarooDan

Hi,
I'm currently taking Maths, FM, Geography and CS and am predicted 4A*, my GCSE are ok (7s, three 8s and one 9). I'm nervous that my application isn't strong enough for a top Uni (Imperial, Oxbridge) because I'm doing Geography. Is their any point in applying or am I better of applying for comparatively easier unis. Thoughts?

The chances of getting into these universities are very slim. Imperial makes offers to 1 in 20 applicants. You wont be disadvantage for taking Geography but they are high risk anyway.

By all means apply but you need to be realistic. Given how competitive CS currently is and extremely high numbers applying to London it is very important your other choices are outside of London and are not so competitive. Every year students come on here thinking they will automatically get offers because of their grades but that isnt the case and end up with 5 rejections.

Reply 4

McGinger

Make sure you spread your choices - all 'top' Unis for CS are very high risk, and this includes out-of-London Unis like Bath where the standard offer is now A*A*A and where this year, only 20% of UK applicants were made an offer.

Reply 5

mesub

Clearing and Applications Advisor, Universities Forum Helper

Original post by McGinger

PRSOM

Very interesting insight that only 20% of home students (including the guaranteed offers from the outreach students) got an offer.

I'm sure those who applied for CS found it as a mega bonus.