If you used Clearing in 2024, how did you find it?

What looks better

Does A*A*A*A look better than A*A*A* to unis?
Obviously this example pertains to high grades, but I'm also interested in AAAB vs AAA or any place where the fourth is lower
Basically I want to know as whether the extra A-level is seen as proof of hard work, or as lowering the overall average.
I get there are other benefits to taking 4 like more security with offers, but I just wanna understand the perception.
Thanks!

Reply 1

Stiffy Byng

You appear to be counting angels dancing on the point of a pin.

There is no benefit in taking four A levels unless you are a strong maths student, the fourth A level is Further Maths, and you are applying to study Maths, Physics, Computer Science, or Engineering.

In other situations, taking a fourth A level merely increases your work load and creates a risk that you will underperform in the other three A levels.

Reply 2

Admit-One

Universities Forum Helper

There isn't really a blanket answer to this.

To highly competitive courses, A*A*A*A is probably a stronger profile, (but these tend to be the kind of courses which have a 4 AL offer, or alternative). But for the vast majority of courses in the UK, they're only going to be interested in 3 grades so it makes no difference on way or another.

Reply 3

hotpud

Original post by jjel_22

What looks better is someone who delivers A*A*A* rather than someone who is predicted A*A*A*A*. If a course requires three As, give them three As. Unless you are super able, there is not that much benefit to doing a forth, especially if the pressure gets to you and you end up with BBBB.